- Lenin: [after signing the affirmation of independence] Well, are you now pleased?
- Pehr Evind Svinhufvud: [shakes hand with Lenin] Very pleased.
- Lenin: Oh, Two minutes to midnight. What else can you say than happy new year 1918 and repeat what you wrote on your requisition: 'Nature has made our nations neighbor countries. We hope that friendship and mutual respect remains forever.'