On Wednesday 28 June, Prime Minister of Finland Petteri Orpo met with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola in Brussels.
The main topics of their discussions were the new Finnish Government’s EU policy and the themes of the June European Council. Prime Minister Orpo said that one of the most important priorities is the EU’s strong and united support for Ukraine – for as long as necessary. Finland’s EU policy also emphasises the rule of law, a strong single market and strengthening the Union’s international position and security.
In Finland’s view, the EU’s current multiannual financial framework contains funds that could also be used to cover potential new needs, such as boosting the defence industry.
“The Government will work effectively to promote Finland’s interests and issues important to Finland when proposals are prepared in Brussels. In the meetings, I highlighted the important role of Finland’s forest sector both for our national economy and in achieving climate benefits for all of Europe. The single market and the EU’s competitiveness must be developed through competition, not state aid. I emphasised that all preparations must take into account the special needs and circumstances of the Member States,” said Prime Minister Orpo.
Prime Minister Orpo is in Brussels for the two-day European Council beginning on Thursday.
