Talks between Niinistö and Ban touched on Finland’s attempt to secure a spot as a non-permanent member of the Security Council.

"We discussed, for example, peace mediation and women's rights, things that Finland has worked very actively for, which [the UN] is aware of," Niinistö said.

"It was of course pleasing that the Secretary-General greatly valued what Finland has done," Niinistö said.

For Finland, the next weeks are crucial in the long-standing battle for a place on the Security Council.

Australia and Luxembourg are also vying for the two available spots on offer for the years 2013 to 2014 as well. The deciding moment falls in just a few weeks, on October 18 when the General Assembly will vote on the matter in a secret ballot.

Niinistö said that if Finland does indeed reach its goal of Security Council membership,he intends work to underscore the country's clear Nordic values, develop peacekeeping operations across the globe and particularly the Middle East, and raise the status of women in the world.

"I’m meeting many state leaders here, as many as possible," Niinistö said. "And I have the invaluable help of President Halonen and President Ahtisaari, who are also here."

Niinistö said Finland is prepared to take on difficult issues, like the deadlocked situation in war-torn Syria.

He is also meeting with several heads of state in New York, including US President Barack Obama.