The President of Finland honored Martti Ahtisaari
In his speech during the reception at the Nobel Peace Center, President Alexander Stubb singled out Martti Ahtisaari, former President of Finland and Nobel Peace Prize laureate 2008, as the most important diplomat Finland has ever had.
“He was a citizen of the world and is one of the few to have brokered peace on three continents. In today's geopolitical situation, we need more Ahtisaaris,” said President Stubb in his speech.
Ahtisaari received the Peace Prize in 2008 for his significant efforts over three decades across multiple continents to resolve international conflicts peacefully. In its announcement, the Norwegian Nobel Committee stated that “through his untiring efforts and good results, he has shown what role mediation of various kinds can play in the resolution of international conflicts. The Norwegian Nobel Committee wishes to express the hope that others may be inspired by his efforts and his achievements.”
"At the Nobel Peace Center, we are inspired by Martti Ahtisaari's profound belief in dialogue as a vital tool for peace. His steadfast conviction in the power of communication to resolve conflicts drives us to foster understanding and collaboration among diverse communities. Ahtisaari's legacy reinforces our commitment to advancing dialogue as a crucial pathway to lasting peace."
Ahtisaari played a pivotal role in the negotiations for Namibia's independence in 1990, which he considered his most important work. He was also involved in the peace process between Kosovo and Serbia and was appointed UN Special Envoy in 2005. Additionally, he oversaw the disarmament of the IRA in Northern Ireland and negotiated a peace agreement in Aceh province in 2005.
President Stubb, who has served as both Foreign Minister and Prime Minister of Finland, has frequently drawn on Ahtisaari's experience and vision in his own work, particularly regarding peace and security issues. From 2018 to 2024, when he became president, President Stubb chaired the board of the independent CMI - Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation, founded by Ahtisaari in 2000. The foundation is dedicated to preventing and resolving conflicts through dialogue and mediation, and it is regarded as one of the world’s leading organizations in peace mediation.
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