Beijing (TDI): Finnish President Alexander Stubb is set to start a significant state visit to China on Monday, a move expected to bolster China-Finland relations and enhance the broader China-EU dynamic during a period marked by uncertainty and adjustment.
Invited by Chinese President Xi Jinping, Stubb’s visit will last from Monday to Thursday, as confirmed by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying.
The agenda includes talks between President Xi and Stubb, along with meetings with Premier Li Qiang and Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, to discuss bilateral relations and shared interests.
Notably, Stubb’s arrival coincides with the 74th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Finland and China, a relationship characterized by consistent and healthy development.
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“Finland was among the first Western nations to recognize the People’s Republic of China,” remarked Lin Jian, another spokesperson from the Foreign Ministry.
He expressed China’s commitment to maintaining high-level exchanges with Finland and enhancing cooperation across various sectors, including economy, trade, investment, and sustainable development.
Finland’s Position in China-EU Relations
While recent fluctuations in China-Europe relations have been observed—largely due to shifting economic and geopolitical landscapes—Finland has maintained a relatively neutral stance.
Notably, during a recent vote on tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, Finland abstained, underscoring its desire to foster cooperation with China.
Accompanying President Stubb will be a delegation of business and government representatives, including ministers of climate and environment, agriculture and forestry, and foreign affairs, as well as a business group.
Their itinerary will include visits to both Beijing and Shanghai, focusing on expanding cooperation in areas such as agriculture, sustainable development, smart cities, and the digital economy.
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The economic ties between China and Finland are robust, with Finland currently serving as China’s third-largest Nordic trading partner.
China has consistently been Finland’s largest trading partner in Asia, with bilateral trade reaching $8.2 billion in 2023.
Finland’s strengths in technology research and development, particularly in information technology, healthcare, and environmental energy, complement China’s extensive manufacturing capabilities.
As the Finnish President embarks on this pivotal visit, the prospects for deepened cooperation and strengthened bilateral relations remain promising, reflecting a commitment to mutual growth and sustainable development in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
