Finland's EU policy: a responsible and collaborative approach
Speech by Minister for European Affairs Joakim Strand at the 2025 Annual Meeting of Heads of Mission

Minister for European Affairs and Ownership Steering Joakim Strand spoke at the 2025 Annual Meeting of Heads of Mission. Speech check against delivery.

Distinguished Ambassadors, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today, from Finland's perspective, I would like to talk to you about the current situation and future of the European Union. 

The main message of my speech can be summed up as follows: Finland's EU policy is based on responsibility and cooperation. A sustainable and unified Europe reinforces not only our security and economy but also our citizens' confidence in the future.

Why is cooperation crucial?

In many ways, Europe is now experiencing major historical changes. Globalisation, geopolitical tensions and climate change call upon us to solve problems together. Finland's security and wellbeing are based not only on national resources but on solid European cooperation.

That is not to say that cooperation is an end in itself. It is an instrument for achieving concrete results; security, economic stability and sustainable development. In Finland, we are well aware that a responsible approach is what builds credibility in politics – and in concrete terms responsibility takes shape both in economic policy and in international commitments.

Finland's objectives and principles in EU policy

Finland has clear key EU policy objectives for the coming years. We have put them into practice for over a year now. They also form a clear framework for Finland's daily policy-influencing engagement in the EU.

Firstly: Strengthening Europe’s strategic competitiveness

The EU must remain a global economic force capable of creating growth and prosperity. This does not mean centralised direction but instead efforts to build on one's own strengths and to utilise market-based solutions.

The single market is instrumental in this context. It must also be fully operational in services and digital solutions. With regard to the economy and financing, Finland emphasises responsibility: each Member State must be accountable for their own public finances.

Secondly: Better comprehensive security in Europe

The European Union must be a stronger player in the geopolitical environment. We need more robust crisis resilience and better security of supply – and, in this context, we can put Finland’s own comprehensive security blueprint at the disposal of the whole of the EU.

Finland is in favour of deepening defence cooperation and establishing a single market for defence materiel, for instance. Ukraine still needs strong support – not only military but also  financial and political support. We must also make sure that the EU's external borders are strong, and we need to prevent instrumentalisation of migration.

Thirdly: Promoting a clean transition and the bioeconomy and circular economy

Climate change and the loss of biodiversity cannot be put on hold, but at the same time, the solutions to these issues cannot be the same for everyone. Finland draws on the premise that the transition be implemented cost-effectively as well as technology-neutrally and so that the specific characteristics of each Member State can be taken into account.

In our view, technological innovations and energy efficiency are key solutions for reducing emissions, not measures to restrict consumption. Finland has a lot to offer – the bioeconomy and circular economy, and new solutions in forestry and clean technology are part of the answer for the whole of Europe.

Dear colleagues, 

In addition to this, I believe Finland's EU policy is based on three broad main principles:

1.    Responsibility 

EU decisions must be made taking a long-term perspective and in an economically sustainable manner. This applies to both budgetary policy and legislation. In Finland, we believe that responsible policies make people feel more confident about the future.

2.    Unity and solidarity 

The ability of the Member States to cooperate is what makes the EU strong. Solidarity does not mean forgetting national interests, it means seeking common solutions.

3.    Tangible effectiveness 

EU policy is measured by how it affects the everyday lives of citizens. Education, research, infrastructure and employment are all things we must support, and we need to make sure that legislation is clear and can be enforced both nationally and within the EU.

Commission proposal for the EU Multiannual Financial Framework 2028-2034 (MFF)

The Commission's proposal forms the basis for the negotiations that are now underway. We consider the overall level to be too high, but the content of the priorities is in line with Finland's objectives. We take a critical view to new support instruments that are financed by borrowing, and Finland does not support the proposed borrowing instruments.

Finland places particular emphasis on allocating funding to key political priorities, such as strengthening defence and competitiveness. The Commission's proposal will set in motion long negotiations in the Council, which will culminate in a unanimous decision of the European Council, most likely in the first half of 2027.

We find that the overall level in the proposed spending limits (EUR 1,893 billion) is too high and would increase Finland's EU membership fees disproportionately. Finland's objective is to find a position that secures the level of support Finland receives within the financial framework and enables key priorities without incurring excessive expenses.

Finland is also critical of the creation of new support instruments based on borrowing, such as the recovery instrument. The Commission's proposal includes a new, extraordinary crisis tool (EUR 350 billion) and the possibility of additional funding to implement national plans (maximum EUR 150 billion). These do not gain support from Finland.

Security and geopolitical perspective

The security environment in Europe has changed radically in recent years. Crises in the Middle East and Eastern Europe, cyber threats and hybrid influence activities highlight that a unified and strong EU is the cornerstone of Finland's security policy alongside NATO membership.

• EU defence cooperation and joint crisis management operations increase the security of the Member States.
   
• Economic stability and energy self-sufficiency are an integral part of security; market disorder can quickly turn into a matter of national security.
   
• Reinforcing defence and security: Finland is part of the EU's joint defence research and development programmes and military mobility projects, which reinforces the defence capability of the whole of Europe.

The economy together with sustainable development

The EU's economic policy is not just about budgetary numbers. It is a tool for ensuring sustainable wellbeing and confidence in the future:

• Responsible financial management: Finland advocates a stable and predictable EU budget.
   
• Supporting innovations: Horizon Europe and various other programmes make it possible to set up new businesses and create jobs. Cybersecurity and digitalisation: EU programmes help advance cybersecurity, artificial intelligence solutions and digital services.
   
• Climate goals and environmental objectives: A sustainable economy generates long-term stability. Finland makes use of EU funding for clean energy investments, energy efficiency programmes and measures to mitigate climate change.
   
• Education and young people: Erasmus+ and other education and training programmes offer young people opportunities for international exchange studies and ways to develop their competencies.

Distinguished Ambassadors, I would like to thank you for the invaluable work you are doing abroad for our country, regardless of where you are posted. Perhaps you, too, can in one way or another help strengthen faith in the future with your actions. 

To sum up: responsibility and cooperation

Ladies and gentlemen, 

Distinguished Ambassadors, 

Finland's EU policy is based on a clear principle: responsibility and cooperation are the keys to a sustainable and unified Europe.

• Responsibility secures sound economic activities that operate on a long-term basis.
   
• Unity and solidarity help resolve challenges related to security, the economy and climate change.
   
• Operating in tangible ways ensures that EU policy is visible in people' everyday lives.

Finland will continue as an active and responsible member of the European Union, supporting a unified, sustainable and stable Europe. It is a strategic investment in Finland's future.

Thank you.