The prime ministers’ discussions focused on bilateral relations between Finland and Latvia, security issues and topical themes on the EU agenda.
PRIME MINISTER PETTERI ORPO (NCP) and Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina met in Helsinki on Friday.
The prime ministers noted that the situations at their countries’ borders are very similar: asylum seekers are being used as a tool for hybrid influence activities with the assistance of foreign authorities. Countering hybrid influence activities and enhancing cyber security are in both countries’ interests.
The closure of the eastern border crossing points is about preventing a hybrid attack, the prime ministers emphasized at the press conference.
Silina said that Latvia has experienced a situation very similar to the one Finland is experiencing now. She stressed that the situation is “not just about asylum seekers, but about hybrid attacks by Russia and Belarus.”
According to Silina, the decisions are difficult for the government, “but we are the external border of the EU.” “We have the responsibility to protect our borders.”
In addition to Russia, Latvia shares a border with Belarus. Silina pointed out that from a humanitarian point of view, Latvia is still accepting people in need. However, Silina said that it is important to distinguish between asylum seekers and hybrid attacks.
Orpo also said that situations like this are difficult for decision-makers because both national security and human rights have to be taken into account at the same time.
“But at the moment we are dealing with a hybrid attack on Finland,” Prime Minister Orpo stressed.
According to Orpo, Finland is ready to take further measures within the framework of its national legislation and international obligations.
