The Greek Presidency expresses its full satisfaction regarding the agreement reached with the European Parliament on a draft regulation establishing rules for the surveillance of the external sea borders in the context of operational cooperation coordinated by the European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders of the member states of the EU (FRONTEX).

 

The regulation provides member states participating in FRONTEX operations with clearer, updated and binding rules to be applied in the course of these operations. This will result in greater effectiveness and legal certainty in operations at the external sea borders.

In order to enter into force, the draft regulation still needs to be formally approved by the European Parliament and the Council.

 

Minister of Shipping, Maritime Affairs and the Aegean, Miltiadis Varvitsiotis stated:

“This agreement, which is expected to be concluded with its adoption by the Plenary of the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers in March, constitutes a great achievement for Europe and for Greece as well.

For Europe, because Europe acquires a wholly integrated institutional framework for the joint operations at sea, in full compliance with International Law and Human Rights.

For Greece for the three following reasons: Because, first of all it is a step in the effort that the Prime Minister of Greece initiated in December, for a new European Policy on Migration. Second, it proves our total dedication for the principles of protection of the European Borders with full respect for Human Rights and the protection of Human Life at sea; third, because it proves that the Greek administration can accomplish with success its duties as the Presidency of the Council of Ministers of EU.”