President Niinistö meets United States Secretary of State

Secretary Clinton and President Niinistö held talks in Mäntyniemi residence. Copyright © Office of the President of the Republic Secretary Clinton and President Niinistö held talks in Mäntyniemi residence. Copyright © Office of the President of the Republic

President of the Republic Sauli Niinistö met United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who visited Finland on Wednesday, 27 June. The topics of discussion between President Niinistö and Secretary of State Clinton included the bilateral relations between Finland and the United States, cooperation in the Arctic region, NATO partnership, the financial challenges of the European Union and current international affairs such as the situation in Syria.

Afghanistan’s transition process also featured in the discussion. “The fact that Finland and other countries are ensuring Afghanistan’s smooth transition process is greatly appreciated,” President Niinistö said, following the meeting.
President Niinistö also spoke to Secretary of State Clinton about his visit to Russia last week. Secretary of State Clinton will travel to St. Petersburg later this week.

During her visit to Finland, Secretary of State Clinton also met Prime Minister Jyrki Katainen and Minister for Foreign Affairs Erkki Tuomioja, who is hosting her visit. In connection with the meeting, the foreign ministers signed the General Security of Information Agreement negotiated between Finland and the United States. The agreement pertains to the confidentiality of the exchange of classified security information.

The Embassy of the United States organised a Climate and Clean Air Coalition event in connection with the visit.

Visit of United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in Mäntyniemi, Helsinki on 27 June 2012. Copyright © Office of the President of the Republic of Finland Visit of United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in Mäntyniemi, Helsinki on 27 June 2012. Copyright © Office of the President of the Republic of Finland Visit of United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in Mäntyniemi, Helsinki on 27 June 2012. Copyright © Office of the President of the Republic of Finland