Mitsotakis: There Is a lack of an effective policy for returning illegal migrants – Greece is a model

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasized that the European Council and the European Commission are increasingly aligning with Greece’s positions on migration, particularly highlighting the significance of border protection and the external dimension of the issue. Speaking before the European Council meeting, he stated:

“What is missing is an effective policy for returning migrants, and I’m pleased that Ursula von der Leyen acknowledges this. We will authorize her to present innovative proposals for the return of migrants who are not eligible for asylum,” Mitsotakis added.

He also underscored that these returns should include sending migrants back to Türkiye, as part of the 2016 agreement between the EU and Türkiye.

Mitsotakis noted that while migration remains a pressing issue for Europe, it is no longer a top concern for Greeks because Greece has been effective in tackling illegal migration. He offered to share Greece’s experience in managing this issue with other European nations.

On the subject of the war in Ukraine, Mitsotakis said there would be an opportunity to speak with the Ukrainian president and hear his proposals for the country’s victory strategy. He reiterated Greece’s position that Ukraine should determine when to begin peace negotiations with Russia but emphasized that it should be from a position of strength.

Finally, regarding competitiveness, Mitsotakis expressed strong support for the positions outlined by Mario Draghi in his report.