This post is less to celebrate the Independence of Finland’s timely escape from the clutches of the Russian Empire in 1917 than it is a tribute to Ambassador Maija Lähteenmäki and her partner Dr Nestor Vargas. The Ambassador and Dr Vargas have gained the affection and respect of Canberra arts community over the last couple of years being the most visible and glamorous couple in the zone of diplomacy. This tireless team are genuine supporters of the arts and take a keen interest in what’s happening in the ACT. And when it comes to entertaining the Ambassador and Dr Vargas certainly leave their guests with very favourable impression of Finland. They are clearly not only skilled diplomats but also know how to party. So despite the coldest December in Canberra since 1960s the reception by the pool was warm and hopefully we will be seeing a lot more of the Ambassador and Dr Vargas at openings in 2012. In the mean time we can all be very grateful that Finland let the Russians go all those years hence !
Ambassador of Finland Maija Lähteenmäki and friend
Thorsten Eisingerich Deputy Head of Mission Austrian Embassy and his mum Brigitta
pool party in freezing Canberra summer
