Chinese President Xi Jinping told Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo on Tuesday that Beijing stood ready to work with Helsinki to uphold a United Nations-centred international system and promote a multipolar world grounded in economic globalisation, state media reported. Xi also expressed hope that Finland would play a constructive role in supporting healthy and stable China-EU relations.
Orpo’s visit comes as European countries reassess foreign policy options amid shifting US positions under President Donald Trump. Consequently, several EU states have sought to diversify diplomatic and economic partnerships. The timing also follows renewed attention on Arctic security during last week’s World Economic Forum in Davos, where Trump’s earlier remarks on Greenland heightened regional concerns.
Although tensions eased after Washington said it secured permanent access to Greenland, Arctic security remains a strategic priority for Finland, its NATO allies, and China. The Arctic’s importance continues to grow as melting ice opens faster shipping routes between Asia and Europe, significantly reducing transit times.
Economic ties and diplomatic exchanges
Xi called for deeper cooperation in energy transition, agriculture, and forestry, while encouraging Finnish companies to expand operations in China’s market. Orpo welcomed continued dialogue on bilateral cooperation and global issues, referring to earlier candid talks between Xi and Finnish President Alexander Stubb.
During discussions with Xi, Stubb raised concerns over recent incidents involving damage to undersea infrastructure, including power cables and pipelines, where Chinese-registered vessels have faced scrutiny. He also addressed North Korea’s support for Russia’s war in Ukraine, describing it as a concern for NATO and the EU.
Finland, with one-third of its territory inside the Arctic Circle, views regional security as critical. Meanwhile, China, which describes itself as a “near-Arctic state,” has shown interest in developing a Polar Silk Road. Orpo reiterated invitations for Xi to visit Finland and for senior parliamentary exchanges, underscoring efforts to strengthen diplomatic engagement.
