Prime Minister Marin meets with Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau

Prime Minister Sanna Marin met with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Brussels on Wednesday 23 March. In their meeting, the prime ministers discussed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the sanctions imposed on Russia, extensive assistance to Ukraine, the development of European security and defence cooperation and Finland’s relationship with NATO.

“The coordination of countermeasures is very important. The sanctions imposed by the West on Russia have been tough and effective. We must continue to respond to Russia’s actions swiftly, firmly and in close cooperation,” Prime Minister Marin said. 

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has decisively altered the security situation and environment in Europe. NATO has boosted its presence in Eastern Europe and the Baltic States as part of its work to strengthen deterrence and collective defence. Canada is a key NATO country that is strongly committed to ensuring the security of Europe and the Baltic Sea region through NATO. Canada leads NATO’s Enhanced Foreign Presence battle group in Latvia. Along with other NATO members, Canada has expressed its strong support for NATO’s open doors policy.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Finland and Canada. The countries are united by their northern location, parliamentary democracy, bilingualism and strong commitment to human rights and equality. Trade between Finland and Canada is developing favourably.

Prime Minister Marin is visiting Brussels to attend the European Council meeting starting on Thursday 24 March. Prime Minister Trudeau, for his part, is in Brussels for the G7 and NATO summits.

Inquiries: Jari Luoto, State Under-Secretary for European Affairs, tel. +358 50 468 5949, Lauri Voionmaa, Special Adviser (International Affairs), tel. +358 295 160 306 and Anne Sjöholm, Head of Communications for EU and International Affairs, tel. +358 40 537 07 33, Prime Minister’s Office.