By eurotopics | 16.02.2010 | 19:57 ET in Europe

Finland must hone its Arctic strategy

Photo: (C) Hurtigruten.de

Although Finland does not border on the Arctic Ocean it is a member of the Arctic Council, and for that reason it must develop its own strategy for the region, writes the daily Keskisuomalainen:

“The melting of the Arctic ice crust could make the natural resources of the ocean accessible, as well as the ocean floor. Apart from huge stocks of fish, the Arctic Ocean has roughly 30 percent of the world’s untapped gas and 13 percent of the world’s oil reserves.

… But no one will benefit from uncontrolled competition in this sensitive region. Not long ago the Finnish president warned that competition for resources must not lead to conflicts in the Arctic. In her words Finland’s policy in the Arctic must aim at cooperation among all countries involved.

… Finland possesses extensive knowledge in ice-breaker and environmental technology, among other things. This may soon be very much in demand.”

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