Cannes-winning Polish drama featured in Filmhouse’s Jazz in Film festival.

The Embassy of Poland in Singapore has announced a series of screenings of the award-winning Polish film Cold War (Zimna Wojna) as part of Filmhouse Singapore’s Jazz in Film festival.

Directed by Paweł Pawlikowski, Cold War is set in post-war Europe and follows the relationship between musician Wiktor and singer Zula as they navigate political divisions, personal ambitions and enduring love. According to the Embassy, the black-and-white film tells “a timeless story of love, longing, and freedom” through a soundtrack that blends jazz with traditional Polish folk music.

The Embassy said the film will be screened at Filmhouse Singapore on 4 July at 5:30 p.m., 17 July at 8:30 p.m., 21 July at 8:00 p.m., and 25 July at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available through Filmhouse Singapore’s official website.

Released in 2018, Cold War received the Best Director Award at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival and earned multiple international accolades. The film was also nominated for three Academy Awards: Best Foreign Language Film; Best Director; and Best Cinematography, further cementing its recognition on the global stage.

The screenings form part of Filmhouse Singapore’s Jazz in Film festival, which showcases films that explore the influence of jazz and music in storytelling while bringing acclaimed international cinema to local audiences.

Source: The Embassy of Poland in Singapore

A high-level industry exchange in Singapore brought together Finnish and Singaporean built environment leaders to strengthen collaboration in digitalisation, Lean practices and sustainable construction. The discussions reinforced both countries’ shared commitment to driving productivity, innovation and long-term partnerships across the sector.

Last month, a delegation of 25 participants from the BCA Academy Executive Development Programme embarked on an intensive learning journey to Finland, where they engaged with Finnish industry leaders to explore ecosystem transformation through Lean practices and digital innovation. The visit provided valuable insights into how Finland’s trust-based ecosystem fosters collaboration, innovation and productivity across the built environment sector, laying the foundation for deeper bilateral engagement.

Building on the momentum generated by the study visit, the Embassy of Finland in Singapore hosted the Confederation of Finnish Construction Industries RT on 25 June 2026 at the Residence of Ambassador Juha Markkanen. The gathering brought together Finnish and Singaporean stakeholders from the built environment sector to exchange ideas and strengthen professional networks. Ambassador Juha Markkanen welcomed the participants, while Singapore’s Ambassador to Finland, Professor Cheong Koon Hean, delivered the opening remarks. Professor Cheong also serves as Chair of the Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities at the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) and Chair of the Centre for Liveable Cities Advisory Panel under Singapore’s Ministry of National Development.

The programme featured presentations by Mr. Antti Aaltonen, Director of Construction Industry Development at the Confederation of Finnish Construction Industries RT, and Mr. Paul Juwono, Director of the School of Professional & Specialist Education at BCA Academy. Discussions centred on how digitalisation, artificial intelligence and data-driven construction are reshaping the built environment industry, enabling greater productivity, improved quality, reduced carbon emissions and more efficient project delivery. Participants also explored how Finland and Singapore are leveraging industrialised construction methods and technological innovation to address common industry challenges while supporting more sustainable urban development.

The event also showcased the breadth of Finnish expertise across the built environment value chain. Participating companies included ABLOY, Adicio, Halton Group, Jatke, JEKS Engineering Pte Ltd, Kempower, KONE, Konecranes and Normet Group, each demonstrating innovative solutions spanning intelligent access systems, AI-powered construction technologies, sustainable indoor environments, industrial engineering, electric mobility infrastructure, smart buildings, advanced lifting equipment and underground construction. Their presence highlighted Finland’s strong capabilities in delivering future-ready solutions for the global built environment.

As both countries continue to prioritise innovation, sustainability and digital transformation, the event reaffirmed a shared commitment to expanding collaboration beyond commercial opportunities towards long-term strategic partnerships. By bringing together industry expertise, government support and technological innovation, Finland and Singapore are well positioned to create impactful outcomes that will help shape a more productive, resilient and sustainable built environment.

Source: Embassy of Finland in Singapore

The Embassy of Finland in Singapore welcomed Finnish Deputy Minister Mr. Mika Nykänen for a series of high-level meetings and discussions during Ecosperity Week 2026, focusing on sustainability, resilient supply chains, and international cooperation.

The Embassy of Finland in Singapore hosted Finnish Deputy Minister Mr. Mika Nykänen during his official visit to Singapore for the 2026 Ecosperity Week 2026 organised by Temasek.

Deputy Minister Mr. Mika Nykänen represented Finland’s Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment and the Ministry of Climate and the Environment during the visit. His participation highlighted Finland’s commitment to sustainable development, resilient supply chains, and international partnerships.

During Ecosperity Week 2026, Deputy Minister Mr. Mika Nykänen joined the plenary discussion titled “Race for Critical Minerals: Building Resilient and Scalable Supply Chains.” He shared the stage with representatives from Rio Tinto and Westerbeck Volta Fund. The discussion was moderated by Mr. Amil Shah.

Over two days, Deputy Minister Mr. Mika Nykänen held several important meetings with leaders from government, finance, sustainability, and industry sectors. Discussions included meetings with Mr. Dilhan Pillay Sandrasegara, Mr. Nagi Hamiyeh, and Mr. Frederick Teo.

The Deputy Minister also met representatives from Finnish companies operating in Singapore, including the Finnish Business Council Singapore.

Further official meetings included discussions with Mr. Dinesh Vasu Dash, Mr. Lim Teck Kiat, and Mr. Beng Kong Pee.

Deputy Minister Mr. Mika Nykänen’s visit highlighted the growing partnership between Finland and Singapore in areas such as sustainable investment, green transition, critical minerals, and resilient global supply chains.

Source: Embassy of Finland in Singapore

The Northern Light Accelerator in Helsinki is now accepting applications from early-stage international startups seeking to enter the European market through Finland’s growing startup ecosystem.

Northern Light Accelerator has officially opened applications for its 2026 accelerator programme aimed at helping international startups expand into Europe faster and more effectively.

The three-month equity-free accelerator programme will take place at Maria 01, one of Europe’s leading startup hubs. The initiative is designed for early-stage startups that already have a minimum viable product (MVP) or early market traction and are preparing to scale into European markets.

Northern Light Accelerator offers founders hands-on support in validating products with European customers, building local business networks, navigating EU market entry and sales, and developing long-term founder resilience for sustainable business growth.

Participants will receive workspace access at Maria 01 for three months, mentorship from experienced Finnish founders and ecosystem experts, and opportunities to connect with investors and industry leaders across Finland and Europe. The programme also includes a ticket to Slush 2026, one of the world’s most recognised startup and tech events.

The programme will be held in Helsinki, Finland, with hybrid participation options available for international founders.

Applications for the 2026 cohort will close on 6 June 2026.

Startups interested in applying can visit .

Source: Embassy of Finland in Singapore

Embassy of Finland in Singapore highlighted support services helping Finnish firms expand internationally.

The Embassy of Finland in Singapore highlighted the role of Trade Promotion Services offered by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland in supporting Finnish companies to expand globally.

The initiative aimed to help businesses grow internationally by providing access to a wide global network. These services offered companies valuable market insights, identified new business opportunities, and connected them with suitable partners across different regions.

Trade Promotion Services focused on advancing exports and supporting internationalisation efforts. Companies benefited from up-to-date information on target markets, including geopolitical developments, regulatory requirements, and compliance standards. This helped businesses make informed decisions when entering new markets.

In addition, the services provided guidance on international funding opportunities and participation in global procurement projects. Trade promotion visits were also organised to strengthen business connections and open doors to new collaborations.

The Embassy emphasised that the initiative was designed to equip Finnish companies with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in competitive international markets. By leveraging global expertise and networks, the programme supported sustainable business growth and stronger economic ties worldwide.

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The advance voting period for Finnish citizens residing in Singapore for the upcoming European elections commenced from May 29 to May 31, 2024. The Embassy of Finland facilitated the voting process at its office located in the United Square Office building at 101 Thomson Road, United Square #21-03, Singapore 307591. The voting hours were scheduled from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM on all three days.

The Ministry of Justice, overseeing the election process, ensured smooth operations by publishing a comprehensive list of advance polling stations along with their respective opening hours on the vaalit.fi website. Eligible Finnish voters residing abroad for the entire advance voting period, including election day, were also provided with the option of postal voting. Detailed instructions for postal voting were made available on the Electionsfinland.fi website.

Finnish expatriates in Singapore were encouraged to exercise their democratic rights by participating in the advance voting process, contributing to the selection of representatives for the European Parliament. This initiative aimed to ensure that citizens had convenient access to voting facilities, promoting inclusivity and engagement among Finnish communities residing outside their homeland.

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The advance voting period for Finnish citizens residing in Singapore for the upcoming European elections commenced from May 29 to May 31, 2024. The Embassy of Finland facilitated the voting process at its office located in the United Square Office building at 101 Thomson Road, United Square #21-03, Singapore 307591. The voting hours were scheduled from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM on all three days.

The Ministry of Justice, overseeing the election process, ensured smooth operations by publishing a comprehensive list of advance polling stations along with their respective opening hours on the vaalit.fi website. Eligible Finnish voters residing abroad for the entire advance voting period, including election day, were also provided with the option of postal voting. Detailed instructions for postal voting were made available on the Electionsfinland.fi website.

Finnish expatriates in Singapore were encouraged to exercise their democratic rights by participating in the advance voting process, contributing to the selection of representatives for the European Parliament. This initiative aimed to ensure that citizens had convenient access to voting facilities, promoting inclusivity and engagement among Finnish communities residing outside their homeland.

Source :

A look back at the 50-year partnership between Finland and Singapore, highlighting the milestones and collaborations that have strengthened their bond.

Established in 1973, the diplomatic ties between Finland and Singapore have evolved into a robust partnership, celebrating 50 years of shared history and collaboration. This milestone is a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations, built on a foundation of mutual respect and shared values.

As they commemorate this significant anniversary, Finland and Singapore are reflecting on the key moments that have shaped their relationship. From diplomatic engagements to cultural exchanges, each interaction has deepened their bond and laid the groundwork for future cooperation.

One shining example of this collaboration is between , a Finnish Food Experience company, and Singapore. For nearly 30 years, Fazer has been a beloved culinary brand in Singapore, known for its exquisite chocolate and snack products. Their recent introduction of the Fazer Taste the Future snack bar, incorporating ‘ innovative Solein® protein, is a testament to their commitment to sustainability and innovation.

As they continue to celebrate this milestone, Finland and Singapore invite you to join them on a journey of remembrance and celebration. Follow along on their social media channels as they share more highlights of their 50 years of cooperation.

Source: Embassy of Finland in Singapore FB & IG

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong extends heartfelt condolences to Prime Minister Petteri Orpo on the passing of former Finnish President Martti Ahtisaari.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has expressed his deep condolences to Prime Minister Petteri Orpo of Finland on the passing of former Finnish President Martti Ahtisaari. In a letter dated 20 October 2023, Prime Minister Lee recalled President Ahtisaari’s remarkable leadership during challenging times in Finland’s history, including its accession into the European Union. The letter also acknowledged President Ahtisaari’s global statesmanship, exemplified by his dedication to conflict resolution, culminating in the Nobel Peace Prize in 2008. The legacy of his Crisis Mediation Initiative continues to inspire worldwide.

(Second from right): Dean and ambassador of Mexico H.E. Agustin Loaez read the citations and presented mementos to (from left) H.E. Periasamy Kumaran (India) and H.E. Sumadhurika Sashikala Premawardhane (Sri Lanka) and (far right) H.E. Antti Tapani Vanska (Finland)

The Diplomatic and Consular Corps of Singapore (DCCS) hosted a farewell reception for the three departing heads of missions of Finland, India and Sri Lanka. The Dean of the DCCS H.E. Agustin Loaez paid tribute to the impact they have made among members of the Corps as well as the work they have done in the City-state

SINGAPORE, 18th July 2023 – The Diplomatic and Consular Corps of Singapore (DCCS) bid a heartwarming farewell to three esteemed members, the Ambassador from Finland, H.E. Antti Tapani Vanska, and the High Commissioners of India, H.E. Periasamy Kumaran, and Sri Lanka, H.E. Sumadhurika Sashikala Premawardhane. Their distinguished service to their respective nations has left an indelible mark on Singapore, and their contributions were celebrated with warmth and admiration.

As the Dean of the DCCS, H.E. Agustin Loaez, who is also the Ambassador of Mexico, lauded the departing diplomats, he emphasized their significant impact on bilateral and multilateral relationships:

“They carried their duty with wisdom, great leadership, and expertise, enhancing their bilateral relationships with the host country, plus strengthening the multilateral relationships with our countries.”

To commemorate their outstanding contributions, each diplomat was awarded a special DCCS commemorative plaque during the farewell ceremony.

H.E. Antti Tapani Vanska, the Ambassador of the Republic of Finland (above row, far left), was praised for fostering an increase in the synergy of talent between Finland and Singapore. Ambassador Loaez highlighted the exchange of Finnish companies’ activities in Singapore and Singaporean companies’ growing interest in the Finnish start-up scene and investments.

H.E. Periasamy Kumaran, the High Commissioner of the Republic of India (above row middle), was recognized for his exceptional leadership, especially during the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. His presence and dedication were particularly valued in a country with a significant number of Singaporeans of Indian descent, as well as a thriving Indian expatriate community.

H.E. Sumadhurika Sashikala Premawardhane, the High Commissioner of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka (above row, far right), was praised for her remarkable contributions to woman empowerment and equality. She received the Career Achievement-Public Sector Award in Sri Lanka and the Maldives and has been an enthusiastic, dedicated, and multi-talented diplomat.

During her farewell speech, H.E. Sumadhurika Sashikala Premawardhane expressed gratitude for the support she received from her diplomatic colleagues during challenging times:

“And it’s been a challenging time, I would say, because of COVID and post-COVID Sri Lanka went through political, social upheavals and throughout that time I think I really appreciate the support that was given to me by my colleagues in the diplomatic corps who stood by Sri Lanka and I really appreciate each and every one of you and the friendship and the support that you gave to me personally and also to my country.”

H.E. Periasamy Kumaran, reflecting on his three-year tenure in Singapore, emphasized the importance of the strong bilateral relationship between India and Singapore:

“Singapore is a very important account for India, a diplomatic account. We have a very, very large bilateral relationship that spans many areas of the economy, politics, culture, trade, etc.”

Despite facing the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, H.E. Kumaran expressed his gratitude for the support and warmth received during their time in Singapore.

H.E. Antti Tapani Vanska shared his appreciation for the companionship and community within the diplomatic corps:

“What I will most remember four years in Singapore is definitely this companionship, this community, your great friendship, dear Agustin. This is the group that I belong to. I have not taken many souvenirs from Singapore to Finland, but I have very strong memories of you, each and every one of you. And you are the ones that I will be thinking of back in Finland.”

In his speech, H.E. Vanska expressed his joy in returning to Finland, accompanied by the fond memories and friendships made during his time in Singapore.

The farewell ceremony was a testament to the strong ties that have been forged between Singapore and Finland, India, and Sri Lanka. The departing diplomats’ dedication to fostering international relations will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the diplomatic community in Singapore. As they bid farewell to their posts, the Diplomatic and Consular Corps of Singapore and their fellow diplomats around the world look forward to welcoming the next generation of leaders to continue building bridges and strengthening global connections.

(Montage and above): Members of the diplomatic community in Singapore came together to reminisce and say “till we meet again!”