It is a feat of Finnish diplomacy to have Helsinki included in President Xi’s itinerary. The decision may be thanks to Finland’s half-way position between Asia and America, and the country’s good relations with China and the USA. Finland’s centenary celebrations will endow the visit with extra pomp and media visibility.
Link: http://www.fiia.fi/en/publication/669/xi_jinping_makes_a_stop-over_in_finland_on_his_way_to_the_usa/