Kyriakos Mitsotakis announces new migration hosting structure in Heraklion

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has announced the establishment of a temporary hosting structure in Heraklion to manage migration flows in Crete. He emphasized the need for specialized infrastructure and targeted interventions to address the specific challenges faced by the island, noting that the new facility will function similarly to existing structures in Chania.

During a press conference at the 90th Thessaloniki International Fair, Mitsotakis addressed concerns regarding migration pressures, stating, “Crete is not overflowing with migrants, but with tourists.” He highlighted that the European Union has undergone a strategic shift toward stricter migration management, a change he claims Greece helped facilitate through its stance on border protection.

The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of active return policies for individuals not eligible for international protection, describing returns as a “best deterrent” to prevent dangerous sea crossings. He mentioned ongoing cooperation with authorities in eastern Libya and noted successful return efforts to Egypt as evidence of the effectiveness of these measures.