File Photo – AFP / Lehtikuva.
Mikael Pentikäinen, who is contesting for the European parliamentary polls from Suomen Keskusta (Center Party), on Sunday supported the idea of Finland joining the NATO military alliance.
Pentikäinen expressed belief that NATO membership would strengthen Finland's security and promote stability.
Pentikäinen pointed out that joining the military alliance was an option for Finland, although the official stance of the Center Party stipulates that partnership with the alliance was sufficient and there was no need for membership.
The European parliament candidate proposed that Finland should play an important role in building the bridge that would help improve relationship between the EU and Russia.
Pentikäinen said the crisis in Ukraine would not be solved by imposing sanctions that could lead to isolation of Russia, but the solution could be reached through diplomacy.
