NATO’s introduction to military partnerships course in Finland
HELSINKI – The annual NATO Introduction to Military Partnerships Course (IMPC) was held at the Finnish Defense Forces International Center (FINCENT) in Helsinki on October 23-27, 2022, and about 40 students, civilian and military personnel of different levels from different parts of NATO participated in it. Structure and partner countries.
As Finland moves towards NATO membership, such courses also strengthen our interoperability, standardization and contribution to strengthening partnerships.
Admiral Gunnstein BruĂ„sdal, SHAPE’s Deputy Chief of Staff Director of Partnerships, welcomed the Class of 2022 with virtual commencement remarks, emphasizing that the course is the only formal training program that provides training for all personnel involved in military cooperation activities.
The annual NATO Introduction to Military Partnerships Course took place at the Finnish Defence Forces International Centre in Helsinki last week with some 40 students, civilian and military staff of all ranks, from across the NATO Structure and Partner Nations
“The importance of connecting partner and NATO headquarters is a critical force enabler for the successful execution of all types of military cooperation activities,” said Brigadier General Martin Remes, Chief of Staff, Military Cooperation. “This vital awareness, training and reinforcement starts with courses like this, which introduce the wide range of military cooperation activities and how partnerships contribute to all three of NATO’s core missions. I have been very impressed with how the students have attacked their studies.”
“Hosting the course in Helsinki is an excellent opportunity for FINCENT to enhance training cooperation within the alliance and its partners,” said FINCENT Commander Lt. Col. Niclas L. von Bonsdorff. “As Finland moves towards NATO membership, such courses also strengthen our interoperability, standardization and contribution to strengthening partnerships. IMPC has been hosted in Helsinki since 2016 and we are ready to host it in FINCENT next year as well,” von Bonsdorff stated.
The “open door” policy and the freedom to choose partner countries remain a major strength, and all staff remain aware of such opportunities. In March 2023, a military strategic partnership conference will be held in Qatar, where all partner countries can further discuss future initiatives and refine individual plans for military cooperation with NATO.