(http://yle.fi/ecepic/archive/00486/jyrki_katainen_Rece_486051b.jpg)
Finland has again come out in favour of Turkey's prospective EU membership. Prime minister Jyrki Katainen is currently meeting with Turkish top brass during a two-day visit to the country.
Finland voiced strong support for Turkey's EU bid during bilateral talks on Wednesday, though many member states have misgivings over the country's accession. Turkey remains committed to joining the bloc, though drawn-out membership talks have dented Turks' enthusiasm.
"The process which leads Turkey towards membership is an extremely important process for Turkey—and Europe—so the modernisation process in this country is beneficial for Turkey and also for Europe," said Katainen.
Neighbouring Syria's fragile peace was another main discussion topic. Over the past year, the Arab Spring has arrived on Turkey's doorstep, and the 25,000 Syrians who have fled across the border to Turkey are a new headache for the country.
"According to our sources, the ceasefire is not holding well. Bloodshed is cont
inuing at the hands of the Syrian army," explained Turkish premier Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
On Thursday Katainen wraps up his two-day trip, which also aims to secure lucrative contracts for the 40 Finnish firms travelling with the ministerial delegation.
Yle