Finnish government officials visit Austin to sign an economic partnership with Texas
AUSTIN (KXAN) – Governor Greg Abbott hosted several Finnish officials Wednesday as part of Texas’ ongoing economic partnership with the Republic of Finland.
The Minister of Development Cooperation, the Finnish Minister of Foreign Trade, Ville Skinnari, the Finnish Ambassador to the United States, Mikko Hautala, and other Finnish government officials visited the governor’s mansion in Austin to discuss the economic partnership.
Abbott and Minister Skinnari signed a Statement of mutual cooperation to strengthen the partnership.
According to a press release, this agreement will facilitate business expansion, encourage job creation and promote innovation through collaboration and joint research in technology, cyber security, aerospace, aviation, health, energy, transportation and other key industries.
“I was honored to host Minister Skinar, Ambassador Hautala and other Finnish government officials at the Governor’s Mansion today to sign this joint statement,” Abbott said. “Texas and Finland have a strong cultural and economic relationship, and this agreement strengthens our already shared bond. This declaration of mutual cooperation will expand business, create jobs and promote innovation in so many critical areas important to Texas and Finland, from energy to aerospace and electric vehicles. Together, we plan a course towards a brighter future for the residents of Texas and Finland.
Abbott also joined outgoing Texas Secretary of State John B. Scottministerial adviser for sustainable growth and trade Christian Heikkinen, special assistant to the minister of development Emmi Mäkelä, Asia and America expert Ikka Myllymäki, press adviser Pasi Rajala and executive director of the governor’s economic development and tourism office Adriana Cruz.
During the meeting, the governor and the Finnish delegation also exchanged gifts, such as a Texas bluebonnet bowl and an Iittala Kartio glass jug.