From May 2 to 5, 2023, NATO International Armed Forces (DGIMS) Director General Janusz Adamczak will be in Finland to meet with various military officials to discuss security priorities and military integration. We talked about opportunities. This visit took place shortly after Finland joined the Alliance on April 4, 2023.
The visit began with a meeting at the Finnish Defense Forces Headquarters with Lieutenant General Kim Yameri, the Finnish military representative to NATO, where Adamsak reiterated how important Finland’s accession to the alliance was. He stressed that “Finland is stronger and safer within NATO and that Finland’s ally makes NATO stronger and safer.” We look forward to strengthening an already strong collaboration. We share the same values and are committed to upholding the principles of the rules-based international order and transatlantic security. ”
The program continued with a visit to Exercise ARROW 23, where they met with the Finnish Defense Forces Commander, Lieutenant General Besa Virtanen, and observed the joint work of some 2,200 participants from six Allied countries. “The Finnish Armed Forces, including reserve forces, are highly trained and highly capable. Together as allies, we will protect our one billion people,” he stressed.
According to Vice Admiral Virtanen, the NATO integration process is active and multifaceted. A Finnish official noted the importance of “military integration progressing simultaneously and on many levels. This ensures that Finnish defense is fully integrated into the alliance’s collective defense. A strong national defense capability combined with NATO member states will create a reliable security solution well into the future.”
Later that day, Lt. Gen. Adamsak visited the Finnish Air Force Command, where he said: Their membership greatly enhances our posture in the High North and our ability to strengthen our Baltic allies. ”
After a short visit to the Valimaa border station and an introduction to the Finnish Border Guard, the Director General returned to Helsinki and met with the Chief of the Finnish Defense Forces, General Timo Kivinen. Their discussion centered on Finland’s recent accession and the military requirements still needed for full integration. The Finnish Armed Forces’ comprehensive approach to defense was explained in light of the challenges facing the country and the national command and control system.
The visit ended with an office call with Mr. Esa Pilkinen, Deputy Minister of Defense of Finland. Discussions focused on the path to full integration, with the Director-General emphasizing: And I am grateful that I can rely on you as an ally. ”