U.S. and Finland Discuss Indo-Pacific Security and Cooperation

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell (right) and Finnish State Secretary for Foreign Affairs Jukka Salovaara (left). Photo Credit: Jukka Salovara's X status.

On October 11, the United States and Finland held a dialogue in Washington, D.C. focused on the Indo-Pacific region. The meeting was co-chaired by Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell and Finnish State Secretary for Foreign Affairs Jukka Salovaara, with senior officials from the State Department, National Security Council, and Department of Defense participating in the U.S. delegation.

Discussions centered on shared priorities aimed at promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific, emphasizing the importance of upholding international law, freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait, and enhancing maritime and security cooperation. 

Both leaders expressed serious concerns regarding China's support for Russia's defense capabilities and the increasing military collaboration between Russia and North Korea. They highlighted the need to strengthen ties among NATO Allies and enhance cooperation with NATO's Indo-Pacific partners to tackle emerging security challenges. Additionally, they pledged to boost economic resilience in the region through technology partnerships.

Campbell and Salovaara also addressed topics such as security and defense collaboration, Finland's integration into NATO, and ongoing support for Ukraine amid Russia's invasion. They reiterated their commitment to diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, urging for an immediate de-escalation in tensions.

tags: Asia Pacific, Indo Pacific, Pacific region, FOIP, Free and Open Indo Pacific, Finland, Europe, European Union, EU,