Schengen area not 'compromised' by Ceuta crisis, Spain claims; seeks EU solidarity

Spain's Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska asserted that the Schengen area remained secure during the recent migratory crisis in the enclave of Ceuta. Speaking after an extraordinary meeting of EU ministers on the issue, Grande-Marlaska stated, "In no way has the Schengen area been compromised in this crisis." He further emphasized that the area "has never been in danger, not even in minimal danger."

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In no way has the Schengen area been compromised in this crisis.

Grande-Marlaska revised the figures for the massive influx of migrants, reporting that at least 72,000 individuals entered the Spanish enclave illegally in the past week. Of these, he noted that 70,000 have already returned to Morocco. This figure significantly increases previous estimates provided by the Spanish government, which had placed the number of illegal entries at around 50,000.

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The Schengen area has never been in danger, not even in minimal danger.

The Ceuta crisis triggered significant diplomatic tensions between Spain and several European nations, with Italy notably accusing Madrid of lax border controls. During the videoconference meeting with EU Interior Ministers, Grande-Marlaska appealed for "solidarity" from the other 26 member states. He described the discussion as taking place in an "absolutely constructive tone."

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The numbers we have set, reasonably (...) 72,000 people entered Spain irregularly and 70,000 have left the country.

The crisis has intensified pressure on Pedro Sánchez's left-wing government, which advocates for an open approach to migration, contrasting with the stricter policies adopted by many EU countries. The Spanish government recently launched a broad regularization plan, with nearly 1.2 million immigrants applying, two-thirds of whom are from Latin American countries.

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Spain asked for 'solidarity' from the other 26 member states, within a debate that took place in an 'absolutely constructive tone.'