Finland to chair Nordic Defence Cooperation in 2025

Finland will hold the chair of the Nordic Defence Cooperation (NORDEFCO) from 1 January 2025 until the end of the year. In the rotating system, Finland took over the chair from Denmark.

The main focus of Finland's term as the chair will be on implementing the new political concept of the Nordic defence cooperation, the Vision for Nordic Defence Cooperation, which will guide Nordic defence cooperation until 2030.

The Vision focuses on interoperability. Other areas for cooperation include capabilities and defence materiel, and key aspects such as military mobility, logistics and security of supply.

"The Nordic countries remain our closest international partners. We share the same fundamental values, a common security environment and many security interests in our neighbouring areas. With the new Vision, our defence cooperation has entered a new era. It represents a major change for NORDEFCO and cooperation between our countries," says Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen.

As NATO member states, all Nordic countries are committed to defending each other. As a result of Finland's and Sweden's membership, NATO now has a strong and united area in the north, which will strengthen the Alliance's deterrence and defence posture in Northern Europe. This is reflected in NORDEFCO's vision and objectives, priorities, areas of cooperation, practical activities, planning and the development of interoperability and structures. Nordic defence cooperation will be developed to enable the countries to carry out joint Nordic and Alliance operations in all situations and operating environments.

Inquiries: Tiina Benredjem, Senior Specialist, Ministry of Defence, tel. +358 295 140 009 and Jenina Haapanen, Specialist, Ministry of Defence, tel. +358 295 140 070.