Regarding the longstanding issue of the ongoing occupation of Cyprus, expressing hope for its termination in the near future, Minister of Migration and Asylum Thanos Plevris spoke at the informal meeting of EU Justice and Home Affairs Ministers held in Nicosia. Minister Plevris also called on his counterparts to visit the Imprisoned Graves, paying tribute to the history and struggles of the Cypriot people.
Thanos Plevris: Reduction in migration flows by approximately 13,000 people in Greece
Subsequently, referring to migration issues, he emphasized the need to strengthen protection of the European Union’s external borders, prevention, and substantial reduction of illegal arrivals. As he noted, Greece has achieved measurable results, with a reduction in migration flows by approximately 13,000 people over the past five months.
He placed particular emphasis on the need to intensify returns, pointing out that their effective implementation is a critical factor for the credibility of any migration policy. In this context, he stressed the need to apply increased pressure on third countries to accept the return of illegal migrants, as well as the importance of European support in creating and operating return hubs.
Additionally, Minister Plevris underlined the need to implement the concept of “safe third country” through a different, revised interpretation of existing international conventions. As a characteristic example, he cited the case of Sudanese citizens who, while experiencing the consequences of civil war in their country, arrive in Greece after having previously crossed countries considered safe, such as Egypt and Chad.
Sevi Voloudaki: Only those entitled to international protection can remain in the European Union
At the same summit held in Nicosia on January 22-23, 2026, Deputy Minister of Migration and Asylum Sevi Voloudaki also intervened, stating: “Greece actively participates in shaping a strict, effective and credible European returns policy. The message is clear: only those entitled to international protection can remain in the European Union. Implementing this rule requires a coherent and effective returns policy, which is a fundamental pillar of migration policy and a necessary prerequisite for the functioning of any asylum system. In this context, Greece actively supports the creation of return hubs in third countries, with European coordination and full control.”
The Greek delegation reiterated the country’s steadfast position in favor of a unified, realistic and effective European migration policy, with emphasis on border protection, prevention and returns. The Minister of Migration and Asylum was accompanied by the Secretary General of Migration Policy, Nadia Papakosta, and the Director of the Asylum Service, Marios Kaleas.
