FOREWORD BY THE PRIME MINISTER OF FINLAND AND THE PREMIER OF ÅLAND

Here in the Nordic Region, we have deep historical, cultural and economic ties to one another. We share common values based on democracy, gender equality and respect for human rights and the rule of law. We are ardent defenders of the rules-based world order. The close relations between our populations, direct contact between citizens and active civil society organisations form the basis for Nordic cooperation. 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 cooperation is more relevant than ever before. 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 cooperation, we are strengthening the security of society in the Nordic Region, including our preparedness and resilience. We are also preparing for a number of other crises and challenges together in the best way we can.

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

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

The situation also calls for greater efforts in the Nordic countries. We need to step up Nordic cooperation in order to further develop our preparedness. We need more forward thinking in the Nordic Region and in Europe if we want to significantly boost our competitiveness. We need even more focused measures to safeguard the trust that is the cornerstone of a successful and prosperous Nordic Region. Together, we can take big steps forward.

Finland and Åland are jointly leading the work of the Nordic Council of Ministers in 2025. Finland is also chairing the N5 cooperation of Nordic ministers for foreign affairs and the NORDEFCO cooperation of Nordic ministers of defence. We are also chairing the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, OSCE. The importance of closer Nordic cooperation on a broad front is greater than it has been in a long time.

We are looking forward to working together to continue building a Nordic Region for all.

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