Speech by President of the Republic Tarja Halonen to the outgoing Government 24.6.2003

Madame Prime Minister, Thank you for the kind words you addressed to me. I also thank you and your Government for your cooperation.

Finland is known as a defender of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. This is an excellent thing for citizens; it places great responsibility on social decision-makers.

The events of the past weeks have been in many ways perplexing. Judicially matters are still open and there is no reason to go into them at this point. They will be cleared up eventually.

Politically the course of events has been more rapid. You tendered your Government's resignation last Wednesday, the 18th of June, because you felt that you did not enjoy sufficient confidence in Parliament. I respected your interpretation and decision and accepted your resignation, even though a vote of no confidence did not take place. The situation was clear and your action speeded things up, although I am sure it was difficult for you personally.

Your Government's programme will be retained by the new Government without change. The composition of the new Government will also remain practically the same. You have thus created the basis for the comprehensive management of national affairs for a long time to come.

Your Government will go down in history as the first Government with a woman Prime Minister and also the first with equal numbers of men and women. I hope that gender equality will continue to receive support in the future as well.

I thank you and your Government for the work you have performed.