1) Welcome to Vietnam. Is this your first time in Vietnam?

Yes, this is my first visit to Vietnam and I am really looking forward to meeting Vietnamese people. Finnish peoples' experiences of them have been very positive, they are friendly, clever and hard working. I have tried to get a little bit familiar with the history of Vietnam from the days of Nam Viet up to today. I am keenly looking forward to my visit to Vietnam.

2) What have been your impressions of Vietnam up to now?

I am eagerly awaiting to see the old and new Vietnamese culture, and also to meet my old friends whom I have met in previous IPhOs.

3) I learn that you have been importantly contributed to IPhO for many years. What was your deep impression about IPhO?

I have taken part in IPhOs since 1977 in Czechoslovakia mainly as the Finnish team leader. So I have seen the number of countries increasing from 12 up to 85 now. I joined the IPhO because as a physicist, I believe this event is very important for the development of physics education in all levels from primary school to university. Furthermore, physics is an international subject, both for researches and  international contacts. Nowadays, many big firms have scattered all over the world so that people are continuously in contacts with other people from different countries.  So the IPhO is a chance to bring young and talented people interested in physics to share their knowledge in a friendly atmosphere with other students.

4) This is first time the IPhO will be held in Vietnam. In your opinion is this the most important event to scientific and technological development?

One person alone cannot do much to the development of science and technology. Newton had said "If I have seen further than others, it is by standing upon the shoulders of giants." Therefore, physics and technology require team work, especially international team work. The IPhO is an opportunity for clever and young students to establish friendship and to discover what international work and collaboration are.

5) Do you have any advice for students who take part in this IPhO?

Make friends and discuss with others but above all enjoy your stay in IPhO and in this interesting country.