Europe continues at the practical level, which is in the interests of Finland. It is important to support the civil society and direct contact between citizens. In the changed environment Finland must be able to carefully evaluate Russia’s development. This calls for more versatile and in-depth knowledge of Russia. 5.5 Bilateral relations in foreign and security policy Finland continues to develop its relations with its partners as part of the EU and bilaterally. Participation in international cooperation in this form supports the achievement of Finland’s foreign and security policy objectives. From the standpoint of Finland’s prosperity it is important to strengthen all-round economic and trade relations by, among other things, securing international prospects for Finnish companies. These also matter in terms of security policy. Finland further develops its bilateral economic and political relations with China and promotes increasing Sino-EU cooperation in the EU. Finland intensifies its relations with China, especially, in fields that interest Finland and are essential to the development of China such as environmental technology and renewable energy as well as topics associated with good governance and rule of law. It continues to be important to Finland to intensify its relations with Japan. Finland sees remarkable growth potential in its interaction with India and other emerging countries. In these relationships political contacts can support the development of economic relations. The European neighbourhood, such as the Middle East and Africa, is increasingly important for Finland, both in terms of foreign and security policy as well as the economy. Intensifying bilateral relations with the countries in these regions strengthens Finland’s international position, supports the countries’ development and, for its part, also creates preconditions for strengthening trade relations. 5.6 Developing the relationship with NATO NATO is the key actor in advancing transatlantic and European security and stability. Finland’s partnership with NATO is wide-ranging and enhanced. It is important to Finland that NATO continue its Open Doors Policy, i.e. that NATO membership remains open to all those European states that have the capacity and qualifications to advance the goals of the North Atlantic Treaty. 23