Minister of Defence Antti Kaikkonen to visit Washington

Minister of Defence Antti Kaikkonen will make a working visit to the United States on 6-10 December 2019.

Minister Kaikkonen will attend the Reagan National Defense Forum on 6-7 December.

In Washington DC on 8-10 December, he will meet the United States Secretary of Defense Mark Esper and Sweden's Minister for Defence Peter Hultqvist. They will discuss current themes in defence cooperation among the three countries.

In May 2018, the Defence Ministers of Finland, Sweden and the United States signed a tripartite Statement of Intent (SOI) that brings together previously agreed issues. Through cooperation it can be ensured, for example, that there are no overlaps or competitive situations in international exercises and other training activities.

During his working visit, Minister Kaikkonen will have bilateral meetings with representatives of the United States defence administration.

On Monday 9 December, Minister Kaikkonen will give a speech at an event in the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS).

Inquiries: Jirka Hakala, Special Adviser to the Minister, tel. +358 295 140 005. Inquiries relating to communications: Niina Hyrsky, Director of the Media and Communications Unit, tel. +358 295 140 120.