China’s President Xi Jinping met with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo on Tuesday, pledging that Beijing is ready to work with Helsinki to uphold a U.N.-centred international system and promote a multipolar world based on economic globalisation, according to the state news agency Xinhua. Xi also encouraged Finland to play a constructive role in fostering healthy and stable China–EU relations.
Strategic Context
Orpo’s visit comes as European nations seek to diversify foreign partnerships amid the unpredictability of U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump. Recent concerns over Arctic security, including Trump’s threat to seize Greenland and limit Chinese and Russian influence, have heightened Helsinki’s interest in multilateral engagement. The Arctic’s importance is growing as shrinking ice opens faster shipping routes between Asia and Europe, reducing transit times significantly.
Areas of Cooperation
Xi highlighted potential collaboration in energy transition, agriculture, and forestry. He also welcomed Finnish companies to explore opportunities in China’s expansive market. Orpo reaffirmed Finland’s interest in continuing bilateral discussions and coordinating on international issues, referencing prior “candid and constructive talks” between Xi and Finland’s former President Alexander Stubb during a 2024 state visit.
Outstanding Issues
During Stubb’s 2024 visit, Finland had raised concerns over incidents involving Chinese-registered ships allegedly damaging undersea power cables, gas pipelines, and telecommunications infrastructure, as well as North Korean support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Orpo reiterated Finland’s interest in dialogue on such matters while extending invitations for reciprocal visits by top officials, signalling a willingness to maintain open channels despite strategic tensions.
What’s Next
Orpo’s visit will continue through January 28, with both sides expected to explore further bilateral and multilateral cooperation. Finland has invited China’s top lawmaker, Zhao Leji, to visit, while Orpo’s meetings with Xi aim to strengthen economic ties, Arctic engagement, and broader diplomatic coordination. Observers will be watching whether these discussions lead to formal agreements or joint initiatives that advance China-EU collaboration while addressing security and infrastructure concerns.
With information from Reuters.
