Prime Minister Orpo: The EU’s new Arctic Strategy is a significant outcome for Finland

“The Arctic region is part of Europe and the European Union. The EU is an Arctic actor and must act accordingly. I have worked hard to ensure that the importance of the North is understood throughout Europe. This new strategy is a major achievement for Finland,” said Prime Minister Petteri Orpo. Finland has actively worked to place the Arctic region among the EU’s strategic priorities. The European Arctic Summit held in Rovaniemi in September reinforced a shared understanding of the importance of the region. The new strategy builds on this work and lays the foundation for closer cooperation between the EU and its Arctic partners. Key priorities for Finland include increasing European icebreaker capacity, promoting the sustainable utilisation of critical minerals and developing northern transport networks. These play a key role in strengthening Europe’s security, security of supply and competitiveness while opening up new opportunities for Finnish companies. The use of satellite technology in improving situational awareness and connections in the Arctic also offers significant opportunities for Finnish expertise. The development of northern transport networks strengthens both eco...