In a period of increased migration pressure from Libya, European Commission President Ursula von der Laen has addressed a letter to the leaders of EU member states, expressing its concerns and underlining the measures the Union intends to take. Its intervention comes amid strong concerns about a “Libyan migration tooling”.
As stated in her letter, “Arrivals in Greece from East Libya have increased by 173%while departures from the country now account for 93% of illegal crossings through the central Mediterranean, “data reiterated today, and the Commission spokesman for immigration, Marcus Lamert.
“Despite the total reduction of irregular crossing in the EU by 21% in the first half of 2025, increased flows from Libya raise serious concerns about the safety and stability of the area“, The letter says. In this context, the President asked the Commissioner for immigration, Johann Bruneer, to soon visit Libya for talks with the country’s authorities.
During today’s press conference, the spokesman for immigration issues, Marcus Lamine, spoke extensively to von der Laieni’s letter, with a special reference to Libya, and was also asked about the presence of Greek warships in the area and communication.
Mr Lamine said: ‘We are in constant communication with the Greek authorities about irregular arrivals from Libya. Migration Commissioner, Mr Brunner, as well as the Mediterranean Commissioner, Mrs Sika, discussed the matter yesterday with the Greek Foreign Minister. As you pointed out, President von Der Laien referred to this issue in her letter to the leaders of the Member States in view of this week’s European Council. In her letter she notes that 93% of illegal crossings on the external border comes from Libya. There is a 7% increase in the Central Mediterranean route and a 173% increase in arrivals in Greece from eastern Libya. It is necessary to continue cooperation and maintain financial and operational support to the Libyan authorities, especially with regard to research and rescue operations. “
The Commission’s spokesman also spoke of “possible tooling of immigration from Libya” and underlined: “In view of the current situation and evidence of possible tooling of immigration from Libya for political purposes, it is important to be able to work with them. In this context, President von Der Laien has asked Commissioner Bruner to visit Libya soon and have contacts with both authorities to the west and east of the country. “
Source: Skai
I have worked as a journalist for over 10 years, and my work has been featured on many different news websites. I am also an author, and my work has been published in several books. I specialize in opinion writing, and I often write about current events and controversial topics. I am a very well-rounded writer, and I have a lot of experience in different areas of journalism. I am a very hard worker, and I am always willing to put in the extra effort to get the job done.
