New Finnish leader Alexander Stubb says it took 'final step' into Western community by joining NATO
Alexander Stubb has been sworn as Finland’s new president and said the Nordic country has taken “the final step into the Western community of values” by becoming a NATO member
By JARI TANNER
Published - Mar 01, 2024, 06:39 AM ET
Last Updated - Mar 01, 2024, 06:39 AM EST
HELSINKI (AP) — Alexander Stubb was sworn in Friday as Finland’s new president and said the Nordic country has taken “the final step into the Western community of values” by becoming a NATO member.
The 55-year-old former prime minister replaced President Sauli Niinistö, who held the job for two six-year terms.
Stubb, a conservative, was elected head of state in a narrow Feb. 11 runoff victory against independent candidate and former Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto of a left-leaning party.
Stubb has held several government posts, including foreign minister, and led the Finnish government in 2014-2015.
