Prime Minister Jyrki Katainen to President Tarja Halonen

Mrs President,
During two presidential terms, that is to say, over the course of twelve years, you have worked constantly to extend and consolidate Finland's international relations and to maintain the good relations we have with our neighbouring countries. In your international activities, under the auspices of the United Nations for example, you have taken responsibility for the well-being of all peoples. The efforts you have directed at reform of international structures and towards sustainable development, for example, have gained considerable recognition both at home and abroad.

Many of your speeches have placed particular emphasis on social responsibility and the implementation of equality in our society. Your own actions and participation in social discussion have served to strengthen the harmony of our country and the unity of our people.

You, Mrs President, have given your support to the government of the day backed by a parliament elected by the people. The open cooperation among the organs of government and the continuity brought by your wealth of experience have been of inestimable value to our country.

On behalf of the members of the Government, of the civil service and of the Finnish people, I offer you the most sincere gratitude, Mrs President, for the work you have done for the benefit of the country.