“Bulgaria is making maximum efforts to ensure stable protection of the external borders and to counter the illegal activities of trafficking and smuggling networks.“ This was stated by Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov during his participation in a high-level meeting dedicated to the topic of migration, organized by the Prime Minister of Italy Giorgia Meloni and the Prime Minister of Denmark Mette Frederiksen. The conversation took place ahead of today's European Council meeting and brought together European leaders to discuss common challenges related to the management of migration processes, the protection of the EU's external borders and the deepening of the partnership with third countries.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the returns of irregular migrants are a key element of the effective management of migration processes, with Bulgaria supporting the creation of a common European return system based on MANDATORY mutual recognition of return decisions. The Prime Minister noted the intensification of communication with third countries that pose a migratory risk and welcomed the continued engagement of the European Commission and EU agencies in this dialogue.
As a good example in this regard, the Prime Minister pointed to the joint letter on voluntary and forced returns to Afghanistan, signed by 20 Ministers of Interior of the EU Member States, including Bulgaria. According to him, the initiative will contribute to a more coordinated and effective pan-European response to the challenges related to returns.
Rosen Zhelyazkov also welcomed the EU's ongoing work on improving the rules related to the concept of a “safe third country“ and the list of “countries of origin considered safe“, assuring that Bulgaria remains a constructive and reliable partner in the upcoming discussions.
Prime Minister Zhelyazkov emphasized our country's support for innovative solutions in the field of migration, including the creation of a European legal framework for return centers, in accordance with international law and with RESPECT FOR fundamental human rights.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Zhelyazkov emphasized that a lasting solution to migration challenges requires sustainable development in countries of origin and transit, and the next EU Multiannual Financial Framework must provide sufficient resources for flexible financing in this direction.