Prime Minister Erna Solberg is satisfied with the new EU border and coast guard who will soon be able to guard the Schengen borders.
– I think the solution they have accomplished is good. The fact that you get a common border guard present, strengthens the borders, says Solberg said.
EU member states and the European Parliament have on record time agreed to create a common Schengen guard of about 1,500 people to assist countries that are unable to handle the borders themselves.
This happens after the refugee crisis has shown major weaknesses, especially in Greece.
Norway
Norway is already participating in today’s border agency Frontex in the EU and will become part of the new coastal and border guard. It should be able to intervene rapidly if reinforcements are needed.
– Basically, this means nothing for Norway, other than that we can get requests to participate by the borders. However, we intend to keep it so tidy in Norway that we do not need help from the Border Guard. We can do this yourself, says Solberg.
The Prime Minister stressed that Norway is already contributing at the borders.
– Right now, we have the biggest boat in Frontex. We have contributed much, but will always consider the contributions and see where Norway has the best resources to use, she says.
Coercion
If a country loses control of its borders, opposes contributions from the guard, the other countries will get the opportunity to reintroduce temporary border controls.
This is a solution Norway has helped to promote rather than the original proposal that the force would be sent to countries with border troubles even if they did not want assistance.
– This is in line with what we gave input about at an early stage. Instead of threatening to remove the national responsibility, one has other sanctions at their disposal, says Solberg.
Source: NTB scanpix / Norway Today
