Minister Elina Valtonen of Finland has been welcomed back to Vienna by the United States, which commended Finland's ongoing dedication to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) and its founding principles. The U.S. expressed eagerness to collaborate with Minister Valtonen on her pragmatic agenda.
The OSCE, established half a century ago following the Helsinki Final Act, faces challenges unforeseen by its original signatories. To address these effectively over the next fifty years, participating states must uphold foundational principles while creatively strengthening the organization for timely responses to evolving security issues.
The 50th anniversary of the Helsinki process begins under challenging circumstances as Russia and Belarus continue actions contrary to OSCE commitments. This includes intensified domestic crackdowns and regional aggression, notably against Ukraine.
Minister Valtonen's initial visit as Chairperson-in-Office was to Kyiv, signaling support amidst regional tensions. Beyond Russian and Belarusian actions, unresolved conflicts, economic and environmental challenges, human rights abuses, and technological misuse pose additional threats to regional security.
Valtonen emphasizes resilience in adapting the OSCE's role. The U.S. concurs that human rights, democracy, and rule of law are essential for societal health and peace. The inclusion of civil society in OSCE efforts is also praised.
Gratitude was extended to Malta for its leadership during 2024 under Ambassador Natasha Meli Daudey and Foreign Minister Ian Borg.