The announcement came after Niinisto and Prime Minister Sanna Marin said they were in favour of NATO membership.
Niinisto says Finland is ready to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to discuss any concerns Ankara may have over it's NATO membership.
The development represents a major policy shift caused by Russia's assault on Ukraine. Neighbouring Russia, previously said it would be a mistake for Helsinki to join the alliance. Moscow warned that Finland joining NATO would harm bilateral ties.
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