The present invention relates to a process for the production of a compound of formula I ((R)-3-(6-(4-methylphenyl)-pyridin-3-yloxy)-1-aza-bicyclo[2.2.2]octane) or a salt thereof and to a process for the production of a compound of formula II (5-chloro-2-(4-methylphenyl)pyridine ) or a salt thereof, which is used as an intermediate in the preparation of the compound of formula I.