Finnish PM apologizes over posts by lawmakers

Finland's Prime Minister Petteri Orpo apologized on Wednesday for racist social media posts by members of the right-wing Finns Party, a partner in the ruling coalition, saying racism and discrimination have no place in Finnish society.

The apology was shared on the social media accounts of the Finnish embassies in China, Japan and the Republic of Korea, in response to offensive images posted by certain lawmakers. The posts showed individuals pulling back the corners of their eyes — a gesture widely condemned as racist toward Asians.

"These posts do not reflect Finland's values of equality and inclusion," Orpo said. "Our message in Finland and to all our friends abroad is that the government takes racism seriously and is committed to combating the issue."