Nicosia: The leaders of Cyprus, Greece, Italy, and Malta have issued a Joint Statement addressing migration issues in relation to security in the Middle East, emphasizing the necessity of averting a potential migration crisis akin to that witnessed in 2015.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the statement was released during the Europe Gulf Forum, following a previous meeting in Agia Napa, Cyprus. The President of Cyprus and the Heads of Government of Greece, Italy, and Malta underscored the need for continued dialogue along four primary work strands. These include supporting efforts to bolster regional security, providing necessary assistance to affected populations, ensuring the timely implementation of the new EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, and reinforcing joint preparedness to secure the European Union's external borders in accordance with international law.
The Joint Statement outlines specific measures under consideration, such as enhancing cooperation with countries of origin and transit, intensifying the fight against human traffickers and migrant smugglers, and potentially activating the EU Regulation on crisis situations and force majeure. These actions are deemed crucial for EU Member States that are most exposed to uncontrolled migration flows towards the European Union.
To optimize national responses to a potential increase in migration flows linked to the Middle East conflict, Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi will invite his counterparts from Cyprus, Greece, and Malta to convene in Rome on June 17, 2026.
The leaders also expressed their support for the Chisinau Declaration on Migration, adopted by consensus on May 15 during the 135th Session of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe. The Declaration acknowledges the complex migration-related challenges currently facing Member States, calling for adequate solutions within the Convention system.