In connection with  the celebration of 20 years in NATO of Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia, on April 10th, 2024 the Еmbassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in the Republic of Finland, together with the embassies of the above countries, organized a seminar on the topic: "NATO open door policy: 20 years ago, today and tomorrow". The event was organized in cooperation with the Finnish Institute for International Affairs (FIIA) and the Atlantic Council of Finland.

The event was opened by the Speaker of the Finnish Parliament Jussi Hala-aho followed by a video address to the participants and guests by NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Joanna. In their speeches, they emphasized the proven importance of the Alliance as the most successful political-military alliance in the world, which has stood the test of time and demonstrated strategic vision, resilience and capacity to adapt. In addition, they referred to the open door policy as a proven and most successful instrument and security imperative  as well as to the determination and commitment to support Ukraine.

In his address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence of Finland Esa Pulkinen emphasized Finland's determination to be a loyal, constructive and responsible member of NATO, including in connection with the two main common goals - security guarantee and support for Ukraine.

The following panel discussion was attended by the Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee and Member of the Finnish Parliamenty Kimmo Kiljunen, by the Director of the Finnish Institute for International Affairs Mika Aaltola and by Ms. Baiba Braje, Former Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy, NATO.

The anniversary celebration took place in the building of the Finnish Parliament in the presence of more than 130 officials - members of the Parliament, representatives of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Defense of Finland and journalists as well and was followed by a gala lunch.