Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
WASHINGTON – After meeting with Finnish government officials in Helsinki, Finland to discuss the transatlantic partnership and the F-35 pilot training center in Fort Smith, Arkansas, U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) invited leaders to The Natural State to see where pilots would train. This week a delegation from Finland visited the state.
“Collaborating with our allies is critical as we face evolving global threats. Finnish defense leaders saw Arkansas’s world-class military facilities and explored the unique opportunities our state has to offer. I know that showcasing our southern hospitality alongside the capabilities to develop the next generation of fighter pilots has served to strengthen our partnership. We appreciate Finland’s vital contributions to this effort and willingness to experience what makes our state an ideal setting where its personnel can thrive,” Boozman said.
In August 2022, Boozman voted to support Finland’s membership to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). In a speech on the Senate floor in January, he urged NATO member nations to approve the accession of Finland to the alliance.
Members of the Finnish delegation, Fort Smith community leaders and Arkansas congressional delegation staff visited Ebbing Air National Guard Base on Thursday, June 8.