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Foreign Minister believes European finance crisis can be solved

Finland’s Foreign Minister Erkki Tuomioja believes Europe’s financial crisis could continue for a long time. Speaking on the YLE radio programme Ykkösaamu on Saturday, he stressed that major member states, in particular, were just promoting their own interests at the cost of the EU’s overall influence. He said he believes, though, that Europe will prevail but not necessarily in a very stylish fashion.

Erkki Tuomioja Ykkösaamussa 17.9.2011.
Erkki Tuomioja kommentoi Ykkösaamussa terrorismiepäilyjä. Image: YLE

Tuomioja predicted that a rescheduling of Greek debts will take place. In the Foreign Minister’s view, financial problems have forced the EU to look reality in the eye.

Security Council and G20

Although known as a critic of globalisation, Tuomioja admitted it had some good sides. He pointed to the growing interdependence between various countries and regions. This was particularly evident in the growth of the G20 group of nations within a short period.

“It is no longer possible to solve problems without the participation of China, India and Brazil and others,” he remarked.

A new wider Security Council could, in Tuomioja’s view, replace the G20. It would possess greater legitimacy as each state could in turn become a rotating member.

Help for Libya

Turning to next week’s UN General Assembly debate on Libya, the Foreign Minister said the purpose of the meeting was to demonstrate support for change in the country.

Finland was willing to offer police training and efforts to enhance the role of women.

“The Nordic model could help a nation devoid of democratic structures and values,” he noted.

Sources: YLE