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Finnish Defence Policy and NATO Seminar

A Forward-Looking Discussion

The British & Commonwealth Chamber of Commerce in Finland was pleased to welcome members and guests to a special seminar on Finnish Defence Policy and NATO, held at Svenska Klubben in Helsinki. The event brought together a distinguished audience with a shared interest in Finland’s evolving role within the transatlantic security framework.

We were honoured to once again host Mr Otto Saxén, Senior Ministerial Adviser at the Ministry of Defence of Finland, who returned as keynote speaker following last year’s highly praised presentation. This year, Mr Saxén offered a timely and in-depth exploration of Finland’s current defence policy, outlining its strategic priorities and the nation’s growing engagement within NATO structures.

Drawing on his extensive expertise, Mr Saxén provided clarity on Finland’s contributions to collective defence, its bilateral cooperation within the Alliance, and the broader implications of NATO membership on regional security. His remarks also addressed the dynamic geopolitical environment in Northern Europe and the Baltic Sea region, offering valuable context for businesses, policymakers, and civil society alike.

The presentation was followed by an interactive Q&A session, where attendees raised thoughtful questions reflecting a keen awareness of security issues and a strong interest in Finland’s international partnerships. The seminar reinforced the Chamber’s commitment to promoting informed dialogue on key global developments affecting our members and stakeholders. As Finland deepens its NATO integration, the Chamber remains a platform for fostering understanding and engagement across sectors and borders.

Click any picture to see the whole gallery for the event.