Migration: signing of an agreement between the EU and Egypt to stop departures to Europe

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, is traveling to Cairo this Sunday, March 17, accompanied by the Prime Ministers of Belgium and Greece, and the head of the Italian government, Georgia Meloni.

They must sign a migration agreement with Egypt, an agreement which has attracted criticism.

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen.

Here, in kyiv, February 24, 2024. REUTERS - ALINA SMUTKO

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With our correspondent in Brussels,

Laxmi Lota

With this agreement, Egypt will have to stop the departures of migrants from its territory in exchange for donations, loans and European investments amounting to nearly 8 billion euros.

The country will also have to readmit its nationals in an irregular situation in the European Union.

This is the same type of partnership that was

concluded last July with Tunisia

.

Several NGOs criticize the text, due to the non-respect of human rights in this country.

The European Council for Refugees and Exiles denounces “ 

agreements concluded with repressive governments

 ”, which are “ 

attempts by the EU to outsource its responsibility

 ”.

The European Commission justifies itself: “ 

Are we satisfied with the situation in these countries

?

Certainly not

 ,” said one of its spokespersons.

But “ 

we think it is wise to conclude comprehensive agreements with them which will gradually improve the situation

 ,” he adds.

Read alsoMigrations: Europe in the trap of contradictory injunctions

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  • European Union

  • Egypt

  • Immigration

  • International Migration