SECNAV, Finland Discuss Existing Partnership

Secretary of the US Navy Ray Mabus visited Helsinki, Finland, June 10 to meet with government and military officials and reinforce the existing partnership between the United States and Finland.

Mabus met with Finland’s Minister of Defense Carl Haglund and the Commander of the Finnish Navy, Rear Adm. Kari Takanen, to discuss multilateral maritime security issues and international efforts, the Arctic, regional security issues and the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps’ European partnerships.

“We strongly value our close relationship with Finland,” said Mabus. “Their role in enhancing regional cooperation and interoperability is appreciated and valued.”

During the visit, Mabus also discussed Finland’s naval capabilities and participation in on-going multination military exercises.

“Our mutual participation in Baltic Operations 2014 will only continue to strengthen our relationship,” he said.

While in Finland, Mabus also met with the U.S. ambassador to Finland, Bruce Oreck and Marines stationed at the embassy, thanking them for their efforts while stationed abroad.

Mabus’ stop in Finland is part of a multi-nation visit to the U.S. European and Africa Command areas of responsibility focused on reinforcing existing partnerships and visiting Sailors and Marines providing forward presence.

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Press Release, June 11, 2014; Image: Wikimedia