The Finnish Defence Forces and the United States European Command furthered bilateral cooperation during military staff talks
Military staff talks between the Finnish Defence Forces and the United States European Command (USEUCOM) were conducted at the Defence Command Finland on 6–7 August 2024. The military staff talks were led by the Chief of Planning of the Defence Command, Brigadier General Tero Ylitalo and USEUCOM’s Deputy Director of Strategy, Plans and Capabilities, Brigadier General Quaid Quadri Jr.
The main issues in the negotiations were to deepen bilateral defence cooperation and identify and plan future cooperation opportunities, as well as to promote the practical implementation of the DCA agreement signed by the countries.
The United States is a close bilateral partner and ally of Finland. In December 2023, the countries signed a Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA), which further strengthens the alliance between the two countries' armed forces and enables deeper cooperation in all security situations. This will also help strengthen NATO's collective defence.
– Finland and the United States have a long history of cooperation in regional and global security and have promoted a rules-based international system, promoting a society based on law and order and fair trade, countering hybrid threats and striving to strengthen Arctic cooperation. Our common objective of strengthening transatlantic relations in response to all kinds of threats, both to the United States and to Europe, is to further deepen military ties between our countries. Together, we are well prepared to face threats and defend the alliance," says Brigadier General Quadri Jr.
According to Brigadier General Tero Ylitalo, the Chief of Planning at the Defence Command Finland, bilateral cooperation will also strengthen NATO's collective defence.
– The continuation of close bilateral military cooperation with the United States is an essential part of NATO membership and contributes to NATO's collective defence. This also underlines that Finland and NATO are really stronger together, says Brigadier General Ylitalo.
USEUCOM is responsible for U.S. military operations in Europe, parts of Asia and the Middle East, the Arctic, and the Atlantic. USEUCOM works closely with NATO allies and partners and is based in Stuttgart, Germany.
