site.btaBulgarian PM Borissov, European Council President Tusk Talk by Phone

Bulgarian PM Borissov, European Council President Tusk Talk by Phone

Sofia, August 31 (BTA) - In a telephone conversation on Wednesday, Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov and European Council President Donald Tusk discussed the preparations for the EU Summit in Bratislava on September 16, the Government Information Service said.

The conversation was initiated by Tusk, who will hold advance consultations with the rest of the members of the European Council as well.

Tusk pointed out that the migrant crisis in Europe and the search for a common European solution will top the agenda of the forthcoming forum. Within that context, Borissov familiarized him with the talks he held in Turkey with President Erdogan and Prime Minister Yildirim, as well as with the discussion in a broader format hosted by German Chancellor Angela Merkel. The Prime Minister presented the up-to-date situation on the Bulgarian borders and the action that this country is taking to curb the entry of illegal migrants into EU territory.

Borissov reiterated his position that the EU Member States and Turkey must understand each other's problems and all parties must jointly make an effort to honour the commitments reached so far.

"I am personally convinced that you are right, and I am ready to assist and help the achievement of practical results. To us, Bulgaria is an important partner, and we rely on your judgment as prime minister," Tusk said. He congratulated Borissov on the active diplomacy pursued during the meetings in Turkey and in Germany, adding that this approach should be retained.

Borissov and Tusk noted that the implementation of the March 2016 agreement is at the core of EU-Turkey partner relations. The President of the European Union further pointed out that at the discussions in Slovakia's capital he will insist on a common position in support of the Bulgarian State which, as a EU external border, is now containing the migrant crisis. He offered Borissov to present the additional requests of this country for financial, human and technical resources.

The two considered the possibility of Tusk visiting Bulgaria and touring the border together with Borissov.