Croatia firmly protects borders, responsible Schengen member: PM Plenković

Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković asserted on Sunday that Croatia is a responsible member of the Schengen Area, firmly protecting its borders.

Speaking in Imotski, Plenković welcomed Spain's swift reaction to a recent mass border crossing in Ceuta, a Spanish territory on the African continent. He noted that nearly 95% of the migrants who crossed were returned to Morocco, a response he deemed positive.

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We have not had such a massive border crossing in many years.

"We have not had such a massive border crossing in many years," Plenković said, referring to the incident where an estimated 60,000 people entered Ceuta. He highlighted that Spain and Morocco reached an agreement for the urgent repatriation of migrants.

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Nobody wants a repeat of 2015, which is why we have all strengthened our borders.

Plenković also mentioned that 22 out of 27 EU leaders sent a letter to the European Council and Commission expressing concern about the situation. "This letter is an expected and serious signal of concern," he stated, hoping such an event would not be repeated.

He drew parallels to 2015, when over a million people arrived in Europe, largely fleeing conflict in Syria. "Nobody wants a repeat of 2015, which is why we have all strengthened our borders," Plenković added, noting that attempts to cross Croatia's borders have significantly decreased due to the deterrent actions of the Croatian police.

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This letter is an expected and serious signal of concern.