Finland Times

They were discussing various bilateral and international issues at a meeting in Stockholm during Sipilä’s visit to Sweden. It was the first state visit of the newly appointed Finnish premier, who is also scheduled to visit Estonia on Tuesday.

In the opinions of both the prime ministers, strengthening defence cooperation is important. 

They said because of Russia, the intense situation in Europe has only underlined the significance of Finnish-Swedish cooperation.

“Because of the changed security environment in Europe, close security and defence cooperation between Finland and Sweden is ever more important,” said Sipilä, adding, “Our countries participate together in Nordic defence cooperation and are active NATO partners.”

The prime ministers also discussed key EU and international issues.

According to Sipilä, the discussion continued at dinner, where the subjects were, among other things, the situation in Greece and the UK. 

“Finland and Sweden are the most important partners to each other.  This does not change, even though governments change,” observed Sipilä.

The premiers discussed bilateral relations, such as economic and defence issues, said an official press release.

“Sweden is the most important economic partner of Finland and the integration of our economies will continue. For example, digitalisation will offer new opportunities for our economic cooperation,” Sipilä added, according to the press release.