Crisis in Libya and migratory pressure feature on the agenda of EU Foreign Affairs Council
21 April 2015 News
Libyan crisis and the increased migration flows into Europe across the Mediterranean dominated today’s Foreign Affairs Council, which was held in Luxembourg. EU top diplomats observed a minute of silence to pay tribute to the victims of yesterday's tragic accident off the coast of Italy.
The Council reaffirmed its support for the negotiations under UN auspices on the formation of a national unity government in Libya, which can rely on the support of the international community. Achieving national reconciliation is essential for building effective state institutions to ensure security and to address the challenges of the economic crisis, terrorism and illegal migration.
Following the recent tragic events in the Mediterranean, EU High Representative Federica Mogherini convened an extraordinary meeting of foreign and interior affairs ministers. Commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos presented on behalf of the Commissioners a 10 point plan of the immediate actions to be taken in response to the crisis situation, including combating trafficking networks, strengthening the Frontex operation in the Mediterranean, sharing responsibility between Member States in receiving refugees and asylum-seekers.
Deputy Prime Minister Rumiana Bachvarova expressed Bulgaria’s support for the proposed measures, stressing that besides the problems at sea borders, the EU should focus on the strong migratory pressure on land borders, including Bulgaria as an external border of the Union. Minister Daniel Mitov emphasized on the need to resolve the crisis in Syria and Iraq, as well as rapid entry into force of the readmission agreement with Turkey and adoption of a protocol for joint monitoring of the border between Bulgaria and Turkey, and Bulgaria, Turkey and Greece. He underscored the need to allocate more EU resources to tackle the problem of migration.
In conclusion, High Representative Mogherini said that today's extraordinary meeting, which brought together 41 ministers in less than 24 hours, is a clear sign of the strong political will of the member states and the shared view on the need of a comprehensive strategic approach. The topic will be discussed at the highest political level at the extraordinary European Council meeting on 24 April.
Foreign Ministers held a strategic debate on EU relations with Latin America and the Caribbean. They agreed on the need to further deepen political and economic cooperation with the region, as well as the partnership on global issues. EU top diplomats also took stock of the situation in Yemen, reaffirming their support for the legitimate authorities in the country and condemning the destabilising unilateral actions taken by the Houthis and military units loyal to ex-President Saleh. They called all parties to the conflict to launch an inclusive political process.
The Foreign Affairs Council continues with a meeting of the Eastern Partnership foreign ministers to discuss the preparations of the Eastern Partnership Summit in Riga on 21-22 May 2015.
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