Norwegian ports to restrict access for Russian trawlers

BERLIN. Oct 7 (Interfax) - Norway has decided to restrict access for Russian fishing vessels to ports and to tighten control over them, according to European media.

"We have received new information, which means that we must tighten the rules for Russian fishing vessels to enter Norwegian ports and strengthen controls," reports quoted Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt as saying.

Norway should not become a "transit country for the illegal transportation of goods to Russia," she said.

Russian trawlers will now only be allowed to enter three ports, Tromso, Kirkenes and Batsfjord.

The EU closed its ports to vessels sailing under the Russian flag as part of its fifth sanctions package in April.