Greece and the European Union are seeking Bangladesh’s cooperation to curb irregular migration through Libya and Egypt, as a recent surge in migrant arrivals on the Greek island of Crete has raised concerns in Athens, according to Greek daily Kathimerini on 16 October.
More than 1,000 migrants arrived on Crete in recent days, with many landing near Ierapetra on the island’s southeastern coast, the report said.
Athens and the EU are also seeking cooperation from Gulf countries to tighten transit arrangements for flights to Benghazi and Tripoli, which Greek officials say are being used by some migrants travelling towards the Mediterranean coast.
Greece, Bangladesh cooperate on returns
Greece has begun cooperating with Bangladesh on identifying irregular migrants and facilitating their return through charter flights, Kathimerini reported. However, the report provided no timetable or details of planned flights.
Greek authorities are also considering stronger border surveillance and a possible suspension of asylum procedures if migrant arrivals cannot be brought under control. These measures remain under consideration, the report said.
Libya-Crete route under scrutiny
Although migrant arrivals in Greece fell from around 62,000 to 42,000 between August 2025 and July 2026, the Libya-Crete route remains a major concern for Greek authorities.
More than 500,000 refugees and migrants are reportedly living in Libya. Greek officials have also expressed concern over what they describe as insufficient cooperation from authorities in eastern Libya, making it more difficult to manage departures.
The report distinguished between Sudanese migrants, many fleeing the country’s civil war, and Bangladeshi nationals who travel through Gulf countries to reach Cairo, Benghazi or Tripoli before attempting to cross the Mediterranean.
Athens and the EU are expected to continue seeking closer cooperation with Bangladesh and transit countries on migration controls, identification and returns.
Source: Kathimerini, October 16, 2026.
