Statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the illegal arrival of a significant number of migrants at Spain’s Ceuta enclave

Greece, as a frontline state dealing with the migration/refugee issue, expresses its full solidarity and support to Spain, which is facing in recent days mass arrivals of migrants from third countries.

As the Greek side has repeatedly stressed, the EU Member States’ external borders are European borders.

Addressing the migration/refugee issue is not just a challenge for frontline states. It is a challenge for all Member States of the European Union. We call on the EU to offer its support to Spain in dealing with the situation.

Furthermore, we also note the need to conclude the negotiations on the Migration and Asylum Pact on the basis of a balanced approach to the responsibility of the frontline Member States and the solidarity with deeds that the other Member States should demonstrate.

Finally, it is emphasized once again that the migration/refugee issue should not be instrumentalized in order to serve any political expediencies.