Dear Finnish peacekeepers,
Here in Finland, we will soon be enjoying the peace and calm that Christmas time brings, but in many other countries people are not as fortunate. Daily, we hear reports of conflict and instability from around the world.
What we need is international cooperation, dialogue and tangible efforts for peace and stability. Complex and lengthy crises require close collaboration between governmental bodies and other organizations. Military personnel play a key role in creating the security and stability that allows civilian crisis management operations, humanitarian aid and international development activities to take place. Your peacekeeping efforts reflect a genuine commitment to building safety and security around the world. You bring stability to some of the most troubled parts of the world.
The work carried out by Finnish peacekeepers has been widely praised, and deservedly so. Consistent, humane and collaborative approach to your work promotes trust and commands respect. The success of our country’s peacekeeping operations relies on the high levels of motivation and the skill and professionalism of the Finnish Defence Force’s soldiers, reservists and civilian staff.
Many of you are spending Christmas in highly challenging circumstances, far away from home. I would like to thank you all for your contribution to our crisis management operations, your efforts for peace and your service to Finland. I wish you and your families a peaceful Christmas and happy New Year.
Sauli Niinistö
President of the Republic of Finland