The need for a common European policy on combating illegal immigration and the return of illegal immigrants to their countries as well as punishing traffickers, was stressed by PM Antonis Samaras in Mytilene, while on tour.

The Prime Minister visited the headquarters of Frontex in the port of Mytilene, conversed with men of the Coast Guard and their Romanian colleagues who are participating in the force, and was updated by technical staff of the special machinery and stations used for search and rescue.

Mr. Samaras boarded the Coast Guard patrol boat and thanked Frontex’s men one by one, underlined the huge work they have achieved and characteristically stated that this year alone, they have saved 4000 people.

The PM, while on tour, is being accompanied by ministers M. Varvitsiotis and C. Athanassiou.