NATO MEPs held wide-ranging debate on security threats at meeting in Helsinki, Finland

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NATO MEPs held wide-ranging debate on security threats at meeting in Helsinki, Finland
NATO MEPs held wide-ranging debate on security threats at meeting in Helsinki, Finland. Image: Finland Government Official

MEPs from NATO and its partner countries gathered in Helsinki on October 18-20 to discuss the changing security environment in Europe and its threats.

Held in Finland’s Helsinki for the 103rd time, NATO MEPs discussed a wide range of security threats, such as hybrid threats and climate change, but also Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

“Discussions underlined the need for further intensified international cooperation to respond to these threats, and the need for both NATO and the international community as a whole to stand united in the face of the Russian threat,” the Finnish government said.

“The idea was repeated that Ukraine must be supported in the long term and that any peace negotiations must be approached on Ukraine’s terms.”

It added: “The meeting showed strong support for Finland’s membership in NATO. Finland is seen in the Alliance as a provider of security, and Finland’s defence solution and defence system based on universal conscription are appreciated.

“On the final day of the meeting, the participants were introduced to the Finnish defence concept and the Guard Ice Regiment in Santahamina. The seminar was attended by over a hundred members of parliament and officials.”

Speakers at the seminar included President of the Republic Sauli Niinistö, Speaker of the Parliament Matti Vanhanen, Chairman of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly Gerald E. Connolly, Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto (Greens) and Minister of Defence Antti Kaikkonen (Centre).

The Rose-Roth seminars were initiated in 1990 by Charlie Rose, then President of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, and US Senator Bill Roth. The last Rose-Roth seminar was organised by Parliament in 2010.


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