Finland’s connectivity to Europe, the Nordic countries and the Baltics was a key topic at a panel discussion held during the Europe Forum in Turku. The Regional Council of Uusimaa, the Regional Council of Southwest Finland, the Regional Council of Päijät-Häme and the Regional Council of Pirkanmaa highlighted the importance of cross-border transport connections for Finland’s growth, competitiveness and security.
The panel’s message was clear: the changing geopolitical environment, Finland’s export-driven economy and preparations for the EU’s next financial period require more determined investments in nationally and internationally significant connections.
Daniel Sazonov, Mayor of Helsinki, stressed that transport connections have always been a strategic issue for Finland, but that their importance has increased even further in the current situation.
“Russia’s war of aggression and the changing security environment require us to view Finland’s connectivity from a broader European perspective. This is not just about transport but also about Finland’s position as part of Europe,” he said.
Accessibility as a competitive advantage
Minna Helle, Director at the Confederation of Finnish Industries (EK), noted that Finland faces particular logistical challenges.
“Finland is highly dependent on exports. Companies can strengthen their competitiveness in many ways, but efficient transport connections and logistics are areas where they need support from society.”
According to the panelists, Finland should make full use of the ongoing preparations for the EU’s next funding period and the next Government Programme to advance strategically important transport projects.
Harri Airaksinen, Director of the Tampere and Pirkanmaa EU Office, emphasised that accessibility should become a strength for Finland.
“The eastern route is effectively closed. We therefore need to invest in connections that support growth, competitiveness and economic development.”
Looking towards Europe and cross-border connections
The panel stressed that Finland’s transport network cannot be viewed solely from a national perspective. Particular attention was paid to connections with Sweden, the Baltic countries and Europe more broadly, as well as to the requirements of military mobility, security of supply and resilience.
Ville Valkonen, Member of Parliament and Chair of the Regional Board of the Regional Council of Southwest Finland, argued that transport connections are ultimately about building the future.
“This is not merely a reaction to the current situation; it is an opportunity. Europeans must be able to move smoothly across the continent, including here in the north. Strategic infrastructure must be brought up to standard.”
The discussion also highlighted the importance of domestic connections within Finland. Railway projects linking major growth centres were seen as an essential prerequisite for Finland to credibly secure European funding for strategically important projects.
Competition for EU funding is intensifying
According to the panel, Finland has performed well in recent years in EU advocacy related to transport infrastructure and in making use of EU funding programmes. However, competition for future funding instruments is expected to become increasingly fierce.
The panelists saw stronger cooperation, both nationally and internationally, as the key solution.
“We need partners in Sweden, Estonia, the Baltic region and across the Nordic countries. Success in Europe is built through cooperation,” the panel concluded.
The discussion was organised as part of the Europe Forum in Turku, which once again brought together decision-makers, experts and citizens to discuss the future of Europe. Having grown into a three-day event, the forum has established itself as Finland’s leading arena for EU-related public debate. At the same time, Turku also celebrated Baltic Sea Day, highlighting the importance of international cooperation and shared European solutions.
From left: Jyri Arponen, Daniel Sazonov, Minna Helle, Heikki Airaksinen, Ville Valkonen and Mikko Myllymäki.
