Eight Leaders Convene in Stockholm to Bolster Nordic-EU Security and Competitiveness

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson hosted a pivotal meeting in Stockholm on October 28, 2025, gathering Nordic Prime Ministers, government leaders from the Faroe Islands and Åland, and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. This high-level assembly, held within the framework of the Nordic Council of Ministers, focused on critical discussions to enhance regional and European security, resilience, and competitiveness. Kristersson announced the gathering on social media, stating, > "Today, we welcomed the Nordic Prime Ministers and government leaders of the Faroe Islands and Åland to Stockholm for a meeting with the Nordic Council of Ministers. Together with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, we discussed how to strengthen our security, resilience and competitiveness."

The summit saw a robust representation, including Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, Icelandic Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Faroe Islands Prime Minister Aksel V. Johannesen, and Åland’s Head of Government Katrin Sjögren. This significant event occurred in conjunction with the 77th Session of the Nordic Council, which Sweden proudly hosted from October 27-30. The participation of President von der Leyen underscored the strategic importance of aligning Nordic cooperation with broader European Union objectives.

Central to the discussions were pressing issues such as strengthening Nordic supply preparedness and ensuring comprehensive Nordic and European security amidst evolving global challenges. Leaders also explored innovative strategies to bolster competitiveness across the region and the entire continent. The agenda reflected a shared determination to address these critical areas through intensified collaborative efforts and policy coordination.

A key outcome of the meeting was the adoption of a joint declaration by the Nordic prime ministers and heads of government. This declaration underscored the profound importance of Nordic cooperation, highlighting the region's collective strengths as vibrant democracies, robust economies, and societies built on shared values. The leaders aimed to solidify a unified approach to navigate future challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

President von der Leyen's direct engagement provided a crucial European perspective, facilitating discussions on potential EU-Nordic synergies in security and economic policy. Her presence emphasized the interconnectedness of regional stability and economic strength with wider European Union strategic goals. The dialogue sought to translate enhanced regional cooperation into tangible benefits and a more resilient future for all involved.