Finland: Harri Pursiainen will not seek an extension to his post as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport and Communications

NordenBladet — Harri Pursiainen, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport and Communications, will not seek an extension to his mandate as Permanent Secretary. He submitted his application for the post of Permanent Secretary when the application period began on 18 January, but he withdrew his application on 16 February.

“I have served the state for nearly 42 years. In the end, I came to the conclusion that now is a good time to retire from the civil service”, Pursiainen says.

Minister of Transport and Communications Timo Harakka wishes to thank Pursiainen for his good working relationship and his career in the service of the country.”

Since the 1990s, Harri Pursiainen has guided Finland in becoming one of the world leaders in communications networks and in bringing financial success to the sector. As a Permanent Secretary, he is a legend who is respected by everyone, certainly not least of all by the Minister”, says Minister Harakka.

“His withdrawal is our loss. I hope he can still provide his expertise and experience to the sector.”

Pursiainen has served as Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and Communications since June 2006.