Cyprus, Greece, Italy, and Malta have reaffirmed their commitment to tougher measures against irregular migration during talks in Rome. The ministers responsible for migration agreed to enhance cooperation on border protection and migration management, emphasizing the implementation of efforts within the framework of the EU migration pact and the new return regulation. Deputy Migration Minister Nicholas Ioannides highlighted that the goal is for member states to control entry into Europe rather than criminal smuggling networks.

The meeting followed a joint declaration by the leaders of the four countries in April and builds on their shared position to prevent a recurrence of the migration pressures experienced during the 2015 crisis. The ministers also stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation with countries in the wider region to support affected populations and reduce pressure on European borders.