EU and NATO joint efforts to tackle irregular migration

Joint statement by High Representative Federica Mogherini and Commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos on the modalities of the cooperation between Frontex and NATO in the Aegean Sea:

We welcome that Frontex and NATO reached a common understanding today on the modalities of their cooperation in the Aegean Sea. These operational modalities will maximise the effectiveness, ensure consistency and complementarity of the FRONTEX operation “Poseidon Rapid Intervention” in the area and the efforts of NATO’s support activities.

The decision of NATO to assist in the conduct of reconnaissance, monitoring and surveillance of illegal crossings in the Aegean Sea is an important contribution to international efforts to tackle smuggling and irregular migration in the Aegean Sea in the context of the refugee crisis.

Today’s common understanding is another example of the relevance of EU-NATO practical cooperation, already present in many crisis theatres. The EU trusts that its joint efforts with NATO will contribute to address the many challenges raised by the current migration crisis, and reduce the dangers of irregular crossings in the Aegean Sea.