Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Kuopio, Finland, are both regional centers in their countries and are similar in several key aspects. Both are geographically located in a region of lakes and each revels in its long, cold, and snowy winters. Both are also centers of research in fields such as biotechnology and the environment. Residents of both cities share many aspects of Nordic culture—they are health-conscious, sports-loving, and education-minded.
How can Minneapolis and Kuopio learn from each other?
During 2011-12, as the Minneapolis Kuopio Partnership nears its 40th anniversary, a number of initiatives are underway that connect the people and interests of Minneapolis and Kuopio:
- Collaborating with Kuopio schools to make connections that develop “international classrooms,” bringing schoolchildren together virtually
- Exchanging information on city government best practices and innovative programs
- Sharing thinking and concerns about environmental practices
- Building connections between our cultural arts communities, including Minneapolis’ stellar cultural dance community and the Kuopio Dance Festival, the largest in Europe.
The mayor of Kuopio arrives this fall
In November, the Minneapolis Kuopio Partnership looks forward to hosting a visit from the mayor of Kuopio, Mr. Petteri Paronen, and representatives from the University of Eastern Finland, in Kuopio.
If you are interested in learning more about these events and projects or becoming involved in the Minneapolis Kuopio Partnership, sign up on our contact list, email us at mplskuopio@gmail.com and join us on Facebook at Minneapolis-Kuopio Sister City Organization.
