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International Relations

The City of Helsinki's international activities focus on three main areas: bilateral city programmes, active participation in city networks, and EU projects and representation of the City for the EU. The international activities function of the City gives advice to City departments and agencies in applying for EU funding and participates in EU projects concerning several City sectors.

As part of the City representation for the EU, Helsinki is a member of Eurocities, a network of major European cities. Helsinki is a member of UCUE, Union of Capitals of the European Union, and promotes the competitiveness of the Baltic Sea region in the Baltic Metropoles network. In addition, City departments and agencies pursue their own international agendas by networking with pioneering actors in their fields and by seeking leading positions in networks.

According to the city strategy, Helsinki prioritizes its Sister City Beijing as a partner city. The Twin City concept with Estonian capital Tallinn is further developed, cooperation with the rest of Scandinavia is promoted and relations with main Russian cities are strengthened.

Read more: City of Helsinki's focus areas for international engagement

Contact: 

Head of International Affairs Laura Uuttu-Deschyvere, laura.uuttu-deschyvere(a)hel.fi, tel. +35840 7176415



 21.06.2022 13:25

HELSINKI EU OFFICE

Helsinki EU Office is a Brussels-based office representing the City of Helsinki, Helsinki-Uusimaa Region, Häme Region, Kymenlaakso Region, Päijät-Häme Region, Aalto University, University of Helsinki, Hanken School of Economics, Laurea University of Applied Sciences and Metropolia University of Applied Sciences.

Helsinki is home to European Chemicals Agency

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has operated in Helsinki since 2007. ECHA employs approximately 600 experts, who come from different parts of Europe.