VLADIVOSTOK, September 4. /TASS/. The Finnish authorities continue to politicize the so-called migration crisis on the border with Russia, Maria Zakharova, the Russian Foreign Ministry’s spokeswoman, said.

"The Finnish prime minister considers it possible to demand that Russia, namely our border service, guarantee that certain individuals, who are legally present in Russia and wish to leave our country for a destination of their choice, will not be allowed to do so," Zakharova noted. "What are these people supposed to do in a situation where Finland is violating all the principles aimed at ensuring freedom of movement?" she added.

According to the diplomat, Helsinki needs to remember about "international law, which has to be respected, unlike the rules-based order proclaimed by the West, where only a limited number of countries, including Finland, find it possible not only to make unlawful decisions but also try to involve other countries in the process."

Moscow "has always respected and implemented the rule of law, particularly in international affairs," Zakharova noted.

"Ever since the Finnish authorities began to promote a media campaign around the so-called migration crisis on the border, Russia has repeatedly reaffirmed its readiness to discuss any issues that concern Finland," Zakharova stressed. "However, we must say that Helsinki continues to pursue the same policy. It seems, the Finnish authorities are interested in continued politicization of the issue <...> rather than focusing on common sense and finding a practical solution to the situation that emerged through Finland’s fault," she said.

Eastern Economic Forum

The Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) is underway on the campus of the Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok on September 3-6, 2024. The main theme of the EEF in 2024 is "Far East 2030. Combining strengths to create new potential."

Business activities at the forum are divided into seven sections, dubbed "New Contours of International Cooperation," "Technologies to Ensure Independence", "Financial Value System," "Far Eastern Russia," "People, Education, and Patriotism," "Transport and Logistics: New Routes," and "Master Plans: From Architecture to Economy."

The Roscongress Foundation has served as the Forum’s organizer since 2016. TASS is the general information partner of the EEF.