Karelia to Become Object of European Attention

Leading TV channels and newspapers in the member countries of the European Union are prepared to afford time and space for materials concerning the Republic of Karelia. This is according to the statement made during his visit to Karelia by Xavier Tudela, President of the European Region of the Year Organisation.

Mr. Tudela visited the Republic of Karelia in connection with the awarding to it of the European Region of 2003 status. The participants of the competition for the title included 23 regions of 14 European countries.

Mr. Tudela said that a presentation in Europe of the two winners, the Republic of Karelia and the Spanish Balearic Islands, was being prepared. Possible forms of such presentation were discussed during his meetings with the members of Karelian administration. Besides publications in European mass media, negotiations are underway with 800 tourist companies concerning the placing in their offices of advertising materials about the republic.

Xavier Tudela also said that many member countries of the European Union had displayed their interest for the Republic of Karelia after the announcement of the results of the competition had been made. He is sure, Karelia must prepare for the arrival of tourists in great numbers and that they will be followed by business people.

The visit of Xavier Tudela to Karelia ended today.