The evening will discuss Europe, its importance for us and its future. The event’s organisers open the theme in two different perspectives.Mayor Markus Hirvonen speaks about what the EU means for Northern Karjala. At the beginning of the new programming period, it is essential to consider how the benefits of EU membership can be reaped to the fullest extent possible. The new objectives and approaches for regional development will be at the heart of the new programming period.Sirpa Pietikäinen, MEP, opens the case from the perspective of Finland as a whole. How we create competitiveness, manage global environmental challenges, uphold fundamental rights and strengthen the multilateral global order. The speech is chaired by Janne “Rysky” Riihläen, Vice-President of the club.