Finland enters new era in its history by joining NATO - president

Finnish President Sauli Niinisto has said the country has entered a new era in its history by becoming part of the North Atlantic Alliance.

The decision is related to the desire of Finns "to live in peace and resolutely protect their compatriots", Gazeta.Ru reports, citing the Finnish leader's website.

"Finland will still be primarily defended by Finns, but we will do so together with our allies. Finland's most significant contribution to NATO's joint deterrence and defence will be the protection of our own territory. At the same time, we are responsible for NATO's common commitments and actively participate in the development of the alliance," Niinisto said.

The Finnish Defence Ministry will continue to work to defend the state, and to co-ordinate its efforts with the North Atlantic Alliance, the Finnish president pointed out.

He added that joining NATO allows the country to "look to the future with confidence".