Helsinki, 2 February 2023
Prime Minister Sanna Marin visited Stockholm at the invitation of Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on 2 February. Their discussions focused on the EU economy and competitiveness, other topical EU matters, Russia’s war against Ukraine, and Finland and Sweden’s joint NATO membership process.
The Prime Ministers discussed ways for the EU to support investments in the green transition and the competitiveness of industry, support to Ukraine, and migration, which are also on the agenda for the Special European Council next week. They also discussed forest policy.
“Sweden is Finland’s closest partner in EU policy, and we have very similar views on strengthening the European economy and competitiveness. As the country holding the Presidency of the Council of the EU, Sweden plays a key role in finding solutions to these issues, and Finland will give Sweden its full support,” said Prime Minister Marin.
Sweden holds the Presidency of the Council of the EU from 1 January to 30 June 2023.
In addition, the prime ministers discussed the progress of Finland and Sweden’s NATO membership process.
Prime Minister Marin said that Finland would continue to advance the membership process together with Sweden.
“We will continue to proceed together as we have done so far. Finland and Sweden are part of the same security environment. The earliest possible approval of our NATO memberships is in the interests of Finland, Sweden and all of NATO. We must now remain united and consistent,” the Prime Minister said.