Mr. Soini appealed to Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon by saying that Finland wishes to see mediation and dialogue at the forefront of the UN’s work. Mr. Soini stated that Finland will continue its active contribution to the development of mediation. Finland emphasizes women’s participation and the role of the civil society.
Inter-cultural and inter-faith dialogue play a big role in efforts to repress violent extremist movements. Mr. Soini hoped that The Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers will help the UN in its peace efforts. Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland supported the establishment of the Network and continues funding it.
In addition to the Secretary-General and Minister Soini, speakers of the 60th anniversary celebrations include President of the Republic Sauli Niinistö, Speaker of Parliament Maria Lohela, and Prime Minister Juha Sipilä. The event looks at the history and future of Finland’s UN membership, the UN’s importance for Finland and Finland’s influence in the UN. Recent cases in which Finnish expertise and innovations have been used in the UN are also being discussed.