site.btaBulgarian Interior Minister, EU Home Affairs Commissioner Sign Cooperation Framework on Border, Migration Management

Bulgaria‘s Interior Minister Kalin Stoyanov and EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson Monday signed a Strategic Framework for Cooperation between the European Commission, EU Agencies, and Bulgaria, the Interior Ministry‘s press centre said.

Bulgaria's contribution and proactive involvement are an integral part of the joint European efforts to address migration challenges and improve the functioning of Schengen, Johansson said.

The document addresses key issues in migration and border management. The strategic framework will build on the cooperation between Bulgaria, the European Commission, and European agencies in key areas such as border management, asylum procedures, effective returns, and police cooperation. It will also facilitate the preparation of Bulgarian institutions for the implementation of new European legislation on migration and asylum.

The adopted framework for cooperation builds on a successful joint pilot project, which has significantly supported the competent Bulgarian authorities and has given visibility to Bulgaria‘s long-standing efforts to maintain a high level of security at the EU's external borders, preventing irregular migration and secondary movements. The document also takes into account that the Schengen acquis will be fully applicable in Bulgaria and that, as from 31 March 2024, controls at the internal air and sea borders shall be lifted.

Also on Monday, the European Commission launched a new funding specific action of EUR 85 million under the Border Management and Visa Instrument 2021 – 2027 to enhance national capabilities at the EU external borders. Bulgaria and Romania can now apply for additional funding to extend or upgrade the existing border surveillance systems; the purchase of means of transport, including thermo-vision capabilities; the purchase of operating equipment such as movement detection cameras and thermo-vision cameras; and the development or upgrades of systems.

Interior Minister Stoyanov is taking part in a Justice and Home Affairs Council meeting in Brussels, which includes the adoption of the Strategic Framework for Cooperation between Bulgaria and the European Commission. The items on the Council‘s agenda on Monday include the Schengen area, asylum, and migration, among others.