According to the head of the Foreign Ministry of Finland, the country can block almost all tourist traffic from the Russian Federation.
President of Finland Sauli Niinisto and the Committee of Foreign Ministers politicians and security politicians announced that following the Baltic states the Finnish government also plans to approve significant restrictions on obtaining visas and entering the territory of the state for citizens of the Russian Federation. This is stated in the relevant statement.
“The government will make a principled decision regarding significant restrictions on the entry of Russian citizens and the issuance of visas in connection with serious damage to Finland's international position,” the message reads.
Later, Niinisto himself commented on the restrictions for Russians, writes Yle.
According to him, the authorities aim to significantly reduce the number of Russian citizens traveling from their country to Finland. “Substantial restrictions” will probably mean the refusal to cross the border for anyone who does not have a special reason, such as a family one.
The president explained that the government will specify the details of the decision. According to Niinisto, Finland will be able to quickly work out this issue.
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In turn, Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto declared that his country's policy towards the Russians would be very tough. The decision will block the way to almost all tourists from the Russian Federation.
At the same time, the President of Finland Niinisto noted that the restrictions should take into account family circumstances and the presence of dual citizenship.
MFA Head Haavisto added that the draft of the relevant decision is already ready, but its technical and legal preparation will continue for some time.
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Earlier it was reported that the Norwegian authorities temporarily suspended the agreement on a simplified visa regime with Russia.
