Pretoria, 25 April 2023 (TDI): President Sauli Niinisto of the Republic of Finland arrived in Pretoria today on a two-day State visit to South Africa. He was welcomed with a grand 21-Gun Salute in the welcome ceremony hosted by President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa.
He hosted his revered guest at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. In the meeting, they discussed the geopolitical dynamics of the region, security issues, global challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, and their impacts on Climate change.
During the press briefing, President Cyril Ramaphosa said he was honored to receive President Niinisto during Freedom Month. On top of that, when South Africa celebrates 29 years of democracy. He referred to the Finnish support for the liberation movements in the host state.
He also expressed the collective willingness of both states to improve bilateral trade and investment flows.
“Finland is a valued friend of South Africa and a longstanding partner in development,” says President Cyril Ramaphosa
Trade and Investment
Furthermore, he added that this state visit is timely as both states have just concluded the first phase of the five-year investment target embarked upon in 2018.
Finnish investment is a top priority for both the states. Finnish investment has increased by as much as R2 billion in the last three years.
President Niinisto took the opportunity to encourage Finnish companies to participate in the investment mobilization drive.
He added that both countries will continue to expand cooperation in the fields of renewable energy, ICT infrastructure, and the creation of new business corridors.
Diplomatic Relations
The diplomatic ties between South Africa and Finland were established in 1949. But since 1994, the bilateral relations have improved in all spheres.
Despite having a tiny population and land, Finland is one of the world’s most developed nations. It is a significant partner for development in South Africa.
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