Key facts
- Spain implemented border controls on flights from Italy.
- Approximately 200 travelers arriving from Italy were checked at Spanish airports.
- The controls were reinstated due to a dispute over irregular migration.
- Spain's measures are in place until September 7.
- Italy had previously suspended Schengen arrangements with Spain.
Spain began implementing border controls on travelers arriving from Italy on Saturday, checking approximately 200 individuals at six major airports. This action follows a diplomatic dispute over irregular migration, with Spain's Interior Ministry reporting checks on 199 people from 12 flights originating in Italy.
The Spanish government stated that these border controls, which also apply to ships, will remain in effect until September 7. The decision was prompted by Italy's implementation of its own measures, which Rome cited as a response to a significant influx of 72,000 migrants to Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta on July 30.
Earlier, Italy had suspended the European Union's border-free Schengen arrangements with Spain starting August 1, initially planning to maintain controls until at least August 15. Rome clarified that these measures would target non-EU nationals arriving by air or sea from Spain, not affecting Spanish or other EU citizens traveling to Italy.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani expressed hope that the suspension of Schengen arrangements could be lifted soon, contingent on the absence of risk. The Schengen Area permits passport-free travel among its member states, but allows temporary reintroduction of border controls for security or public order reasons.