NATO's Northern Enlargement Boosts E-PINE's Potential
Following the recent accession of Sweden and Finland to NATO, all members of the Enhanced Partnership in Northern Europe (E-PINE) now have access to the United States from Brussels. Established in 2003, E-PINE brings together officials from the U.S. State Department and political directors of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs from Nordic and Baltic countries. U.S. President Joe Biden has advocated for reinvigorating E-PINE instead of dismantling it, as part of his flexible multilateralism approach.
E-PINE focuses on cooperation in areas like security, economy, and climate, with current members primarily consisting of Nordic countries and partners such as Norway and Iceland. The Baltic states are also involved, with potential for expansion to include other European neighbors interested in increased collaboration. The Russian war on Ukraine has increased pressure to transform E-PINE into a more productive cooperation format. The Nordic countries, Baltic countries, and the United States are set to meet in Sweden for the E-PINE summit. To enhance its effectiveness, E-PINE should consider bringing on board Poland and Germany, which would add significant resources and clout, benefiting both Europe and the United States. E-PINE is well-positioned to tackle crucial challenges facing the region and wider Europe, such as supporting Ukraine's integration and Europe's energy transition. NATO's northern enlargement signifies a turning point for regional and transatlantic cooperation in Europe's northeast.
With Sweden and Finland's accession to NATO, E-PINE's potential has been bolstered. As the region faces pressing challenges, reinvigorating E-PINE and expanding its membership to include Poland and Germany could significantly enhance its effectiveness and impact. The upcoming E-PINE summit in Sweden presents an opportunity to discuss and implement these strategic changes.
