At least two people have drowned and about 20 are missing after a boat carrying immigrants trying to enter Greece illegally sank off the holiday island of Samos, authorities say.

A Merchant Marine Ministry statement said 13 people had been rescued and a flotilla of small vessels assisted by two helicopters was combing the area for survivors.

The sinking occurred 11 miles north west of Samos in the eastern Aegean Sea, which is close to the Turkish mainland. Turkish vessels were taking part in the search.

Greece is a major entry point for people from troubled areas of the Middle East and Africa seeking a better life in Europe.

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