Karlskrona and Narva-Jõesuu Strengthen Their Partnership
In late September, an official delegation from Karlskrona visited Narva-Jõesuu. The delegation included Peter Glimvall, Mayor; Therese Hagberg Andersson, Tourism Specialist; Johan Eggers, International Coordinator for Education and School Cooperation; Pia Holgersson, International Relations Specialist; and Peeter Pütsep, Consultant. The purpose of the visit was to discuss the development of cooperation between the two cities, to sign a memorandum of intent as a step toward preparing a formal cooperation agreement, and to familiarise the delegation with our city.
On 26 September, an important meeting took place at the Narva-Jõesuu City Government, attended also by local tourism entrepreneurs. Participants were given an overview of the main development priorities of both cities and discussed topics of mutual interest, including coastal heritage, maritime traditions, youth exchange, business development and sustainable tourism, best practices in social services and administration, and the exchange of experience and expertise in the use of European Union funding.
Photo: Arvo Juhkov
Particular attention was given to cooperation between yacht clubs and the potential organisation of an international regatta.
As a result of the discussions, Narva-Jõesuu Mayor Maksim Iljin and Karlskrona Mayor Peter Glimvall signed a memorandum of intent outlining the directions for future cooperation and laying the foundation for establishing official twin-city relations.
Representatives of the local tourism sector who attended the meeting highly valued the city’s steps toward strengthening international cooperation. Karina Küppas, Head of Narva-Jõesuu Medical Spa, emphasised that active cooperation and openness are essential for achieving better development outcomes across all sectors, highlighting in particular the importance of international relations and youth exchange in education.
Photo: Arvo Juhkov
During the visit, the Swedish guests became acquainted with the activities of Sinimäe School and visited key attractions in Narva-Jõesuu, including the Vaivara Blue Hills Museum and the Narva-Jõesuu Lighthouse. The delegation also attended the Lamprey Festival, whose programme left a strong impression.
Mayor Maksim Iljin underlined the importance of the visit: “The partnership between Karlskrona and Narva-Jõesuu provides a solid foundation for the development of tourism, business and education, and opens new opportunities for local entrepreneurs as well as for the community as a whole.”
The contacts established and the memorandum of intent signed during the visit create a strong basis for cooperation between Narva-Jõesuu and Karlskrona, supporting regional development, tourism and entrepreneurship in both cities, and strengthening cultural and educational ties.