The Secretary-General met today with H.E. Ms. Maria Lohela, Speaker of the Parliament, as well as the Chair and Members of the Committee for Foreign Relations of the Republic of Finland.

On the occasion of the 60th anniversary of Finland’s membership in the United Nations, the Secretary-General and the Committee exchanged views on the state of the important partnership between the UN and Finland. The Secretary-General commended Finland for its leadership in advancing the UN’s work on peace and security, development and human rights. He thanked Finland in particular for the support and leadership that it provides for UN conflict prevention and mediation efforts.

They also discussed the increased movements of refugees and migrants towards Europe. The Secretary-General expressed his gratitude for Finland's solidarity with those in need of protection. He urged parliamentarians to be a voice against xenophobia and discrimination.

The Secretary-General also underscored the important role of parliaments in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Lastly, the Secretary-General and the Committee discussed climate change, including the on-going Climate Conference in Paris.