While Finland has chaired the Arctic Council since May 2017, the Finnish business community has held the Arctic Economic Council (AEC) Chairmanship during the same time. In the beginning of May, the gavels of both Arctic Council and the AEC will be transferred to new Icelandic Chairs.

What has been achieved in Arctic policy and economic development or within environmental affairs during these respective chairmanships? How can it be ensured that these achievements are driven forward? And how
will Arctic issues shape the upcoming Finnish presidency of the European Union? Will China get a bridgehead to the Arctic by investing in European infrastructure projects such as the planned railway tunnel between Helsinki and Tallinn? Or could perhaps “an Arctic détente” be within the reach, thus terminating the restrictive measures and resulting in increased trade with Russia?

These questions will be thoroughly discussed at an event organized by AEC Finland and the University of Helsinki on Friday, April 12, 2019.  Speakers include Minister of Interior of Finland Kai Mykkänen, Minister of Agriculture and the Environment Kimmo Tiilikainen, MP Ville Skinnari, professor Reetta Toivanen and Chairman of the AEC Tero Vauraste. The event will be moderated by Mr Jan Erola and attendance is free.

Time: Friday April 12, 2019 8:10-8:40 AM

Venue: “Tiedekulma”, Yliopistonkatu 4, Helsinki

Direct talk, NHK world released this editorial and interview last fall on the potential in the Arctic international collaboration and responsible development.

“Within the Arctic it’s estimated by the World Economic Forum that the investment potential is one trillion US dollars . There is a great investment power in the Asian countries including China, including Japan, including South Korea. Also there are a great interest to develop transits to the northern sea route and the Northwest Passage. International businesses need know how, guidance and access on how to operate in the Arctic. The AEC can help to provide this knowledge", says Mr. Tero Vauraste, Chairman of the AEC and President of Mariadi Oy, a Polar Maritime Consultancy Agency based in Helsinki, Finland.

The Editorial and interview is produced by In Focus Productions for NHK and is available in full length here.  #internationalbusiness #economics #investments #aec #internalization #arctic The 15 minute slot rom your time is a wortwhile journey the Arctic

Ocean Health: Blue growth through green solutions

Synopsis:

Several new global initiatives have been taken to address the environmental status and sustainable use of the ocean, in addition to existing agreements and ongoing processes. *Our Ocean* and Norway’s international high-level panel on sustainable ocean economy are among these efforts. How are these efforts being coordinated? What has been achieved so far?


Dear reader,

This posting is based on the Arctic Frontiers last January (2019) in Norway, Tromsö, where we had a great dialogue in a pleanry panel for healthier oceans.  You are most welcome to send your thoights and feedback on Mariadi's webpage.

Ocean based industries have enormous potential. How do we ensure that the International community works towards economic growth whilst preserving a sound ocean environment?

The UNs Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) call for innovation to improve the management of our oceans. Modern technologies and smart solutions are crucial in this picture. How can business help implement these SDGs?