Next Tuesday, Czech Defense Minister Lubomír Metnar will submit a proposal to the government to provide financial aid for the training of members of the Libyan Coast Guard members. However, the Czech Republic has supported the international mission of EU countries since 2015. The mission aims to prevent illegal migration from Libya to Europe.
Members of the Libyan National Coast Guard and Navy are trained within the EUNAVFOR MED operation SOPHIA. EU countries have thus far provided EUR 2.7 million in funds to the initiative. “To ensure the continuation of the operation, we have to spend another EUR 120,000. This sum includes the proposed EUR 20,000 financial help from the Czech Republic,” said Ministry of Defense Spokesman Jakub Fajnor. In 2016 and 2017, the Czech Republic contributed a total of EUR 90,000 to the mission.
“The proposed financial contribution in support of the training of the Libyan National Coast Guard aligns with the Czech government’s long-term plans as it supports a system solution to the migrant crisis. Furthermore, it enhances cooperation with the countries producing large numbers of migrants as well as transit countries. This way, migration can be dealt with on the spot,” added Fajnor.
Last year, the Czech government also approved a contribution of EUR 8.75 million within a V4 and Italy joint project focused on integrated border controls as well as managing migration flows in Libya.
