President Stubb meets President of China Xi Jinping

Office of the President of the Republic of Finland
Press release 61/2024
29 October 2024

President of the Republic of Finland Alexander Stubb met President of China Xi Jinping on Tuesday 29 October 2024 in Beijing.

The presidents discussed Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East, the UN reform and issues related to climate change and the environment.

Bilateral and trade relations between Finland and China were also on the agenda. President Stubb affirmed that Finland values the stable and constructive relationship with China. Next year will mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

On Tuesday, the Joint Action Plan to promote the bilateral partnership between China and Finland was renewed. The new plan covers the period 2025–2029. Nine government memoranda of understanding and fifteen trade agreements will be signed during the state visit.

A central topic of the presidents' talks was Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine.

“I think it is important to have the opportunity to review the situation directly with the Chinese President and to present Finland’s views. There are high international expectations of China as Russia continues its war of aggression”, said President Stubb.

During the talks, President Stubb stressed that the Russian illegal invasion of Ukraine undermines European security and is also a threat to Finland.

Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine led to Finland's accession to NATO. President Stubb underlined the importance of China not exporting weapons or components for weapons production to enable Russia's illegal war of aggression. Any support, direct or indirect, for Russia's war of aggression will prolong the war.

“We also discussed with President Xi the possible prospects for peace in Ukraine. I pointed out that peace cannot be negotiated without Ukraine”, President Stubb said.

The situation in the Middle East and the relationship between the European Union and China were also discussed. President Stubb noted that China's support for Russia's war of aggression also has a negative impact on the relationship between China and the EU. Finland’s aims is for the EU and China to have a constructive relationship.

President Stubb said that the situation in the Middle East is extremely worrying. There should be an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. A lasting peace based on the two-state model requires determined efforts by the international community.

The presidents also discussed the human rights situation in China and the fact that human rights are a central part of Finland’s foreign policy and values.

President Stubb is currently on a state visit to China. The state visit will continue on Wednesday in Shanghai.