Kathmandu— European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has urged Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez to view border security as a shared European responsibility, suggesting Brussels could offer more support to Morocco. This comes amid efforts by Spain to return tens of thousands who breached Ceuta’s borders last week, prompting EU interior ministers to convene for an emergency meeting.
EU's Call for Unity and Support
In a letter to Prime Minister Sanchez on Monday, von der Leyen emphasized the need for 'united action' within the bloc. She highlighted that border security is a collective European responsibility and called for vigilant monitoring and the use of physical barriers where necessary. Von der Leyen also proposed enhanced cooperation with Morocco, particularly in managing Ceuta and Melilla, by improving early-warning systems and offering technical and financial support.
EU Interior Ministers' Emergency Meeting
The incident has sparked tensions among EU member states, leading to temporary border controls implemented by France. Some migration-averse governments have even called for Spain's suspension from the Schengen free-travel area. In response, Madrid requested emergency talks among European interior ministers, scheduled for Tuesday, to address the situation and chart a way forward.
Analysis of Recent Events
Migration expert Gerald Knaus, director of the European Stability Initiative think tank, explained that last week's rush into Ceuta was not due to structural changes but rather misinformation spreading online. He noted that there were very few asylum seekers among those who breached the border and emphasized that this event does not represent a sudden increase in migration pressure.
Knaus argued that despite the low numbers of actual migrants, political reactions across Europe have generated panic and calls for closing the Schengen zone. However, he remains skeptical about whether these events will lead to concerted action or cooperation among EU members.
(With inputs from DW)
Originally published on abcnews.com.np.
प्रतिक्रिया दिनुहोस्