Finnish envoys to focus Int´l impact of Russian aggression

Heads of Finland’s missions abroad and foreign policy leaders will meet in Helsinki on 22–24 August, said the Ministry for Foreign Affairs in a press release.

The meeting will take place against the background of Finland’s historic decision to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

The meeting is expected to focus on the impact of Russian military aggression on international order and the role and direction of the EU as a foreign and security policy actor in the changing security policy environment.

The changes in the security environment in Finland and Europe, and the impact they may have globally, highlight the importance of international cooperation and presence.

In this new situation, Finland’s comprehensive network of missions and effective diplomacy are needed more than ever before.

“The Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Finland’s diplomatic missions across the world are working at the forefront of promoting Finland’s security and economic growth and solving global issues. It is important that we again get this chance to meet each other and have face-to-face conversations in Helsinki,” said State Secretary Jukka Salovaara.

The speakers addressing the Ambassadors during the meeting include President Sauli Niinistö, Prime Minister Sanna Marin, Minister for Foreign Affairs Pekka Haavisto, Minister for Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Ville Skinnari, Minister of Defence Antti Kaikkonen, Minister for Nordic Cooperation and Equality Thomas Blomqvist, and Minister for European Affairs and Ownership Steering Tytti Tuppurainen.

The meeting programme also includes panel discussions on topical issues and an address by Stefano Sannino, Secretary-General of the European External Action Service. State Secretary Jukka Salovaara will chair the meeting.