Strengthening security and defence cooperation in the northern Nordic region

‘It is a pleasure to be hosting the first meeting between Norway, Sweden and Finland since we became members of NATO. Bodø is an ideal setting for our meeting, both because of its placement on the map, and because it is where the Norwegian Joint Headquarters is located,’ said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

Mr Støre, Mr Kristersson and Mr Stubb discussed ways of working together to expand civil and military cooperation.

‘In addition to our geographical proximity, the Nordic countries have many common interests and values. Our talks have therefore been very constructive,’ said Mr Støre.

Mr Støre pointed out that Swedish and Finnish NATO membership has strengthened collective security in the Nordic countries.

‘The fact that all the Nordic countries are now united in NATO brings greater predictability and adds a new dimension to our cooperation,’ said Mr Støre.

Norwegian Minister of Defence Minister Bjørn Arild Gram, Swedish Minister for Defence Pål Jonsson and Finnish Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen also attended parts of the meeting in Bodø.