Finland Times

 

File Photo AFP-Lehtikuva.

Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg will make a state visit to Finland on 10 to 12 May, said an official press release.

 

President  Sauli Niinistö and first lady  Jenni Haukio will receive the Duke and Duchess at the Presidential Palace on May 10.

 

During the visit, the royal guests will be introduced to Finnish business and industry, science and research, and culture and nature.

 

The programme includes the laying of a wreath at the Hietaniemi Cemetery, as well as visits to Parliament, Aalto University, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, the Me & MyCity concept introducing children to business and working life, and Haltia – the Finnish Nature Centre.

 

Representatives of the government of Luxembourg – Deputy Prime Minister Etienne Schneider, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Jean Asselborn, Minister for Finance Pierre Gramegna and Minister for the Environment Carole Dieschbourg – will participate in the state visit.

 

Official discussions will be held at the Presidential Palace on Wednesday 11 May. The discussions will focus on bilateral relations, particularly with respect to the economy, competitiveness and innovations, as well as the current situation in Europe and security policy issues. The ministers will also hold bilateral meetings of their own.

 

An extensive business delegation will arrive in Finland in connection with the state visit; and an economic forum, to be opened by President Niinistö and Grand Duke Henri, will be held on Wednesday 11 May.

 

The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg last paid a state visit to Finland in 1993. The last president of Finland to visit Luxembourg was former President Tarja Halonen in 2008.