Finland has significant Arctic expertise” says Stubb.

Finland has significant Arctic expertise that others also want to learn from,” says Stubb.

ROVANIEMI, Finland — European leaders gathered in Rovaniemi to discuss the growing importance of Arctic security, as the region takes an increasingly central role in Europe’s security and global strategic competition.

Finnish President Alexander Stubb highlighted Finland’s strong expertise in Arctic affairs and its growing importance to European cooperation.

“Finland has significant Arctic expertise that others also want to learn from.”

The discussions in Rovaniemi also focused on the European Union’s upcoming Arctic strategy, which is expected to play an important role in shaping the EU’s approach to the rapidly changing geopolitical and security environment in the region.

During the summit, Stubb met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. In addition to discussing the strategic significance of the Arctic, the two leaders discussed the security of the Baltic Sea region, which is important to both Finland and Germany.

They also exchanged views on preparedness for hybrid threats and how Europe should respond to them.

The meeting underlined the growing connection between Arctic security, Baltic Sea security and the wider European security environment.

(Image source Stubb’s social media page)