Spain Slams EU Neighbors for 'Selfish' Response to Migrant Crisis
Almost 60,000 migrants from Morocco surged into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta on 30 July, sparking a humanitarian crisis and diplomatic fallout across Europe. At least 67 people have lost their lives in the chaos, according to Spanish officials.
Spain Denounces EU Neighbors for 'Selfish' Response
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has condemned the "selfish, polarising and unlawful" reaction of some EU countries to the migrant crisis. Sanchez said in a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen that the Spanish government had fully restored control over the border and prevented any "unauthorised onward movement towards continental Europe" in less than 48 hours.
The European Union cannot afford this kind of selfish, polarising and unlawful reaction, Sanchez said. He pointed out that Ceuta was not part of the Schengen area, and that some European governments had chosen to attack Spain, driven by prejudice, fake news, ignorance, or political interest.
EU Neighbors Back Italy's Move to Suspend Schengen Arrangement
Italy temporarily suspended the EU's border-free Schengen arrangement with Spain, as Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called the scenes "shocking". Finland and Denmark backed Italy's move, while Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš urged a temporary suspension of Spain's Schengen membership.
French authorities have tightened checks on the border with Spain and said they would increase their police presence by Saturday. Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro said he was considering reinforcing border checks.
EU to Meet on Tuesday to Discuss Migrant Crisis
EU interior ministers will meet on Tuesday by video conference to discuss the issue. Twenty-two of the EU's 27 countries also called for emergency talks in an open letter, citing "serious concerns" regarding the developments in Ceuta. They welcomed that Spain and Morocco are cooperating closely to ensure the swift return of migrants, but said a video conference would help reach agreement on mobilising EU instruments and support for Spain to restore "effective control" of the border and prevent further uncontrolled crossings.
The situation in Ceuta has almost returned to normal, according to Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska. "Almost all of [the migrants] have already left Ceuta," he said, adding that businesses had now reopened. The Spanish government has also started to establish an inflatable maritime barrier to prevent further illegal migrant entry.
The migrant surge has sparked a heated debate across Europe, with some leaders calling for stricter border controls and others urging solidarity with Spain. The crisis is set to dominate EU politics in the coming days, as ministers and leaders grapple with the consequences of the mass crossings.
The European Union's response to the migrant crisis will be closely watched in the coming days, as the bloc struggles to balance its commitment to human rights with the need to maintain order and security. The situation in Ceuta is a stark reminder of the complex challenges facing Europe, and the need for a coordinated and compassionate response to the migrant crisis.
Source: Joy Online
