EU: In Contact With Italy Over Boat Tragedy Investigation

2/27/2023 3:36:00 PM

(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) BRUSSELS, Feb 27 (KUNA) -- The European Union Monday expressed its sadness over the shipwreck off the coast of Italy in Calabria on Sunday in which it is feared that over 100 people, including children, have died.
'We are deeply saddened by this tragedy, 'European Commission deputy spokesperson Dana Spinant told a news conference in Brussels.
She quoted a tweet by the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen who said, 'the resulting loss of life of innocent migrants is a tragedy.'
'All together, we must redouble our efforts on the Pact on Migration & Asylum and on the Action Plan on the Central Mediterranean,' added von der Leyen.
On her part, Anitta Hipper EU spokesperson for interior affairs told the same press conference 'we are in close touch with the Italian authorities.'
'We are aware that they are investigating and European border and coast guard agency, Frontex, and we are providing support and assistance.
The situation is very complex, 'she said adding that the European Commission will be proposing long-term legislative solutions on a common EU approach to tackle illegal migration.
According to media reports, at least 62 migrants are confirmed to have died, including 12 children and a baby.
People from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Somalia, Syria, Iraq and Iran were reportedly on board.
The vessel carrying some 200 people is believed to have left Turkey four days ago. (end)
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