The European Commission is promoting a “European response to a common European challenge” in the field of migration, the President of the Commission points out in her letter to European leaders. Ursula von der Leyenin view of the summit on June 29 and 30, during which the immigration issue will be discussed, among other things.

In her letter, von der Leyen emphasizes that this time the European leaders will meet against the backdrop of significant progress on the key elements of the New Deal on Migration and Asylum. “The general approaches reached on the Asylum and Migration Management Regulation and the Asylum Procedures Regulation are an important milestone. The compromise found between the Member States offers a feasible and fair solution, which will also protect the rights of migrants and asylum seekers”, emphasizes the President of the Commission. He adds that this compromise achieves a “fair balance between solidarity and responsibility” and provides a “firm basis” for starting discussions with the European Parliament.

“Last week’s wreck is yet another call to action, underscoring the urgent need to step up our work with partner countries, redouble our efforts to combat migrant smugglingto curb irregular departures on overcrowded and unseaworthy vessels and to work on alternative legal avenues, ending the unnecessary suffering and unfortunate loss of life,” von der Leyen’s letter to European leaders continued.

“Collaboration with key partners remains crucial,” emphasizes its president Committee and new integrated partnerships with third countries will be sought, based on mutually beneficial cooperation, such as the initiative with Tunisia.

Regarding the action plan for Eastern Mediterranean, von der Leyen stresses that the Commission will continue the work, based on the EU-Turkey statement. “This requires a comprehensive dialogue with Turkey based on discussions with member states,” she says in her letter.

It is pointed out, finally, that the effective management of the external borders remains a priority. “The challenges and evolving complexity at our borders, including hybrid threats, require operational flexibility and adaptability, while also taking into account the current geopolitical landscape. In this regard, we must continue to step up our support to Member States facing challenges at their external borders. Immediate support has been provided to member states to strengthen the control of the EU’s external borders through Frontex, the provision of equipment and electronic surveillance capability,” said von der Leyen’s letter to European leaders.