Cyprus expressed deep concern today, Tuesday, over the rising number of illegal migrants, most of whom are Syrians, coming from neighboring Lebanon after more than 350 arrivals were recorded in just two days. In unusually candid remarks, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides stated that it is "extremely concerning" that the influx of Syrian migrants has been increasing steadily in recent weeks. Following a meeting with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, he said, "I fully understand the challenges facing Lebanon, but exporting migrants to Cyprus should not be the solution and is unacceptable."
Nicosia wishes for the European Union to consider declaring parts of war-torn Syria as safe, which would allow for the repatriation of asylum seekers arriving from neighboring countries. In turn, European Commission Vice President Margaritis Schinas noted that "the EU can reach an agreement with Lebanon to stop the flow of migrants," as Cyprus has complained of being overwhelmed by the increasing number of arrivals from the Middle East. Cyprus is located just 160 kilometers from Syria and Lebanon, and the number of asylum seekers arriving there has notably increased in recent months. Lebanon, which is suffering from an economic crisis, hosts hundreds of thousands of Syrian refugees.
