Schulz on the latest tragedy in the Mediterranean

"We have received news reports of yet another tragedy off the coasts of Libya in which about 400 migrants are feared dead. This would be a tragedy of immense proportions. My thoughts are with the families of the victims. I thank the rescue workers for their admirable efforts in these difficult hours.

The response to the repetitiveness and magnitude of these tragedies cannot be apathy, but it must be an urgent and comprehensive solution to this calamity.

These events also confirm once more how unstable the situation in Libya is and how urgent it is to find a political solution to the conflict in the country. The Libyan crisis is costing lives both within and outside Libya.

In the last week, more than 6000 migrants have been rescued by Italian authorities in the Mediterranean and the International Organization for Migration has recorded 900 deaths since the start of the year. In the current situation, we can expect a continued rise in numbers.

As I have stated repeatedly in the past, the migration and refugee question in the Mediterranean is not just an issue for individual countries, it is one the European Union must treat as its own. The Mediterranean is Europe's frontier and to this day it is the deadliest border in the world. We must show solidarity and resolve in tackling this common challenge."