BRUNSSUM, the Netherlands – In a landmark visit, General Guglielmo Luigi Miglietta, Commander of Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum, toured Finland from November 27 to 28, 2023. Hosted by the Finish Ministry of Defence, Antti Häkkänen, and General Timo Kivinen, Commander of the Finnish Defence Forces, the visit focussed on the advancements in military coordination following Finland's integration into NATO, as well as discussions on the security landscape of Northern Europe and the Baltic Sea region.
Our shared values, firm commitment to peace, and steadfast resolve to defend our Nations are the cornerstone of an enduring partnership
General Miglietta, acknowledging the challenging geopolitical conditions, emphasized the crucial role of a united and vigilant Alliance capable of deterring threats to shared security. He praised Finland's expertise and resolute commitment to NATO's principles, stating, " I am confident that Finland's integration into NATO, not only enhances our collective defence capabilities but also serve as an inspiration of hope and solidarity among a world of ambiguity. Our shared values, firm commitment to peace, and steadfast resolve to defend our Nations are the cornerstone of an enduring partnership".
During his visit, General Miglietta observed the Freezing Winds 23 international naval exercise in the Nyland Brigade, which involved over 4,000 troops from various Allied countries and the Swedish Navy. The exercise, led by the Finnish Navy in the Gulf of Finland and the Archipelago Sea, showcased the importance of joint exercises for interoperability and regional stability.
General Kivinen highlighted the significance of military readiness and extensive social crisis resilience in Finland, further emphasizing the progress in coordinating national defense plans with NATO's collective defense.
The visit underscored the strong partnership between Finland and the Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum, contributing to Finland's integral role in the collective defense efforts of the Alliance.