European media outlet Politico reported that 19 EU member states have signed a letter calling for the rapid establishment of migrant reception centers in third countries, as part of an initiative organized by the Danish and Italian governments.
France caught by surprise
The report stated, "The letter caught France unprepared." It quoted an unnamed diplomat saying, "If the letter had been signed only by Danish and Italian officials, it wouldn't have been a big problem. But with 19 countries signing, it became a very serious matter."
Macron's previous statement
French President Emmanuel Macron had previously stated in a declaration that he had never seen migrant reception centers in third countries actually work.
European Parliament's decision
Last week, the European Parliament voted on legislation allowing for the establishment of centers in third countries for migrants subject to deportation. The changes to migration law were supported by 418 MEPs, while 218 voted against and 30 abstained.
German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt also said earlier this year that he expected agreements to be signed with states outside the EU for the establishment of joint centers for migrants whose asylum claims have been rejected.