In an address to MPs at the formal opening of Finnish Parliament on Thursday, President Sauli Niinistö said the job of an MP is not an individual endeavour, but rather part of a joint effort on behalf of the entire nation.
“It requires a lot from you: Capability to cooperate with others – the will and skills to find the common interest. Preparedness and ability to react to sudden changes – particularly in this day and age. Persistent work – the readiness and will to see beyond passing trends,” Niinistö said.
He also told lawmakers that they are responsible for future generations, in terms of climate change, natural resources, as well as the economy.
The president also brought up Finland’s new position as a member of Nato.
“As I anticipated in my speech at the closing of the electoral period two weeks ago, the new Parliament is starting its work in a Nato member state. Between that day and today, the era of Finland’s military non-alignment came to an end. A new era began. That moment in Brussels on Tuesday last week had its own, very special meaning. But even in this matter, we have already moved on from festivities to everyday life,” Niinistö said in his speech (siirryt toiseen palveluun).
The president said that while Finland’s attention has been on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its own security by joining Nato, the country needs to continue its diplomatic efforts elsewhere in the world.
“We cannot close our eyes to reality. Our own diplomacy is needed not only in Europe but also in Africa, Asia and Latin America. We must also talk with those – and perhaps in particular with those – who see the world differently from us.” he said.
Orpo: Shared goals
Party leader of the election-winning National Coalition and temporary Speaker of Parliament, Petteri Orpo, told MPs that it is time to leave behind what he described as divisive election debates and conflicts.
Lawmakers share a common goal of securing Finland’s welfare society, he said.
“We all want Finland to continue to have good and equal services; from education to health care. We want the weakest in society to be cared for. A shared goal is an excellent starting point from which to begin work. We have different views on how to reach those goals, but the goals are common,” Orpo said.
“Together we can make Finland strong; a country that can weather the world’s storms and can take care of people’s basic needs. After the election battles we always gather in this hall. This is the time to leave behind the divisive election debates and confrontations. Our job is to build, not tear down,” Orpo said.
He spoke about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, saying that Finland will support Ukraine until the conflict ends.
“The goal is Ukraine’s victory and a just peace. We have chosen our side,” Orpo said.
Orpo also pointed to Finland’s economic situation, saying that the country’s financial situation was not in good shape.
“In order to save the welfare society’s services – daycare centres, schools and elderly services – we need the backbone of a strong and sustainable economy. We cannot live beyond our means forever,” Orpo said.
Orpo is to begin government formation negotiations on Friday.
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