Prime Ministers of Finland and Latvia discussed Baltic region security

The Prime Ministers of Finland and Latvia, Sanna Marin and Krišjānis Karinš, met in Helsinki on Wednesday 12 February at the official residence of the Finnish head of Government.

According to the Finnish Government Communications Department, closer cooperation between Finland and the Baltic countries was the main topic of discussion.

Finland and Latvia already have close cooperation in matters relating to the economy, stability and security of the Baltic Sea region. This includes the common gas market area of Finland, Latvia and Estonia FinEstLat launched in the beginning of this year.

“The Baltic Sea region is highly important for Finland, both for our foreign and security policy and in terms of trade and commerce, growth and environmental protection. The Nordic and Baltic countries are our closest neighbours and key partners for us. Our cooperation is most valuable,” Prime Minister Sanna Marin said. 

EU affairs

The Prime Ministers also discussed other current EU affairs, including the negotiations on the multiannual financial framework, Brexit, European Green Deal and climate policy.

“Climate is one of the top priorities in our Government Programme. I also expect a lot from the cooperation within the EU. The European Green Deal is very important to ensure a fair and just transition towards a carbon neutral society. The objective of becoming the first carbon neutral continent in the world is both a challenge and an opportunity for the EU,” Prime Minister Marin says.

Prime Minister Karinš also had a meeting in the morning with President of the Republic Sauli Niinistö at his official residence.