KUALA LUMPUR: Finland is a trustworthy partner and will take its role under the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation responsibly and seriously, says its Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen.
Valtonen said the country is truly honoured to be in this position.
She said Finland already has a strong footprint in the region, partnering with many countries and offering solutions in technological fields and more.
Among other priorities are tackling climate change in the circular economy, connectivity and networks.
“There’s so much we can do, especially in the education and human capital space, and that is at the core of what Finland offers,” she said.
“We truly believe in human capital and the empowerment of each and every individual,” she told reporters on the sidelines of the 47th Asean Summit and Related Summits on Saturday (Oct 25).
Earlier on Saturday, Finland said it will deepen relations with Southeast Asian countries, with one example being accession to Asean’s Treaty of Amity and Cooperation.
“We aim to strengthen trade relations and dialogue to promote stability, economic cooperation and sustainable development,” Valtonen said, according to the Finnish Foreign Ministry.
The signing took place on Saturday.
