In an exclusive interview on The Gist, Finland’s Ambassador to India, Ambassador Kimmo Lähdevirta, opened up about everything—from sanctions on Russia and India’s oil choices to why Finnish startups are looking to launch satellites from India. His candid insights reveal just how fast the Finland–India partnership is evolving and where the next decade of cooperation may be headed.
Sanctions on Russia “Necessary,” Says Ambassador
Lähdevirta reiterated Finland’s strong support for EU sanctions on Russian oil, stressing that they are essential to pressuring Moscow to end its war of aggression in Ukraine.
“Oil is a key source of revenue for Russia. The sanctions are essential even if they create side effects, because there is simply no alternative when Russia continues its aggression,” he said.
He noted that while India has increased imports of Russian oil, Finland hopes countries worldwide will eventually adopt alternatives, keeping in mind the price-cap mechanism designed by Europe and its partners.
Optimism over India–EU FTA
The ambassador expressed confidence that the India–EU Free Trade Agreement is in its final, decisive stage.
“The last leg is always crucial, but I’m optimistic. A successful agreement will show the world that rules-based free trade is still alive and strong,” he said.
According to Lähdevirta, the FTA would make both markets more predictable, boost bilateral investments, and unleash untapped potential for companies on both sides.
Finnish Investments in India Continue to Grow
Finland currently has around 100 companies operating in India, with strengths in telecommunications, clean energy, smart grid technology, maritime engines, and education technology. Smaller Finnish startups are also making inroads, particularly in software for smart electricity meters and digital learning tools.
Meanwhile, 20 Indian companies are active in Finland, with cumulative investments nearing €1 billion, compared with roughly €4 billion flowing the other way.
Talent Mobility: India a Key Source for Finland’s Workforce
Lähdevirta highlighted Finland’s robust Talent Boost program, which actively recruits skilled workers and students from India. The Indian community in Finland has grown from 2,000 to over 20,000 people in the last two decades.
However, he cautioned Indians to be vigilant about fraudulent recruitment agents, advising that applicants rely on official or verified channels.
Education: Strong Collaboration, No Foreign Campuses
Finnish universities, being public institutions, do not establish foreign campuses like some private global universities do. However, academic collaborations, joint programs, and student exchanges with Indian institutions continue to expand.
Space Cooperation: A Rising Frontier
One of the most promising areas of collaboration is space. Finland’s rapidly growing “new space” sector features cutting-edge startups such as ICEYE (synthetic aperture radar satellites) and ReOrbit (advanced communication satellites), both of which are partnering with Indian companies.
“Indian launch facilities are of great interest. India offers capabilities, especially for geostationary launches, that are difficult to match elsewhere,” Lähdevirta noted.
Defense and Energy: Expanding Strategic Pillars
A 2020 MoU between the two defence ministries provides a foundation for stronger cooperation. Several Finnish companies are already working with Indian defense firms, especially in small arms and technology supply.
In energy, Finnish expertise lies in clean energy, smart grids, and balancing power solutions—critical for countries transitioning toward renewables. The ambassador highlighted the role of Wärtsilä, a major Finnish engineering company whose engines support both maritime operations and land-based power systems, adaptable for next-generation fuels.
A Partnership on the Rise
From energy transition to space tech and mobility, the ambassador stressed that Finland sees India as an increasingly important partner across strategic, economic, and technological domains.
