Najib said despite having a smaller population of five million as compared to Malaysia's 28 million, Finland had a higher Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
"This is primarily due to high productivity as well as Finland's leadership in innovation and embracing of new technology. We hope to emulate your success through our NEM," he said at a dinner in Seri Perdana here tonight in conjunction with Finland's Prime Minister Matti Vanhanen's two-day working visit to Malaysia.
Najib said he looked forward to increased trade and stronger relations between both countries, which would be supported by the transformation changes taking place in Malaysia.
"In addition we recognise that Finnish and Malaysian companies can benefit from the development of mutually beneficial joint ventures in third countries," Najib added.
He said Malaysia's strategic location and close links to China, India and Asean countries could prompt Finnish companies to consider Malaysia as a gateway to the Asian market.
"And Malaysian companies have expertise in doing business with Muslim countries which could benefit the private sectors in both our nations," he said.
In his speech, Najib also commended Finland for taking an active role in the international community, engagement in peacekeeping activities and international crises.
"I particularly want to commend the Finland government's position in opposing the Israeli government's construction of new settlements in occupied East Jerusalem," Najib said.
Najib said he hoped that Finland and the European Union, as a member of the Quartet, could help resolve the Arab-Israeli conflict.
Meanwhile, Vanhanen in his speech said he was pleased to have a chance to further strengthen bilateral relations with Malaysia.
He also complimented Malaysia for its fast development and remarkable success.
"We also appreciate the role that Malaysia has played in promoting democracy and human rights," he said.
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