The Finnish American Chamber of Commerce

President's Message

It is an honor to be the new Chairman and President of the Finnish American Chamber of Commerce in Helsinki. I would like to sincerely thank my predecessor Mr Ole Johansson for his contribution and dedication over the past three years. I am excited about the opportunity to help promote bilateral business success based on our excellent, longstanding Finnish-US relations.

The year 2009 is an exciting one for Finnish-US diplomatic relations as it marks 90 years since the beginning of this transatlantic relationship. It is incredible to think of the technological, societal and economical changes that have taken place during this time – even the past year has seen many changes. However, the Finnish-US relationship remains solid and will be further strengthened through our continued networking efforts.

We are also honored to welcome H.E. Mr. Bruce J. Oreck, the next US Ambassador to Finland. It is always an honor to welcome the US Ambassador to participate in our discussion forums. These forums and networking meetings are excellent channels in which we build the personal and economic relationships that are so important for business success.

I also have strong ties to the United States. I have spent nearly 10 years studying and working in the country and have watched the relationship between these countries grow and develop during my career. I am looking forward to carrying out and further developing the aims of the Finnish American Chamber of Commerce.

Heikki Malinen
Chairman of the Board