President of the Republic of Finland Alexander Stubb, accompanied by his spouse Suzanne Innes-Stubb, payed a state visit to the United Republic of Tanzania on 14–16 May 2025. The state visit celebrated 60 years of diplomatic relations between Finland and Tanzania
Julius Nyerere International Airport. Children presented flowers to the President Stubb and Mrs Innes-Stubb as a welcome gesture at the airport in Daar es Salaam. The guests were greeted by dancers and singers waving small Finnish flags.
State House. The State House, known as ‘Ikulu’ in Swahili, is located right on the coast of the Indian Ocean. A light breeze from the sea provided some welcome relief from the 35-degree heat.
President of Tanzania Samia Suluhu Hassan received President Stubb in front of the State House. The welcoming ceremony included the national anthems, an inspection of the Guard of Honour, greeting the delegations, the signing of the guest book and a group photo.
Video recording of the welcoming ceremony in Dar es Salaam.
During the bilateral talks, which lasted about an hour, the Presidents discussed bilateral relations between Finland and Tanzania, geopolitical changes, global challenges and their impact on African countries and Europe.
Press conference. “It is a great honour to be here celebrating the 60th anniversary of our diplomatic relations. We are long-standing partners, and this visit strengthens our shared commitment to expanding our relations towards a more comprehensive partnership,” President Stubb said at the press conference. We strongly believe in an equal partnership in business and trade – as well as in world politics.”
President Stubb stated that Tanzania has a special place in the heart of the Finns. There are many reasons for this, but one is President Martti Ahtisaari, who served as ambassador to Tanzania in the 1970s.
State Banquet. The first day ended with a state banquet hosted by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
