Finland for a revised EU recovery package

Minister of European Affairs and Ownership Steering Tytti Tuppurainen on Tuesday said Finland takes a constructive view of the European Commission’s proposals for a revised multiannual financial framework and the recovery fund.

“Finland takes a constructive view of the Commission’s proposals for a revised multiannual financial framework and the recovery fund. The COVID-19 crisis has hit the economies of the EU countries hard. We need an effective one-off package to help speed up the economy,” said Tuppurainen at an informal videoconference of the EU ministers for European affairs.

They discussed the recovery package proposed by the European Commission to boost the Union’s economy following the COVID-19 crisis.

This first ministerial discussion on the subject will provide a basis for the videoconference of EU leaders scheduled for Friday.

Tuppurainen said Finland, however, cannot accept the Commission’s proposal as such. For example, the size of the package and the relationship between loans and direct payments must be examined.

“It is also important to make sure the funds are allocated effectively,” said Tuppurainen.

The ministers also discussed the future relationship between the EU and the UK. Although progress on the negotiations has been worryingly slow, the UK is not asking for an extension of the transition period, which will end at the turn of the year.

“Chief Brexit Negotiator of The EU Michel Barnier continues to have the full support of Finland and the other EU member states. The EU is a constructive negotiating partner, but it is also important for us to stick to our principles, such as safeguarding the EU’s single market and open trade policy,” Tuppurainen added.