site.btaBulgaria Using Its Best Endeavours to Ensure EU's External Border Protection, Counter Smuggling, PM Says

Bulgaria is using its best endeavours to ensure strong protection of the EU's external borders and to counter the illegal activities of trafficking and smuggling networks, the Government Information Service quoted Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov as saying during a high-level meeting on migration on Thursday. The meeting, organized by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, took place ahead of a European Council meeting and brought together European leaders to discuss common challenges in managing migration, securing the EU’s external borders, and strengthening partnerships with third countries.

The Bulgarian Prime Minister said that the return of illegal migrants is a key element of effective migration management. He reaffirmed Bulgaria’s support for the creation of a common European return system based on the mandatory mutual recognition of return decisions. Zhelyazkov also highlighted the intensification of dialogue with third countries that pose migration risks and welcomed the continued engagement of the European Commission and EU agencies in this dialogue.

As a positive example, the Prime Minister cited the joint letter on voluntary and forced returns to Afghanistan, signed by 20 interior ministers from EU Member States, including Bulgaria. In his words, this initiative would contribute to a more coordinated and effective pan-European response to the challenges of return procedures.

Zhelyazkov also welcomed the EU’s ongoing work to improve the rules regarding the safe third country concept and the list of "countries of origin considered safe," noting that Bulgaria remains a constructive and reliable partner in upcoming discussions.

He reaffirmed Bulgaria’s support for innovative migration solutions, including the establishment of a European legal framework for return centres in line with international law and with full respect for fundamental human rights.

Zhelyazkov concluded by saying that a lasting solution to migration challenges requires sustainable development in countries of origin and transit and the next EU Multiannual Financial Framework must allocate sufficient resources for flexible funding in this area.