Mitsotakis: Greece has received assymetric flows of refugees and migrants
Greece is receiving, especially in the last months, flows of refugees and migrants disproportionate in terms of its area and population. Our islands are suffocating and areas in the mainland with hosting facilities are facing the first problems," Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Tuesday during his speech at the 4th Euro-Arab Summit.
“We are protecting our borders and we always take care of the refugees. But a country solely can't bear the burden of the problems of three continents. Only with legitimacy and cooperation, will we be able to respond to this great challenge of the 21st century," Mitsotakis stressed and added: "More European and Arab coordination is needed to address the causes of the refugee issue. That is to say, sustainable peace at the heart of the crisis and serious support to the countries of origin and transit. There is also need for more cooperation in the fight against criminal networks for the trafficking of migrants in order to stop this vicious trade of hope.
"An international problem is not solved when some question established facts and raise unacceptable claims. I am referring to the actions of neighbouring Turkey. On the EEZ of the Republic of Cyprus and its stance in the Aegean. It would be good not to put more pressure on the sensitive region of the Eastern Mediterranean. It must follow the path of international law and good neighbourliness. In light of what has been said in recent days, I must say that the Greek Coast Guard has saved thousands of lives at sea and at the same time is guarding our borders, something that with the current government will fully exercise," Mitsotakis added.
Source: ana-mpa