Pekka Haavisto appointed Foreign Minister’s Special Representative on mediation

On 17 August, Minister for Foreign Affairs Timo Soini appointed Member of Parliament Pekka Haavisto to serve as his Special Representative on mediation with special focus on Africa.

Mediation is one of the priorities of Finland's foreign policy. Haavisto's appointment strengthens Finland's contribution to international mediation and prevention of crises. Mediation is also a means to influence the root causes of migration. The countries of the Horn of Africa play a key role in the migration across the Mediterranean Sea as countries of origin and transit countries.

Mr Haavisto will continue in his duties as an MP. The appointment is a personal duty without remuneration, which he will take care of alongside his duties as an MP.

Inquiries: Lauratuulia Lehtinen, Counsellor, tel. +358 295 351 535.