Pakistan seeks Finnish expertise in flood forecasting, glacier monitoring

November 12, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan and Finland have agreed to work towards a forward-looking partnership covering trade and investment, education and skills development, technology, climate resilience and people-to-people contacts.

The two sides reviewed bilateral relations and discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest, and the two leaders also exchanged views on climate change, disaster risk reduction and ongoing diplomatic efforts on regional conflicts.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met Finnish President Alexander Stubb on the sidelines of the 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye, said a press release issued.

The meeting provided an opportunity to review Pakistan-Finland relations and explore ways to deepen them.

PM Shehbaz said Pakistan wants to turn its longstanding and friendly ties with Finland into a forward-looking partnership.

He pointed to considerable potential for higher bilateral trade and welcomed the presence of Finnish companies, including Nokia, Wärtsilä, Metso and Vaisala, in Pakistan.

He encouraged more business-to-business engagement, technology transfer and investment in telecommunications, advanced manufacturing, clean technologies and mining.

On climate, the two leaders discussed climate change, disaster risk reduction and environmental cooperation.

PM Shehbaz expressed interest in Finnish technical expertise in flood forecasting, water management, climate-resilient agriculture, glacier monitoring and early-warning systems.

Stressing the importance of dialogue, mediation and peaceful settlement, the leaders also exchanged views on ongoing diplomatic efforts towards peaceful and durable solutions to the conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia.

President Stubb appreciated Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue and mediation between Iran and the United States.

The two leaders agreed on the importance of regular engagement and of exploring practical ways to deepen bilateral cooperation.

PM Shehbaz renewed his invitation to President Stubb to make an official visit to Pakistan at a mutually convenient time.

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