Belgium, UK step up cooperation against migrant smuggling networks

BRUSSELS

Belgium and the United Kingdom are looking to deepen cooperation to combat human smuggling along Belgium's west coast, where authorities say attempts by migrants to cross the Channel in small boats have increased in recent months.

Belgian Interior Minister Bernard Quintin visited a police operation in the coastal town of Adinkerke on Thursday, alongside UK Home Office Minister Alex Norris, Belga news agency reported.

The visit highlighted growing concerns over migrant crossings organized by smuggling networks operating in the region, according to the ministers.

Quintin said Belgium and the UK already maintain strong cooperation but emphasized the need to further improve information-sharing mechanisms.

"We already have good cooperation with our British colleagues, but we want to further strengthen our exchange of information. Since Brexit, this exchange has become more difficult. We need an appropriate legal framework to ensure smooth exchange," Quintin said.

The minister added that authorities are also examining ways to expand operational cooperation between Belgian and British police forces.

Quintin stressed that faster intervention is "crucial" as the number of attempted crossings from Belgium has increased. "This way, we can prevent the situation from escalating," he added.

Norris also underlined the importance of coordination between the two countries, describing Belgium as an important partner in efforts to curb irregular migration.