Summary:
In connection with the visit of the US Secretary of Defense James Mattis, Finland’s President Sauli Niinistö brought up practical deeds in easing tension between countries. He asked whether now would be a good time to build understanding within concrete civil issues as times are restless. As an example, he mentioned black carbon emissions: there is wide accord on their reduction. « I have been satisfied with the reception of the idea both in Moscow and Washington, » he said. The President added that he believes that practical everyday collaboration could lead to greater results than collaborating in projects.

Summary:
The chairmanship of the Arctic Council will transfer from the United States to Finland during the summit beginning in Fairbanks, Alaska, on 10 May. The American hosts have had a difficult time before the summit as the United States does not currently have an official view on climate change. The situation has been difficult for the Finns as the other seven members of the council want to hold on to their climate views, and there have been attempts to solve the problem by finding wordings that even the Americans could accept. Minister for Foreign Affairs Timo Soini believes a good result will be reached and expresses his satisfaction with the fact that all member states have accepted Finland’s agenda which focuses on environmental protection, education, meteorological co-operation and developing communications networks for Northern regions. Mr Soini is pleased that the chairmanship of the Arctic Council offers Finland a link to the new US administration.