Joint Statement on Finland’s Participation in French Forward Deterrence.

In his speech on nuclear deterrence doctrine, given on March 2nd at Île Longue, the President of the French Republic has expressed the European dimension of France’s vital interests, and articulated to that effect the concept of Forward Deterrence. A number of countries have decided to be part of it. Today, Finland has decided to join Forward Deterrence. This decision, in conformity with the two countries’ respective international obligations, is an important step for European security, and for bilateral cooperation. It will strengthen their partnership, and offer opportunities for strategic signalling, as well as the ability to manage escalation below the nuclear threshold. A Nuclear Steering Group will be established in the next few months to begin the implementation of this cooperation. The two countries reaffirm their ambition for a stronger, safer and better defended Europe.