European Commission Calls for Ongoing Cooperation on Migrant Returns
The European Commission has issued a call for Morocco and Spain to maintain their collaborative efforts concerning the return of migrants who recently entered the city of Ceuta during a mass crossing that occurred approximately two weeks ago. The Commission emphasized the importance of adhering to existing legal frameworks governing return operations. Speaking at a press conference in Brussels, the Commission's spokesperson for internal affairs, Guillaume Mercier, highlighted that the EU considers sustained cooperation between Rabat and Madrid essential. He noted that the vast majority of those who entered Ceuta have already been returned to Morocco, while also affirming the commitment to resolving the remaining cases.
Furthermore, the Commission avoided commenting on the potential suspension of the extradition agreement between the two countries, categorizing it as a bilateral matter. However, it praised the ongoing collaboration between Morocco and Spain since the onset of the crisis, which has been pivotal in managing the situation and ensuring the orderly return of individuals who crossed into Ceuta.
Mercier reiterated that the return processes are being conducted in accordance with applicable legal standards, adding that a team from the Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs is currently in Ceuta to assess needs and identify possible European support initiatives. Additionally, he mentioned the readiness of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, Frontex, and the EU Asylum Agency to bolster their on-ground presence and assistance as necessary.
As reported by alyaoum24.com.
