From February 24, 2022, when Russia government invaded Ukraine, Boston Global Forum World Leaders for Peace and Security led and contributed to peace and security in Ukraine:
President of European Commission Ursula von der Leyen lead, unite, and consolidate EU to stand with Ukraine. She presented an inspired speech at European Parliament on March 1, 2022:
“In these days, independent Ukraine is facing its darkest hour. At the same time, the Ukrainian people are holding up the torch of freedom for all of us. They are showing immense courage. They are defending their lives. But they are also fighting for universal values and they are willing to die for them. President Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian people are a true inspiration. When we last spoke, he told me again about his people’s dream to join our Union. Today, the European Union and Ukraine are already closer than ever before. There is still a long path ahead. We have to end this war. And we should talk about the next steps. But I am sure: Nobody in this hemicycle can doubt that a people that stands up so bravely for our European values belongs in our European family.
And therefore, Honourable Members, I say: Long live Europe. And long live a free and independent Ukraine.”
On March 4, 2022, President of Finland Sauli Niinistö met with President Joseph R. Biden, Jr to discuss strengthening bilateral relations and ensuring strong defense and deterrence in northern Europe. The leaders also discussed ongoing transatlantic coordination to impose costs on Russia for its unprovoked and unjustified military invasion of Ukraine, and their respective efforts to provide security and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. The Presidents committed to start a process that would strengthen U.S.-Finnish security cooperation, which would be conducted in close consultation with other Nordic countries. The Presidents also discussed the importance of NATO’s Open Door policy. In addition, they discussed energy security and efforts to address climate change.
BGF call to accompany the ideas and recommendations of BGF World Leaders for Peace and Security President Ursula von de Leyen, President Sauli Niinisto, Riksdag Speaker Andreas Norlen, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, President Vaira Vike-Freiberga, Chancellor Angela Merkel, President Toomas Hendrik Ilves, and UN General Secretary Ban Ki-moon, and build a new strong alliance for peace and security.
