Foreign Minister Calls for Boosting Coast Guard Funding over Supporting NGOs
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Péter Szijjártó, has called for a shift in priorities in funding from Brussels, emphasizing the need to support the development of coast guards in North Africa over backing NGOs that collaborate with people smugglers to transport migrants.
After discussions with Tunisia’s President Kais Saied, Mr. Szijjártó highlighted the challenges facing Europe, particularly in relation to migratory pressures. He criticized Brussels’ current pro-migration policies, which he believes are detrimental to both Europe and North Africa, citing illegal immigration as a threat to countries involved in both transit and destination.
“To effectively address migration, Brussels must make two crucial changes. Firstly, we need to cease funding NGOs collaborating with smugglers to transport migrants,” the Minister asserted. “These NGOs engage in transporting migrants across the Mediterranean, colluding with people smugglers for profit. Instead, we should redirect funding towards modernizing the coast guards of North African countries,” he added.
Mr. Szijjártó emphasized that funds allocated to these NGOs could be better utilized in bolstering North African coast guards, preventing people smuggling, and easing migratory pressures. He also urged Brussels to respect African nations and engage in partnerships based on mutual respect.
Warning of Africa’s projected population growth of 750 million over the next 20 years, the Minister stressed the urgent need for significant economic development initiatives to support the continent. Without such programs, he cautioned, Europe will face increasingly challenging humanitarian and security issues.
“We recognize the pivotal role of the North African Line of Defense when Europe is confronting migration, with Tunisia holding a crucial position,” he remarked. Mr. Szijjártó concluded by calling on the European Union to avoid intervening in Tunisia’s internal affairs and instead focus on cooperation in combating migration and implementing economic development projects as part of a comprehensive partnership agreement.
It is clear that the Minister is advocating for a strategic shift in approach to migration issues, prioritizing the strengthening of North African coast guards over supporting NGOs involved in migrant transportation. This perspective highlights the importance of long-term solutions and mutual collaboration in addressing the complex challenges posed by migration in the region.
