Greek PM Criticizes German Border Check Plans

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has criticized Germany's plan to enforce stricter border checks, stating that it undermines the Schengen zone and burdens frontline states like Greece. Mitsotakis emphasized the need for the EU's revamped migration system instead. Greece has tightened its own migration policies since 2019.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed strong criticism on Thursday towards Germany's decision to impose tighter checks at its land borders, arguing that it essentially dismantles the EU's Schengen zone and unfairly impacts frontline states like Greece.

Germany announced that starting September 16, it would implement these checks for six months to curb irregular migration within the usually free-movement Schengen area. Mitsotakis noted that Germany's previously lenient stance on migration has led to significant social backlash.

Instead of unilaterally scrapping Schengen, Mitsotakis urged the implementation of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, highlighting its focus on guarding external borders. Greece, significantly impacted by the 2015-16 migration crisis, continues to face challenges, but has tightened its migration policies and is extending a border fence with Turkey to control entry.

(With inputs from agencies.)