Xi Calls for Closer China Finland Ties as Multipolar Order Gains Focus
China’s President Xi Jinping said Beijing is ready to deepen cooperation with Finland and jointly uphold a United Nations centred international system, framing the relationship as part of a broader push toward a multipolar global order. Xi made the remarks during talks in Beijing with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, according to Chinese state media. The meeting comes at a time when China is seeking to strengthen ties with European countries amid shifting geopolitical alignments and renewed uncertainty over transatlantic relations. By highlighting economic globalisation and multilateralism, Beijing is positioning itself as a stabilising force in contrast to growing protectionism and policy volatility elsewhere, while encouraging smaller European states to play a constructive role in shaping China EU relations.
Xi said China hopes Finland can contribute positively to the healthy and stable development of ties between Beijing and the European Union, signalling China’s interest in engaging Europe through bilateral channels as well as bloc level dialogue. The talks covered cooperation in areas including energy transition, agriculture and forestry, sectors where Finland has advanced technology and expertise. Xi also welcomed Finnish companies to expand their presence in China, using language aimed at reassuring foreign businesses concerned about market access and regulatory risks. For Finland, engagement with China remains economically important even as political and security considerations weigh more heavily in policymaking. The visit reflects Helsinki’s attempt to balance economic pragmatism with its commitments as a member of the European Union and NATO.
The discussions took place against a backdrop of heightened strategic attention on the Arctic, a region of growing importance to global trade and security. Shrinking ice coverage is opening shorter shipping routes between Asia and Europe, raising both commercial opportunities and geopolitical sensitivities. Finland, which has a significant portion of its territory above the Arctic Circle, views regional security as a core concern, particularly as NATO increases its focus on the High North. China, which describes itself as a near Arctic state, has expressed interest in developing a Polar Silk Road linking Asia and Europe. These overlapping interests make Arctic governance an increasingly important element of China Finland and China Europe relations.
Finland’s leaders have previously raised sensitive issues with Beijing, including incidents involving damage to undersea cables and concerns related to North Korea’s alignment with Russia. While such topics underscore underlying tensions, both sides have emphasised dialogue and continued engagement. Orpo said he looked forward to further discussions on bilateral cooperation and international issues, and reiterated invitations for senior Chinese leaders to visit Finland. The meeting highlights how China is using high level diplomacy to reinforce partnerships with individual European states as it navigates a more fragmented global environment. For Beijing, closer ties with Finland offer both symbolic and practical value in advancing its vision of a multipolar order anchored in economic cooperation.
