Dobrindt seeks solidarity on migration issues in Poland

Following Poland's criticism of tighter German border controls, both sides are emphasizing similarities in migration policy. Both countries are calling for stronger protection of the EU's external borders and decisive action against illegal migration, according to the German side following a meeting between Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) and his Polish counterpart Tomasz Siemoniak in Warsaw.

Dobrindt and Siemoniak agreed that "migrants are currently being used in a hybrid war triggered by Russia and Belarus". It is therefore legitimate for "countries under migratory pressure to take extraordinary measures to prevent the destabilization of asylum and social systems".

According to a statement from the Federal Ministry of the Interior, Siemoniak emphasized that the protection of the EU's external borders and the fight against illegal migration are joint priorities for Germany and Poland. "Only together can we defy the challenges of the modern world." Dobrindt also emphasized: "Only together can we continue to stem irregular migration to Europe."

Intensified border controls since May

Dobrindt had ordered more intensive border controls shortly after the new government took office a month ago. At the same time, he ordered that asylum seekers could also be turned back at the border in future. The federal government is sticking to this practice even after an urgent decision by the Berlin Administrative Court. The court had ruled that the rejection of three Somalis during a border check at Frankfurt (Oder) station on May 9 was unlawful. Without clarification as to which EU state was responsible for the asylum application of those affected, they should not be turned away. The three people concerned were sent back to Poland.

Poland's head of government Donald Tusk had criticized the change of course during the inaugural visit of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) to Warsaw. "Germany will let whoever it wants into its territory. Poland will only let into its territory who it accepts," said Tusk.

Minimizing the impact on border traffic

With regard to border controls, the ministers have now pledged to minimize their impact on local communities and the transport of goods. Siemoniak explained: "We have discussed how we can make the situation as acceptable as possible for all road users at the borders." The Federal Ministry of the Interior stated that both ministers agreed "that the restoration of control-free traffic within the European Schengen area must be the goal of joint measures."

The meeting in Warsaw reportedly also dealt with the protection of Ukrainian refugees, the fight against crime and terrorist threats.