"Unfortunately the world continues to confront challenges to international peace and security all over. Narrow-minded nationalism, racism and violent extremism are on the rise. We must battle these destructive ideologies," Niinistö told the United Nations General Assembly.
During his 15 minute speech, Niinistö commented on current world conflicts and denounced Russia's annexation of the Crimean Peninsula in the Ukraine.
"The recent nuclear test by North Korea is a cause for grave concern. The conflict in Ukraine still awaits its resolution. All illegal actions, including the annexation of Crimea to Russia, are to be condemned. The complex and horrendous conflicts in and around Syria and Iraq continue to affect not only the Middle East but indirectly also Europe, including my own country, Finland," Niinistö said.
He said the number of refugees fleeing the conflict zones was unprecedented, and that European societies are sympathetic to the situation but are exposed to a lot of pressure.
Niinistö: Strengthen borders, avoid walls
"We have to work together to find sustainable solutions at global and regional levels to better control borders while safeguarding the rights of those seeking international protection on the basis of a well-founded fear of persecution. That requires vision, courage and leadership," he said.
"The alternative is stark; borders will become walls to even those entitled to refugee status."
"The problem is severe. Every day tens of thousands of people are being displaced as a result of conflict, persecution of natural disaster. Others are on the move to seek a better life. There is an increasing need for humanitarian assistance."
"The European Union and my country as its member will continue to do our share but it will never be enough. Humanitarian action will never compensate for the inability to address the root causes of forced migration," Niinistö said.
"It is important to take a longer perspective. The conflicts we are facing now require urgent humanitarian action. Yet the underlying causes are long-term. Economic, social and political progress is imperative. The international community can and must assist."
"The UN, for its part, can help to defuse latent conflict through conflict prevention, mediation and, if necessary, preventive peace operations. But the ultimate responsibility for redesigning societies lies with the respective peoples and their governments. Local ownership is the key," he said.
Niinistö is chair of the Finnish delegation to the General Assembly. The delegation also includes Foreign Minister Timo Soini, Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Kai Mykkänen and Minister of Social Affairs and Health Pirkko Mattila.
