Oct 10, 2006. /Lesprom Network/. Ahlstrom, a leader in high performance fiber-based solutions, held on October 9 a groundbreaking ceremony to launch the construction of its glassfiber tissue production facility in Redkino, Tver Region, Russia. The event was attended by representatives from Ahlstrom, the Russian local government as well as by other dignitaries both from Russia and Finland. The list of speakers included Dmitry Zelenin, governor of Tver region, Harry Helenius, Finland's ambassador to Russia and Jukka Moisio, president and CEO of Ahlstrom Corporation. "The Tver region with its advanced technological and industrial platforms offers one of the best business environments in Russia. Ahlstrom's decision to build the new glassfiber tissue plant in Redkino brings additional international know how as well as new jobs and tax revenues to the whole region", Mr. Dmitry Zelenin said in his speech. "The rationale behind investing in a glassfiber tissue production facility in Russia is our commitment to offer better service to Ahlstrom's long-term Russian customers. The plant in Redkino is a first step that is likely to be followed by additional investments in the future", said Mr. Jukka Moisio. The Euro 38 million investment strengthens Ahlstrom's position as a leading developer and manufacturer of specialty glassfiber tissues for building and composites materials industries. The project is proceeding according to schedule, and the new plant is expected to be operational during the fourth quarter of 2007.