(ANSA) - BELGRADE, 22 SET - "A preliminary analysis of flows along the Balkan route shows that, in the first eight months of 2026, irregular entries into the European Union fell by 28% compared to the same period the previous year and by 42% compared to 2024. These trends are also supported by data collected at the Italian-Slovenian border," said Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi after a trilateral meeting with the Interior Ministers of Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia. Piantedosi also discussed the implementation of the measure to reinstate border controls, and the resulting temporary suspension of free movement under Schengen: "We confirmed that this measure was adopted with balance, prudence, and appropriateness, and in a manner that had virtually no impact on the crossing of that border by our respective citizens." He emphasised, "above all, the needs of cross-border commuters who cross the border—including for work—and who represent that specific category of cross-border citizens." Piantedosi then assured everyone that the goal is to get things back to normal as soon as possible. (ANSA).