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HELSINKI () -- Finland has said "yes" to the European Union in a referendum, the first of three Nordic ballots that could enlarge the community by millions of people.
With all votes counted, 57 percent of voters were in favor of union and 43 percent opposed. Turnout was about 75 percent of some 4 million eligible voters in the nation of 5 million.
The referendum was non-binding and the parliament now must make a final decision. The Ilta-Sanomat tabloid said 150 lawmakers in the 200-member body had said they would vote for membership, with 22 against and 24 undecided. A two-thirds majority is needed for ratification.
Leaders of Sweden and Norway hailed the results and predicted their voters also will approve membership next month, potentially giving the EU unprecedented influence.
Finns Vote for EU
18 October 1994
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