Belgian Interior Minister Bernard Quintin. Photo courtesy of Anadolu.
Belgium and the United Kingdom are stepping up efforts to tackle human smuggling along Belgium’s west coast, where authorities have reported a rise in migrant attempts to cross the English Channel in small boats.
Belgian Interior Minister Bernard Quintin visited a police operation in the coastal town of Adinkerke on Thursday, joined by UK Home Office Minister Alex Norris, according to Belga news agency.
The visit came amid concerns over organized migrant crossings facilitated by smuggling networks operating in the region, the ministers said.
Quintin noted that while Belgium and the UK already have strong collaboration, there is a need to improve information-sharing mechanisms between the two countries.
“We already have good cooperation with our British colleagues, but we want to further strengthen our exchange of information. Since Brexit, this exchange has become more difficult. We need an appropriate legal framework to ensure smooth exchange,” Quintin said.
The minister added that authorities are also exploring ways to expand operational collaboration between Belgian and British police forces.
Quintin emphasized that quicker interventions are “crucial” as the number of attempted crossings from Belgium has increased, noting that timely action can prevent escalation.
Norris highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts, calling Belgium an important partner in curbing irregular migration and strengthening cross-border security.