President Stubb at the National Veterans’ Day main event: “Our welfare would not be possible without the invaluable sacrifices of the veteran generation”
President of the Republic of Finland Alexander Stubb and his spouse Suzanne Innes-Stubb visited Vaasa and attended the main event of the National Veterans’ Day in Botniahalli in Mustasaari on Saturday 27 April 2024.
“You defended tenaciously Finland’s independence during the greatest test of our nation,” President Stubb said in his address to the veterans.
In his speech, the President pointed out that the Finnish people had to bear a disproportionately heavy burden to stop the invader during World War II.
Today, the Ukrainian people are fighting for their freedom defending their independence, just as Finns did during the Winter and Continuation Wars.
The President stressed that now, even more than ever, our destinies in Europe and the world are intertwined. “Ukraine’s cause is our cause. Ukraine’s security is our security.”
“Finland is valued for its support of Ukraine and for taking care of its own defence. Over the years, we have renewed the capabilities of our armed forces, on land, at sea and in the air. Today we are a militarily allied country,” the President said adding that Finland’s collective will to defend the nation is among the highest in the world.
Before the official ceremony, President Stubb and Mrs Innes-Stubb met with veterans over a cup of coffee.
At a press meeting later in the day, President Stubb expressed his gratitude for the memorable encounters with veterans. “For me personally, the service of veterans and lottas (women who participated in the voluntary civil defence) has always been an important part of the foundation of our national identity, Finnishness and our values.” The President also said that the veterans’ joy of living and positive attitude warms your heart every time you meet them.
At the end of the programme, the President and his spouse visited the Vaasa Market Square, where they were welcomed by a large crowd.
During this public event, President Stubb was interviewed by Emma Lehtonen, Chair of the Executive Board of the Student Union of the University of Vaasa.
