European Commission
president-designate Ursula von der Leyen said Tuesday that it
was EU member States' duty to save the lives of people in
difficulty at sea, while stressing that she wants to fight hard
against human trafficking.
"The Mediterranean has become the world's most lethal
frontier," the German told the European Parliament debate on her
ratification, getting a round of applause.
"There is an obligation to save lives at sea.
"We have to save lives, but we also have to reduce illegal
immigration and fight against human traffickers".
Deputy Premier and Interior Minister Matteo Salvini has
adopted a controversial policy of closing Italy's ports to
NGO-run search-and-rescue ships, saying they encourage illegal
immigration.
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