Two New Officials Join Embassy of Finland in Kathmandu

Dragon Media Correspondent

The Embassy of Finland in Kathmandu has welcomed two new officials to its team, with Esa Vallioniemi joining as Deputy Head of Mission and Consul, and Elina Malmberg taking up the role of Chancery Secretary.

Vallioniemi arrived in Nepal after spending five years in Chile. His posting in Kathmandu marks his first assignment in Asia.

He began his career with Finland’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs in 2000 and has previously served in three countries in Latin America, as well as in Spain and Nigeria.

Vallioniemi has moved to Nepal with his family and said he is looking forward to learning more about Kathmandu as well as exploring areas beyond the valley.

He expressed particular interest in gaining a deeper understanding of Nepal’s people, culture and natural environment.

“The opportunity to learn about new countries and change my perspective is what makes this job so interesting,” he said.

Vallioniemi added that he is especially looking forward to discovering lesser-known places in Kathmandu, trekking in the Himalayas and spending time in nature.

Elina Malmberg, the Embassy’s new Chancery Secretary, holds a degree in Business Administration and joined Finland’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs in 2021.

Her first overseas posting was in Beijing, China, where she spent the past three years.

Malmberg has now moved directly from Beijing to Kathmandu and said she hopes to gain many new experiences in Nepal, both professionally and during her personal time.

The arrival of the two officials adds new diplomatic and administrative experience to the Embassy of Finland in Kathmandu as they begin their respective assignments in Nepal.