Athens - Some 36 migrants were rescued from the Aegean Sea off the coast of Greece Saturday, following a rescue operation in heavy seas and strong winds, Greek authorities have said.

The fishing boat in which the migrants were travelling began to take on water during the night, and gave an emergency signal. Greek state radio reported that a local patrol vessel responded and succeeded in rescuing the occupants of the troubled craft.

The Aegean is a common route for migrants of many nationalities attempting to enter the European Union from Turkey via Greece. In the past year dozens of would-be migrants have drowned in the Aegean. (dpa)