Grand Duke of Luxembourg visits Finland - Tasavallan presidentti Sauli Niinistö

Photo: Office of the President of the Republic

Photo: Matti Porre/Office of the President of the Republic

Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg were on a state visit to Finland on 10 to 12 May, at the invitation of President of the Republic Sauli Niinistö. President Niinistö and his spouse Mrs. Jenni Haukio received the Duke and Duchess at the Presidential Palace on Tuesday 10 May.

During the visit, the royal guests was introduced to Finnish business and industry, science and research, and culture and nature. The programme included the laying of a wreath at the Hietaniemi Cemetery, as well as visits to Parliament, Aalto University, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, the Me & MyCity concept introducing children to business and working life, and Haltia – the Finnish Nature Centre.

Representatives of the Government of Luxembourg – Deputy Prime Minister Etienne Schneider, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Jean Asselborn, and Minister for the Environment Carole Dieschbourg – participated in the state visit. Official discussions were held at the Presidential Palace on Wednesday 11 May. The discussions focused on bilateral relations, particularly with respect to the economy, competitiveness and innovations, as well as the current situation in Europe and security policy issues. The ministers also held bilateral meetings of their own.

An extensive business delegation arrived in Finland in connection with the state visit; and an economic forum, was opened by President Niinistö and Grand Duke Henri on Wednesday 11 May.

The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg last paid a state visit to Finland in 1993. The last president of Finland to visit Luxembourg was President Halonen in 2008.

Photo: Office of the Republic of Finland