The President of the Republic Sauli Niinistö participated, together with Prime Minister Sanna Marin, in the opening of the Finland Forward campaign, launched on Friday April 17th, to boost crisis resilience in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We have faced the impossible, and it is far from over yet. But this diabolic thing can be beaten, we will vanquish it,” President Niinistö said in his opening statement streamed from the Presidential Palace.
He underlined each individual’s role in combating the pandemic: instructions and rules should be complied with. It is only natural that people also feel anxiety and mental pressure. However, we have to control ourselves and stay calm: “All this adds up to self-restraint. This way, we can protect ourselves, while at the same time protecting those around us. And above all, by doing so we show respect for those who look after us”.
President Niinistö also reminded the public that brighter times lie ahead. “If and when we overcome this impossible, it is worth remembering that for those who conquer the impossible, everything is possible – all the good things that life has to offer. I wish you all strength and resilience – and let us not forget self-restraint. What it boils down to is respect for others.”
The President’s opening statement was followed by a press conference held by Prime Minister Marin, who talked about the Finns’ crisis resilience and provided more details on the Finland Forward campaign, together with the partner organisations participating in the campaign.
The Government’s Finland Forward campaign seeks to boost the citizens’ confidence in the future and encourage people to engage in good deeds. Aside from the authorities and preparedness organisations, a large number of key NGOs are involved in the project.