Governor of Colorado Jared Polis Visits Finland on 13 and 14 June to Foster Partnerships in Clean Transition and Technology
During a significant diplomatic and business engagement on 13 June in Helsinki, Governor Jared Polis of Colorado and Minister of Climate and the Environment Kai Mykkänen will convene to explore avenues for enhancing the collaboration between Finland and the State of Colorado. This meeting underscores a shared commitment towards implementing a clean transition and realizing ambitious climate goals through the lens of science and technology.
“Both Finland and Colorado are deeply committed to a clean transition and to meeting our climate objectives. We rely on science and technology-driven solutions. For Colorado, Finland stands out as a NATO ally and an intriguing partner. This is thanks to our pioneering work in climate change and technology, coupled with our vibrant innovation and startup ecosystems,” Minister Mykkänen highlighted.
The visit aims to strengthen the partnership between Finland and Colorado, particularly in sectors pivotal for the future such as clean technology. With Governor Polis leading a business delegation, the program includes engagements with Finnish business entities, research communities, and key figures from the central government administration. A hallmark event celebrating this transatlantic partnership is slated, featuring stakeholders from across the private sector and academic institutions. They will discuss the tangible benefits realized from this collaboration.
Keynote addresses will be delivered by Minister of Economic Affairs Wille Rydman, Governor Polis, and Pasi Rajala, State Secretary to Finland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen. These speeches will undoubtedly shed light on the significant synergies and future opportunities between Finland and Colorado.
This robust cooperation forms an integral component of the broader Finland-United States partnership, fostering a multitude of opportunities. Colorado’s role as a national hub for revolutionary research, the defence industry, and both quantum and space technology mirrors Finland’s strengths in these domains. This alignment underscores the potential for deepening commercial and research collaborations.
The ongoing visit builds upon the foundations laid by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Finland and Colorado in February 2022. This MoU outlines shared priorities such as advancements in supercomputers, quantum technology, fostering the green economy, and exploring the aerospace sector. Through these joint efforts, Finland and Colorado aim to elevate their commercial and research partnerships to new heights.
Colorado represents one of the six US states with which Finland has established a partnership, signifying the broader aim of enhancing Finland-US relations. This includes bolstering trade, investment opportunities, and the exchange of expertise in sectors of mutual interest. These state-specific partnerships underscore Finland’s strategic focus in strengthening bilateral ties with the United States, paving the way for a future of shared prosperity and innovation.
This diplomatic engagement between Governor Polis and Finnish officials is not just a testament to the existing partnerships but also a beacon for potential future collaborations in technology, clean energy, and beyond. As both regions continue to champion the cause of environmental sustainability and technological advancement, the world watches with keen interest at the tangible outcomes from this promising alliance.
