ROME, Aug. 31 (Xinhua) -- The Italian government announced on Monday that it would extend border controls on arrivals from Spain for a further 15 days.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez (C) observes the work of the Civil Guard in Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta, on July 31, 2026. (Photo: Xinhua)

The measure, which took effect on Aug. 1 following a migration crisis in Ceuta, a Spanish enclave in North Africa, was extended because the circumstances that prompted Italy to reintroduce border controls remain, according to the Italian Interior Ministry.

Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi told reporters on Monday that the decision was based on an assessment by the Committee for Migration Analysis and Border Security, as the Spanish government and the European Union (EU) were working to address the situation.

Piantedosi expressed hope that the extension would be the last, which would mean that the situation in the area is moving toward normalization as expected. Italy is willing to cooperate with Spain and the EU in all possible forms, he said.

In response, the Spanish government also decided to extend border controls for an additional 15 days for passengers arriving from Italy by air or sea.

Ceuta is one of the main entry points for migrants seeking to enter the EU. The Spanish government has described Italy's control measures as "unjustified, discriminatory and contrary to the interests of the European Union."