Finnish diplomat highlights AI, defence and education cooperation with India

Finland’s envoy to India, Mikko Kivikoski, told reporters on October 5 that cooperation in artificial intelligence, defence and education represents a "simple formula" for success between the two nations. He noted that Finland, though modest in size, excels in innovation, while India offers vast scale and a deep talent reservoir.

Kivikoski reiterated confidence that the EU‑India free trade agreement will be signed by the end of the calendar year, followed by a ratification period that could push the agreement’s enforcement into the next year.

Addressing the ongoing Russia‑Ukraine conflict, the ambassador urged continued diplomatic dialogue, praising India’s role in seeking peaceful solutions. He also referenced recent joint initiatives, including the India‑Nordic summit in Oslo and the World Circular Economy Forum in Gandhinagar, as evidence of the expanding partnership.

Looking ahead, the Finnish diplomat pointed to concrete projects such as collaborations between Finnish companies Nokia and ICEYE on sovereign dual‑use satellite communications, signalling a deeper integration of defence and space capabilities.