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Who do you think we are? by Nikolai Meinert, Espoo
How difficult is it for people from different countries to find a common language, to truly understand each
other? Is there such a thing as Western or Russian mentality? The tool like Northern Dimension will help
to overcome all problems of misunderstanding. Or maybe not.
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| 20 |
Baltic Politics. by Andres Kingisepp, Riga
It has been some time since the three former Soviet Baltic republics proclaimed themselves independent from the Soviet Union. But the 50 Union years have left a deep mark not only on the economies of these
countries, but on the mentality of their people as well. No wonder that in politics and statesmanship Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are farther from Western Europe than they would like to think. Let’s
have a look at latest Parliament election in Latvia to see new changes with the old Government
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| 24 |
Forums in Finland. by Viktor Kirzhakov, Helsinki
Taking part in forums and conferences can be quite beneficial. Dozens of such events are held in Finland each year on a variety of topics and of various scales. However, not all of them are worth participating in. A glimpse at the various conferences held in Finland this year and their significance.
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| 29 |
The Burden of Success. by Veronika Pennanen, Kotka
Last year Finnish export and import rose 20 and 30 percent accordingly. But the amounts of goods the ports accepted for transit to Russia has been causing problems at the borders. The customs have been slow to adapt to the increase and the burden fell on the border towns of Finland and Russia.
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| 36 |
Airport Blues. by Alexej Smirnov, Kallax
The Kallax Cargo Airport was built in the north of Sweden with the hopes of redirecting cargo routes between Europe and Northern Asia. Its strategic location allows saving up to 4 hours flight time per trip, thus lowering flight costs and reducing emissions. However, the northern shortcut means flying over Russia, and although formally Russia has given its consent for the use of its airspace, permission has still not been given and the work of the airport has come to a halt.
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| 40 |
Privatisation Circus. by Andres Reimer, Tallinn
The privatisation of Estonian railways has turned into a real circus. One of the countries most lucrative
sectors of the economy – railway cargo transit, has been going through a scandalous privatisation process. Details in NH.
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| 46 |
Sweden Turning Green. by Alexej Smirnov, Link?ping
Swedes are preparing to live without oil. New technology adopted in Swedish towns will allow automobiles to run on… oats. Other green produce will also be used. Scandinavia is actively looking for new alternative fuel sources.
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| 51 |
Roads We Take. by Natalia Erchova, Helsinki (Road E18 and others)
The quality of roads in the Baltic States Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania is gradually improving. But although the main intercity highways are of excellent quality, city roads are often in need of more than just routine repair. The countries look to Sweden and Finland for their experience and expertise. What can they learn and what have they already achieved.
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| 54 |
Better Hope. by Marina Koluyartseva, St.Petersburg (Road M10)
The construction of a new toll road between St.Petersburg and Moscow will mean the creation of a new transit corridor from Helsinki to Moscow. It is planned to finish the project by 2011, but will it happen in reality? How is the project moving along? Who is for and against it? When and will we have a new modern long overdue link between Russia’s two largest cities?
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| 60 |
The Price of Baltic Sweetness. by Viktor Kuzjak, Warsaw
The confectionary business has always been highly developed in the Baltic States of Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania. Although the chocolate produce of these countries is not yet widely known globally it is very popular on the regional market. Different countries offer different flavours and varieties.
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| 66 |
Flood Ready. by Viktor Kononov, Stockholm
The dangers of global warming are causing concern all over the world. Different countries are taking this threat with different degrees of seriousness. In Sweden for example the military are preparing for rescue operations in case of flooding due to the rise in water levels across the globe. Anyone is welcome to participate on a special water training ground.
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| 70 |
Taxes for the Church. by Elina Karkkonen, Helsinki
In 2006 the Finnish Lutheran Church published its financial report showing its balance at euro 2.7bn. The business side of religion on the example of Finland.
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| 76 |
Lighter than a Feather. by Hilda Copter, Riihim?ki
Some of the world’s best down coats are made in Finland. The process of making them is interesting by itself and guarantees that the end product will be of the finest quality. Top designers and environmentally friendly production processes have made the Joutsen mark famous world over.
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| 82 |
Holiday Club Caribia in Finland. by Nikolai Borovikov, Turku
The Finnish city of Turku is far from the Caribbean Sea, but there is one oasis here that will make you forget this. Holiday Club Caribia is a spa catering to the needs of families and businesses alike and is a favourite for all sorts of getaways.
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| 86 |
Orchids as a Hobby. by Liisa Mattila, Helsinki
The Finnish orchid lovers society Orkideayhdistys unites 800 people with a passion for this delicate flower. This passion is spreading fast for it is truly impossible not to be moved by the intricate beauty, the variety of colours and forms.
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| 90 |
Dandy with a Scandinavian Attitude. by Nikolai Borovikov
The new Volvo C30 is making heads turn and wallets open. Some see it as a small family car, others - as a car for an individualist looking for an attention grabber with modern style and dignity. Its small size, combined with traditional Volvo comfort and safety, make it the ideal city car for young prospering artistic people.
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| 94 |
Business Legislation
• New Foreigner Registration Regulations in Russia. (Material prepared by Hedman Osborne Clarke Alliance, St.Petersburg).
• Transportation Insurance. Is it necessary to insure your goods during transportation? In which cases will you receive full financial compensation for the loss or partial damage of your goods? (Commentary by Vesa Mustalahti, Insurance Company Fennia, Finland).
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