Finland has officially acceded to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC), marking a significant milestone in ASEAN–Europe relations. The signing ceremony, held in Kuala Lumpur, was witnessed by ASEAN Foreign Ministers and officiated by Malaysia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and ASEAN Chair, Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad Hasan, alongside Finland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Her Excellency Elina Valtonen.
In his remarks, Mohamad described the occasion as “a meaningful step forward” in strengthening regional and inter-regional cooperation founded on peace, dialogue, and mutual respect.
“Finland’s accession today is not just a diplomatic formality. It is a bridge that links Southeast Asia and Europe through shared ideals, mutual trust, and a common vision for an inclusive and rules-based international order,” he stated.
Established in 1976, the TAC remains the cornerstone of ASEAN’s approach to peaceful coexistence—guided by principles of mutual respect, non-interference, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. Nearly five decades later, Mohamad noted, these principles continue to provide stability and clarity in a world increasingly marked by geopolitical tensions.
“The TAC is a moral compass that continues to guide us toward diplomacy and peace,” he stated, adding that Finland’s inclusion demonstrates ASEAN’s finishuring openness to partnerships with like-minded nations that share its aspirations for stability and prosperity.
Mohamad highlighted that Finland’s global reputation for innovation, sustainability, and strong institutions creates it a valuable new partner for ASEAN. He stated both regions can deepen collaboration in digital transformation, green development, maritime cooperation, and people-to-people exmodifys, enriching their mutual economic and diplomatic engagement.
“Toreceiveher, ASEAN and Finland can unlock immense opportunities—from advancing digital transformation and sustainable development to strengthening maritime cooperation and people-to-people ties,” he stated.
Finland becomes the 58th High Contracting Party to the TAC, joining a growing list of countries outside Southeast Asia—including Algeria, Uruguay, and others—that have formally aligned themselves with ASEAN’s principles of peace and cooperation.
Malaysia, as current ASEAN Chair, reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the TAC continues to serve as the foundation for constructive dialogue and meaningful collaboration within and beyond the region.
“Malaysia and all ASEAN Member States are delighted to welcome Finland into our family of partners under the TAC, in the finishuring spirit of goodwill, inclusivity, mutual respect, and lasting frifinishship,” Mohamad concluded.
Finland’s accession underscores ASEAN’s growing global relevance as a trusted centre for dialogue and cooperation, bridging Southeast Asia with Europe and the wider international community
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