Kotkaniemi Forum gathers Finland’s political leaders to discuss foreign and security policy
The fifth Kotkaniemi Forum will take place today in Luumäki, bringing together Finland’s political leadership to debate the country’s foreign and security policy. The event, held in the garden of President P. E. Svinhufvud’s home museum, will feature high-profile speakers, including Prime Minister Petteri Orpo (National Coalition Party), Minister of Finance Riikka Purra (Finns Party), and party leaders Antti Lindtman (Social Democratic Party) and Antti Kaikkonen (Centre Party).
The forum will explore the impacts of great power politics on Finland, with discussions led by researchers, business representatives, and media figures. Yle reports that the event will be streamed live on Yle Areena from 12:15 to 16:00.
Key discussions on Finland’s security and economic outlook
The afternoon panel, scheduled to begin at 14:55, will focus on Finland’s foreign and security policy direction. Moderated by Etelä-Saimaa Editor-in-Chief Jyrki Utriainen, the discussion will include Orpo, Purra, Lindtman, and Kaikkonen. Ilta-Sanomat will broadcast the panel live.
Earlier in the day, a panel starting at 12:20 will examine how great power politics affects Finland and the daily lives of its citizens. Participants include Professor Kari Liuhto from the National Defence University and the University of Turku, Senior Researcher Iro Särkkä from the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, and Juho Romakkaniemi, CEO of the Central Chamber of Commerce. This session will be moderated by Ilta-Sanomat Editor-in-Chief Ulla Appelsin.
Prime Minister Orpo, who returned from summer leave on Monday, will make one of his first public appearances since the break at the forum (Ilta-Sanomat). The event provides an opportunity for Finland’s political leadership to address pressing security challenges amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.