Japan-Finland Relations
Letter of Condolences by Prime Minister KISHIDA and Foreign Minister KAMIKAWA on the Passing of Former President H.E. Mr. Martti Ahtisaari of the Republic of Finland
October 19, 2023
- On October 18, following the passing of H.E.Mr. Martti Ahtisaari, Former President of the Republic of Finland, Mr. KISHIDA Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan, issued a letter of condolences to H.E. Mr. Petteri Orpo, Prime Minister of the Republic of Finland.
In the letter, Prime Minister Kishida stated that he is deeply saddened by the news of the passing of former President Ahtisaari and he extended his heartfelt condolences to the Republic of Finland and the people of Finland on behalf of the Government and people of Japan.
Prime Minister Kishida noted former President Ahtisaari's visit in 2011 to the areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, as well as the important role he played in international peace negotiations and mediation activities to resolve conflicts around the world, including in Kosovo and Aceh in Indonesia. He also paid tribute to the former president for his efforts in developing friendly relations between Japan and Finland, and for his valuable role in the international community. - On the same day, Ms. KAMIKAWA Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, issued a letter of condolences to H.E. Ms. Elina Valtonen, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Finland.
In the letter, Foreign Minister Kamikawa expressed her sincere condolences to the Republic of Finland and the people of Finland on the news of the passing of former President Ahtisaari. Minister Kamikawa also noted the importance of the diplomatic efforts made by former President Ahtisaari in dealing with issues such as Kosovo and Aceh in Indonesia. She also paid tribute to the achievements of the former president, who visited in 2011 the area affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake and stood by and encouraged the Japanese people facing great difficulties.