Mari Kiviniemi (centre), Finland's new prime minister, was quoted as saying by national daily Helsingin Sanomat on Tuesday that she would assume an active foreign policy role.

Kiviniemi told the paper that EU issues would be emphasised and added that relations with Russia would be handled jointly with the president.
She went on to highlight Russia's significance for Finland.

"There is no great reason to worry but some things do need to change," Kiviniemi was quoted as saying about Russia.

According to Helsingin Sanomat Kiviniemi could not say when Finnish soldiers would be withdrawn from Afghanistan.
"It is important for Finland and all concerned that the development of Afghanistan is put on the right track," she told the paper.

STT
LEHTIKUVA - MIKKO STIG