Alarming images of parched and exhausted Africans on board attempting to reach the shores of Canary Islands have increased the urgency to fight against illegal immigration. Recently, representatives from Europe and Africa met in order to come up with joint plans in order to resolve the growing problem of illegal immigration particularly in the
distant Spanish territory, which stands as a silent witness to thousands of Africans who reach secretly its shores.
Based on reports, hundreds of illegal immigrants are believed to die during the voyages either from Senegal or Mauritania that span more than 1,000 km. During the 2-day assembly, officials from more than fifty European and African nations worked together in order to develop a strategy by combining tougher security and aid in order to convince especially the young Africans to remain in their homelands and thus avoid the perilous voyages.
The plan was originally prepared by Spain, Morocco, and France. These three countries have faced the increasing influx of
illegal immigrants during recent years. The said plan though is due to be adopted by other European and African ministers during an assembly on migration. The upcoming assembly will be held this July in Rabat.
