Finland, the northern country famous for its advanced use of technology and its innovative society, is hoping to improve its commercial ties with Nigeria.
The first ever visit by a Finnish business delegation, lead by the Finnish Minister for Foreign Trade and Development, Dr. Paavo Väyrynen will take place on 14th - 18th of March. The visit reflects the great confidence Finnish companies have in the future business opportunities on the attractive Nigerian market.
“I am confident that this visit gives us new perspectives on how to deepen the trade and investment relations between our countries and form strong ties on all levels for the years to come”
Dr. Paavo Väyrynen
Minister for Foreign Trade
and Development of Finland
The visit builds on a number of recent high level visits between Nigeria and Finland. H.E. Mrs. Tarja Halonen, President of the Republic of Finland, visited Nigeria in March 2009. Subsequently, the Acting President of Nigeria, H.E. Dr. Goodluck Jonathan visited Finland in May 2009, accompanied by a significant Nigerian business delegation.
Through the upcoming visit, Minister Väyrynen aims to explore new opportunities and examine ways to further the development of bilateral economic relations between Nigeria and Finland for mutual benefit.
The accompanying business delegation represents various high technology sectors, for which Finland is especially well-known, such as energy and environmental technology, information and communication technology, metal and machinery technology, financing and healthcare. In total, 14 companies ranging from small and medium-sized to major global leaders are included in the delegation.
The visit will take place from Sunday March 14th to Thursday March 18th, 2010, and covers both Abuja and Lagos. The Minister and the delegation will meet with the key representatives of the Nigerian government as well as with Nigerian companies in order to form new partnerships and strengthen existing ties. Seminars and a business forum will be organized during the visit.
Two press conferences will be organized during the visit, the first in Abuja on 15th of March, and the second in Lagos on 17th of March, in connection with the Business Forum taking place at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce.
The distinguished members of the media are most welcomed to cover this important visit. For further information on the various occasions for the media, please contact
Updated 3/19/2010
