News

On March 25th Head of Karelia Sergey Katanandov has held a meeting on social and economic development of the island of Valaam.

To solve essential problems of the unique territory which the island of Valaam is, in 2003 under the Government of Karelia there has been created a special working group. It is generally considered that much has been done within these years for revival of the island and the monastery. Work is conducted in close cooperation with Russian Orthodox Church. Head of the republic supervises work of the group personally and closely watches development of the island.

A few tasks have been solved in 2008 on Valaam. The new diesel power station was launched in summer on the island, that has completely withdrawn the problems of electrosupply. The issue of laying a constant cable through the bottom of Ladoga lake to provide reliable electrosupply of the island has been resolved.

Moving the island residents to the continent proceeds, for which purpose apartment houses are constructed in Sortavala. This migration is held on a voluntary basis exclusively. Specially created commission works with citizens, who submitted resettlement applications, opportunities for moving are specified, the issue of assistance in organization of moving is being solved. The first turn of the 39-apartment house is under construction in Sortavala now, in the stage of completion is the second turn of 30 apartments.

Ministries and departments of the Republic of Karelia were engaged in improvement and construction of roads on the island, nature protection actions. Upkeep repair of two bridges on the main monastic road had been performed. Construction documentation for reconstruction of roads on the island, including the road passing along the Monastic bay is developed. The recreational territory should be equipped there.

Having heard the reports, from heads of ministries and departments involved in work Sergey Katanandov has demanded irreproachable performance of all plans for 2009.

– It is great honor for us that we can participate in the sacred work of the Valaam Monastery restoration, – Head of the Republic has emphasized.

Having participated in the meeting Father Superior of the Holy-Transfiguration Valaam Monastery Bishop Pankraty of Troitsk has rated high the teamwork with the Government of Karelia and has thanked the Head of the Republic and members of the Government for their diligence in this good cause.