LOC14:42
11:42 GMT
BRUSSELS, July 2 (KUNA) -- The European Commission Monday announced an additional EUR 45.6 million (USD 53 million) in emergency assistance to support Spain and Greece respond to the migratory challenges they face.
Spain will receive EUR 25.6 million (USD 29.8 million) to improve the reception capacity for arrivals at its southern coast and in Ceuta and Melilla, as well as to help increase returns.
Another EUR 20 million (USD 23 million) has been awarded to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to improve reception conditions in Greece, notably on the island of Lesvos, said the EU's executive body, in a press release.
Dimitris Avramopoulos, EU Commissioner for Migration, commented that Spain has seen arrival figures increase during the past year and "we need to step up our support to help manage the numbers and return those who have no right to stay."
Greece is still facing significant migratory pressure, in particular on the islands, he said.
Over EUR one billion (USD 1.16 billion) has so far been awarded in emergency assistance to help EU Member States manage migration, he noted. (end)
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