Finland's position on the war on Iraq

Government Information Unit Press release 20 March 2003

This morning, on 20 March 2003, the meeting of the President of the Republic and the Cabinet Committee on Foreign and Security Policy considered the war that was launched on Iraq in the night.

Finland laments that the US and its allies have begun military action against Iraq.

Use of military force without the UN Security Council's specific authorisation is not acceptable.

The ongoing war must not result in the marginalisation of the UN. It is obligatory that the role and responsibility of the UN and its organisations remain central in the drafting and implementation of the forthcoming decisions and measures.

Further information: Markus Lyra, Director-General, Ministry for Foreign Affairs, tel. +358 9 1605 5032

The Finnish Government