October-November 2025 

This is already my second blog. Time really flies when you're having fun! I’ve begun to explore and understand the world of diplomacy and its various elements. In this blog, I will share my experiences to help explain to you what diplomacy is all about. 

Economic ties 

One of our embassy's key objectives is to strengthen economic relations between Finland and the Netherlands. One of the instruments for this is the Partners for International Business (PIB) programme, which spans several years and aims to facilitate collaborations between Dutch and Finnish companies through various visits and activities. Currently, we have two PIBs onging, focusing on significant areas for us: wind energy and the defense industry. In my previous blog, I introduced you to wind energy, and this time, I will provide insights into the defense sector. 

From October 7-9, nearly 30 Dutch defense and security companies visited Helsinki, where we facilitated connections with their Finnish counterparts and key decision-makers in Finland. Prior to the event, I researched the Finnish military defense industrial ecosystem and shared my findings with the embassy team and the Deputy Defense Attaché, who serves as the military diplomat for the region. During the business days, I was able to confirm the relevance of many topics I had identified, and it was fascinating to engage in discussions with both Finnish and Dutch defense companies. In a time of enormous investments, collaboration to built the capabilities necessary for a robust defense in both countries is necessary. 

Political ties 

Afterwards, I contributed to drafting a policy message to the colleagues and policymakers in The Hague, outlining key takeaways for Dutch decision-makers regarding the topics and information exchanged with their Finnish counterparts and companies. This task underscored the importance of accurate information in diplomacy. By sharing local Finnish insights and knowledge, we enable Dutch policymakers to make more informed decisions that can result in positive outcomes for the Netherlands. Additionally, I participated in two sessions of the Hybrid Center of Excellence and communicated the outcomes to my colleagues at Dutch embassies from neighboring countries.

High-level visits  

President of the Republic of Finland Alexander Stubb, accompanied by his spouse Suzanne Innes-Stubb, will pay a state visit to the Netherlands on 11–12 December 2025 at the invitation of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands. Diplomacy involves ensuring that high-level visits go smoothly and according to plan. In preparation, we are writing and researching Finnish positions to facilitate dialogues and collaboration. To illustrate the broadness of this work, this week I explored archives to determine whether Finnish wood was used in the construction of the palace on the Dam. Before this experience, I had little understanding of the effort that goes into state visits and their potential impact.   My investigation into the use of Finnish wood in historical buildings highlighted how past connections can shape present relationships. Understanding historical contexts is vital in diplomacy, as it deepens our appreciation of the complexities surrounding current issues and fosters continuity, understanding, and respect between nations. 

Public Diplomacy  

Diplomacy also involves building relationships and representing the Netherlands. Currently, there is a WordPress photo exhibition ongoing in Helsinki. The WPP organisation originates from the Netherlands. The ambassor opened the exhibition. I wrote the draft speech for our ambassador, which was well received by the 200 attendees. 

Consular Matters 

Speaking of the Netherlands, recent elections have taken place, and Dutch citizens living in Finland are - of course - able to vote. Many of them submitted their ballots at our embassy, which we then sent to The Hague. This responsibility falls under our consular department, which also handles applications for travel documents and other consular matters. 

On a more personal note: 

In the past month, I took the opportunity to visit Turku and I have been enjoying weekly cold dips in the sea. While I can feel the temperature is dropping, the sea water is still warmer than the air outside, making the cold dips feel more like a warm bath, well actualy that’s not true, but still. 

Through all the activities and work as described in the blog, I’ve developed a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of diplomacy. It involves building bridges, sharing knowledge, and fostering collaboration to create a better future through collective efforts. As I continue my journey at the embassy, I look forward to further exploring the dynamic world of international relations and contributing to our diplomatic initiatives.