Finnish historian Henrik Meinander visited the American University of Armenia (photos)

Henrik Meinander's “A History of Finland” is a guidebook about visionary intellectuals, long-term thinkers, and a successful nation. Cold political calculations, sometimes problematic alliances, the ability to remain silent, the ability not to turn internal hostility into external disaster, and as a result, the happiest country in the world.

At the meeting with the students of the AUA, the historian singled out several important messages that were included in the book. He also touched on why and under what circumstances Finland joined NATO in 2023. Membership has historical significance for this country, as Finland was known for its neutrality and proper political traditions until then. "Russia knew very well that the Finnish defense system had close ties with NATO since the 90s, a deep enough integration was going on without membership. So, in a sense, formal membership did not change much for Russia. The Finnish army was sufficiently harmonized with NATO even before that”.

Finland, like Armenia, lies between Russia and the West and, like Armenia, has become a theater of conflict during major world upheavals. But the Finns have managed to maintain their independence and develop. For the special Armenian translation, Henrik Meinander completed the preface and the last chapter of the book, referring to the similarities between Armenia and Finland.

"Our countries are far away from each other, but we share several historical experiences, such as being parts of larger powers, striving to maintain our own culture, values and lifestyle, and through both braveness and fortune having received our national sovereignty."

The AUA students were also interested in whether European countries could return to the conscription army given the ongoing instability. In this regard, Henrik Meinander presented the Finnish experience and emphasized the ability to quickly navigate new realities.