• Finland President Alexander Stubb conveyed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi his support for a closer India-EU relationship and the conclusion of a mutually beneficial free trade agreement at the earliest as the two leaders reviewed their countries’ collaboration in different fields.

• The two leaders in a telephonic conversation reviewed the partnership between the two nations in areas of digitalisation, sustainability and mobility, among other sectors.

• They reiterated their commitment to further strengthen and deepen the partnership, including in areas of quantum technology, 5G-6G, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

India-Finland Relations

• India and Finland have traditionally enjoyed warm and friendly relations. 

• The diplomatic relations between India and Finland was established in 1949.

• In recent years, bilateral relations have acquired diversity with collaboration in research, innovation, and investments by both sides. 

• In 2023, India’s total trade (goods and services) with Finland was €3.3 billion.

• For India, Finland ranks 41st with total FDI inflows by 2024 standing at $569 million (as per DPIIT data). 

• Over 100 Finnish companies have operations in India. Large Finnish companies like Nokia, Kone Elevators, Metso Outotec, Wartsila, UPM, Lindstrom, Fortum, Ahlstrom, Elcoteq, etc have manufacturing facilities in India.

• India’s investments in Finland have crossed $1 billion, including acquisitions. About 30 Indian companies, mainly in the software and consultancy sector, are active in Finland.

• Finland is a leader in 5G/6G technology and Nokia is a world leader in providing the associated infrastructure. Top Indian IT companies are looking to collaborate in this sector.

• The e-visa facility has boosted tourism from Finland. There is a daily direct flight between Helsinki and New Delhi which has encouraged travel between both countries.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)