President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has sent a congratulatory message to the President of the Republic of Finland, His Excellency Mr. Sauli Niinistö, on the occasion of his country’s 100th Independence Anniversary and Flag Day.

Finland’s Independence Day is celebrated annually on December 6 and marks the Declaration of Independence from the Russian Empire by the Finnish Parliament in 1917.

Finland had been part of the Russian Empire since 1809. Following the Russian revolution and the defeats in the First World War, movements within Finland pushed for independence from Russia and on December 6, 1917, the parliament declared Finland as an independent state.

According to a Foreign Ministry release, President Sirleaf, in her message said, “It gives me great honor and pleasure, on behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of Liberia and on my personal behalf, to extend sincere best wishes and enhanced prosperity of your country.”

Referencing the excellent, cordial and long-standing relations subsisting between both countries and peoples, which she categorized as “very pleased”, the Liberian leader indicated that it is her ardent hope that in the spirit of friendship, both leaders could explore more rewarding bilateral cooperation of mutual benefits especially in the areas of Science and Technology.  

She wished for President Niinistö good health and for the Finnish people, sustained progress and prosperity as Finland celebrates its Independence and Flag Day.