On Thursday, the Geopolitics and Security Studies Center hosted a discussion with H.E. Alexander Stubb, President of the Republic of Finland, at Tesonet in Vilnius. The conversation, “Rebalancing the New World Order: Cooperation in the Age of Fragmentation”, focused on the changing world order, the future of transatlantic security, and the importance of cooperation in an increasingly fragmented international environment.
During the discussion, President Stubb reflected on how the post-Cold War belief in a stable liberal world order is being replaced by a more multipolar and less predictable international context. He noted that the balance of power is changing, requiring the West to reassess its relationship not only with geopolitical competitors, but also with emerging powers and the Global South.
The discussion also addressed the changing role of the United States, the importance of NATO, and Europe’s responsibility for its own security. It was underlined that the transatlantic link remains a practical security necessity for both Europe and the United States.
One of the central themes of the conversation was the concept of values-based realism. President Stubb argued that democratic states must remain committed to their values while acting realistically in a world where not all challenges can be addressed with like-minded partners alone. “Foreign policy and diplomacy is not binary. It is not black and white,” he said during the discussion.
The conversation was moderated by Linas Kojala, GSSC Director (CEO). The event was held in English.
We are sharing moments from the event.
