site.btaForeign Minister Mitov: Instability in Middle East Puts Strong Migration Pressure on Bulgaria and EU

Foreign Minister Mitov: Instability in Middle East Puts Strong Migration Pressure on Bulgaria and EU

Sofia, October 16 (BTA) - Speaking at a regular meeting with the
ambassadors of EU member states here Thursday, Bulgarian
Foreign Minister Daniel Mitov said that instability in the
Middle East puts strong migration pressure on Bulgaria and the
whole European Union, said his Ministry.

The meeting of the Foreign Minister with the diplomats was
hosted by the Italian Ambassador.

Mitov dwelled on the grave situation in Syria and Iraq which
causes lasting instability and poses a serious risk for the
neighbouring countries, the whole EU and global security.
"Bulgaria supports all actions of our allies and partners aimed
against the terrorists from the Islamic State," he said.

The Minister puts special emphasis on the strong migration
pressure on Bulgaria. "Despite the measures that have been
taken, the refugee wave has been swelling in the past year and
we will seek support and assistance from the European Commission
and our other partners."

The meeting also discussed an upcoming Foreign Affairs Council
in Luxembourg (October 20).

Mitov further dwelled on the Bulgarian position on the situation
in Ukraine. "The withdrawal from the border with Ukraine of the
Russian army which, according to official information, was
holding military exercises, gives some hope for a solution to
the conflict. At the same time, it is important for us to see
that after a new Parliament is formed in Kiev, the Ukrainian
government implements important economic and political reforms,"
said the Minister.

He also said that Sofia follows closely the situation of the
Bulgarian minority in Ukraine and maintains regular contacts
with them.

Cooperation in the energy sector, the EU enlargement policy and
the Eastern Partnership were also discussed by the top Bulgarian
diplomats and the EU ambassadors.