In a recent statement, French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin declared that France would not accept migrants who had arrived on the Italian island of Lampedusa in the Mediterranean Sea.
Speaking to French television channel "TF1," Darmanin stated, "France will not welcome migrants from Lampedusa."
He emphasized that France sought a firm stance against irregular migration, not just within its borders but throughout Europe.
According to Darmanin, France had offered assistance to Italy in returning migrants to their respective countries, especially those with strong diplomatic ties to Paris.
He mentioned that nearly 60% of the people who arrived in Lampedusa spoke French.
The small Italian island, located between Sicily and North Africa, has witnessed the arrival of thousands of migrants on boats over several days.
The initial reception center on the island became overcrowded beyond its capacity.
To alleviate the pressure, thousands of individuals were transported to Sicily or directly to the Italian mainland on police boats and ferries.
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