The government sets six priorities for tackling refugee and migration issues

The meeting established the government's priorities in this area, always in close cooperation and with the technical assistance of the European Commission. The prime minister asked the ministers to focus their actions in the immediate future on the following areas:

1. The immediate improvement of living conditions for refugees and migrants in Greece, especially vulnerable groups, with top priority given to the protection of unaccompanied children.
2. Strengthening the protection of the common Greek and European borders, especially the maritime borders, with a new integrated plan that will put the European force under Greek command with clear operational rules of action. It should be noted that this plan includes a better use of Frontex forces, more frequent Coast Guard patrols and improvements in its equipment and means, as well as the full use of European resources with full transparency.
3. The reform by the end of 2019 of the institutional framework for asylum, aiming at short, fair and efficient delivery.
4. Faithful implementation of the EU-Turkey Joint Declaration for managing migration and relief of overcrowding on the Greek islands.
5. Completing work at the reception and identification center on Samos to ensure decent and safe living conditions for refugees and migrants.
6. The integration of Community directives on security policy.