Response by President of the Republic Tarja Halonen to the Prime Minister and greetings to the organs of government and senior civil servants, 1 March 2006

(check against delivery)

Mr. Prime Minister, I should like to thank you warmly for the congratulations and good wishes you have extended on your own and your Government’s behalf on my re-election.

Your Government has been in office for slightly over two and a half years, during which time we have engaged in close and fruitful cooperation. I, for my part, am willing to continue this cooperation.

We will be having a Parliamentary election in about a year’s time. This means that your Government will be very busy. Achieving shared targets requires that all government party groups have the will and ability to cooperate to the very end of the term of government, even if the approaching election will shape the course of political debate.

Finland will be taking over the EU Presidency for the latter half of this year. The Presidency is a significant challenge for Finland but also an opportunity to demonstrate leadership on a European scale and to contribute to the common European cause. The EU must be able to focus on important future issues and decisions. This would strengthen the international position of the EU, and it would be better placed to respond to the expectations of the citizens of its member states.

Finnish representational democracy celebrates its centenary this year. The preparation and efficient implementation of the legislation enacted and decisions taken by the organs of government is only possible with the help of a smoothly running administration and a diligent and competent body of civil servants. The Finnish administration stands up well in international comparison, and it has good potential for responding to the expectations of Finnish citizens.

I extend my sincere greetings to all of you and wish you success in your work for the good of the people of Finland.