In his speech, President Putin spoke highly of the present level of Russian-Finnish cooperation. He underlined not only the similarity of views of the two countries and peoples on a number of vital problems but also the kinship between the characters, interests, and values of the Russians and the Finns.
The Russian President believes Russia and Finland have similar international priorities – security for all countries, a desire to solve all difficult problems by peaceful means, and the rule of law.
President Putin underlined the Finnish President’s role in strengthening Russian-Finnish relations and consolidating society in her country.
See also
Official Visit to Finland
September 1 − 3, 2001