Malmström backtracks

(BRUSSELS2) Questioned during the presentation of the report on immigration and stereotypes, the European Commissioner for Home Affairs, Cecilia Malmström spoke about the operation in Libya and the Frontex operation.

More cooperation with Libya

« It is clear that with the Member States and the European Union, we want to strengthen relations with the country because the country is going through a difficult situation. If there is a conference on immigration in the fall, I think it is a good idea, we will study these conclusions in more detail to see how we can strengthen cooperation with Libya ».

Surgery may not be the solution 

The commissioner recalls that Frontex is a small agency to coordinate operations in the Mediterranean. It's a small agency with a small budget. Moreover, its role has already increased. But won't be able to absorb Mare Nostrum ».

Towards a Frontex plus? 

Commissioner Malmstrom appeals to States: “ If the States want a European operation, they will have to get their hands dirty. We are in very regular, almost daily contact with our Italian and Maltese contacts to find out what they need in terms of ships, crews and resources. And as soon as we have more information, an idea, Italy and other countries like Malta, we will ring the doorbell of other Member States ».