Prime Minister Orpo: Significant changes still needed to Ireland’s proposal for EU financial framework

The Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU has published a new proposal for the negotiations on the EU’s multiannual financial framework for 2028–2034.

“Savings have been identified, but too few, and partly in the wrong places. The overall level of the framework is still too high. Significant changes will be needed before Finland can support the proposal,” said Prime Minister Petteri Orpo. 

Finland wants to see a smaller, modernised EU budget that meets the needs of European security and competitiveness. 

“A disproportionately large number of cuts are proposed for defence, research and new technologies – precisely those areas where Europe needs to be stronger. Savings should be sought in a more balanced manner throughout the budget.” 

Orpo welcomes the fact that no cuts are proposed to support for agriculture compared to the Commission’s proposal. The funding for border management and home affairs in the national partnership plans will also remain at the level proposed by the Commission. 

“We have advocated for agricultural income support and border security funding, which are included the proposal. This shows that it is possible to lower the EU budget while safeguarding areas important for Finland, such as the livelihoods of farmers. We will continue our efforts to ensure funding for agriculture in Finland.” 

“We are advocating for the interests of the Finnish taxpayer and Europe as a whole. We are ready to find a solution, but it must come at a reasonable cost and reflect the right priorities,” Orpo said. 

Inquiries: Tuomas Tikkanen, Senior Adviser to the Prime Minister in European Affairs, tel. +358 40 523 5768; Toni Tiala, Ministerial Adviser, tel. +358 295 160 062