Finnish leaders underline need for change in EU

Finnish leaders said on Friday the outcome of the British referendum underlines the need for the European Union (EU) to change and highlight its original basic values.

Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said the result of the British referendum affected the foundations of the EU, noting it is a reminder to the EU of "unavoidable need to change".

Niinisto said the EU should return to its roots and basic values as "security, peace and freedom".

Meanwhile, Finnish Prime Minister Juha Sipila said the EU should concentrate on the essential in order to earn the trust of citizens.

Member countries should follow jointly agreed regulations. Besides, the EU must offer tools for growth, employment and competitive edge, said Sipila.

"All countries must take this as a lesson. Especially, we must be better in implementing what has been agreed," Sipila said, adding that citizens must be given proof that it is worth continuing the joint European project.

Sipila reminded that the EU was originally a "peace project" and was successful as such. But the crises have dominated public discussion and positive talks have been meager.

Sipila listed the economic crisis, refugee crisis and Greek crisis.

Finnish Member of European Parliament Merja Kyllonen was one of the few politicians who saw something positive resulting from the exit of Britain. She described Britain as "the most influential opponent of reforms" that is now leaving. Endit