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

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

The EU's new Arctic Strategy recognises the key importance of the Arctic region for Europe's security, competitiveness and future. The strategy is an important step for Finland and is well in line with Finland's long-term objectives.

"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 economic activity and security of supply as well as military mobility. Particularly important initiatives for Finland are the TEN-T link between Oulu and Luleå, east-west connections in northern areas and the Rail Nordica project, which will develop Finland's westward rail links using the standard European rail gauge. The new Arctic strategy will speed up the implementation of the Rail Nordica project.

"Northern transport networks are a matter of security and competitiveness for all of Europe. We need well-functioning rail networks, icebreakers and secure telecommunications connections. Finland has a lot to offer in these areas. Now, we need to put the strategy into practice with projects and investments that also bring growth and jobs to Finland," Orpo said.

The strategy will also strengthen the EU's role in Arctic security. Key measures include developing strategic capabilities suitable for Arctic conditions, deepening cooperation between the EU and NATO and protecting critical infrastructure. Shared situational awareness and exchange of information between partner countries improve our ability to identify threats and respond to them. The strategy also opens up opportunities for Finland in space and satellite technology.

Orpo emphasised that the Arctic region is being developed together with its inhabitants, with respect for the environment and the rights of Indigenous peoples. A strong and vibrant North is in the interest of Europe as a whole.

Inquiries: Tuomas Tikkanen, Senior Adviser to the Prime Minister in European Affairs, tel. +358 40 523 5768, Minna Kivimäki, State Secretary for EU Affairs, tel. +358 295 160 431, Prime Minister's Office