Finland to block migrants including Syrians crossing from Russia
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Finland’s parliament passed on Friday a law granting border guards the power to block illegal migrants from Syria, Africa, Somalia and Iran.
The bill came after more than 1,300 people have arrived in Finland crossing the border from Russia since the summer of 2023, the matter forced Helsinki to close its border.
The bill was passed with 167 votes in favor, 31 against and one abstention.
The government of Prime Minister Petteri Orpo said the bill was vital to prevent the arrival of illegal migrants in the future.
Finland has accused Russia of encouraging scores of migrants from countries such as Syria and Somalia to cross the border, an assertion the Kremlin denies, Reuters reported.
“This is a strong message to Russia, a strong message to our allies, that Finland takes care of its own security, we take care of the security of the EU border,” Orpo told a press conference after the vote.
The adopted law is temporary and will be in force for a year. A joint decision of the Finnish government and the president will be required to enact the law.