Alexander Stubb took office as the 13th president of Finland on Friday during a session of the Finnish parliament.

Stubb, 55, succeeds Sauli Niinisto who served as Finland's head of state for 12 years.

In his inaugural address, Stubb promised to promote an open, safe and international Finland and ensure its continued success.

He called for unity and solidarity among the people, urging them to cherish the traditions of trust, justice and communal support that underpin the Finnish society, and to embrace changes and technological advancements with empathy and adaptability.