President of the Republic of Finland Sauli Niinistö participated in the online summit of the Crimea Platform on Tuesday, 23 August 2022. At the summit, President Niinistö emphasised that Finland’s support to Ukraine and the Ukrainian people will continue, for as long as needed.
The Crimea Platform Summit, hosted by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, was held for the first time last year, when world leaders gathered in Kyiv to discuss the situation in Crimea. This year, the summit was held remotely. In addition to President Niinistö, more than 50 heads of state from Europe, Africa, Asia and North America participated in the summit.
In his speech at the summit, President Niinistö stated that Finland’s commitment to Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity is unwavering. “Finland supports international efforts to restore Ukraine’s territorial integrity. All Ukrainians, including the Crimean Tatar people, need to fully enjoy their right to self-determination.”
The President said that Russia’s war of aggression is a grave breach of international law. As part of the European Union and in coordination with our transatlantic partners, Finland’s response has been firm. “Our political, economic, military and humanitarian support to Ukraine has been strong. The support will continue, for as long as needed.”
In connection with the summit, the President Niinistö also sent his best wishes to President Zelenskyy and the people of Ukraine on the eve of their national day, which will be celebrated tomorrow, 24 August: “Your brave fight for freedom and European values and principles deeply touches us. Ordinary Finns have shown extraordinary eagerness to help you, Ukrainians.”