Alexander Stubb: Finland gets new president

Alexander Stubb was sworn in as the 13th President of Finland on Friday during a session of the Finnish parliament, succeeding Sauli Niinisto who held the position for 12 years.

In his inaugural address, Stubb, 55, pledged to advance an open, safe, and internationally engaged Finland, committed to its ongoing prosperity.

The new president emphasized the importance of unity and solidarity among the Finnish people, urging them to uphold the traditions of trust, justice, and communal support that define Finnish society. He also encouraged an approach of embracing change and technological progress with empathy and adaptability.

Stubb outlined Finland’s foreign and security policy, describing it as “value-based realism.” He elaborated further during a subsequent press conference, stating that this policy is rooted in traditional idealism and democratic values, while also recognizing the necessity of dialogue with those who may not share these values.

Having won the presidential election in February, Stubb brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as Finnish Prime Minister and Foreign Minister.

Finland maintains distinct roles within the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), with the president attending NATO summits and the prime minister representing the country within the EU. Both President Stubb and Prime Minister Petteri Orpo belong to the National Coalition Party.

The presidential transition in Finland took place amidst significant political discussions concerning the cabinet’s plans to reform social security and labor terms. Addressing the cabinet, Stubb expressed his support for the government’s efforts to stabilize the economy.

Proficient in English, French, and German, in addition to Finland’s official languages of Finnish and Swedish, President Stubb shared that his first planned trip abroad will be to Norway, where he will observe a NATO maneuver. Finland joined the military alliance last year.