Opening remarks by Minister Soini at the bioeconomy seminar

Opening remarks of Mr. Timo Soini, Minister for Foreign Affairs, at the bioeconomy seminar, Argentina, 27 March 2018.

It is my pleasure to attend this very interesting event today. Finland and Argentina have excellent and active relations. I have noticed during my visit that there´s not only room but also great eagerness on both sides to further diversify and intensify the cooperation between the two countries.

It is very natural for a Finn to participate in a bioeconomy and forestry seminar. That is because we are by definition nature-loving people. Forest is like a second home to many of us.

In fact, Finland is the most forested country in Europe. Over 70 % of Finland is forest and major part of it is owned by ordinary Finns. Family forest ownership is a success story, and it has great significance for the national economy.

Due to our abundant forest resources we have a strong competence on bioeconomy related products and technologies for utilization of renewable energy, especially forest based bioenergy.

Finland is a pioneer in bioeconomy, circular economy and cleantech. By developing, introducing and exporting sustainable solutions Finland aims to create growth and jobs, increase energy security and achieve climate goals.

To succeed in a constantly changing world, you have to change as well. Finland has reinvented itself in just one short century – and we’re still at it. Our national character and Northern heritage have boosted us to the top of all kinds of country rankings from clean air to clean tech. Finland’s rise to prosperity is based on its expertise in using renewable natural resources.

During the event you will get a much more detailed picture of Finnish expertise in this field I´m sure. I am also confident that this session will be useful and mutually beneficial for both countries.











Speeches held by Ministers and the top leadership of the Ministry.