Finland and the United States to intensify cooperation on digitalisation and clean technology

Finland’s Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio will visit Los Angeles on 13–16 March 2024. During his visit, Minister Tavio will sign a letter of intent agreed between the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and the City of Los Angeles on clean transition and digitalisation. The Minister will also present Finnish expertise in clean energy, port security and the games industry.

The strategic partnership between Finland and the United States has intensified at the US federal government level as well as at various levels of government in several states. The state of California is a leader in renewable energies, climate change mitigation and digitalisation. The investments made by the City of Los Angeles in twin transitions in transport and logistics in particular offer opportunities for Finnish companies and other operators. The priority areas of the letter of intent to be signed by Minister Tavio reflect cutting-edge Finnish know-how from intelligent port solutions to electrification of transport and clean energy solutions.

The visit will also highlight Finnish expertise in the games industry. At the Finnish Game Industry Showcase, Finnish gaming companies will present their expertise and network with US stakeholders.

“My visit to Los Angeles is an excellent opportunity to strengthen cooperation between Finland and the United States. Los Angeles is an important game industry hub for Finns, but the city also offers considerable market opportunities for solutions to twin transitions, clean energy, circular economy and the port sector. Finnish companies have a great deal to offer to California markets,” says Minister Ville Tavio.

During his visit, Minister Tavio will also inaugurate the joint Nordic consular premises. This arrangement is unique because Los Angeles is the only city in the world where the consulates of all five Nordic countries are located in the same building.

“The joint Nordic premises are a fine example of practical and close Nordic co-operation in the United States,” says Minister Tavio.