The meeting between the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Benin and the Republic of Finland is part of a desire to strengthen relations between the two countries. It aimed to consolidate a solid, diversified and sustainable partnership based on shared values and mutual respect. Several points were discussed including regional peace and security, bilateral trade, and cooperation within the framework of the UN and the African Union. They emphasized the importance of strong multilateralism and a rules-based international order. According to Minister Bakari, “this meeting is an important step in the development of our bilateral relations.” It should be noted that this high-level bilateral meeting testifies to the increasing importance attached by Finland to its relations with Africa. It opens up new perspectives for cooperation in many areas, from culture to economics to politics.