| 8 |
Behind
the Scenes. Andres Kingisepp, Helsinki/Strasbourg
The Kaliningrad region is not the only territory in Russia that
does not have a direct overland connection to the main territory.
Why is Russia so intent on forcing on the EU its own variant of
a solution to the exclave’s problem and why is it not willing
to compromise? |
| 14 |
To
Keep or not to Keep. Sergei Eduardov, Andrei Milovzorov, Moscow
There has recently been a lot of tension over the Russian exclave
– the Kaliningrad region. Recent studies show that as much
as 80% of the region’s economy is shadow economy. So what
is the situation in Kaliningrad and what is its significance for
Russia, the Baltic States, the European Union? |
| 20 |
Newcomers'
Fortune. Modris Auzins, Riga.
What a mess! Recent elections (October the 5th) in Latvia led to
a complete change in the Parliament. The ruling party is out! Dark
Horses are in! |
| 26 |
The
Rise and Fall of Sonera. Patrick Humphreys, Helsinki
The price of Sonera’s stock went from 100 euro in the year
2000 to less than 4 euro in 2001. The Finnish company itself was
barely saved from bankruptcy and became the property of the Swedish
Telia. What led to Sonera’s predicament and what lessons can
be learnt? |
| 32 |
Icebreaker
Cross-section. Nikolai Borovikov, Helsinki
The opening of the port in Primorsk raised a lot of environmental
safety issues. But these issues are not unique to this port alone
and ways to minimize the risks have long been found. Finnish shipbuilders
are offering their services in effectively dealing with possible
environmental catastrophes. |
| 36 |
Beer
On a Wave. John Pagni, Helsinki.
The markets of Russia, Ukraine and the Baltics have not been the
promised land for many Western companies. However, it’s the
exception that proves the rule. Beer has pumped up the bottom line
of a few in the brave new world. |
| 44 |
Franchising
Gets Green Light in Lithuania. Andrius Mankus, Vilnius
Although franchising is not widespread in Lithuania, the recent
international conference Franchising-2002 showed that not just here,
but in Latvia, Estonia and the Ukraine this form of business is
gaining popularity. |
| 48 |
Economizing
in a Satiated Society. Sergei Karlov, Stockholm
The introduction of the euro made it easy to compare the cost of
living in different countries of the European Union. Sweden has
been established as the most expensive EU country with prices on
the average 20% higher than elsewhere. Swedes ask why. |
| 50 |
Woman's
World. Konstantin Ranks, Helsinki
The Helsinki Women Business Leaders Summit was recently held in
Finland. Organized through the initiative of the American Ambassador
in Finland, this forum brought together successful women from 6
countries: Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Russia and the USA. |
| 56 |
HELCOM
Work and the World Summit on Sustainable Development. Inese Vaidere,
Riga
The UN World Summit on Sustainable Development was recently held
in Johannesburg. The main outcome of the World Summit was the Plan
of Implementation, containing targets and timetables for concrete
action on a wide range of issues. What does this mean for the Baltic
region? |
| 62 |
Atom
in Lamb's Clothing. Lina Zernova, St. Petersburg
Russian scientists have invented a unique method of cleaning radioactive
metals, which is already being used on a plant near St. Petersburg.
Environmentalists, however, claim that the process is not as safe
and legal as the supporters of reprocessing radioactive waste claim. |
| 68 |
Age
Breeds Aches. Viktor Kirzhakov, Helsinki
Europe will not be able to survive without an influx of immigrants!
More and more politicians in the EU countries are coming to this
conclusion. The aging and decrease in the population are narrowing
the market and jeopardizing the system of social benefits. |
| 72 |
A
Bomb for the President. Svetlana Pankratova, Oslo
The Russian president is due to visit Norway this October. Together
with the issue of the 200-mile fishing zone, another problem is
being prepared for discussion. It is the controversial issue of
illegal immigrants from Russia. |
| 78 |
Flag
Flies High Over Ukraine. Kalle Sorainen
Although this autumn brought Ukraine both political and economical
problems, the country’s economy continues its progressive
development and its citizens go on with their everyday lives, above
all valuing their country’s independence. |
| 84 |
Leading
Hotels of the World. Anatoliy Kovalev
Next trip is to Malta. CORINTHIA PALACE HOTEL |
| 88 |
Tennis Tournament "St. Petersburg Open" is just to begin. Zairbeck Mansurov, St.Petersburg
|
| 90 |
Tax
Paradise? Business Info. Tallinn
The new Horizons gives its recommendations on how to organize a
company in Estonia. What are the benefits and losses of registering
your company in that or some other country, what legislation and
agreements with other countries speak in favor of Estonia. |