Exploring new avenues for cooperation, Her Excellency Saija Nurminen, Ambassador of Finland to the Philippines, paid a courtesy visit to the Provincial Government of Davao del Norte, where she engaged in discussions with Governor Edwin “Kuya Gob” Jubahib on potential areas of collaboration and development.
H.E. Nurminen was accompanied by the Honorary Consul of Finland to Mindanao Antonio Peralta, and representatives from the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP). Together with the governor, they were also warmly received by Vice Governor Clarice Jubahib, members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, and PG Department Heads of the province.
Governor Jubahib and H.E. Nurminen exchanged insights on possible partnerships in sustainable development, economic growth, and innovation, with the governor highlighting DavNor’s significant transformation in recent years, particularly its achievement of maintaining an insurgency-free status for three consecutive years now.
Jubahib recalled how Mindanao had long been perceived as a conflict-prone and critical area, but was changed through sustained peace and development narratives. He emphasized how the provincial government deliberately expanded road networks and infrastructure projects, which improved access to government services and stimulated local economies.
The governor also noted that the improved investment climate has created economic opportunities for the province, but underscored the need for continued support in agricultural development.
Expressing optimism over the ambassador’s visit, Governor Jubahib expressed how the sharing of knowledge can generate lasting benefits for both Finland and Davao del Norte. He further described the visit as a powerful affirmation of the value of international friendship and cooperation.
H.E. Nurminen also expressed her interest in learning more about Davao del Norte’s socio-economic profile and investment potential, noting that the objective of their visit is to identify common agendas and sectors where meaningful cooperation can be pursued. While she noted that the two places are geographically far apart, the distance does not prevent the two from being like-minded partners.
Ambassador Nurminen likewise emphasized the importance of learning from local experiences and understanding the province's priorities to determine areas where Finnish expertise and resources can contribute to development initiatives.
The meeting concluded with both parties expressing their commitment to fostering stronger relations and exploring opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation, reinforcing the shared belief that international partnerships remain essential in advancing sustainable and inclusive development.
