The Italian government has rejected Spain’s request to lift Rome’s temporary suspension of the Schengen Agreement for certain travellers arriving from Spain, while Spain has responded to Italy’s measures by reinstating border controls at its airports and ports for travellers arriving from Italy.
The Meloni government responded to Madrid in a written statement, declaring that Italy will not accept external pressure or ultimatums when it comes to national security and border controls.
“Italy does not accept impositions from abroad or ultimatums” concerning national security and border control, the government said.
Rome also made clear that it has no intention of reconsidering its decision to temporarily suspend the application of the Schengen Agreement for third-country nationals arriving from Spain, at least until August 15.
The Italian government said it would maintain the measures until authorities rule out potential terrorism-related and other security risks to Italy.
It also pointed to developments expected in Ceuta on August 15, noting that Spanish authorities themselves have warned of a new wave of migration on that date.
Rome rejects accusations of targeting Spain
The Meloni government stressed that its decision does not reflect any prejudice against Spain.
Rome noted that Italy has taken similar measures against Slovenia in the past, while other European governments have previously introduced comparable measures affecting Italy and Spain.
The Italian government also stressed that Spanish citizens, like citizens of all other EU countries, are not subject to the controls introduced under the temporary suspension.
Spain responds to Italy’s measures
The Spanish government announced that it would reintroduce border controls at the country’s airports and ports for travellers arriving from Italy, in response to the corresponding measures introduced by Rome following the mass arrival of irregular migrants in Ceuta.
According to Spain’s Interior Ministry, authorities will check the passports and visas of Italian passengers, as well as visitors from other countries who arrive in Spain via Italy, citing the “continued migratory pressure” facing Italy.
The Spanish measures have a temporary character.
They will take effect at midnight local time, or 1am Greek time, and remain in force until September 7.
Italy had suspended the application of the Schengen Agreement for third-country nationals arriving from Spain until at least August 15.
Earlier on Friday, the Italian government reiterated that it would not reconsider the decision until authorities could rule out potential terrorism-related and other security risks.
