Brussels, 11/02/2016 (Agence Europe) - On Wednesday 10 February, Greece signalled that it would be opposing the draft Council of Ministers' decision on issuing a series of recommendation to Greece for it to remedy the shortcomings observed at its external borders. Greece has submitted a written statement to this effect to the Council. On Friday, the EU's finance and economy ministers are expected to adopt the recommendations in Point A drafted by the European Commission following a Schengen evaluation report adopted on 3 February. Bulgaria may also signal that it opposes the recommendations, according to a document dated Thursday 11 February.
At a meeting of the EU28 permanent representatives on Wednesday 10 February, Greece regretted that it could not give its approval to the Commission's proposed recommendation about “serious deficiencies identified in 2015”, the draft Greek statement says. It adds that Greece wishes to reiterate its position that the results of the spot check on 10-13 November 2015 are not “serious deficiencies” and do not provide any proof that Greece is seriously neglecting its duties.
Greece points out in the statement that such floods of refugees would put pressure on the external borders of any member state. Athens also says that it has subsequently taken measures to remedy the situation.
A source says that these measures have been taken into account and the tone of the decision submitted for adoption has “since been lightened”. (Original version in French by Solenn Paulic)