Finnish energy expertise to be showcased in Astana EXPO 2017

Press release of the Ministry of Employment and the Economy and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs

PRESS RELEASE 121/2016
26 May 2016

Finnish energy expertise to be showcased in Astana EXPO 2017

On 10 June – 10 September 2017, Finland will take part in Astana EXPO 2017 held in the capital city of Kazakhstan. This world fair will be an exhibition of future energy solutions.

Minister of Economic Affairs Olli Rehn and Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Lenita Toivakka find the decision to participate in the fair a strong expression of support for Finnish energy sector companies and energy efficiency. Astana world fair is held in the 100th anniversary year of Finland’s independence, and participation in it will build up the positive image our country already enjoys in Central Asia.

– Finland is one of the world’s leading countries in energy sector expertise, energy efficiency and cleantech. This expertise will be showcased in the Finnish pavilion at Astana EXPO. The participation will be organised as cost-effectively as possible. Many Finnish energy companies are already operating in Kazakhstan, and we hope to also draw the interest of new businesses to the Central Asian market, says Minister Rehn.

– Finland’s participation at the world fair is an important further step that continues the work to promote Finnish exports in Kazakhstan through Team Finland activities and otherwise. The energy, cleantech and education sectors are rapidly increasing areas of cooperation that, however, still offer plenty of untapped potential. Kazakhstan and its neighbouring areas offer Finnish companies new, emerging markets. A possibility of starting direct flights to Astana would help companies and authorities keep in contact with Kazakhstan and other parts of Central Asia, and also encourage tourism between the two countries, notes Minister Toivakka.

The decision on Finland’s participation in Astana EXPO 2017 world fair was made at a government plenary session on 26 May 2016.

Further information:

Jannika Ranta, Special Adviser to the Minister of Economic Affairs, tel. +358 50 340 2250
Juha Kirstilä, Special Adviser to the Minister for Foreign Trade and Development, tel. +358 40 552 8200