Greek Prime Minister Kiryakos Mitsotakis noted that the European Union (EU) can provide new economic support to Turkey to combat the migrant problem.
Irregular Migrants
Making a press statement after the EU Leaders’ Summit held in Brussels and answering the questions of journalists, Miçotakis stated that the most important element in solving the irregular migration problem is the fight against migrant smugglers.
Mitsotakis stated that the reason why less number of boats carrying irregular immigrants came to Greece recently was the decrease in the number of boats departing from Turkey, and argued that cooperation with North African countries such as Tunisia and Libya should be done to reduce the number of boats departing from Turkey.
Noting that he will meet with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Vilnius as part of the NATO Summit, Miçotakis stated that they hope to place the framework of Turkey-EU relations on a new basis.
RELATIONS WITH Türkiye
Mitsotakis stated that he wanted to see the glass half full and pointed out that there has been a better cooperation with the Turkish authorities in preventing the boats carrying irregular migrants before they set off.
Prime Minister Mitsotakis said: “I have said many times that Turkey should be an ally in tackling the refugee problem. On the other hand, the EU has given many million euros to support Turkey and could possibly give more. Future support of Turkey in the restructuring of the EU’s multi-year budget There may be an additional item for said.
“Sure, IF HE WANTS…”
Noting that apart from his meeting with President Erdoğan, there may be meetings between the Ministers of Turkey and Greece, Miçotakis said, “There were contacts in the past. It is good that these contacts are frequent. We can prove that Turkey is indeed a good ally in the fight (with the immigrant problem). if he wants it too.” he said. (AA)