The Finnish official said that in recent years, Saudi-Finnish commercial relations have increased, adding that Saudi Arabia "is an important partner for us in the Middle East and its (trade) ranking is fifth outside the European Union." Tanner added that tourism always presents opportunities for cooperation. He stated that exchanging visits between officials of the two countries aims at bolstering bilateral relations between them. Concerning the peace process in the Middle East, the official said Saudi Arabia played an important role through the Arab Peace Initiative which is supported by his country and the EU.--SPA www.spa.gov.sa/491273