Investments needed in cross-connections between Finland, Sweden, and Norway

As Europe's security landscape is reshaped and NATO imposes new demands on member states' crisis resilience, the infrastructure of Northern Europe has become a critical strategic concern for the entire continent. Currently, the region lacks robust east-west transport connections necessary to support its ability to withstand potential crises or escalating security situations.

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When Europe's security order is being redrawn and NATO imposes new demands on its member states' crisis resilience, the infrastructure of the central and northern parts of the Nordic region becomes a strategic issue for all of Europe.

Against this backdrop, a joint statement has been issued to bolster the cross-connections between Norway, Sweden, and Finland, with a specific focus on the E12 route. This corridor is vital not only for security but also for economic growth, particularly in supporting the Nordic region's role in the European green transition. Investments in fossil-free energy, mining, and forest industries necessitate strong transport solutions linking the Atlantic coast with Finland and the rest of Europe.

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A functional east-west corridor creates alternative transport routes, strengthens supply security, and reduces vulnerability in an increasingly uncertain world.

A functional east-west corridor would provide alternative transport routes, enhance supply security, and reduce vulnerability in an increasingly uncertain global environment. Beyond security, these infrastructure investments are also investments in growth. Expanding ports, improving road and rail links, and developing air connections will foster a more unified and competitive Nordic region.

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Investments in readiness are equally investments in growth. Expanding ports, improving road and rail links, and developing air connections support the building of a more unified and competitive Nordic region.

The call for action is clear: strategic cross-connections in the central and northern parts of Norway, Sweden, and Finland must be prioritized in national and European planning. The statement urges the governments of these three countries, along with the European Union, to elevate the E12 route's importance in future infrastructure plans and secure the necessary funding for its realization. This route is framed as an investment in security, growth, and mutual cohesion.

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The message is clear: the strategic cross-connections of the central and northern parts of our countries must be taken more strongly into account in national and European planning.