Turkey’s concern over terrorism needs to be taken seriously. A large amount of Turkish people, ordinary citizens, have lost their lives in terrorist attacks.
From the President’s pen: NATO membership strengthens Finland’s security
“In the fast-paced world, it is more valuable than ever to know when to hurry, and when to have patience”, I said in my New Year’s speech. This spring, we have succeeded well in following this principle in Finland. Together, we have both made haste and shown patience. The Finnish democracy has displayed its unique power.
From the President’s Pen: Coronavirus, the economy and health protection
Nobel Laureate, Professor Bengt Holmström and Dr Martti Hetemäki, and now, most recently, Professor Martin Scheinin have woken us up with regard to the fight against coronavirus. What they have in common, at least, is that proactive preparedness is of key importance; the need for strict, short-term restrictive measures before dangerous limits are exceeded.
From the President’s Pen: A time for discipline
Coronavirus has changed the world. The virus has claimed victims and brought grief. The economy has declined everywhere and the consequences will be with us even longer than the disease itself.
From the President’s Pen: Eastern integration
The most far-reaching news of the weekend may have come from the Far East. The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), approved in Hanoi on Sunday, has already been characterised as the world’s largest free trade agreement. The prime minister of China appears to have described the new agreement as a victory for both multilateralism and free trade.
From the President’s Pen: The United States will return to the table, cooperation will intensify
The result of the presidential election, also closely followed in Finland, is now clear. Joe Biden will become the 46th President of the United States. After waiting for the votes to be counted, we turn our attention to what the United States will do in the future.
From the President’s pen: Prejudice comes by stealth
During this Covid-19 pandemic, everybody’s behaviour has changed, if only because of the restrictions. Changes have also taken place in our minds. Many focus on cherishing the best things and values they know and worry about the people closest to them. A lot of people are weighed down by heavy burdens: how can I make ends meet? Have I already lost too much? Will I ever manage to return to normal life? Will I be able to avoid catching this serious disease?
From the President’s pen: A state of emergency
A state of emergency or preparedness are words that easily evoke a vague feeling of fear as a result of history.