Hatred shouldn’t be encountered with hatred : PM

Prime Minister Juha Sipilä on Saturday underscored that the foreigners in the country should not be labeled and said that that hatred should not be encountered with hatred.

Speaking at a joint press conference with the Interior Minister Paula Risikko following Friday´s terrorist attack in Turku, the Prime Minister emphasised on bringing amendment to the country´s security law.

They informed that the process is underway but it needs approval from the parliament.

“This act (attack in Turku) was cowardly and shameful. The assassination of innocent people is a violation of humanity and religions' principles as well,” said the Prime Minister, adding, “all of us will be always in the same boat and we defend humanity at any cost so that hatred should not be replied with hatred.”

Sipilä said that the attack is being initially considered as terrorism-related act and if it happens finally, it would be the first of its kind in Finland.

The Prime Minister, however, refused to discuss about any possible impact of the incident on the country´s immigration policy.

The issue could be reviewed, if the intention of the attack would be known later, he said.

Sipilä urged the people to observe nation-wide moment of silence at 10 am on Sunday.

The national flag was hoisted at half-mast on Saturday mourning the deaths as per the directive of the interior ministry.

Prime Minister also told the press conference that leaders of many European countries had communicated with him to express their empathy to the Finnish people following the heinous attack.

He also pointed out that Finland is still one of the safest countries in the globe and expressed optimism to maintain the atmosphere.