On 23 April 2025, the first partners’ meeting of the project “Development of the waterway network and tourism business in the Ida-Viru region” took place in Narva-Jõesuu, bringing together representatives of local authorities and ports.
The aim of the meeting was to discuss the results of the project so far and to plan the way forward, with a particular focus on ” soft activities” – cooperation, marketing and networking.
In his opening speech, Narva-Jõesuu Deputy Mayor Raim Sarv stressed the long-term importance of the project:
“This is a generational project for Narva-Jõesuu. It’s good to see that all partners are ready to move forward together, because only by working together will it have a tangible result.”
In addition to the reconstruction of the Narva-Jõesuu pier, key activities of the project include:
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Creating and strengthening business networks,
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developing virtual tours and tourism packages,
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organising themed days and events,
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development and analysis of support services.
Mehis Luus, development advisor of Toila municipality and manager of Toila port, said:
“Small-scale shipping and water-based tourism is one of Ida-Viru’s biggest potentials. The network we are creating can become a model for other regions.”
Arvo Juhkov, Development Manager of Narva-Jõesuu Port SA, added:
“If we create a platform where local businesses can showcase and develop their services, everyone will benefit.”
Taavi Vogt, representative of Alutaguse municipality, said:
“Soft activities, such as training, networking and marketing, provide a foundation on which the main activities can be built.”
The partners agreed on the following steps: the creation of a virtual tour, linking it to local tourism services, and the launch of training and information activities for businesses and communities.
The meeting was followed by a visit to the Narva-Jõesuu pier, which is currently under construction and is a central part of the project’s investments, symbolising a new stage in the region’s development.
Project partners:
Narva-Jõesuu Port SA (lead partner), Narva-Jõesuu City Government, Toila Municipality Government, Alutaguse Municipality Government.
The project will run from 1 .01.2024 to 28.02.2027 and will be financed through the European Union Cohesion Policy funds and the measure for the implementation of regional development strategies , as well as through the budget of the city of Narva-Jõesuu and its partners.
