The implementation of the European Migration pact on 12 June 2026 and the European Parliament’s approval of the new Returns Regulation on 17 June represent important developments for both the EU and Cyprus, Deputy Minister for Migration and International Protection Nicholas Ioannides said in a written statement.
According to the statement, the pact introduces clearer rules, faster procedures, stricter controls at external borders and solidarity mechanisms among member states – measures considered critical for frontline countries such as Cyprus.
Migration flows reduced, says government
Ioannides said that since taking office, the government has introduced measures that reduced irregular migration flows by around 90% compared with 2022 and led to the departure of approximately 35,000 third-country nationals.
He also stated that legislation had been strengthened to address criminal offences involving foreign nationals.
The Deputy Minister referred to the Returns Regulation, noting that a political agreement was reached on 1 June 2026 after intensive negotiations and that, as representative of the Cyprus Presidency, he actively participated in the process.
He added that the European Parliament’s approval on 17 June strengthens the European approach to returns policy.
New phase of implementation begins
Ioannides thanked staff at the Deputy Ministry and the Permanent Representation for their technical and negotiating contribution, as well as Cypriot Members of the European Parliament who voted in favour of the regulation.
He stressed that these developments do not mark the end of the process but instead begin a new and demanding phase of implementation.
“The success of the new European framework will be judged in practice,” he said.
He added that Cyprus will continue to participate actively and responsibly in the common European effort while maintaining what he described as a “strict but fair” migration policy aimed at meeting international obligations and protecting the interests of the Republic of Cyprus.
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