Embassy Closures Planned
ISLAMABAD: Finland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that it is preparing to close its embassies in Islamabad, Kabul, and Yangon. BBC Urdu reported that the closures are expected during 2026 as part of reforms in Finland’s overseas mission network.
Official Statement
The ministry explained that Finland regularly reviews its foreign missions to align with present and future needs. Embassies in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Myanmar are being considered for closure due to operational and strategic reasons, including political changes in these countries and their limited trade and economic ties with Finland.
Strategic Review
Earlier this year, the ministry began a strategic review of its mission network. The review took into account Finland’s foreign and security policy interests as well as the requirements of “Team Finland” activities aimed at promoting exports.
Resource Allocation
As a result of the review, the ministry will propose closures and openings of missions to concentrate resources on countries that are strategically more important for Finland. The long‑term development of the mission network means that some embassies will inevitably be shut down.
Presidential Approval
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that decisions to close diplomatic missions are made following a presidential decree, ensuring that the process is formally sanctioned at the highest level.