The new chair of the organization, Finland's Minister of Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen, presented the main areas of focus for 2025. Key objectives include safeguarding European security, supporting Ukraine's territorial integrity, and enhancing the resilience of OSCE participating states.
"Like previous chairs, Finland will prioritize Ukraine in the organization's work. Supporting Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence remains central to the OSCE's activities. Finland aims to strengthen the operational capabilities of the organization. Despite the current challenges faced by the organization, Finland emphasizes the importance of fortifying the OSCE as an operational security entity and a forum for political dialogue," the statement reads.
Special attention will be given to countering Russian aggression and upholding the principles enshrined in the Helsinki Final Act (an international document that formalizes agreements among the heads of state and government of 33 European countries, as well as the USA and Canada regarding cooperation. Signed on August 1, 1975. – "GORDON").
"Today, we face an unprecedented need to defend this collectively agreed security order. As the Helsinki Final Act marks its 50th anniversary, Finland will continuously highlight the principles outlined in this foundational OSCE document. When Russia challenges the foundations of our collective security, we must stand up to defend them and remain steadfast," Valtonen emphasized.
An important initiative from Finland will be the establishment of the "Helsinki+50" fund, which will direct voluntary contributions to projects aligned with OSCE principles, according to the release. Valtonen stated that the fund will also work to strengthen civil society and improve interaction between donors and beneficiaries.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha congratulated Finland on the start of its OSCE chairmanship on social media on January 1 and invited Elina Valtonen to Ukraine.
He added that on the eve of the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, the countries will work together to achieve a just peace for Ukraine and put an end to Russian aggression.
Rest in Finland and @elinavaltonen on 2025 OSCE Chairpersonship. I look forward to welcoming you to Ukraine. In the journey to the Helsinki Final Act 50th anniversary, we will work together to achieve significant progress for Ukraine and put an end to Russian aggression.
— Andrii Sybiha 🇺🇦 (@andrii_sybiha) January 1, 2025