India, Finland reaffirm cooperation on trade, tech

India and Finland have reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation across a wide spectrum — from trade and investment to emerging technologies and clean energy — during the 13th round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) held in Helsinki on November 6, an MEA official said here on Friday.

The Indian delegation was led by Sibi George, Secretary (West), Ministry of External Affairs, while the Finnish side was headed by Jukka Salovaara, Permanent State Secretary, Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland. During his visit, George also paid a courtesy call on Matias Marttinen, Finland’s Minister of Employment.

According to officials, both sides reviewed progress in their bilateral partnership and identified new areas of collaboration, including digitalisation, quantum computing, 5G/6G technologies, artificial intelligence, sustainability, clean technologies, circular economy, education and R&D.

“Strengthening people-to-people ties and mobility also featured prominently in the discussions,” the official said.

India described Finland as a “valued and trusted partner” in the European Union and Nordic region, highlighting convergence on global issues and shared democratic values.

The Finnish side reiterated its support for the early conclusion of a balanced and ambitious India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) under the framework of the India-EU Strategic Partnership.

The two sides also discussed multilateral cooperation, including engagement in the Arctic Council and within the United Nations. Notably, Finland reiterated its support for India’s bid for permanent membership of a reformed UN Security Council.

Officials said the consultations also covered regional and international developments of mutual concern, with both sides underscoring the importance of multilateralism, global governance reform and sustained dialogue on common challenges.

Both countries agreed to maintain the momentum of their dialogue and hold the next round of consultations in New Delhi at a mutually convenient date.