British deputy PM John Prescott discussing with leaders upcoming EU president Finland

Photo: British deputy PM John Prescott discussing with leaders upcoming EU president Finland

Prescott, who held talks with Foreign Minister Erkki Tuomioja onEU affairs, said the six-month rotating presidency, which Britain held last year, is a challenging task.

"It's a very difficult job. You're always much more ambitious that you can actually achieve," Prescott told reporters.

The deputy prime minister also said that Britain was pleased with the Finland's agenda, the AP reports.

"The agenda that is adopted here is very much what we support; the competitive agenda, innovation, the concern for jobs, and energy and environment," Prescott said.

The two men also discussed the future of the 25-member bloc, enlargement and international issues.

Before discussions with Tuomioja, Prescott met Prime Minister Matti Vanhanen.

He was also to meet Trade and Industry Minister Mauri Pekkarinen and visit a new housing development in Helsinki before ending his tour later Friday.