"I have to say that it was quite a surprising move for the Nobel Committee to award the prize to Barack Obama. Maybe last year's award was, too, I can't say if it was surprising. But, at least in Norway it was seen as a return to what many consider Nobel's original intention. In other words, last year the prize was awarded to someone who had a record of influencing peace processes," said Martti Ahtisaari.
According to Ahtisaari, the decision is reminiscent of the prizes awarded during various phases of the Middle East peace process aimed at encouraging the parties in negotiations. He believes that winning the Nobel Peace Prize will put pressure on President Obama to bring about progress in the Middle East, as there is no more important issue on the agenda of the international community awaiting a solution.
Congratulations from President Halonen
President Tarja Halonen said Friday that Barack Obama has brought a long-needed turn in international politics towards a new kind of dialogue and multi-lateral cooperation.
She said that she hopes that the awarding of the prize to Obama will encourage cooperation to solve global problems.