German and Italian foreign ministers discussed irregular migration in Berlin

Baerbock spoke at the joint press conference held after his meeting with Tajani in the capital Berlin.

Pointing out that the EU’s immigration policy was also discussed by the interior ministers in Brussels, Baerbock stated that the situation in Lampedusa has been focused on recently and that everyone has seen the images of boats full of immigrants.

Baerbock stated that at least 2,300 people lost their lives in the Mediterranean this year and said, “Dying in the Mediterranean should never normalize and become a part of the daily life of Europe.” said.

Thanking the Italian coast guard for saving people from drowning, Baerbock stated that non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that rescue irregular immigrants by ships also undertake life-saving duties in the Mediterranean.

Agreements should be made with the countries where irregular immigrants come from

Baerbock emphasized that there is a need for a system with a clear rule-based order and effective processes on immigration and refugee issues in Europe, and said, “The common European asylum system must come now.” he said.

Stating that they want to reach a solution on the common asylum system, Baerbock stated that the German government included some points in the compromise during the intense negotiations held in Brussels in the last few hours.

Baerbock emphasized that after the EU countries agree on a common asylum system, this should be concluded through negotiations with the European Parliament and the EU Commission, and noted that “agreements should be made with the countries where irregular immigrants come from and the return of those who do not have the right to asylum in Europe should be accelerated.”

Strong measures need to be taken against human traffickers

Italian Foreign Minister Tajani said that they discussed in depth the issue of irregular immigrants coming to Europe from both the Mediterranean and the Balkans.

Tajani emphasized that Italy agrees with Germany that the countries should not be left alone regarding irregular migration.

Noting that it is necessary to prevent the exploitation of those escaping from war, hunger, poverty and diseases, Tajani said, “In this regard, strong measures must be taken against human traffickers.” said.

Tajani noted that agreements should be made with the countries where irregular immigrants come from and that the African continent should be supported by investing in order to solve the migration problem.

Stating that saving lives is important and that no one is against NGOs, Tajani stated that immigrants go to Italy because safe ports are close, but that his country should not become “a magnet attracting illegal immigrants”.

Tajani argued that irregular immigrants often want to go to other countries.