The Importance of Strategy for Forming State Image: Comparative Analysis of Lithuanian, Estonian and Finnish Cases

Good state image ensures smooth integration into global market and international political system. The major aim of this article is to analyze the importance of strategy for state image forming and to perform the comparative analysis of image formation in Lithuania, Estonia and Finland. The logical method is used for making substantiated generalization of collected facts and formulating transitional and final research conclusions. The methods of comparative and case analysis, systematic (documents and legal acts) and scientific literature analysis were also applied. Scientists notice that nowadays states are setting a strategic goal of its image forming in their national strategies more often and achieving this goal by using public diplomacy and nation branding. This article contains comparative analysis of Lithuanian, Estonian and Finnish cases of state image formation (creating a nation brand) which helped to point out the main problems of Lithuania's image formation.