National Coalition, Finns Party Leaders Suggest Gov't Talks Could Be Completed Tomorrow

Leaders of parties which secured the top two spots in the recent general election confirmed that their coalition talks are nearing conclusion and could result in a deal as soon as tomorrow, Finland's public broadcaster Yle reports.

• National Coalition leader Petteri Orpo lauded progress in the ongoing talks, adding that the government platform will be long, detailed and aimed at ensuring policy changes. Finns Party leader Riikka Purra confirmed that parties were close to ironing out differences over some outstanding policy issues.
• The key sticking points have been the planned cuts to international development cooperation funds and the biofuel distribution obligation. The Finns Party has been sceptical of increasing the share of biofuels, which they say would push petrol and diesel prices higher, affecting the party's provincial voter base.
• Orpo and Purra are eyeing a coalition with the Swedish People's Party and the Christian Democrats. Together, the four-party coalition would command 109 seats in parliament, whereas 101 constitute simple majority.