Italy Extends Schengen Border Suspension with Spain by Another Week
Italy has extended its suspension of the European Union’s border-free Schengen arrangements with Spain by another week, according to an Italian government source on Friday. The extension aligns with Madrid’s decision to maintain its own suspension of Schengen arrangements with Italy until October 22. The move prolongs border restrictions between the two countries amid ongoing disagreements over migration.
Italy first suspended the arrangements with Spain on July 31 following a sharp increase in migrant arrivals in Ceuta, a Spanish enclave bordering Morocco. The surge prompted Rome to repeatedly extend the measure, citing concerns over migration pressures. Spain criticised Italy’s decision in August, describing the restrictions as unjust, discriminatory and contrary to the interests of the European Union.
The Italian and Spanish interior ministers are expected to explore alternative forms of cooperation in the coming days, the Italian source said. The latest extension highlights continuing tensions between the two countries over migration management and border controls. The Schengen system generally allows passport-free travel across participating European countries, although temporary internal border controls can be introduced under certain circumstances.
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