Finland’s Minister of the Interior Visits Stockholm to Discuss Organized Crime, Migration, and Russia’s Impact on Security
Finland’s Minister of the Interior, Mari Rantanen, is set to visit Stockholm on September 11-12 to discuss key security issues with Swedish ministers. The discussions will focus on organized crime, migration, and the impact of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on security.
Minister Rantanen will hold meetings with three Swedish ministers – Gunnar Strömmer, Minister for Justice; Maria Malmer Stenergard, Minister for Migration; and Carl-Oskar Bohlin, Minister for Civil Defence. They will address the challenges posed by organized crime and gang crime, as well as matters related to migration, such as the efficient return of migrants and cooperation with third countries. Additionally, the ministers will examine civil preparedness and the consequences of Russia’s actions on the current security environment.
The visit highlights the long-standing partnership and strong cooperation between Finland and Sweden in the field of home affairs. With recent changes in the security landscape, both countries recognize the importance of a robust bilateral partnership and collaboration within the Nordic region.
One of the main topics of discussion will be combating organized crime, which requires close international cooperation and efficient exchange of information between authorities. Minister Rantanen is keen to explore best practices in inter-authority cooperation from Sweden to tackle organized crime and gang-related issues.
The ministers will also focus on border security to ensure the safety and integrity of their respective territories. Strengthening border control measures is crucial in addressing security concerns and preventing illegal activities.
Migration will be another significant aspect of the discussions, particularly regarding the current migration situation in both countries and the returns of rejected asylum seekers. Finland aims to align its asylum policy with that of other Nordic countries and improve the efficiency of the return process. Valuable insights and experiences from Sweden are expected to contribute to the development of effective migration partnerships and cooperation with third countries on return practices. Additionally, the ministers will address the instrumentalization of migrants and other disruptions, emphasizing the need for joint preparedness.
Preparedness and civil defense will also be on the agenda. Minister Rantanen and Minister Bohlin will discuss the importance of strengthening resilience and preparedness. This requires active international cooperation with the European Union, NATO, and other Nordic countries. Civil preparedness involves safeguarding vital functions of society, ensuring the basic supply for the population, and maintaining the State’s capacity to act during crisis situations.
In conclusion, the visit of Finland’s Minister of the Interior to Stockholm signifies the shared concerns and close collaboration between the two countries in combating organized crime, addressing migration challenges, and maintaining security in the region. The discussions aim to enhance information exchange, learn from each other’s experiences, and improve the effectiveness of measures taken to protect their nations. The importance of a strong partnership and Nordic cooperation is reiterated, particularly in response to the evolving security environment.
For any inquiries, please feel free to reach out to the following contacts:
- Laura Yli-Vakkuri, Director General, can be reached at +358 295 488 250 or via email at firstname.lastname@gov.fi.
- If you have specific requests for interviews with Minister Rantanen, please contact Juha Martelius, State Secretary, at +358 295 160 866 or via email at firstname.lastname@gov.fi.
