Finland to close embassies in 3 Asian countries, including Pakistan

Finland has decided to close its embassies in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Myanmar. The decision was taken for “operational and strategic reasons”, a press release said.

In a press release, Finland’s Foreign Minister said, “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has decided to close the Finnish embassies in Islamabad, Kabul and Yangon in 2026. The decision to close the embassies is linked to operational and strategic reasons, which are related to the changing political situation in the countries concerned and the limited trade and economic relations with Finland.”

The statement further mentioned that “the decision to close the embassies will be effective by presidential decree.”

The Foreign Ministry said that preparations for closing the embassies in the three countries “have already begun” and that they will be completely closed by 2026. The move is part of a “strategic review” of Finland’s network of diplomatic missions.

The statement said that it takes into account Finland's foreign and security policy interests and the need for export development activities. The aim is to increase activities in countries of strategic importance to Finland.

Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen said, "We will improve Finland's network abroad to meet future challenges. Our operating environment is changing rapidly. The planned changes will help us build a stronger and more competitive Finland and make it easier to manage Finland's foreign relations in line with our priorities."

It is worth noting that Finland suspended its activities in Pakistan in 2012 due to budget constraints. However, the embassy was reopened in 2022. In 2023, another Scandinavian country, Sweden, also closed its embassy in Pakistan indefinitely due to security reasons.

Dawn reported.