New train route connects Finland and Sweden, reviving cross-border rail travel

The first train departed from Oulu, Finland, heading towards Haparanda, Sweden, marking the launch of a long-awaited direct rail connection. This new service, which began its operations early Monday morning, aims to revive direct train travel between the Finnish city and its Swedish neighbor across the border.

Passengers on the inaugural evening train shared their experiences. Jan and Sanna Gunnare, residents of Kiruna, Sweden, who were traveling from Haparanda to Oulu for a day trip and returning, expressed excitement about the new route. However, they noted that the restaurant car was closed, a situation attributed to differing food and alcohol regulations between Finland and Sweden. VR, the Finnish railway company, is reportedly working with authorities to resolve this issue.

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This is not your country, it is our country, and it is our duty and your job not to interfere in our country.

Despite the new connection, the initial trains appear to be far from full. Emmi Kaivanto was at the Oulu station to see off her 14-year-old daughter, Salli Liivonen, who was traveling to Tornio to visit her grandmother. This marks Liivonen's first train journey to the area, facilitated by the new service reaching Tornio's city center station. The family also discussed the potential for future train travel to Stockholm, viewing it as a more convenient option than traveling via Turku.

Another passenger, Roope Lumpus from Tornio, who described the event as "historical," had traveled earlier that morning to capture the opening ceremonies in Haparanda with his film camera. He had then taken the morning train to Haparanda before attending the opening festivities there.

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met accordingly.