Vice Chief of Defence of the German Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Markus Laubenthal, paid a visit to Finland from 27th to 29th May. The purpose of the visit was to strengthen cooperation between the two countries in defense matters. Lieutenant General Laubenthal was hosted by Chief of Defence Command, Lieutenant General Vesa Virtanen.
During his stay, Lieutenant General Laubenthal had the opportunity to familiarize himself with Finland’s defense system, which is based on a strong reserve and includes international training activities in Northern Finland. The discussions during the visit primarily focused on bilateral cooperation between Finland and Germany, as well as their collaboration within the alliance.
Chief of Defence Command, Lieutenant General Vesa Virtanen, emphasized the significance of the visit in promoting cooperation and showcasing Finland’s defense capabilities.
“Germany is an important partner for us, both bilaterally and as part of the alliance. It is always a joy and an honor to present the Finnish defense system, which is based on a strong reserve and is not yet widely known in NATO countries. The reservists participating in Northern Forest once again demonstrated their skills in a major international exercise. As part of the alliance, international training activities are becoming an increasingly central part of the everyday operations of the Defence Forces,” said Lieutenant General Virtanen.
Lieutenant General Laubenthal expressed his admiration for the effectiveness of Finland’s defense system and its reserve component.
“The comprehensive program, General Virtanen and his team prepared, provided me a deep insight into the effectiveness of the Finnish defense and especially reserve system. I am deeply impressed by the professionalism and personal engagement I experienced from the soldiers participating in the presented exercises and at the Lapland Border Guard. My major observation: Based on a deep friendship and common values Finland and Germany have many commonalities in military thinking and operational art. I am honored to have visited Finland as a new NATO member, with Sweden hopefully following soon,” remarked General Lieutenant Laubenthal.
The visit program included familiarization with the Northern Forest 23 exercise led by the Army Academy and the Arctic Challenge Exercise 23 air exercise conducted by the Finnish Air Force. Lieutenant General Laubenthal also visited the Lapland Border Guard in Salla and paid his respects at the cemetery of German soldiers in Norvajärvi by laying a wreath.
The visit of Vice Chief of Defence Lieutenant General Markus Laubenthal further strengthens the defense ties between Finland and Germany, fostering collaboration and understanding between the two nations.