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Greek minister calls criticism of tougher migration policies a ‘badge of honor’
Arrivals and interceptions off Crete rose more than 20% to 5,500 through May, prompting Athens to seek closer cooperation with eastern Libya.
On Monday, Greek authorities reported migrant arrivals and interceptions off Crete rose more than 20% to 5,500 through May, prompting Migration Minister Thanos Plevris to vow tougher policies.
Saddam Hifter, deputy commander of eastern Libya's armed forces, visited Athens on Monday to meet with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis regarding coast guard training.
Calling criticism a "badge of honor," Plevris argued that charities have no role in shaping Greek migration policy. He stated the more Amnesty International objects, the more he views the legislation as justified.
The European Union approved tougher migration measures last week despite declining crossings globally, while Greece pursues centers in Africa for migrants with rejected asylum claims.
Human trafficking networks flourish in Libya, which remains a primary transit hub for migrants from Africa and the Middle East amid more than a decade of instability. Analyst Jalel Harchaoui notes eastern authorities seek financial assistance and closer diplomatic ties.