During the state visit, Swedes paid close attention to President Alexander Stubb’s security and defense policy statements. However, HS Scandinavia correspondent Hilla Körkkö emphasized that there are still areas where Finland should listen to Sweden.
President Stubb characterized the Stockholm leg of the state visit as having a cold weather but warm atmosphere. This visit marked the first time a NATO-Finland president visited NATO-Sweden, signifying the close relationship between the two countries. The visit was significant as it followed Finland’s recent NATO membership, while Sweden had to wait longer to join the alliance.
There was a sense of urgency in Sweden due to the uncertain security situation in Europe, with discussions about war preparedness taking place. President Stubb emphasized the need for both Finland and Sweden to prioritize military preparedness and cooperation. He highlighted the importance of economic cooperation between Finnish and Swedish companies to enhance global competitiveness and drive sustainable practices.
Sweden’s advancements in sectors such as energy and mining were noted by President Stubb, who suggested joint export promotion initiatives. Despite Finland’s progress in certain areas, there are still lessons to be learned from Sweden, particularly in terms of the green transition and industrial investments. Overall, the state visit underscored the strong bond between Finland and Sweden, with opportunities for collaboration and mutual learning in various fields.
During his speech at Stockholm University, President Stubb acknowledged Finland’s recent membership in NATO but also emphasized that there is still much work to be done. He pointed out that while both countries have made strides towards greater security cooperation, they must continue working together to address challenges such as cybersecurity threats and terrorism.
President Stubb also highlighted Sweden’s ongoing efforts towards gender equality and inclusivity. He commended Finland on its progress in these areas but encouraged them to continue pushing forward.
As HS Scandinavia correspondent Hilla Körkkö reported on Twitter during the visit, “It’s clear that despite their differences, both Finland and Sweden share a strong bond based on mutual respect and trust.”