Program and Events
90 Years of U.S.- Finnish Diplomatic Relations
May 6-7, 2009, the U.S. Embassy, the University of Helsinki, the Foreign Ministry of Finland and the Fulbright Center, with support from many other organizations and individuals, organized a two-day symposium at the Helsinki University to celebrate the 90th anniversary of U.S.-Finnish diplomatic relations. The keynote speaker at the opening session was President Tarja Halonen. U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Michael Butler delivered to the audience a special message of congratulations by U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Former American Ambassador Derek Shearer (1994-1997) also spoke at the opening session. The speakers list included parliamentarians, senior foreign ministry officials, former prime ministers, academics and economic experts. The performance of two top Finnish musicians - “Paratiisin pojat” or “Paradise Boys“ J. Karjalainen and Veli-Matti Järvenpää - of songs created by Finns who moved to the U.S. in the early 20th century was the favorite event at the two-day program.
Also: Program and photos at Gallery 1 and Gallery 2.