“WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO INDIA TO OPEN ITS MARKET”

The Summit is expected to focus on a more resilient global health system by strengthening the World Health Organisation in terms of future pandemic preparedness. After all, trade and economic activity can only thrive when health is restored, Finland’s envoy to India, H.E Ms. Ritva Koukku-Ronde, told Diplomatist’s Business Editor Kanchi BATRA in a written interview ahead of the High Level EU-India Leaders’ Meeting on 8th May.

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As India battles a devastating second wave of coronavirus, support from countries continues to pour in. How does Finland support India in its battle against Covid-19?

Our sympathies and solidarity are with the people of India in combating and containing the destructive pandemic. Finland together with its EU partners has responded to India’s call for emergency aid. This is now our joint priority. Finland has offered to provide India with material assistance providing e.g. oxygen bottles to India via the EU’s Civil Protection Mechanism. In addition, Finland supports India with EUR 1 million to fight the pandemic.

Finland has been named the happiest place in the world for the fourth year running by the World Happiness Report. What makes Finland the happiest country in the world?

I believe this has been possible because of our consistent top ranking in global comparisons, for instance, on the state of democracy and political rights, lack of corruption, trust between citizens, safety, health, social cohesion, equal distribution of incomes, and gender equality.

According to the report, Finland has the best governance in the world, as measured by voter turnout, legislative independence, and the number of women in Parliament. It is also the most stable nation, where people trust the government and each other. Finland also ranks first among countries with the most political and civil freedom.