Opinions divided on issue of visa-free travel with Russia
Holmlund: technical issues impede political decisions
Alexander Stubb
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Anne Holmlund
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Jouko Skinnari
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Finnish decision-makers and officials have not yet taken a definitive stand on the issue of visa-free travel with Russia. Minister for Foreign Affairs Alexander Stubb (Nat. Coalition Party) said last week that the lifting of mandatory travel visas would be the right move in the development of relations between Russia and Finland.
In so doing, Stubb deviated from the traditional Finnish stance, which has favoured maintaining visas.
The proposal has received support among parliamentarians. Jouko Skinnari (SDP), the chairman of Parliament’s Commerce Committee, says that questions of security and resources need to be carefully considered. Skinnari feels that the matter is of great significance to trade relations between Finland and Russia.
Commenting on the security issue, Skinnari noted that professional criminals always have their visas in order. “The number of visa applications has grown so much that something has to be done. From the point of view of scheduling, visa-free travel will take years to prepare”, Skinnari says.
In the view of Interior Minister Anne Holmlund (Nat. Coalition Party) there are no political impediments to the matter, as long as the technical aspects are dealt with.
Opening the border requires development of Russia’s population register and travel document practices, as well as the administration of its foreign affairs, border monitoring, and fighting crime.
“With respect to passports, the situation in Russia is difficult. A single person can legally hold up to eight different passports, all under different identities. The situation requires clarification”, Holmlund notes.
Finland observes an agreement affecting the Schengen zone on easing visa requirements. The agreement has increased the number of applications, and consulates have become backlogged.
“Visa-free travel is a common goal for the whole EU. Now we are thinking how the matter could be speeded up”, Holmlund says.
Lieutenant-Colonel Pasi Tolvanen, deputy commander of the Border Guard of the Southeast Finland, feels that visa-free travel would require an upgrading of technology at border crossings, and an increase in personnel for border inspections.
He also says that moving all controls of those entering Finland onto the border will certainly not reduce the number of undesirables seeking to enter the country.
“It is clear that not everything can be weeded out at the border. In addition to all good things, negative phenomena would also increase, and extend throughout the whole EU”, Tolvanen says.
The growth in the number of travellers would also increase pressure on customs authorities.
According to Jyrki Linna, head of the inspection unit of the National Board of Customs, especially the customs post in Vaalimaa would require changes to keep backlogs from growing unreasonably long.
He said that somewhat more personnel would also be required.
Helsingin Sanomat
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| 27.5.2008 - TODAY |
 Opinions divided on issue of visa-free travel with Russia |
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