Helsinki, Finland – President Joe Biden arrives in Helsinki, Finland, on Thursday to engage in a summit with the leaders of Nordic countries, including Finland, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, and Denmark. This gathering marks the first Nordic summit of the Biden administration and presents an opportunity for the nations to bolster security cooperation amidst growing threats from Russia and China, this was reported by the Associated Press.
The meeting follows a significant diplomatic victory for President Biden in Vilnius, Lithuania, where Turkey dropped its objections to Sweden’s accession to NATO earlier this week. The shift in Turkey’s stance opens doors for further strengthening of NATO’s presence in the region. Moreover, it offers the Nordic leaders a platform to discuss a wide range of pressing issues of mutual concern.
The participation of Finland, a recent NATO member, and Sweden’s impending NATO membership provide a strong display of unity and a renewed commitment to collective defense amid Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine. The historic announcement from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan signifies a notable reversal after more than a year of opposition to Sweden joining NATO due to various concerns.
While security cooperation remains paramount, the summit will also address the issue of Arctic security. The Arctic region, affected by climate change, has seen increased activities from both Russia and China. Russia, in particular, has been expanding its military presence and fortifying radar bases and runways in the area. China, too, is scaling up its engagement in the region. As an Arctic nation, the United States is taking steps to enhance its involvement in Arctic affairs.
In addition to security matters, the leaders are expected to discuss areas of cooperation in technology, including 5G networks and artificial intelligence. Climate engagement and clean energy initiatives will also be key topics during the Helsinki visit, aligning with the global focus on addressing climate change.
President Biden will commence the summit with a one-on-one meeting with his Finnish counterpart, President Sauli Niinistö, who recently joined Biden at the NATO leaders’ table for the first time in Vilnius. Subsequently, the Nordic leaders will convene for the summit, culminating in a joint news conference with President Niinistö and President Biden. This press conference marks the first time President Biden will formally address reporters’ questions during his weeklong trip.
As the Helsinki summit concludes, President Biden will return to Washington, D.C., in the evening, having solidified the bonds of security cooperation with Nordic partners and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to global stability.
