Austria urges Germany to respect EU law amid border checks

Austria on Thursday urged Germany to respect EU border law, as German police stepped up checks.

Germany’s neighbours have voiced concern at Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s plans to increase checks at the country’s borders and turn away ayslum seekers, a policy which critics have argued contravenes EU law.

While Vienna has outlined its support for a tighter line on immigration, it has warned the new administration which took office on Wednesday in Berlin against breaching EU laws.

“Austria generally welcomes Germany’s endeavours in the fight against the smuggling mafia and illegal migration,” the Austrian Interior Ministry said.

“We assume that German authorities will adhere to the European legal order in all measures that are taken.”