Ahrtisaari received the Peace Prize in Oslo today. The Norwegian Nobel Committee decided to give the prize for 2008 to the former Finnish President for his important effort to resolve international conflicts.
Mr. Ahtisaari headed the negotiations that led to peace in Aceh, Indonesia, in 2005 following a conflict that took 15 000 lives. He played an important role in the negotiations on Namibia’s independence in 1990, and in finding a solution to the issue of Kosovo’s final status in his capacity as UN Special Envoy for Kosovo.
When Mr. Ahtisaari arrived in Oslo on Monday for his Nobel Peace Prize ceremony he said he hope the honor will increase support to his own peace efforts and those of others, as well.