Bern warns Berlin about border controls

A border in Basel with Germany

Switzerland is telling Germany that the law must be upheld and says it will not accept systematic rejection of asylum seekers at the border.

Following the formation of a new German government, the Chancellor. Friedrich Merz, is making good a promise to bring down the level of immigration. 

He has told the German federal police to tighten border controls and increase the number of people refused entry.

But specifics remain vague – and the instruction is worrying Bern. 

The State Secretariat for Migration says any systematic rejection of asylum seekers is illegal and Switzerland will not accept it.

It says it expects Germany to coordinate with this country and be in compliance of the Dublin Accord and laws covering refugees. 

Switzerland also stresses that the normal flow of people and goods across the border should be maintained. 

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