The Governor of the Bank of Finland, Olli Rehn, plans to run as a candidate in the 2024 presidential election.
"I have thought about the matter and I am ready," he told reporters as he announced his candidacy on Wednesday morning.
In order to run next January, Rehn will need to gather support from 20,000 eligible voters to form a constituency association, according to Finland's presidential election rules.
If he secures the nomination, Rehn said he plans to take a leave of absence from his post as the central bank's governor.
The 61-year-old economist previously served for years in parliament as a member of the Centre Party. He has also found himself as a favoured potential presidential candidate in polls and even topped an Yle survey in the spring of last year.
Rehn is also a former European Union Commissioner and served as Minister of Economic Affairs in Juha Sipilä's cabinet from 2015 until 2016.
Rehn's polling position has since been significantly overtaken by former foreign affairs minister Pekka Haavisto (Green), who announced earlier this month that he was making a third run for president.
Businessman and leader of the small Movement Now party, Harry "Hjallis" Harkimo announced his 2024 presidential bid in April.
Defend Finland's values, freedom and Ukraine
"I love this country. I want to defend the values of the republic and feel that I have the experience and vision to lead Finland's foreign and security policy," he said, referring to the Finnish president's main roles.
Rehn also said he wants to work for freedom, human dignity, democracy and the rule of law.
"We have what it takes to not only survive, but also be a successful nation," he said.
Rehn said he wants Finland to continue strongly supporting Ukraine, which is defending itself against a Russian invasion.
"For my part, I will ensure that support to Ukraine will continue to be strong in all its different forms, and that we will cooperate closely with the rest of the Western world, especially the US and member states of the European Union, so that the support continues for as long as necessary."
He said long-term, persistent support of Ukraine is absolutely necessary because "the people of Ukraine are fighting for freedom, democracy and Europe," adding that he also thinks it will be important for Europe and the US to take part in rebuilding the Eastern European country when the war ends.
The first round of the 2024 presidential election is scheduled on 28 January, and a possible second round on 11 February.