Europe and the Nordic Region grow stronger together
The President started by expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to speak in a forum she described as one of Europe’s strongest examples of democracy and co-operation. She drew parallels between the Nordic countries’ long traditions of democracy, equality and openness and the Europe of today.
“Here, in this chamber, you are not only Nordic, you are also Europeans,” she pointed out, stressing that the Nordic Region has shaped Europe politically, culturally and socially for centuries.
However, the main part of the speech was devoted to security, defence and preparedness. Von der Leyen highlighted that Europe is marked by war and threats, and praised the role played by the Nordic countries in support of Ukraine.
“Putin thought he could break Ukraine’s resistance in three days. Instead, after 1,300 days, Ukraine’s spirit is unbroken, thanks to your solidarity and Europe’s unrelenting collective support.
Here, in this chamber, you are not only Nordic, you are also Europeans
The President reiterated that a lasting peace agreement relies on a strong and independent Ukraine and pledged continued EU support. She also highlighted the Nordic Region’s role as a driving force for preparedness and societal security.
“In the Nordic Region, you know that security is not just about weapons, but about being prepared. You build preparedness in peacetime, and that is a model from which the whole of Europe should learn,” she said.
Heléne Björklund, the President of the Nordic Council, described the meeting as a historic moment.
“First and foremost, it was fantastic that Ursula von der Leyen came here today. She is a charismatic person and gave an incredibly good speech. She highlighted everything we have to be proud of in the Nordic Region,” Björklund said.
The Nordic Region is building for the future
Another topic was the green transition and European competitiveness. The President of the European Commission described the Nordic countries as world leaders in renewable energy and new technology and announced a new European investment fund to provide a boost for green industry and nature projects.
Towards the end of her speech, von der Leyen turned her attention to the Arctic and the strategic importance of the Nordic Region. She pointed to climate change, new trade routes and the need for closer co-operation with Nordic and Arctic societies. “Many small streams become a large river,” she said, using the Swedish proverb to underline her point. Europe’s strength lies in its unity.
Von der Leyen showed how our abilities complement each other. The Nordic Region stands out as a reliable and stable part of a sometimes turbulent Europe.
Heléne Björklund also highlighted the point made by von der Leyen about trust, preparedness and collective strength.
“She showed how our abilities complement each other. The Nordic Region stands out as a reliable and stable part of a sometimes turbulent Europe.
In Björklund’s opinion, the visit shows that the eyes of the world are now on the Nordic Region.
“The geopolitical picture makes us visible. The fact that Ursula von der Leyen came here today means that even more people will see how important we are. We must seize this opportunity to showcase our expertise in total defence and our cultural strength. It was good that she emphasised that particular point,” said Björklund.
Ursula von der Leyen’s speech marked the opening of the Nordic Summit, which is being held in Stockholm this year.
