Italy Defies Spanish Demand to Lift Border Curbs Amid Migrant Row
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At a glance
- Italy has refused Spain's demand to lift border controls by Sunday.
- The controls were imposed after a mass influx of migrants into Spain's Ceuta enclave.
- Spain has threatened 'proportionate measures' if Italy does not comply.
Story so far
A diplomatic row has erupted between Italy and Spain. Italy imposed border controls on arrivals from Spain following a migrant crisis in Ceuta. Spain has threatened reciprocal measures unless the controls are lifted by Sunday, calling them 'unjustified'. Italy has refused, citing security risks and a potential new migrant wave, and will maintain the curbs until at least August 15.
Latest development
Italy has rejected an ultimatum from Spain to lift border controls on travellers, stating it would not bow to 'impositions' and would maintain the measures until at least August 15. The dispute follows a mass influx of migrants into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta.
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