The Nordic Council of Ministers “Vision 2030” aspire to make the Nordic region the most sustainable and integrated region in the world, and includes three strategic areas – a green, competitive, and socially sustainable Nordic region. In 2021 Finland holds the presidency of the Nordic Council of Ministers. The programme of Finland's Presidency is based on this vision and in accordance with it, the programme is based on three strategic priorities: "A green Nordic Region", "A compe titive Nordic Region" and "A socially sustainable Nordic Region".
We are stronger and wiser together than as individuals. This is one of the fundamental theses of the Finnish programme for the presidency. “The pandemic just goes to show that we cannot solve global challenges alone,” says Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin. “It makes sense to seek ways to prepare for future crises together. This is why Finland also wants to enhance co-operation within security of supply.”
One consequence of the pandemic has been restrictions on freedom of movement within the region. Borders have been shut, work trips have been hampered, and family members have been unable to see one another.
Finland wants also to promote a bio-based and circular economy by, among other things, developing a skills network for the circular economy of the construction industry. Another high-priority issue is stemming the loss of biodiversity.
Åland’s self-government celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2021-22. During Finland’s presidency, there will be a special focus on the participation of Åland, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland in Nordic co-operation and how this strengthens the democratic sustainability of the Nordic Region. The Finnish and Ålandic governments and the Nordic Council of Ministers are hosting an international conference on this topic in the autumn of 2021.
The Finnish presidency aims to develop international co-operation within the framework of the Nordic Council of Ministers’ vision. Support for an ever closer partnership between the Nordic countries and the Baltic countries will be developed in accordance with the priorities set out in the vision.