page_title: Finland–Israel relations
section_title: History
hierarchical_section_title: Finland–Israel relations / History
caption_attribution_description: English: A demonstration in the square Narinkka in central Helsinki in support of the State of Israel. The placard in the front translates as “Israel’s activity is in accordance with maritime law.”
context_page_description: Israel-Finland relations are diplomatic, commercial and cultural ties between Finland and Israel. Finland maintains an embassy in Tel Aviv and Israel maintains an embassy in Helsinki. Both countries are full members of the Union for the Mediterranean.
context_section_description: The foundation for bilateral relations between Finland and Israel was laid before the establishment of the State of Israel. Finnish President Paasikivi announced de facto recognition of Israel on 11 June 1948, a month after Israel's declaration of independence. Finland officially recognized the State of Israel on March 18, 1949 and diplomatic relations were established on November 14, 1950. Finland opened its embassy in Tel Aviv in 1952 and Israel opened its embassy in Helsinki in 1956.
  The first Finnish diplomatic representative to Israel was Toivo Kala, who  presented his letter of accreditation to Foreign Minister Moshe Sharett. Sharett told Kala that he admired Finland's readiness to defend its rights and its efforts to rebuild after the war.
  Today, Finland and Israel have strong cultural and scientific ties, and some 10,000 Finns visit Israel every year.
caption: A demonstration in the square Narinkka in central Helsinki in support of the State of Israel.
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