Cyprus has expressed satisfaction over the completion of negotiations on the EU Returns Regulation, describing it as a major step forward in European migration policy.
Speaking upon his arrival at the EU Justice and Home Affairs Council in Luxembourg, Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection Nikolas Ioannides said the agreement is expected to increase returns of third-country nationals who do not have the right to remain in the EU.
He described the development as a significant achievement for the Cypriot Presidency and the European Union as a whole.
Migration and Asylum Pact to enter into force
The EU migration pact implementation is set to take effect on 12 June, marking what officials describe as a key milestone in the bloc’s migration governance framework.
Ioannides said the new system provides the EU with a comprehensive legal structure for managing migration in a more coherent and effective way.
To mark the occasion, Cyprus will host an informal ministerial meeting on the same day.
Member states largely prepared for implementation
Commenting on potential challenges, Ioannides said member states had undertaken extensive preparations, including upgrading facilities, amending legislation and adapting IT systems.
He added that, according to the latest European Commission progress report, most member states are ready, although some issues and deviations are expected during implementation.
Authorities said the focus will now be on identifying gaps and working closely with the European Commission to ensure the pact functions effectively.
Returns centres and third-country cooperation
Asked about so-called returns hubs, the Deputy Minister said it was still too early for detailed discussions.
He noted that the legal basis for such centres had only recently been agreed and has not yet entered into force, meaning no decisions have been taken on partner countries or agreements with third states.
Further developments are expected in the coming months.
Ongoing discussions on temporary protection
The Council also discussed temporary protection arrangements for Ukrainian nationals, although no decisions were taken.
Ioannides said various ideas were on the table, including possible geographic differentiation, but stressed that discussions remain at an early stage.
He added that member states would use the meeting to exchange views and provide input to the European Commission’s ongoing work.
External dimension of migration policy
Ministers also examined the external dimension of migration, with a particular focus on cooperation with Somalia.
Officials said the discussions form part of broader EU efforts to strengthen partnerships with third countries in managing migration flows.
Source: CNA
Also read: “Return hubs” approved for third-country nationals
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