Mumbai, March 20:
European Union (EU) leaders have pledged to remain vigilant against any impacts arising from conflicts in the Middle East that may increase migration pressures on EU countries. Ongoing strife in the region poses a growing risk for Europe.
While this conflict has not yet translated into a significant influx of migrants to the EU, leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining “high levels of vigilance and ensuring necessary preparations,” as stated in the conclusions adopted after the recent summit.
Reflecting on lessons learned from the 2015 migration crisis, the EU affirmed its readiness to deploy “its diplomatic, legal, operational, and financial tools” fully to prevent migration and maintain security within Europe. The conclusions stated, “The security and control of the EU’s external borders will be continuously strengthened.”
Leaders also urged for a reduction in tensions in the Middle East and called for maximum restraint. They requested all parties to fully comply with international law and supported a moratorium on attacks against energy and water facilities.
In efforts to enhance the EU’s maritime capabilities, leaders stressed the need to deploy additional resources to strengthen its two existing maritime security operations, UNIFOR Ephemeral and UNIFOR Atlanta.
Both UNIFOR Ephemeral and UNIFOR Atlanta are EU military operations aimed at ensuring maritime security. Their joint area of operation extends across the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Gulf region.
During the 2015 migration crisis, over one million refugees and migrants entered Europe due to the Syrian war and instability in Afghanistan and Iraq, putting pressure on border and asylum systems. This led to a humanitarian emergency and deepened political divisions within the EU.
During the European Council meeting, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged the United States and Israel to end the war with Iran and emphasized the need for diplomacy over military action.
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