Niinistö and Putin spoke on the phone about the Covid-19 pandemic

The heads of state of Finland and Russia held a telephone conversation on Wednesday to discuss bilateral relations, with a focus on the coronavirus crisis.

According to a statement released by the Office of the President of Russia, Sauli Niinistö and Vladimir Putin pointed out "the established useful cooperation between relevant Russian and Finnish agencies in fighting Covid-19."

Both presidents also discussed "current issues related to promoting friendly Russian-Finnish relations with a focus on trade and economic cooperation and the implementation of joint investment projects."

The leaders also exchanged views on the international and regional agendas, including Arctic issues.

It was agreed to continue contacts at various levels, the press release said.

Sauli Niinitö's office confirmed the conversation and added that both presidents also talked about "arms control and the initiative made by President Putin early this year on a summit of the permanent members of the UN Security Council."

President Niinistö also stated that "the need for dialogue between the great powers has become increasingly important in recent months."

According to Niinistö's office, the call was made on Finland’s initiative.