Ulkoministeriön

Ulkoministeriön, also known as the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, is a government agency in Finland responsible for conducting the country's foreign policy. Established in 1917, it is one of the oldest ministries in Finland. The ministry's headquarters are located in Helsinki, the capital of Finland.

The ministry is headed by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, who is appointed by the President of Finland upon the recommendation of the Prime Minister. The current Minister for Foreign Affairs is Pekka Haavisto, who has been in office since June 2023.

Ulkoministeriön's primary responsibilities include promoting Finland's interests abroad, maintaining and developing Finland's international relations, and representing Finland in international organizations. The ministry also plays a crucial role in Finland's defense policy, as it is responsible for coordinating Finland's defense cooperation with other countries.

The ministry is organized into several departments, each focusing on a specific area of foreign policy. These departments include the Department of Political Affairs, the Department of Economic Affairs, the Department of Consular Affairs, and the Department of International Development and Humanitarian Aid.

Ulkoministeriön works closely with other government agencies, as well as with Finnish embassies and consulates abroad, to ensure that Finland's foreign policy is effectively implemented. The ministry also engages with a wide range of international partners, including other governments, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations.