In a press release today, the Secretary of State for Asylum and Migration, Nicole de Moor, underlined that the Belgian authorities are investing in the return - voluntary if possible, forced if necessary - of irregularly staying third-country nationals.

In order to increase the number of returns, the Secretary of State expanded the pool of escorts. According to the recent "migration deal", Frontex employees and employees from the Immigration Office, who are trained to do so, are also able to oversee return operations, always under the supervision of a police officer. 

It is also necessary to establish agreements with countries of origin so that they can readmit their nationals through smooth procedures. The Secretary of State has regular contacts with foreign representatives for this purpose. Last week she had constructive talks with the Moroccan ambassador in Belgium. Earlier this year, she also made agreements with the Vietnamese and Tunisian authorities.

For further information, please read the press release from the State Secretary (in Dutch).