Minister Väyrynen: Finnish businesses should invest also in Russian
territories

Press release 30/2010
3 February 2010

Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Paavo Väyrynen underlined the importance of different Russian territories in enhancing Finnish-Russian trade and economic relations after having met the Prime Minister or the Republic of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnihanov in Kazan on 3 February. In Väyrynen's opinion Finnish companies should actively seek opportunities for cooperation outside Moscow and St.Petersburg.

“Even though St. Petersburg and Moscow are important economic hubs in Russia, regional development throughout the country is presenting excellent opportunities for Finnish businesses. Tatarstan, for example, is one of the most advanced territories in Russia. Thanks to the Tatar minority living in our country, Finland and Tatarstan are also enjoying a close historical connection which will certainly work in our favour when operating in Tatarstan,” the Minister said.

As potential sectors of cooperation Väyrynen specifically mentioned construction, environment, the metal and forest industries, innovation, education, and the social and health sector. The above sectors were also key topics in an economic seminar held in Kazan during the export promotion trip lead by the Minister, bringing together over 20 Finnish companies and a large number of representatives from the Tatarstan Republic and industries.

During the trip, Minister Väyrynen met Mintimer Shaymiyev, the President of Tatarstan leaving the position in March, and the Mayor of Kazan. The minister will also attend an ice hockey match of Ak Bars Kazan, a local team currently with five Finnish players.

Further information: Advisor to the Minister Päivi Nevala, Tel. +358 40 753 4375, and Counsellor Antti Vänskä, Tel. +358 40 513 1458