European Union to include Western Balkans in fight against illegal migration

Hosted by Croatian Interior Minister Davor Bozinovic, Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi and Slovenian Interior Minister Bostjan Poklukar met in the Croatian city of Buzet to discuss the fight against illegal migration.

Following the meeting, host Bozinovic announced that the next meeting would be held in Slovenia in March, stating, "Interior ministers from Western Balkan countries have also been invited to the meeting in Slovenia. This will allow us to act more effectively against the migrant route through the Western Balkans. We would also like to hear their thoughts on combating illegal migration."

Bozinovic noted that all decisions taken at the last meeting in Trieste, Italy, have been implemented, saying, "These included the establishment of permanent structures for joint police patrols, the creation of common points or centers for information exchange, and making these meetings permanent."

Reminding that border controls were reinstated following events in the Middle East, Bozinovic stated, "However, citizens of the three countries did not feel these controls. These checks did not affect the daily lives of the public or their border crossing routines."

"CAN BE A DRIVING FORCE FOR COOPERATION"

Piantedosi also stated that the trilateral format is an innovative initiative that creates a "model" for operational and strategic dialogue, and that it could serve as a driving force for more effective cooperation with other countries in the region.

Stating that they discussed the situation on the Balkan route and updated their information at today's meeting, Piantedosi said, "It has emerged that this route continues to be attractive not only for migrants but also for dangerous individuals in terms of national security who could infiltrate criminal corridors already used for other illegal activities."

Piantedosi also shared information that among the 160,000 people checked at the Italy-Slovenia border, more than 1,600 irregular migrants were identified and over 900 were turned back.

"I maintain my belief in the importance of the free movement of people," the Italian minister said, adding that they would continue to work on solutions that allow for the restoration of free movement.

Piantedosi noted that it is necessary to take appropriate measures both for the safety of citizens and to combat criminal networks on the Balkan route.

Poklukar stated that the current measures were taken in a way that would not cause problems for the public.

Meanwhile, following Italy's implementation of border controls with Slovenia as of October 21, Slovenia also began border controls with Croatia and Hungary on the same day.