EU border agency to help Cyprus with migrant repatriations

The chief of the European Union’s border agency says the repatriation of migrants is Cyprus’ “most urgent need” and his organization is ready to facilitate flights to return individuals who had their asylum claims rejected

NICOSIA, Cyprus -- The chief of the European Union’s Frontex border agency said Wednesday that the repatriation of migrants is Cyprus’ “most urgent need” and that his organization is ready to facilitate flights to return home people who had asylum claims rejected in Cyprus.

Frontex chief Fabrice Leggeri said after talks Wednesday with Cypriot Interior Minister Nicos Nouris that the small east Mediterranean island nation faces an “extraordinary challenge” that requires “extraordinary support” from Frontex amid increased migrant arrivals that the government says has stretched its ability to cope.

Leggeri said Frontex can bring in consular officials from foreign countries to confirm the identity of migrants and obtain permission to repatriate them. He said the agency can also organize flights directly from Cyprus, or with the assistance of other EU members.

“I realized even more the challenge that Cyprus is facing,” Leggeri said.