(ANSA) - TARANTO, 04 JAN - "We exclude the seizure of GeoBarents, there is no valid reason. We are spending more money on legal matters than on search and rescue. It is a paradox, it is ridiculous. We are saving lives and we are consulting the lawyers to contest every measure, every new rule to see if this is in line with the legislation, including international ones".
This was stated by Juan Matias Gil, head of mission of Doctors Without Borders, present in the port of Taranto where the Geo Barents is docked with 85 migrants on board, including 9 unaccompanied minors.
Gil underlines that "the assistance was requested and coordinated by the Italian authorities. Therefore, there is no reason for the kidnapping and for any type of sanction".
The head of mission then added: "The migrants' conditions are good, there are no major medical emergencies. We have provided them with information on what their rights are"- (ANSA).