In February this year, the government decided to temporarily change the operating arrangements of two border crossing points in southeastern Estonia. As there is still no reason to reopen the border crossings at night, the government decided to continue this practice and extend the temporary arrangements until 31 August. During this period, the border crossing points will be open from 7:00 to 19:00. Narva-1 pedestrian border crossing point, which had previously been open from 7:00 to 23:00, will also operate from 7:00 to 19:00 going forward. In Narva, the transition to the new schedule will take effect on 15 June.
According to Minister of the Interior Igor Taro, the decision taken three months ago was appropriate and the practice deserved to continue. “The Russian side has not shown goodwill in the past three months and therefore we do not consider a relaxation of the border operating arrangements possible. Border crossers have adapted, and we are now able to deploy our personnel much more effectively where they are needed most – in defending our border. The 12-hour work schedule at all border crossing points, including Narva in the future, will allow for more logical personnel planning. This also concerns the employees of the Tax and Customs Board,” said Taro.
Taro added that the eastern border and developments in the region are important to Estonia, and the government does not make decisions regarding them lightly.
Since the restriction was introduced, the number of border crossings in Luhamaa has decreased by nearly 20% and increased in Koidula by 6%.
