More EU aid to Cyprus to help with migrant arrivals

The European Commission is ready to support Cyprus even further to alleviate the pressure of increased migrant arrivals, EC Spokesperson Natasa Bertaud, has told CNA, invited to comment on Eurostat's data released yesterday showing that the country receives the highest number of asylum applications in relation to its population in the EU.

Natasha Bertaud, recalling that Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades sent a letter to President Juncker for this purpose, and President Juncker responded in this regard, noted that Commissioner Demetris Avramopoulos was in Cyprus to hold technical discussions and EASO (European Asylum Service) has begun the appropriate preparation.

She also said that Cyprus is supported by an amount of € 40 million for the migrants, of which 12 million address the creation of capacity for managing arrivals and relocations. Moreover, Cyprus has received one million euros in extraordinary funds. "President Juncker is committed to providing even more help," said the EC Spokesperson.