The event underscored the enduring partnership between Nordic and Baltic countries, widely regarded as one of Europe’s most effective regional cooperation models. With growing strategic importance in the Arctic, North Atlantic, and Baltic Sea regions, this collaboration remains crucial for strengthening regional security and resilience.

The conference was organized by the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania in partnership with the Geopolitics and Security Studies Center.

Addressing today’s challenges and future scenarios

Beyond commemorating the anniversary, the conference focused on how Nordic and Baltic countries can further strengthen democracy, societal resilience, and security. Particular attention was given to the current geopolitical landscape, including Russia’s war against Ukraine, the rise of hybrid threats, disinformation, and increasing societal polarization.

Participants discussed how these challenges are reshaping regional security dynamics and emphasized that closer Nordic–Baltic cooperation is essential for ensuring long-term stability and resilience.

The event also explored future directions for the partnership over the coming decades, questioning whether existing cooperation frameworks are sufficient to address today’s complex geopolitical realities.

The conference brought together politicians, academics, and analysts from across the Nordic and Baltic regions. Among the prominent speakers were former President of Lithuania (2009–2019) Dalia Grybauskaitė, Minister of Foreign Affairs Kęstutis Budrys, Secretary General of the Nordic Council of Ministers Karen Ellemann, President of the Nordic Council Ville Väyrynen, and Secretary General Kristina Haffos.

Conference recording

Photo gallery

Photos (photo credit: Žygimantas Gedvila) from the conference are available here