Did you know Finland’s first foreign-oriented state visit was 100 years ago? In May 1925, Lauri Relander paid a visit to Estonia, in name of the Republic of Finland. During his presidency, Relander also had other state visits where several traditions and customs formed, that are still in use today! To honor the history of State Visits, Helsinki Mint organized a special handover in Helsinki between the Dutch Ambassador in Finland, Mr. Govert Bijl de Vroe and Estonian Ambassador Mr. Sven Sakkov.
As commissioned by the Ministry of Finance in Finland, a 2 euro commemorative coin was minted in several qualities. The Finland 2 Euro “State Visits” of Finland – Diplomacy and Foreign Policy in BU Quality is still available, both in English version and Finnish/Swedish version. There is also a golden tribute to Finland’s history of Diplomacy and Foreign Policy, minted in the very best quality.
History of State Visits
State Visits have always been important to Finland when it comes to diplomatic relations between the states and the execution of foreign policy. Hundreds of years ago, state visits came in the form of marriages between royal families, which could lead to military alliances and decision making in politics. After World War I, when many new nation states emerged in Europe, state visits required a new appearance. Nevertheless, many traditions, such as ceremonial receptions, joint public appearances, dinners and cultural events has been maintained.
The future
For a long time, the most important state visits were to Moscow and Washington DC, but as Finland joined the EU, the major economic powers of Central and Eastern Europe took on a more important position. The Finnish presidents have excellent opportunities to present the country’s foreign policy, while at the same time opening the door to the export industry and cultural cooperation. With these statements and appearances, Finland presidents, each in their own way, represent the values, principles and goals of Finland and its culture. That is probably the most important function of state visits nowadays.