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Italy and Denmark Lead 22-Nation Call to Address EU Border Crisis

Brussels: Italy and Denmark have spearheaded a significant diplomatic effort, calling upon the European Union to address the pressing situation at its external border in Ceuta. This initiative, which has garnered the support of 22 European Heads of State and Government, was outlined in a letter addressed to key EU leaders. The letter, sent to António Costa, the President of the European Council; Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission; and Micheál Martin, the current President of the Council of the European Union, seeks to prevent uncontrolled irregular crossings and tackle migrant trafficking networks. According to the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, the EU leaders are urging the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union to urgently convene an extraordinary video conference of Interior Ministers. The intent is to jointly assess the situation and formulate a coordinated European response. The letter highlights the need for unity in combating illegal migration and fo rtifying external borders, while also addressing policies that may inadvertently encourage such crossings. The letter emphasizes the gravity of recent events, particularly the misuse of a Spanish Supreme Court ruling that has exacerbated the situation. The signatories express their commitment to ensuring that illegal entry into the EU does not translate to legal residency, thereby maintaining confidence in the EU's migration policies. The cooperative efforts between Spain and Morocco to swiftly return migrants who entered illegally have been acknowledged, with expectations that EU support will help regain control over the situation. The letter proposes enhanced Frontex support and improved EU-Morocco cooperation as potential solutions. Additionally, the leaders reiterate their readiness to implement necessary measures, including potential temporary internal border controls, to safeguard public order and address risks from secondary movements. The communication concludes with a call for unity and urgent act ion, underscoring the shared responsibilities of EU member states in protecting borders and supporting those on the frontline of migration challenges. The leaders are counting on decisive leadership to ensure a swift, effective, and coordinated EU response to the border crisis.