Office of the President of the Republic
Press Release 17/2016
21 April 2016
The Governor-General of Australia, Sir Peter Cosgrove, and his spouse Lady Cosgrove will make a state visit to Finland during 27–29 April 2016. President of the Republic Sauli Niinistö and his spouse Mrs Jenni Haukio will receive the guests at the Presidential Palace on Thursday, 28 April 2016.
The Governor-General will also meet Maria Lohela, the Speaker of the Finnish Parliament; Prime Minister Juha Sipilä; and General Jarmo Lindberg, Commander of the Finnish Defence Forces. The programme also includes the laying of a wreath in Hietaniemi Cemetery, a visit to VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, as well as meetings with business representatives.
Subjects of discussion during the visit will include bilateral relations between Finland and Australia, innovation cooperation, the strengthening of trade and economic relations, and regional issues in Asia and Europe.
This is the first state visit from Australia to Finland. The previous state visit from Finland to Australia was made by President Halonen in 2007.