French deportations
January 7, 2010
France expelled more than 29,000 illegal immigrants last year, exceeding government targets.
The figure, announced by Immigration Minister Eric Besson, is 2,000 more than a target set by French President Nicolas Sarkozy.
About 175,000 illegal immigrants had initially arrived in France on long-term visas during 2009, according to government figures. In the same period, Besson told France's Europe 1 radio station, 108,000 foreigners were given French nationality.
Policy "must be firm"
Besson reiterated that French policy on immigration was "firm and fair." He said that foreigners who settled legally were welcome and given help to integrate by learning the language as well as finding employment and accommodation.
"Therefore," said Besson, "we must deport those who enter illegally."
Among the deportations were the controversial repatriations of 12 Afghans, who were sent back to their home country on planes chartered with Britain.
Besson, who was criticized for the deportations to Afghanistan, pointed out that Britain deported 1,000 Afghans during 2009.
rc/AFP/Reuters/KNA
Editor. Susan Houlton