Matoz at the conference of home affairs ministers: We must consistently implement asylum policy and return procedures

During the video conference, the home affairs ministers of the EU member states commended Spain’s swift response to the situation and its handling of it, as well as Morocco’s constructive cooperation.

"Slovenia expresses its solidarity with Spain," said Minister Matoz in his opening remarks. "Spain has brought the situation under control and ensured that the Schengen border has been maintained. However, we must continue to monitor developments, as not all of those who crossed the border illegally in Ceuta have yet been returned and are likely to be moving within the European Union."

Member states must send a unified message: "The attempted crossing into the European Union by Moroccans was also caused by misinformation regarding asylum policy in relation to illegal crossings of the Schengen border. Only by sending clear messages that we will strictly enforce asylum policy and returns to countries of origin will we be able to prevent such incidents." Minister Matoz called for enhanced Frontex operations and protection of the Schengen border, as well as a united approach, particularly with regard to the implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum.

The video conference of home affairs ministers followed the letter in which Prime Minister Janez Janša and 21 other European leaders had called for urgent EU action on migration pressure in Ceuta at the end of July 2026.