I was born in 1967. I can still remember the global security status of the Cold War years. At the time, the world was divided globally into two competing coalitions. Fierce competition between the US-led Western bloc and the Soviet-led Eastern bloc developed tensions and increased security concerns around the world.
After the collapse of the Soviet Union, cooperation and interdependence became the keywords of the new post-Cold War era. In the 1990s, the approach to international relations shifted to a more inclusive and open dialogue between countries. For Europe, the end of competition between West and East was a great relief.
Unfortunately, the willingness to cooperate did not continue in world politics after the Cold War. Once again, we have seen signs of a return to the old power struggle between influential global players such as the US, China and Russia. These countries want to look inward and use power in world politics. This has created tensions that could have serious consequences for global stability and security.
Now, thirty years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, we live in a very different global security environment. However, one thing that has not changed over the years is the strong need for global, regional and local cooperation between countries. Now, more than ever, we need to find common solutions to common security challenges.
Since the end of the Second World War, Finland has based its foreign and security policy on strong, independent national defense and co-operation in the European Union and the Nordic countries. Finland has also concluded partnership agreements with NATO without being a full member of the organization.
It is essential for Finland that our foreign and security policy is based on mutual understanding and dialogue. As a small Nordic country, we can play a key role in promoting peaceful co-operation between new countries fighting security threats. This means taking an active role in European and global decision-making.
From Finland’s point of view, the weakened political climate in the Arctic and the Baltic Sea are examples where we need deeper cooperation. By cooperating, we can reduce tensions and uncertainty in these important areas near Finland. This should be a common goal for all countries in these regions.
Mika Kari
Member of Parliament (Social Democratic Party of Finland)
Chairman of the Intelligence Monitoring Committee
This article is written for MP Talk, which is a regular column in the Helsinki Times, where members of the Finnish Parliament share their thoughts and opinions. All opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Helsinki Times.
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Source: The Nordic Page