Heikkilä Markku’s Post

Since the beginning of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the framework for international cooperation in the Arctic region has changed profoundly. Arctic Europe, especially the northernmost parts of Finland, Sweden and Norway are adapting to a new situation. According to Heikkilä Markku , the adjusting is happening without coherent plans yet in place. Read more from the newly published BSR Policy Briefing 3/2024 by Centrum Balticum Foundation https://lnkd.in/ehAcbah7

Inevitable consequence of other Arctic nations refusing to cooperate with Russia in the Council as a result of the war in Ukraine. So I am not surprised. Question is: How long will the Council hold on? The two binding treaties concluded between all the 8 arctic states, what now happens? Throw them in the bin? Assert that Russia's being in the Council is not relevant in the grand scheme of things, when it has the biggest coastline in the Arctic? Amidst everything, cooperation between and Russia continues to grow close even as trade using the Northern Sea Route increases between them. Interesting times ahead.

This article argues shortfalls in the international institutions governing the Arctic have allowed Russia and China to expand control over the region. Read "Strengthen Arctic Governance to Stop Russian and Chinese Overreach" https://lnkd.in/eVsMxcTJ

Nowadays, there is a feeling of capitulation in the corridors of European power, although, fair to say that the Lithuanians remain firm in standing resolutely against Russia's challenge. As we navigate these complex geopolitical waters, we remain committed to fostering dialogue and exploring proactive measures to promote stability and security in our region.   Due to that, together with Founder and Head of the Centenary Policy Institute Paulius Kuncinas, we had a privilege to be invited to Delfi Lietuva “Verslo požiūris” discussion and provide valuable insights about the palpable urgency to expedite the resolution of the conflict with Russia. This sentiment, while concerning, has sparked optimism surrounding a transformative idea that could serve as a pillar in supporting Ukraine's recovery and securing essential financial resources.   To hear more, click on the link 👉 https://lnkd.in/eCywSNS7 TGS Baltic

During the Cold War, Western radar equipment sprang up like mushrooms in the Arctic to monitor the Soviet nuclear Northern Fleet and its military activities. The fall of the Soviet Union made the vast, resource-rich region more open, with its deposits of oil and natural gas, iron ore, copper, nickel, zinc phosphates and diamonds, and abundant fisheries up for grabs. The Arctic does not have a legal system of its own, due to the lack of recognised legal status. The Arctic Council – an intergovernmental forum promoting cooperation, coordination and interaction among the Arctic States – is tasked with issues of sustainable development and environmental protection in the region. The Council makes up of five littoral states: Canada, Denmark (through Greenland), Norway, Russia, and the US; and three other: Iceland, Finland, and Sweden, that have Arctic territories but no coastlines on the Arctic Ocean. In recent years, China has forged closer ties with Russia to beef up military cooperation and build its “Ice Silk Road” as part of its Belt-and-Road Initiative across Central Asia to Europe, Africa and beyond. Russia capitalises on melting ice and seeks to launch the Northern Sea Route (NSR) and the Northwest Passage as competitive national transport arteries, with the latter offering a more attractive alternative to the Suez Canal for transportation between Europe and Asia. As an Arctic Council observer, Japan has stepped up its engagement by “ensuring the rule of law and promoting international cooperation” in its policy. The Arctic Ocean is governed by international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Respecting the freedom of navigation and other principles enshrined in international law are said to be Japan’s goals.

"There is a capitulation mood in the West, but we still have ways to stop Russia". In the current geopolitical landscape, there's a palpable feeling of capitulation echoing through the corridors of European power. Amidst these challenges, the resistance of Lithuania's position to Russian provocations remains strong. At TGS Baltic, we recognize the importance of fostering dialogue and exploring proactive measures to uphold stability and security in our region. Recently, our managing partner Vilius Bernatonis had the honor of participating in the Delfi Lietuva "Verslo požiūris" discussion alongside Paulius Kunčinas, Founder and Head of the Centenary Policy Institute. The #discussion delved into the pressing need to expedite the resolution of conflicts with Russia, recognizing the urgency of the situation. Despite the concerning sentiment of capitulation, there's an undercurrent of optimism surrounding transformative ideas that could bolster #Ukraine's recovery and secure vital financial resources. To gain valuable insights from the discussion, click the link in the comments below. #TGSBaltic #Delfi #Geopolitics #Dialogue #Stability #Security #Europe

The area of the Ukraine War where Japan can and is exerting leadership. Japan has a great deal of experience in rebuilding after war but more recently after massive natural disasters https://lnkd.in/gWdg3pp9

Belgium assumes the rotating Presidency for the thirteenth time, at a moment when the European Union stands at a crossroads, dealing with the consequences of the Russian illegal aggression in Ukraine, the pandemic, the energy crisis, disinformation, extreme climate events, and a renewed conflict in the Middle East. The Belgian Presidency will work towards better protecting European citizens, strengthening our cooperation, and preparing our shared future. It will focus on six thematic areas, and will provide particular attention to maintaining our unwavering support to Ukraine. As the current institutional cycle concludes, the Presidency will support a seamless transition to the next one. It will support the adoption of the Strategic Agenda 2024-2029 and prepare discussions on the future of the European Union

🌍 **European Political Community Summit: 4th Meeting on July 18, 2024** 🌍 📅 **Meeting in the United Kingdom** 📅 On July 18, the 47 leaders of the European Political Community (EPC) gathered in the United Kingdom for a new summit. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, along with representatives from NATO and the Council of Europe, participated in this event. The summit primarily focused on the situation in Ukraine. 🔹 **Creation of the EPC** 🔹 As a reminder, the EPC was created in October 2022 at the initiative of President Macron, with the aim of strengthening cohesion, cooperation, and dialogue among European countries. 🔹 **Structure of the Meeting** 🔹 This 4th meeting was structured into three parts: 1. An opening plenary session 2. Three roundtables dedicated to migration, energy and connectivity, and defense and democracy 3. A final plenary session 🤝 **Strengthening UK-EU Ties** 🤝 This meeting was also an opportunity for the United Kingdom to strengthen its ties with the EU and vice versa. Currently, the application of the agreements prevails, but future cooperation could develop. 📅 **Next Meeting in Hungary** 📅 The next EPC meeting will take place on November 7, 2024, in Hungary, the country currently holding the Council Presidency. #EPCCSummit #EuropeanPoliticalCommunity #Ukraine #VolodymyrZelensky #Macron #Cooperation #Europe #UnitedKingdom #Hungary

#PeriploPacifico #WednesdayEdition June 19, 2024 Here are the key news and events reported today about the #Pacific region. #PicoftheDay is #TinianIsland, #NorthernMarianaIslands, known for its historical significance during WWII and beautiful landscapes. Specifically this is aerial view of the old USAAF North Field on Tinian Island. It was from here during the Second World War B-29 bombers flew long range missions against the Japanese mainland. Both the missions to Hiroshima and Nagasaki originated from this airstrip. #Vanuatu - Climate Leadership at ITLOS Hearings Vanuatu's Attorney General Arnold Kiel Loughman made a compelling statement at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) hearings on climate change. Vanuatu is pushing for stronger international legal obligations to address climate change impacts, emphasizing their existential threat to small island nations. #Samoa - Police Academy Initiative Samoa's police force is advocating for the establishment of a regional training academy to enhance law enforcement capabilities across the Pacific. This initiative aims to improve regional security and cooperation among Pacific Island nations. #CookIslands - Traditional Navigation Celebrated In Honolulu, the Cook Islands' master navigators are being celebrated for their contributions to traditional Pacific navigation. This recognition highlights the enduring significance of traditional knowledge and skills in modern times. #Tonga - Magnitude-6.0 Earthquake A magnitude-6.0 earthquake occurred south-southwest of Ohonu, Tonga, early this morning. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties, but authorities are conducting assessments and have advised caution regarding potential aftershocks. #SolomonIslands - Diplomatic Engagements Australia and China are vying to strengthen ties with the Solomon Islands' new Prime Minister, Jeremiah Manele. Both countries have sent high-level envoys to engage in diplomatic discussions, reflecting the strategic importance of the Solomon Islands in the region. These updates reflect ongoing efforts and challenges in the Pacific region. Stay tuned!