Harri Pursiainen to continue as Delegate for Saimaa Canal

Ministry of Transport and Communications
Publication date 16.2.2012 13.26
Press release

16 February 2012 - The Finnish Government appointed Mr Harri Pursiainen, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport and Communications, Authorised Delegate for the Saimaa Canal. Mr Pursiainen's term will last from 17 February 2012 to 16 February 2017.

He has served as Canal Delegate from the year 2007.

Responsibilities of the Canal Delegate include conducting negotiations concerning the Russian part of the canal and taking care of issues related to the area's lease to Finland. In addition, the Canal Delegate carries out tasks relevant to the implementation of the lease agreement and takes part in the development of vessel traffic.

The Canal Delegate will be assisted by the Office of the Saimaa Canal Delegate, situated in Lappeenranta.

Further information:

Ms Päivi Viippola, Director of Administration, tel. +358 9 160 28776, +358 40 742 1703