U.S. President Joe Biden has commended Finland’s entrance into NATO, noting its tremendous value, as he engaged with Finnish leaders in Helsinki on Thursday after attending a summit of the Western alliance.
Biden said while attending a bilateral meeting with Finnish President Sauli Niinistö: ‘I don’t think NATO’s ever been stronger.’
Biden pointed out the alignment of democratic values between the United States and Finland.
‘It took me about three seconds to say yes (to the country joining),’ Biden stated.
Niinistö talked about ‘a new era in our security.’
He expressed gratitude to the United States for its support and commended Biden for fostering unity at the NATO summit in Lithuania.
‘It seems that when things get serious, also people understand that we have to stick together,’ Niinistö added.
Subsequently, he held a meeting with the heads of state and government from the Nordic countries of Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and Iceland, focusing on the pressing issue of climate change.
Read also: President Joe Biden Vets Out $3bn On Ukraine Weapons Aid
Stressing the urgency of the situation, Biden advocated for concerted efforts and cooperation to confront the climate crisis.
He highlighted the importance of environmental preservation and the responsibility we have to safeguard the planet. ‘It’s the only existential threat humanity faces and we don’t have a lot of time, but I’m confident – if we continue to work together, we can deal with it,’ the U.S. president asserted.’
In addition, Biden added that the Nordic countries have consistently taken a leading role in this matter.
The international community acknowledges several Nordic countries as frontrunners in the realm of climate protection and renewable energies.
Denmark stands out with its highly ambitious climate objective, targeting a 70 per cent reduction in emissions by 2030, surpassing many other nations, concerning 1990 levels.
Among the Nordic countries, Norway holds a unique position as both a major oil and gas nation and a member of the group.
Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir acknowledged the critical role played by the U.S. in addressing the climate and biodiversity crisis, emphasising its significance.
Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen of Denmark applauded Biden for reengaging the United States in the fight against climate change.
The focus should not solely be on resolving the climate crisis; equal attention must be given to generating employment opportunities and fostering a brighter future for everyone.