President Halonen to meet European presidents in Germany

Office of the President of the Republic of Finland Press Release 30 January 2006

President of the Republic Tarja Halonen will travel to Germany on 3-5 February 2006 for an unofficial meeting of the presidents of seven countries. The meeting in Dresden will be hosted by President Horst Köhler of Germany and will also be attended by President Carlo Ciampi of Italy, President Heinz Fischer of Austria, President Vaira Vike-Freiberga of Latvia, President Jorge Sampaio of Portugal and President László Sólyom of Hungary.

The occasion will follow up the unofficial meetings that were held in Portugal in autumn 2003 and Finland in spring 2005.

The presidents will talk about Europe's future and identity and the EU's significance for citizens. The meeting will also include a cultural programme and discussions with students.

Dr Pentti Arajärvi will accompany President Halonen. A separate programme has been arranged for the presidents' spouses.