Mediterranean EU states agree to boost coordination to prevent new migration crisis

Brussels, Belgium. Cyprus, Greece, Italy and Malta agreed to step up coordination to prevent a new migration crisis during talks on the sidelines of an informal European Council meeting. In a joint position, the four countries called for coordinated action to avoid a repeat of 2015.

Joint position on migration management

The four countries stressed the need for “coordinated and coherent” action to avoid a repeat of 2015, when tens of thousands of people attempted to cross the Mediterranean into Europe, amid concerns over potential migratory flows linked to the US-Israeli war with Iran.

Cooperation with regional partners

They underlined the importance of “strengthening cooperation with regional partners” to support affected populations and reduce pressure on EU borders.

External borders and common European response

The leaders said efforts would continue to ensure “the security and effective management of the Union’s external borders”, in line with international law, while reaffirming the need for a common European response.

Role of ministers and European Commission

Interior and migration ministers were tasked with maintaining close coordination and working with the European Commission to align national measures with wider EU policies.

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