FOREWORD BY THE PRIME MINISTER OF FINLAND AND PREMIER OF ÅLAND

We have deep historical, cultural, and economic ties here in the Nordic Region. We share common values based on democracy, gender equality, and respect for human rights and the principle of the rule of law.  We are ardent defenders of the rules-based world order. The basis for Nordic co-operation is the close relations between our populations, direct contact between citizens, and active civil society organisations. Using the Nordic prime ministers’ Vision 2030 as our guide, the governments of Finland and Åland are propelling efforts within the Nordic Council of Ministers to make the Nordic Region the most sustainable and integrated region in the world.

Nordic co-operation is more relevant than ever. Russia’s brutal war of aggression against Ukraine is a gross violation of international law. It has caused the Ukrainian people great suffering and is a threat to European and global security. The Nordic countries are supporting Ukraine in many ways. Through continued co-operation, we are strengthening the security of society in the Nordic Region, including preparedness and resilience. There are also a number of other crises and challenges that we are preparing for together in the best way we can.

In a just and inclusive society, we actively combat discrimination and inequality. In the Nordics, we are building a society in which everyone can participate.

Here in the Nordic Region, we see the benefits of open markets and functioning competition. Our global economic position and competitiveness are crucial for ensuring the development of the business sector and the welfare of society. Our presidency promotes competitiveness, such as by stepping up co-operation in the areas of innovation and sustainable solutions. Digitalisation and high-quality education and training are central elements in the creation of a competitive economy that can hold its own in a globalised world.

The situation requires further efforts also in the Nordic countries. We need to step up Nordic co-operation in order to further develop preparedness. We need more forward thinking in the Nordic Region and in Europe in order to significantly boost our competitiveness. We need even more focused measures to safeguard the trust that is a cornerstone in building a successful and prosperous Nordic Region. Together we can take big steps forwards.   

Finland and Åland are jointly leading the work of the Nordic Council of Ministers in 2025. Finland is also chairing the N5 co-operation of Nordic ministers for foreign affairs and the Nordefco co-operation of the Nordic ministers of defence. During the year, we are also chairing the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, OSCE. The importance of closer Nordic co-operation on a broad front is greater than it has been in a long time.   

We’re looking forward to working together during our presidency to continue building a Nordic Region for all.

Prime Minister of Finland Petteri Orpo and Premier of Åland Katrin Sjögren. Photo: Lauri Heikkinen