Imatra-Svetogorsk

Flagship projects

Development of the Imatra border checkpoint

This project, carried out within the framework of the EU’s TACIS programme, is one of the most significant projects undertaken between two towns. It involved the setting up of an international border checkpoint with a road and rail passage. Since 2007, it has been open 24 hours a day. This crossing point has permitted an increase of international transit flows, as well as local cross-border flows. It constitutes an undeniable advantage for Imatra and Svetogorsk for the development of future cooperation initiatives. In addition, a transport pass has been introduced in order to facilitate movement between the border crossing and the town centre in Svetogorsk.

Key East Business Park

This business park, established in Imatra, is intended to give the region a network of international businesses, and should enable the creation of around 500 jobs. Key East established a marketing office in Svetogorsk, targeted at Russian businesses hoping to establish commercial activities in Imatra as well as the Russian fund for Finnish companies aimed at ensuring the establishment of Finnish businesses in the region of St. Petersburg.

The "Imatra-Svetogorsk – Good Neighbourhood" project

Led by the town of Imatra, this project, launched in 2007 within the framework of the TACIS programme, enabled the organisation of regular meetings between the authorities of the two municipalities. Cultural events have been organised (meetings on St. Nicholas’ Day, gala-concerts in the two towns…). Educators in Imatra have developed classes that can be used for distance-learning. The “South Karelia” summer school has also introduced language classes for students in Svetogorsk, and a residential language course for Russian children in Imatra.