Stubb terms US foreign policy as challenge for Finland, EU

President Alexander Stubb on Wednesday said that the foreign policy of the United States currently relied more on transactions than on multilateralism and it became a challenge for Finland and the European Union.

Speaking at the opening of the spring session of the parliament, he, said, however, the global challenges demand close cooperation between Europe and the United States and without compromising on its principles, Europe must bring opportunities for cooperation to the table.

“The foreign policy of our close ally, the United States, currently relies more on transactions than on multilateralism. This is a challenge for Finland and Europe. It is clear that we will continue to uphold the values that are important to us, such as democracy, the rule of law, international law and institutions and human rights,” said Stubb.

He emphasised to always put Finland’s interests and security first.

“Our foreign policy is built together with our allies in the Nordic countries, the EU and NATO. At present, as so often in the past, the actions of Russia and the United States have a key impact on our foreign and security policy, not forgetting China,” said the President.

He said that Russia’s illegal war of aggression in Ukraine has been going on for almost three years and Finland will continue supports to Ukraine in short term, midterm and long term.

“Ukraine’s cause is ours. In the short term, we must continue our economic, political and military support for Ukraine. in the medium term, we must find a peace solution that respects Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. In the long term, we will help rebuild Ukraine and help Ukraine join the EU and NATO,” said Stubb.

He said that despite establishing Finland´s position in NATO rapidly, the Alliance is also affected by the changing security environment and it, too, is in a state of transition and threats require new capabilities and capabilities require greater resources.

“Entrusted with the exercise of the budgetary power, you have a great responsibility. Further investments in defence require broad consensus,” he told the lawmakers.