In the framework of his regular meetings with the Hellenic Government on the priorities for the migration management and security issues in Greece, the European Commissioner for Migration, Home Affairs and Citizenship Mr. Dimitris Avramopoulos met today in Athens with the Prime Minister Mr. Alexis Tsipras and the Minister for Migration Policy Mr. Dimitris Vitsas.
After the meeting, Mr. Avramopoulos made the following statement:
"I met today with the Greek Prime Minister Mr. Tsipras, in the presence of the Greek minister for Migration Mr. Dimitris Vitsas.
In view of the summer touristic season, as well as given the need for the timely long-term planning and preparation, I stressed that the implementation of the EU –Turkey Statement must be intensified by accelerating and increasing the returns to Turkey, while also increasing the capacity of the pre-removal centres.
Moreover, I also stressed the need to conclude the improvement and upgrading procedures regarding the infrastructure on the islands and take measures for the unaccompanied minors, in particular the increase of dedicated housing accommodation capacity. Finally, continuous use and absorption of the European funding resources channeled to Greece through the national programs is crucial."
