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Frontex Executive Director Hans Leijtens, Greek Minister of Migration and Asylum, Notis Mitarachi and Minister of Citizens’ Protection, Panagiotis Theodorikakos agreed today on a plan to expand the agency’s support in the area of returns.

As part of a dedicated action plan, Frontex will provide additional support to Greece in a number of return-related activities, including reinforced operational and technical support in voluntary and forced returns.

Frontex will also assist in establishing working relations with non-EU countries, and support Greece in identification and counselling of migrants to inform them about the possibilities to return voluntarily to their home countries and receive reintegration support. 

“Returns are an essential part of border management, so I am proud that we can provide even more support to Greece in this important area,” said Frontex Executive Director Hans Leijtens.

During his visit to Greece, Hans Leijtens will also discuss the current operational support provided by Frontex with the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Ioannis Plakiotakis and the Commandant of the Hellenic Coast Guard, Vice Admiral Alexandrakis Georgios.

Frontex assists Greece with joint operation Poseidon. There are currently 518 standing corps officers and staff working in Greece, both at the mainland and on the islands in the Aegean. The agency also deploys 11 boats and 30 patrol cars, as well as other equipment, at Greece’s external borders.