Foreign policy and security policy

Finland’s foreign and security policy aims at preserving its independence and the democratic core values of society and promoting the well-being and security of its citizens.


Finland’s foreign and security policy aims at preserving its independence and the democratic core values of society and promoting the well-being and security of its citizens.

As a Member State of the European Union and a member of the international community, Finland exercises foreign policy with a view to securing its national interests and endeavors to contribute to world peace.

Foreign and security policy is based on good bilateral and international relations, a strong role in the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) of the EU, effective multilateral cooperation and credible national defence.

Ulkoministeri Haaviston puhe YK:n turvallisuusneuvoston korkean tason Arria-kokouksessa

Ulkoministeri Pekka Haavisto puhui videoyhteyden välityksellä 8.5.2020 Viron järjestämässä YK:n turvallisuusneuvoston korkean tason Arria-kokouksessa, jonka aiheena oli jonka aiheena on “75 Years since the end of the Second World War in Europe: lessons for the prevention of international crimes in the future, the responsibility of the Security Council”.

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Statement to be delivered at the UN Security Council Arria Formula Meeting on May 8, 2020, on

“75 Years from the End of the Second World War on European Soil - Lessons Learned for Preventing Future Atrocities, Responsibility of the Security Council.”

by

H.E. Pekka Haavisto, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland

 

Mr. President,

We thank Estonia for arranging this meeting.

We also extend our thanks to the briefers for their remarks.

Independent historical research and dialogue among historians is essential for increasing our understanding, not only of history, but also of the present.

In European context, we emphasize the role of the European Union in enabling peaceful collaboration and integration. We also see possibilities for strengthening the partnership between the UN and the EU.

Mr President,

This year does not only mark the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, but also the establishment of the United Nations. The main motive for the founding of the UN was to save succeeding generations from the horrors of war.

Finland remains fully committed to the goals of the UN Charter and supports the three pillars of its work. A rules-based international order brings predictability and stability. A state that follows through its commitments can expect others to do the same.

Half a century ago, the General Assembly adopted the Declaration on Friendly Relations. It was the international community’s blueprint for a rules-based order. All States confirmed their commitment to the fundamental principles of the Charter. They declared to refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State. Even today, the Declaration merits our full attention. 

Finally, Mr. President,

The Security Council has the primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. The ongoing conflicts in Syria and in other parts of the world call for determined action by the Council in accordance with the Charter.

The Council has also legitimacy and powers in upholding respect for international law, and it needs to have an active role in protecting human rights. Finland strongly supports the initiatives to refrain from the use of the veto in the Council in situations of mass atrocity crimes. We encourage all Member States to join the Code of Conduct regarding Security Council action against genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes and the Political Declaration launched by France and Mexico.

At the same time, the Council should enable decisive action on the new and emerging global threats to peace and security, such as climate change. The current pandemic calls for solidarity, and Finland supports the Secretary-General’s appeal for a global ceasefire. We welcome the effect the appeal has had on the crisis in Yemen. 

To conclude, today, as much as ever, we need a strong and effective UN to prevent conflicts, and to maintain peace and stability.

Thank you.