Brussels: Italy and Denmark have spearheaded a significant diplomatic initiative, urging European Union leaders to address the escalating situation at the EU’s external border in Ceuta. In a letter addressed to the President of the European Council, António Costa, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and the current President of the Council of the European Union, Micheál Martin, 22 European Heads of State and Government have expressed their serious concern over recent developments in the region.

According to Presidency of the Council of Ministers, the letter highlights the urgent need to prevent uncontrolled irregular crossings, combat migrant trafficking networks, and eliminate factors incentivizing illegal entries. The initiative calls for the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union to organize an extraordinary video conference of Interior Ministers to assess the situation collectively and define a coordinated European response.

The letter underscores the importanc
e of addressing the recent Spanish Supreme Court ruling, which has reportedly been exploited to challenge the EU’s external borders. The signatories stress the necessity of deterring and combating illegal migration, reinforcing external borders, and addressing policies that could serve as pull factors. They warn against the perception that illegal entry into the EU can lead to legal stays, which could undermine the EU’s migration policy and affect all Member States.

The communication commends the collaboration between Spain and Morocco in ensuring the swift return of migrants who entered illegally and calls for EU support to regain control over the situation. It also emphasizes the need for a coordinated European response, including potential enhanced Frontex support and improved EU cooperation with Morocco.

The letter concludes by urging the EU to respond with unity, determination, and urgency, highlighting the shared responsibility of protecting the EU’s external borders, preventing illegal migration, and
ensuring solidarity with frontline Member States. The leaders express their hope that the EU will mobilize its resources effectively to address the current crisis.

The call to action is signed by leaders from across the EU, including Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, and other key figures, demonstrating a collective determination to tackle the challenges at the EU’s borders.