Mitov: Bulgaria should also be supported financially to resist migration pressure
16 March 2015 News
Minister Daniel Mitov participated in the regular Foreign Affairs Council meeting, which was held today in Brussels. The problem with the increasing migration pressure on EU borders was among the main topics on the meeting's agenda. Ministers agreed on the need for a comprehensive approach and measures for dealing with and managing the increasing migration flows in the Mediterranean and along the EU's southern land borders, including Bulgaria. The need to increase cooperation with countries of origin and transit, as well as to develop protection programs, voluntary repatriation and reintegration of refugees in their homelands, was also discussed during the meeting.
Special attention was given to the need to increase support for the countries most affected by migration pressure. Speaking at the meeting, Minister Mitov stressed the need of financial assistance for Bulgaria, due to both the increased migration pressure and the refugees already in the country. According to him, better synergy is needed between EU Member States, based on a solidarity approach.
The Council discussed also the preparations for the Eastern Partnership Summit that will take place in Riga in May 2015. It was emphasized that the Eastern Partnership aims at creating a common democratic space, prosperity and stability. Ministers reaffirmed EU's readiness to develop the political ties and economic integration with the Eastern Partnership countries, taking into account their free choice and targets. They underscored the importance of the visa liberalization process as a tool to stimulate reform and cooperation with Eastern Partners.
Ministers also discussed the crisis in Libya, reaffirming their full support to the negotiations under the auspices of the Special Representative of the UN Secretary General Bernardino Leon for reconciliation and formation of a government of national unity. The lack of state and institutions helps extremists to seize territories, said Minister Mitov. During the meeting, participants discussed the ways EU can contribute to the stabilization of the country. Ministers emphasized the importance of cooperation with Libya's neighbours and regional bodies such as the League of Arab States and African Union to address common threats such as human and arms trafficking and terrorism.
The Council adopted EU strategy for Syria and Iraq as well as the ISIL/Da'esh threat . The Strategy outlines the actions which the EU and Member States will take to help restore peace and security in Syria and Iraq, as well as support countries affected by the crisis.
In the context of the adoption of Written Commitment to reforms by BiH Parliament and political leaders, the Council reaffirmed the impending entry into force of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement.
The Council also held a discussion on the development of relations with Africa, focusing on strengthening cooperation with regional organizations in maintaining peace and security, combating terrorism, developing mutually beneficial trade and economic relations.