Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo pledged to deepen bilateral cooperation during high-level talks in Beijing on January 27, 2026, focusing on innovation-driven sectors and multilateral trade stability. The meeting marked a significant step in aligning development strategies between the two nations amid global economic uncertainties.
Premier Li emphasized China's readiness to expand collaboration in telecommunications, clean technology, and life sciences, while encouraging Finnish investment in new-type urban development projects. "We must leverage our economic complementarity to unlock trade potential," Li stated, highlighting plans to streamline cross-border business operations and enhance vocational education exchanges.
The Finnish leader affirmed commitment to equal partnership, stating: "As APEC members, we share responsibility to uphold sustainable trade practices." Both sides agreed to coordinate closely on climate action through existing multilateral frameworks, with Orpo noting Finland's interest in Chinese advancements in Arctic-ready special vessel technology.
Following discussions, leaders witnessed the signing of 14 cooperation documents spanning renewable energy infrastructure, smart city development, and joint research initiatives. Notable agreements include a Nordic-China AI ethics framework and a bilateral customs clearance acceleration program set to launch in Q2 2026.
