A strong message of determination to tackle irregular migration and migrant smuggling networks was sent by Greece’s Minister for Migration and Asylum, Thanos Plevris, during the tripartite meeting between Greece, Turkey and Bulgaria held in Athens.

The three countries reaffirmed the strengthening of their cooperation, positively assessing the results achieved so far, particularly in reducing migration flows and combating smuggling networks. It was stressed that migration management is a collective responsibility and requires continuous coordination, information sharing and joint operational action.

Mr. Plevris underlined that Greece is implementing a strict but fully lawful border protection policy, noting that the country’s borders are also Europe’s external borders. Special reference was made to tangible results in the Eastern Aegean, where arrivals in the first quarter of 2025 stood at 6,012, compared to 2,113 in the same period of 2026, marking a 65% decrease.

At the same time, the need for further intensification of action against smuggling networks was highlighted, as these are directly linked to organised crime and terrorism. The three ministers agreed to strengthen cooperation in both maritime and land borders, particularly in light of shifting migration routes.

In bilateral contacts, the Greek minister emphasised the importance of continuing cooperation with Turkey and the full and effective implementation of the EU–Turkey Joint Declaration. He also highlighted positive initiatives such as the successful visa programme for Turkish citizens visiting Greek islands.

With Bulgaria, emphasis was placed on joint preparation for the implementation of the new EU Migration and Asylum Pact from June 2026, as well as on strengthening returns and protecting the EU’s external borders.

The tripartite meeting in Athens was held at the invitation of the Greek Minister for Migration and Asylum and was attended by Bulgaria’s Minister of Interior Emil Dechev and Turkey’s Minister of Interior Mustafa Çiftçi.

During the meeting, the ministers also examined the security situation in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf and exchanged views on potential impacts on migration flows, which—at present—do not appear to be concerning.

Bulgaria’s Interior Minister described the trilateral framework as a strategic and valuable platform for constructive, results-oriented cooperation, reaffirming Bulgaria’s strong support for its continuity and sustainability.

Turkey’s Interior Minister pointed to the positive results achieved through effective action against irregular migration, carried out in line with international law and humanitarian values, stating that Turkey is no longer, to a large extent, a destination or transit country for irregular migration. He stressed that international cooperation, particularly the ongoing trilateral mechanism with Greece and Bulgaria, has played a key role in this process. He also noted the link between migrant smuggling, terrorism, and organised crime, thanking Greece for hosting the meeting.