The DCA, approved by the Finnish government today and slated for signing in Washington D.C. on Monday, December 18th, represents the culmination of negotiations that began in August 2022. It reinforces the already strong alliance between Finland and the US, one of the Nordic nation’s most crucial defense partners.
“This agreement signifies a historic deepening of our longstanding alliance,” declared Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen. “Not only will it bolster Finland’s security and defense posture, but it also carries regional significance by solidifying Finland’s role in NATO’s collective defense efforts.”
The DCA offers Finland tangible benefits by authorizing the presence and training of US forces within its territory, alongside the prepositioning of critical defense equipment. This collaboration directly supports the implementation of NATO’s deterrence and defense strategies, further stabilizing the region.
“This agreement builds upon our robust defense cooperation with the US, dating back to the early 1990s,” stated Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen. “The DCA signifies a new chapter in this partnership, creating a framework for even closer collaboration and reaffirming the US commitment to Finland’s security.”
The agreement allows for enhanced cooperation between Finland and the US, including stationing US troops and equipment in Finland, streamlining US military movement, and establishing protocols for jurisdiction and operations.
Finland will grant the US unhindered access to and use of specific facilities and areas for activities outlined in the DCA. While cooperation primarily focuses on these designated locations, the agreement’s scope encompasses the entire nation.
The US, in turn, pledges to conduct all activities with complete respect for Finnish sovereignty, laws, and international obligations. The agreement also establishes crucial safeguards, mandating consultation between parties, respect for shared views, and coordinated efforts to ensure proper implementation.