Around 100 police officers from the European Agency, together with police officers from North Macedonia will patrol along the border between the two countries.
It started today deployment of FRONTEX forces (European Border and Coast Guard Agency) at the border of North Macedonia, in order for it to contribute more effectively to the management of the border of North Macedonia in relation to migration flows and tackling irregular migration.
The development of FRONTEX started from the borders of North Macedonia with Greece, where around 100 police officers from the European Organization, together with police officers from North Macedonia will patrol along the border between the two countries. Later, FRONTEX is also expected to be deployed on the borders of North Macedonia with Serbia and Albania.
This joint operation is planned to last until 24 January 2024 with the possibility of extension and its purpose, as stated, is to support the national authorities of North Macedonia in border control and migration management, including prevention, investigation and tackling cross-border crime, as well as the collection and exchange of operational intelligence and the identification of potential risks and threats.
At the relevant ceremony held today in Skopje, the Minister of the Interior of North Macedonia, Oliver Spasovski noted that this deployment of FRONTEX sends an important message that the country is not alone in dealing with illegal immigration and added that modern security challenges require a corporate approach relationship and shared response.
“Strengthening cooperation with the EU brings concrete benefits for our citizens. Because our shared commitment to tackling illegal immigration and cross-border crime will inevitably ensure greater security for both the citizens of our country and the European Union,” said Oliver Spasowski.
The executive director of FRONTEX, Hans Leitens, stated that the current development of the European Organization at the border of North Macedonia is an important positive development.
“The mission will strengthen the borders of North Macedonia. Here we have found a dedicated partner who shares our commitment to maintaining the integrity of our borders. Together we will work tirelessly to protect our citizens and ensure security for the entire region,” noted Hans Leitens.
North Macedonia is the fifth country outside the European Union in which FRONTEX is deploying forces, after Albania, Serbia, Montenegro and Bosnia-Herzegovina.
The agreement for the deployment of FRONTEX in North Macedonia was signed at the end of October 2022 in Skopje, during the visit of the then President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen.
Source: Skai
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