MANILA – The Philippines is planning to reopen its embassy in Helsinki as it seeks to increase cooperation and engagement with Finland.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) made the announcement during the Finland National Day reception in Taguig City on December 6.
DFA Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said this is to reciprocate Finland’s move to reopen its mission in Manila in 2020.
Last year, Finland also opened its honorary consulates in Davao and Cebu, signaling its growing presence in the Philippines.
“To reciprocate this welcome development, I am pleased to announce that we are now in the final preparations for the reopening of the Philippine Embassy Helsinki next year, paving the way for more efficient cooperation and engagement between our two countries,” Lazaro said.
The DFA decided to close its foreign service post in Finland a decade ago to maximize resources and to augment embassies and consulates where there are more Filipinos.
Lazaro noted that relations between Manila and Helsinki have grown closer over the past years through high level exchanges.
In January 2023, the two states held the 7th round of political consultations and explored ways to enhance cooperation, including on health and education.
Manila and Helsinki are looking for opportunities to increase interactions in a wide range of areas, including trade, education, science and technology, green technologies, green transition and clean energy, maritime, immigration and labor, and creative industries, among others. (PNA)
