Finland Times

 

File picture of President Sauli Niinistö. File Photo Lehtikuva.

The President and Cabinet Committee on Foreign and Security Policy on Friday discussed Ukraine situation and Finland's possible participation in security sector training in Iraq as part of action against ISIL.

 

The committee at a meeting decided that Finland will continue its support to Ukraine both bilaterally and through the EU and international organisations, said an official press release.

 

The meeting also discussed Finland's NATO partnership policy following the Wales Summit, said the press release.

 

NATO's new Partnership Interoperability Initiative is well in line with Finland's objectives. It provides good opportunities to maintain cooperation after the ISAF operation has been brought to a conclusion and to develop cooperation further, which is where Finland intends to maintain its active role.

 

The committee outlined that Finland will examine possibilities to participate in security sector training in Iraq as part of action against ISIL.

 

 At this stage, focus will be on the review of the situation and decision on possible participation will be made later on.

 

Finland is concerned about the deteriorating humanitarian and human rights situation in eastern Ukraine and about the situation of the Crimean Tatars. 

 

International organisations should be allowed access to investigate the reported human rights violations. Sufficient delivery of humanitarian aid is vital, especially with the approaching winter in mind.

 

With regard to efforts in resolving the Ukraine crisis, Finland is of the opinion that all parties must adhere to the Minsk negotiation process. 

 

Russia is to withdraw its troops and military equipment from Ukraine and stop support to separatists whereas Ukraine must commit itself to a constructive national dialogue.

 

Finland supports increasing the size of the OSCE monitoring mission to 500 observers and that of the border control mission to 22 observers.