EU restricts sale of inflatable boats to Libya

The European Union has restricted the sale of inflatable boats to Libya aiming to reduce the number of migrants dangerously crossing into Europe across the Mediterranean.

EU foreign ministers agreed on Monday to allow member countries ban such supply including outboard boats “where there are reasonable grounds to believe that they will be used by people smugglers and human traffickers”.

They also agreed to extend a border aid mission in Libya, where most of the 100,000 refugees and migrants departed from this year to arrive in Italy.

A statement said the measure will also apply to boats and motors transiting through the EU, but not to fishermen or others with legitimate need for them.

The treacherous migrant crossings have recently increased causing an influx especially in Italy.

Reuters