Communication: Next operational steps in EU-Turkey cooperation in the field of migration

On 7 March 2016, the Heads of State or Government of the European Union and the Prime Minister of Turkey discussed EU-Turkey relations and the progress made in the implementation of the Joint Action Plan. It was agreed that bold moves were needed to close down people smuggling routes, to break the business model of the smugglers, to protect our external borders and to end the migration crisis in Europe. The need to break the link between getting in a boat and staying in Europe was emphasised.

To decrease the irregular flow of migrants from Turkey to the EU, the leaders warmly welcomed the additional proposals made by Turkey and agreed to work with Turkey on the basis of a set of six principles. The President of the European Council was requested to take forward these proposals and work out the details with Turkey before the March European Council. This Communication sets out how the six principles should be taken forward, delivering on the full potential for EU-Turkey cooperation while respecting European and international law.

Together with joint European solutions and the comprehensive implementation of the European Migration Agenda, cooperation between EU and Turkey is key for an effective response to the refugee and migrant challenge. These joint efforts to deal with refugees are part of our global engagement with Turkey as candidate country and as strategic partner.

ESO: Background information: Six Principles for further developing EU-Turkey Cooperation in tackling the Migration Crisis http://www.europeansources.info/record/press-release-six-principles-for-further-developing-eu-turkey-cooperation-in-tackling-the-migration-crisis/

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