Finnish President Tarja Halonen praised “excellent” Saudi-Finnish relations and said that she was looking forward to her official visit to Saudi Arabia, which begins today.  She made the remarks in an interview at the presidential palace before departing Helsinki.

President Halonen characterized Saudi Arabia as an “important” country and praised its active role in promoting peace in the Middle East and Africa. She highlighted the close economic and commercial relations between the two countries, and said that she believes they can enhance cooperation even further.

Halonen’s visit to Saudi Arabia is the first ever by a Finnish president. She is expected to hold talks with Saudi officials on bilateral relations as well as issues such as globalization, sustainable development and environmental matters. The two countries are also expected to sign an agreement on the protection of investments.

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