The European Council condemns the instrumentalization of the immigration issue by specific countries and in particular – at this time – by Belarus, in the text of the conclusions of the Summit on Belarus held in Brussels.
The text states that the EU will continue to fight the hybrid attack launched by Belarus with a decisive response, addressing all dimensions of the crisis in accordance with Union law and international obligations, including fundamental rights.
The “27” also stress the need to develop the appropriate “tools” to tackle the instrumentalization of migration, with immediate action against transport operators facilitating or involved in trafficking in human beings or smuggling of migrants in connection with illegal entry into European Union territory. They also call on the Council and the Commission to consider ways of strengthening cooperation to support Member States facing specific challenges at the EU ‘s external borders, including border guards and air surveillance.
The European Council emphasizes in particular:
* the importance of effective guarding of the EU’s external borders, including strengthening the EU legal framework.
* the fight against trafficking
* the immediate implementation of the restrictive measures, following the adoption of the fifth package of registrations and the readiness to adopt additional measures if necessary
* assuring unhindered access of international organizations to Belarus and strengthening humanitarian assistance
* support for the return of migrants from Belarus
The European Council reiterates its call for the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners and calls for an end to the repression of civil society and the independent media. Reiterates the democratic right of the people of Belarus to elect their President through new, free and fair elections.
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