In his New Year's address, President Sauli Niinistö of Finland called for investment in arms production to demonstrate that Europe is strong.

The text of Niinistö's speech was provided by the Finnish president's press service.

"Europe needs to wake up. We don't need investments in military production solely to provide necessary assistance. They are needed as a means to show that Europe is strong. Strong not to wage wars but to ensure peace," he noted.

Niinistö believes that a "more European NATO in Europe" is expected in the near future. According to him, Europe is expected to take more responsibility in the security sphere against the backdrop of the U.S. elections and the possible change of the president.

"Clear and swift steps towards taking on this responsibility are also the best response to all speculations about how the U.S. elections will affect security cooperation," emphasized the President of Finland.