Satakunta University of Applied Sciences (SAMK) will welcome a business delegation from Azerbaijan in Pori on April 7 as part of the LEF Network Azerbaijan project, funded by the Interreg Central Baltic Programme. The visit is part of a broader trade mission that will also take the delegation to Estonia and Latvia. The aim of the mission is to strengthen cooperation between the countries, particularly in the fields of environmental technology and education, while creating new business opportunities. It also supports Finland’s image as a leader in sustainable development, education, and clean technology, and reinforces the role of Satakunta and SAMK as engines of innovation.
The delegation consists of 13 Azerbaijani companies seeking strategic partnerships in Finland, Estonia, and Latvia (= LEF). This visit is the second incoming trade mission from Azerbaijan to the Central Baltic region, aimed at further strengthening business ties and fostering mutual understanding. Previously, Finland, Latvia, and Estonia have conducted 5 successful trade missions to Azerbaijan, laying a solid foundation for cross-border cooperation. With 13 sales agreements already signed, the project has already surpassed its original targets. This upcoming visit now presents a new opportunity for local businesses to deepen connections and increase exports through direct collaboration with Azerbaijani partners.
Strategic Networking and AI Pathways
The visit will begin at Pori Town Hall, where the Azerbaijani delegation will meet with local business leaders and officials. During the day, the delegation will also visit key Satakunta-based companies such as the Safety and Security Center and Honkajoki Oy.
On Tuesday, April 8, an international forum titled “Bridging Borders: AI, Education & Global Business Cooperation” will take place at SAMK’s Pori campus. One of the keynote speakers will be Peter Vesterbacka, brand visionary, entrepreneur, and mobile game developer. The forum will focus on the impact of artificial intelligence on education and international business.
Aiming for Long-Term Export Solutions
After the forum, the delegation will continue to Tallinn, where the Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry will host company meetings. The mission will conclude in Riga, where participants will be introduced to Latvian companies and innovations in the green technology, education, and other sectors.
By facilitating knowledge exchange and cross-border networking, the project not only opens up new pathways for companies looking to enter the Azerbaijani market but also supports the broader economic development and sustainability goals of all participating regions.
This trade mission is part of the LEF Network Azerbaijan project’s broader strategy to build long-term business cooperation and promote exports between Central Baltic countries and Azerbaijan. The project is led by the Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in cooperation with the Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, SAMK, and the Caspian Energy Club.
Additional information
LEF Network Azerbaijan -project
The forum on Tuesday 8 April is part of the SAMK international staff week programme.
Contact
Mikko Lehtonen
Research Manager, Resource Wisdom, SAMK
+358 44 710 6362
mikko.lehtonen@samk.fi
