At the informal meeting of the European Council held on Friday 3 February in Malta, attended by Prime Minister Māris Kučinskis, the EU Heads of State and Government agreed on the declaration to further stem illegal migration.
The Declaration provides for different types of assistance to African countries, mainly Libya, through which the asylum seekers are going to Europe. Such a step was taken to curb illegal migration, by deterring the movement of these people to Europe.
M. Kučinskis points out to the need to promote cooperation with Libya in order to reduce illegal migration flows to Europe. "We have to work actively in this area and seek solutions by reducing the possibility of uncontrolled entry of a large number of illegal migrants in Europe as efficiently as possible. The main job has to be done already in African countries," said the Prime Minister.
This issue will be addressed, taking into account that the fragile domestic political and security situation in Libya poses additional risks of increased illegal migration flows.
The new partnership framework for cooperation with countries of origin and transit of illegal migration is an important tool to tackle illegal migration and underlying causes. To prevent the illegal migration flows from Libya and neighbouring countries, the EU is already implementing the Frontex Joint Operations, the EU Border Management Assistance Mission in Libya that provides support for surveillance of land border and other measures.
As announced, on 3 February, Prime Minister M. Kučinskis participates in the informal summit of the European Council in Malta.
Andrejs Vaivars
Press Secretary to the Prime Minister
Phone: 29228678
E-mail: Andrejs.Vaivars@mk.gov.lv