Speaking at an event to commemorate the 110th birthday of Urho Kekkonen, Finland's president from 1956-1982, President Tarja Halonen emphasised the need for consistency in Finnish politics.

In her speech about the relationship between Finland and Russia, the President noted that relations continue to be good. However, her emphasis on consistency can be interpreted as a comment on the recent Russia debate.

Halonen also commented on the tightening of presidential powers, and bringing up what the public appears to want. She evaluated that Kekkonen continues to have an effect on Finland. These comments can be interpreted to suggest that the vast majority of the public would support keeping presidential powers rather than limiting them further. According to Halonen, only the "political elite" want to reduce the president's powers.

STT