The EU migration crisis was at the centre of discussions between the leaders of Cyprus, Greece, Italy and Malta, who met on the margins of the informal European Council in Ayia Napa on Thursday.
In a joint statement, the leaders stressed the need for coordinated action to prevent a repeat of the 2015 migration crisis, amid growing instability linked to the conflict in the Middle East.
Focus on prevention and border management
The four leaders examined possible initiatives aimed at ensuring a unified and coherent European response to potential irregular migration flows towards the EU.
They highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation with regional partners to provide support to affected populations, while also addressing the risk of increased migration pressure on EU external borders.
The EU migration crisis discussion also focused on safeguarding security and ensuring effective border management, in full respect of international law.
The leaders reaffirmed the importance of a common European approach to maximise the effectiveness of national responses in the event of a significant rise in migration flows.
They noted that member states located at the EU’s external borders are particularly exposed to such pressures and require coordinated support mechanisms.
Continued ministerial coordination
As part of their conclusions, the leaders tasked their Interior and Migration Ministers to continue close coordination, including working with the European Commission.
The aim is to integrate national efforts into broader EU policies and develop practical tools to manage any potential escalation of the EU migration crisis linked to regional developments.
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