Plevris: Our goal is to increase returns of illegal migrants

The government is committed to strengthening border security and boosting development in Meriç (Evros), according to Migration and Asylum Minister Thanos Plevris and Deputy Ministers Kostas Katsafados and Vassilis Spanakis, who concluded their tour of the northeastern border prefecture in Dedeağaç (Alexandroupolis).

Focus on returns and border control

Minister Plevris underlined that the government’s priority is to step up the return of migrants entering Greece illegally. “Those whose asylum applications are rejected will have no other option but to return, as the procedures of administrative detention and, ultimately, criminal imprisonment will be applied,” he said.

According to protothema, he highlighted the importance of the Fylaki Closed Controlled Structure (CST), stressing that it does not burden the local community and serves as a model for future facilities. “Our priority is to make as many returns as possible and to limit the flows,” Plevris noted.

On migration flows, he reported a drop of up to 42% on the islands of the eastern Aegean and the Dodecanese in the first half of the year, while land border crossings had increased but remained “completely under control.”

Demographics and local support

Residents raised concerns over population decline and the desolation of villages in Meriç (Evros). Plevris emphasized that demographics “cannot be solved by immigration,” adding that the government has a comprehensive plan that places population policy at its core.

He also announced compensatory works for Kumçiftliği (Orestiada) and surrounding villages, recognizing the contribution of local border guards and residents under “special conditions.”

Katsafados: Responsibility toward border guardians

Deputy Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Kostas Katsafados spoke of Greece’s responsibility toward those “who guard Thermopylae” in Meriç (Evros). He described the prefecture as both “the Evros of the fence” and a growing energy hub, thanks to the port of Dedeağaç (Alexandroupolis) and the region’s geostrategic role.

Katsafados also pointed to pressing challenges such as water scarcity and demographics, noting that while these issues exist nationwide, they are felt more acutely in Meriç (Evros) due to its geographic position.

As chair of the Meriç (Evros) Reconstruction Committee, he announced progress on key goals: securing €25 million for reconstruction projects, establishing a coastal connection between Dedeağaç (Alexandroupolis) and Pire (Piraeus), reopening the Meriç (Evros) Pass to support tourism, and allocating €1 million for studies by the Democritus University of Thrace on the Dadia forest ecosystem.

Spanakis: €130 Million in Projects for Meriç (Evros)

Deputy Interior Minister Vassilis Spanakis highlighted that more than 120 projects worth €130 million are being financed in Meriç (Evros) through the Interior Ministry, underlining the government’s focus on development alongside border security.