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News · 11 August 2026

Finland and Sweden get first passenger train link in 38 years

Finland and Sweden get first passenger train link in 38 years

A new passenger train service between Finland and Sweden began on Monday, establishing the first rail link for northern Finland to southern Europe in almost 40 years. The two-story train departed Oulu, Finland, and reached Haparanda, Sweden, where it was greeted by cheering crowds brandishing flags. This new offering allows for approximately 5,000km of rail travel from Portugal to Kolari, Finland's most northern station.

Reported by BBC · How we write briefs

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How does this help the environment? Who runs these international trains? Why is this train link important? Why was there no link for 38 years?

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