Cyprus faces immigration problem

Cyprus is facing a problem of illegal immigrants and asylum seekers, mainly due to its proximity to countries of emigration but also because of the continuing Turkish occupation, said Interior Minister Socrates Hasikos, addressing a conference on " The demographic and immigration problem in Cyprus" .

Cyprus, an EU member since 2004, has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. The opening of checkpoints between the north and the south on 2003 is considered to have caused mass movement of illegal immigrants from the occupied areas.

The Minister said that the government’s efforts are focused on fighting illegal immigration, implementation of legislation to impose exemplary punishments and deterrents to those who employ illegal immigrants, the strict application procedures for the entry of students from third countries and the development of international cooperation with countries of origin of illegal migrants.

As regards to asylum, he emphasized that the Government acknowledges and respects the rights of applicants and beneficiaries as specified in international treaties and conventions and the European acquis.

“A key element of our objectives in regard to legal immigration, is to redefine the needs of the labor market for workers from third countries, based on a scientific study”, said Hasikos.

Cyprus, noted Hasikos as a small Member State of the European Union, can not be left alone to respond fully to the problems created both for the country and the immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers.

The Minister stressed the need for further demonstration of solidarity form the international community and better sharing of the responsibilities that arise.

The effort of the government, he added, is the coordination with other Mediterranean Member States, to ensure the greatest possible assistance from the European Union and to convince the Union of the need to implement practical measures of solidarity.