The ownership of the Saimaa Canal has undergone several changes throughout history. To fully understand the current ownership structure, it is important to delve into the historical context.
The Saimaa Canal, located in southeastern Finland, connects the Lake Saimaa system to the Gulf of Finland. It has served as a vital transportation route for centuries, facilitating trade and commerce between Finland and Russia. However, its ownership has been a subject of contention and negotiation between the two countries.
In the aftermath of the Winter War between Finland and the Soviet Union, the Moscow Peace Treaty of 1940 was signed. As a result of this treaty, Finland was forced to cede the Karelian Isthmus, including Vyborg, to the Soviet Union. The Saimaa Canal, which traversed this territory, was also affected by this territorial transfer.
Under the terms of the treaty, control of the canal was divided between Finland and the Soviet Union. Traffic through the canal came to a halt, causing significant disruption to trade and transportation in the region. This situation persisted until a resolution was reached in 1963.
In 1963, Finland and the Soviet Union signed an agreement that granted Finland a 50-year lease on the Soviet part of the Saimaa Canal. This agreement also included the lease of Maly Vysotsky Island (Ravansaari) to Finland. This lease agreement allowed Finland to regain control over a portion of the canal and resume its operations.
During the lease period, Finland has been responsible for the maintenance and operation of the canal. This includes ensuring its navigability, managing traffic, and collecting tolls from vessels using the canal. The lease has provided Finland with a significant degree of control over the Saimaa Canal and has allowed the country to benefit from its strategic location and importance for trade.
However, it is important to note that the lease agreement is set to expire in 2013. As of now, it is unclear what the future ownership and management of the Saimaa Canal will look like once the lease expires. Negotiations between Finland and Russia will likely determine the fate of the canal and any potential changes to its ownership structure.
The Saimaa Canal is currently owned by Finland under a lease agreement with Russia that was established in 1963. This lease has allowed Finland to regain control over a portion of the canal and has been crucial for trade and transportation in the region. However, with the lease set to expire in 2013, the future ownership and management of the canal remain uncertain.