“The Council is taking place under special circumstances, as we have to manage the crisis in Iran and assess any potential impact on migration flows. Beyond that, as Greece we fully support Cyprus, while at the same time within the Council we are discussing increasing returns.” This was stated by the Minister of Migration and Asylum, Thanos Plevris, arriving at the EU Council of Interior Affairs meeting today, Thursday (05/03) in Brussels.
Furthermore, the minister noted that “in order to combat illegal migration we need to increase returns and send a clear message that Europe is not an attractive destination for someone who is not entitled to asylum.”
“We are very close to implementing the PACT, all countries are preparing in this direction, but the smooth operation of the PACT also requires the returns regulation, which defines the return hubs, which are a priority for our country,” emphasized Thanos Plevris.
