Summary:
Finland’s President Sauli Niinistö has discussed the European Union and security with Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović. Mr Niinistö said that a stronger EU is needed – the EU should have a place in the table with the big countries.

Both Presidents underlined the possibility offered by Finland and Croatia’s consecutive EU presidencies for cooperation between the countries. With this cooperation, Finland and Croatia can act towards peace and European unity, President Niinistö noted and emphasised that small countries have a chance to make bigger countries to understand their global responsibility.

President Niinistö thanked President Grabar-Kitarović for support to neighbouring regions. He said that Finland strongly supported the EU membership processes of the Baltic countries, and Croatia plays a similar role in Southeast Europe, creating EU connections between countries. According to President Niinistö, the work is important for the countries in the Balkan but also for the EU’s security and welfare.

Furthermore, President Niinistö expressed his satisfaction with the Croatian President’s interest in collaboration over the protection of the arctic region. « The arctic region is a global issue. If we lose it, we lose the world, » the President added. He particularly emphasised the need to reduce black carbon emissions.

Media:  Verkkouutiset.fi
Date: 10.4.2018
Journalist:
Main source: President Sauli Niinistö