![]() When presenting the project, Finland’s standpoint was that Finland would not seek more funds from the structural funds of the Union. He said that it would not be possible to add more funds for the project from EU’s budget. The Commission should hire personnel to manage the realization of Northern Dimension’s plan of action, and reserve funding for the upcoming projects. According to Lipponen the administration of the Northern Dimension should be strengthened in the European Commission. Prime Minister Lipponen spoke in Oulu at the first national forum on the Northern Dimension, which prepares practical projects based on the plan of action approved by the European Council last summer. Concerning the EU Summit held in Nice in December Halonen wanted to emphasize that despite the criticism, the conference succeeded in its basic objective: "The European Union is now ready to admit new members.” Halonen believed it to be natural that at a time when a country is seeking a new way, that development in various segments of society has not been uniform both the pace and direction have varied. She also said that there is a strong desire on Russia’s part to develop as a European state. According to Halonen Russia has retained her importance as a major partner of Finland. She stated that in her conversations with President Putin of Russia both Presidents noted that the relations between the two countries were now excellent. Halonen reminded the Finnish people that was the 80th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Finland and Russia. She said that Finland is still part of the Nordic family, and urged Finns to promote the Nordic welfare society. Tarja Halonen, the President of Finland, stated in her New Year’s speech that Finland’s relations with its neighbouring countries are excellent.
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