EU's Support for Canary Islands Amid Migration Surge

The European Union has announced a significant aid package of 14 million euros to the Canary Islands to enhance their capacity to accommodate a growing number of migrants. This initiative follows an earlier allocation of 20 million euros in March.

Margaritis Schinas, the Vice-President of the European Commission, met with local President Fernando Clavijo Batlle to discuss the urgent needs of the archipelago, which has seen over 22,300 migrants arrive from West Africa between January and August.

The EU aims to strengthen collaborations with countries like Mauritania, Senegal, and Gambia to address the root causes of migration. Additionally, the EU border agency Frontex is expected to take on a more active role.

The situation has been a pressing concern for many Spaniards, prompting criticism towards the Spanish government for perceived neglect during the crisis.