Canadian Ambassador Patrick Hébert Visited Raumaster Paper
Managing Director Pekka Leino (right) and Manager of Project department Jonne Kerola (left) welcomed Canada’s Ambassador Patrick Hébert to Pori.
During his visit to the Suomi-Areena public debate forum, Canada’s Ambassador Patrick Hébert also paid a visit to Raumaster Paper in Pori.
"We want to expand and deepen the trade relations between Finland and Canada. Both countries will benefit from this," Hébert said.
In his view, Finland and Canada are very similar countries in many ways, which makes it easy for Canadians to collaborate with Finns.
During the company visit, the Ambassador was impressed by, among other things, the cleanliness of the production facilities. Hébert was particularly interested in Raumaster Paper’s current project in Canada. The pre-assembly of a broke roll cutter, to be delivered to the Kruger paper mill, will begin in Pori in July.
"Fast deliveries are our strength. The delivery to Quebec, Canada, is in September, installation begins in November, and production starts in December," said Jonne Kerola, Manager of Project department.
Managing Director Pekka Leino stated that Raumaster Paper is increasing its activity in North America. In recent years, the company has had successful projects in Canada and is currently negotiating the next ones.
"We have highly advanced technology to offer, which can help the Canadian forest industry improve its competitiveness and occupational safety. Our modern solutions also significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions," Leino said.
According to Hébert, competitiveness, reliable supply chains, and reducing CO2 emissions are crucial in business.
"But jobs are too. That is what all governments want for their countries right now," Hébert added.
Pekka Leino and Jonne Kerola introduced Canada’s Ambassador Patrick Hébert and John Kaye, Political Advisor at the Embassy, to the Raumaster Group and specifically to Raumaster Paper.
The Ambassador appeared pleased to hear that Canadians will be handling the installation work for the Kruger project as well.
"As far as jobs are concerned, I see plenty of opportunities for Canada to improve the competitiveness of your mills, which helps preserve jobs," Leino noted.
Hébert thanked his hosts for an interesting visit, noting that reading about companies is one thing, but seeing them with one's own eyes and meeting the people behind them is quite another.
"Keep us posted," the Ambassador requested upon his departure.
Although the main focus of the company visit was on paper handling, Leino also provided the Ambassador with a concise overview of the Raumaster Group's other services.
"Raumaster has completed over 120 projects in North America. We have had projects on every continent except Antarctica," Leino said.
