SPEECH BY PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC MARTTI AHTISAARI

AT A DINNER IN HONOUR OF

CROWN PRINCE MAHA VAJIRALONGKORN OF THAILAND

AT THE PRESIDENTIAL PALACE IN HELSINKI 26.6.1997

We are honoured to receive a visit by Your Royal Highness Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn. This occasion is particularly significant as yours is the first official visit to Finland by a member of the Thai Royal Family.

Relations between our countries date back to 1919, when Thailand recognised the independence of Finland. I am pleased to say that they have been cordial for all of that time. They have developed well over the years, and cooperation between our countries has spread to many fields.

Thailand has become one of Finland's most important trading partners in Asia. And, in my belief, there is still a great deal more potential to be tapped on both sides.

I have warm memories of my visit to the Kingdom of Thailand in January 1995. It was an honour to have an opportunity for discussions with His Majesty the King and I was impressed by the interest His Majesty showed in Finland. The warmth and friendliness of the Thai people touched me deeply.

During my visit I had the opportunity to meet distinguished representatives of Thai society and of your country's business community. I am convinced that this visit by Your Royal Highness will further deepen our bilateral relations. It is my sincere hope that this exchange of visits will also increase the Thai and Finish peoples' knowledge of each other's country.

I hope that Your Royal Highness will find your visit to Finland as pleasant as was my visit to the Kingdom of Thailand.

I ask you to join me in a toast to the health of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn and to friendship between Finland and Thailand.