EU Calls Border Security a 'Shared Responsibility' Amidst Ceuta Crisis

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has emphasized that border security is a "shared European responsibility" in a message to Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. This statement comes as Spain works to manage the return of tens of thousands of individuals who recently crossed into the North African exclave of Ceuta.

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From this incident it is clear that we must do more to further strengthen our borders at critical points.

Von der Leyen's letter to Sanchez highlighted the need for "united action" within the bloc to strengthen external borders. "From this incident it is clear that we must do more to further strengthen our borders at critical points," she wrote. She also commended Spain's "swift handling" of the situation, noting that the majority of the estimated 50,000 arrivals had already returned to Morocco.

The European Union interior ministers are scheduled to convene for an emergency video conference to discuss potential responses to the border crisis. The significant influx of migrants has already caused friction among EU member states, prompting temporary border controls in Italy and France.

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The protection of all our external borders is a shared European responsibility.

Furthermore, von der Leyen raised the possibility of enhanced cooperation and assistance for Morocco, recognizing it as a "strategic partner" in combating migrant smuggling and illegal migration. She proposed improving border management early-warning systems and increasing technical and financial support to Morocco, particularly concerning Ceuta and Melilla. The upcoming meeting is seen as a "first step," with the issue also slated for discussion at the EU leaders' summit in October.

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Morocco is an important strategic partner, particularly in our efforts to combat migrant smuggling and illegal migration.