Hongaars voorzitterschap steunt Italië bij grote toestroom migranten uit Noord-Afrika (en)

Met dank overgenomen van Hongaars voorzitterschap Europese Unie 1e helft 2011 i, gepubliceerd op dinsdag 15 februari 2011, 11:20.

The Hungarian Presidency will provide Italy all possible assistance in managing the extraordinary situation that emerged, due to a wave of North African immigrants, according to the communication of the Hungarian Ministry of the Interior, dated 14 February 2011.

According to the document, the Presidency will pay close attention to the extraordinary situation at the Italian shores, and will cooperate with other EU institutions, including the Commission to provide Italy with all necessary assistance.

Previously, Italy declared a state of humanitarian crisis, and Roberto Maroni, Italian Minister for Home Affairs, stated on 11 February that, “Italy may need the help of the EU, given the potential influx of migrants to Italy in the wake of the Tunisian and Egyptian crises.”

Since the Tunisian revolution began in December, the island of Lampedusa has seen an increased wave of refugees, which has brought concerns to local and Roman authorities alike. North African immigrants have attempted to reach Italian coasts in small fishing boats, but the Italian coast guard prevented entry and returned them to the harbours of Lampedusa. The number of immigrants has significantly surpassed the port capacities of Lampedusa and Sicily.