Finland’s Ambassador, Mikko Hautala will not make it next week during a scheduled visit to the Keweenaw Peninsula. He will be replaced by Ambassador Okko-Pekka Salmimies. Due to rising tensions between Finland and Russia, Hautala will travel to Washington D.C. to meet with U.S. officials. Salmimies will join the other Finnish delegates, to meet with representatives from the MTEC SmartZone and FinnZone.
The first group of delegates will arrive on May 17th. They will start their day at the Finnish – American Heritage Center for a meal and presentations from Finlandia University President, Philip Johnson, and honorary Consul, Jim Kurtti. Delegates will meet with MTU researchers as well during their visit. In order to see how research and capabilities are moving along in forest bio materials, batteries, and partnering options for the Finnish companies looking to break into the American market.