Minister of Transport and Communications Timo Magpie (SDP) rejected the proposal and considered it impossible and unreasonable. Helsingin Sanomat on Thursday wrote that the proposal has received some support also among the country’s political decision-makers and industry representatives.
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Päivi WoodThe advisor of the Chamber of Commerce said on Thursday that the proposal is “strategically significant”, considering the change in Finland’s logistical position caused by Russia’s attack on Ukraine.
“Finland’s logistical position at the crossroads of East and West is turning into a terminal on the northern edge of Europe. As far as Finland is concerned, the security policy situation requires stronger connections to the south and west to also enable military mobility,” he reasoned. press releaseadding that the introduction of a narrower track would also create new opportunities for utilizing EU funding.
“The European gauge would also make it easier to enter the country [railway] operators to the Finnish market,” Wood said.
Juho Romakkaniemithe CEO of the Chamber of Commerce stated on Twitter that the change would create better connections through Sweden to Europe and NATO ports in Norway.
Some policy makers also drew attention to the positive effects of the proposal. Atte HarjanneThe chairman of the Green parliamentary group reminded that railways should be built with a vision that extends beyond the present day – tens if not hundreds of years into the future.
“I think it would be wise if we had European rails. Of course, it would be good to check on a case-by-case basis when it is new and when it is old [gauge] it is required,” he tweeted and received support from his colleague at the Swedish Parliament. Anders Adlercreutz.
On Thursday, Harakka responded to both decision-makers by emphasizing that the key position is that the decisions regarding the track width are made by Finland.
“The most important thing is that all aspects of the decision make sense. And of course Finland itself will make the decision, he said.
Aleksi Teivainen – HT
Source: The Nordic Page