Mr Speaker and Honoured Members of Parliament,
distinguished Prime Minister and Members of Government,
dear representatives of Åland,
dear representatives of the central government, the Defence Forces, churches, and universities
I thank you, Mr Prime Minister, for the congratulations you have expressed on your own and the Government’s behalf. At the same time, I wish the Government success in your challenging efforts to turn the Finnish economy to growth. A well-functioning economy is a key guarantee of security.
In accordance with the solemn affirmation I gave today in Parliament, as the President of the Republic I shall sincerely and conscientiously observe the Constitution and the laws of the Republic, and to the best of my ability promote the wellbeing of the people of Finland.
We are now facing a new era. Earlier today, I said that we will do well as a nation as long as we stand together. Thanks to our unity, in the turning points of history we have had the ability to react in a rapid and determined manner. I want to do my best to cherish and strengthen this unity for my own part.
I know from my own experience how important it is that the cooperation between the President of the Republic and Government works smoothly. On my part, I will keep this collaboration close and straightforward. This is necessary especially in the current situation when the European security is being threatened and the whole world is undergoing great changes.
At the same time, I want to further enhance the dialogue between the President of the Republic and Parliament and its committees and the parliamentary parties. In this respect, the Speaker of Parliament is a valuable interlocutor. I will meet the Parliamentary Defence and Foreign Affairs Committees as soon as possible.
Dialogue with the representatives of Åland is also high on my list of next things to do. The security of Åland plays a central role in the stability of the Baltic Sea. It is important for the whole nation.
The Defence Forces is facing a historical change. In the future, we will be maintaining a strong defence capability as part of a military alliance. From us, it requires that we update our way of thinking, and that takes its time. I know that this process will be conducted in a highly professional manner.
Last but not least, I would like to say a few words to the representatives of the central government. We are marketing Finland as a country where everything works well. However, very seldom we come to mention that the main reason why things work so well are the Finnish public officials with a high level of expertise and integrity. As a former public official, I know how important your work is, and I will respect that when serving as President.
I wish you all success in your work and duties for the good of Finnish people and our country.