Madrid: Spain has tightened its border security with Italy, officially enforcing border controls on all flights and ships arriving from Italy. This move is in response to Italy's refusal to lift similar checks, marking an escalation in the continent-wide conflict over refugee policies. The Spanish measures, which began at midnight on Saturday, will remain in effect until September 7th.
According to Thai News Agency, Spanish immigration authorities have implemented random checks on the passports, nationalities, and visas of passengers arriving from Italy via seaports and airports. On the initial day, approximately 10 percent of the passengers from Italy underwent these checks, reciprocally mirrored by Italy on arrivals from Spain.
The conflict traces back to late July, following a significant refugee crisis when over 72,000 Moroccan migrants attempted to cross into Ceuta, a Spanish colony in North Africa. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni responded by temporarily suspending the Schengen agreement with Spain on August 1st. The suspension aimed to prevent migrants from Ceuta from reaching Italy, despite experts noting the practical challenges given Spain's geographical separation from Italy. The Spanish government had set an ultimatum for Italy to revoke the measure, which was ignored, leading to Spain's retaliatory actions.
The divergence in immigration policies between the two nations is evident. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro S¡nchez supports an open immigration policy, considering foreign workers vital for economic growth, and has recently sanctioned a significant restitution program for undocumented immigrants. In contrast, Italian Prime Minister Meloni favors a strict anti-immigration stance, urging the European Union to enhance border controls and expedite immigrant deportations.
The recent migration surge saw most North African migrants returning to their origins within days, with only about 1,400 youths and teenagers remaining for repatriation. The crisis has also resulted in over 100 reported deaths during border crossing attempts.