New Delhi witnessed a remarkable endorsement of India’s global stature on March 5 as Finland’s President Alexander Stubb called on the world to adopt a more ‘Indian’ approach to international relations. Speaking alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a joint press briefing, Stubb praised India’s commitment to respecting sovereignty and its pragmatic foreign policy.
‘India stands as one of the world’s largest and most influential nations, the biggest democracy, and now a key strategic partner for Europe,’ Stubb remarked. He highlighted India’s position as one of the fastest-growing economies, visible in its daily progress.
Stubb lauded India’s foreign policy for its realism and clarity. ‘You’ve always kept your diplomacy practical and grounded in reality. India has demonstrated the importance of strategic autonomy while championing multilateralism and global cooperation. Personally, I believe the world should become a bit more Indian.’
In a rapidly changing global order, Stubb emphasized India’s pivotal role alongside Global South allies in shaping the future. Discussions covered regional security, defense cooperation, and conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine. Both leaders agreed that ending wars serves everyone’s interests, with lasting peace dependent on upholding UN principles.
Stubb strongly advocated for a permanent UN Security Council seat for India, calling it essential. He also noted strengthening ties between India and the EU as a vital strategic partnership. Accompanying him were representatives from 20 Finnish companies spanning technology, quantum computing, satellites, networks, food, and green tech, signaling robust economic collaboration.
This visit underscores Finland’s recognition of India’s rising influence and sets the stage for deeper bilateral ties in an era of geopolitical flux.