Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner confirmed the extension of border checks with the Czech Republic for an additional 20 days, citing the current global security situation, the need to combat smuggling mafias, and the prevention of terrorist threats as primary reasons.
In his statement, Karner emphasized that border control is a crucial measure against smuggling mafias.
He pointed out that, under the current circumstances, these controls also play a significant role in counter-terrorism efforts.
Karner added that border surveillance is not only necessary to fight smuggling mafias but also serves as a tactic in the war against terrorism.
He noted that smuggling mafias partly finance terrorism, and border controls enable the inspection of individuals at the border.
In addition to the Czech Republic, Austria is conducting surveillance operations at its borders with Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. Karner highlighted the intensified checks in areas close to the borders.
Besides Austria, ten other Schengen Area countries are monitoring their internal borders.
These include France, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Italy, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Slovenia, and Poland.
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