Radev jumped on Boyko Rashkov

The mechanisms for the protection of the European Union’s external borders and the prevention of illegal trafficking in immigrants were discussed by President Rumen Radev with the Minister of Interior of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Nuris during a meeting held today at Dondukov.

The guest is visiting Bulgaria at the invitation of his Bulgarian counterpart Boyko Rashkov. The Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to Bulgaria Marios Sava Kunduridis also took part in the conversation.

Since the end of last year, both Bulgaria and Cyprus have been facing increased migration flows, it was noted during the meeting. Cyprus has seen an increase in illegal immigrants from sub-Saharan Africa, with more than those coming from the Middle East.

Since the beginning of 2022, Bulgaria has identified nearly 16,000 attempts to cross the border, mostly Afghans, more than three times more than in the same period last year.

During the meeting, Rumen Radev and Nikos Nuris said that as the EU’s external borders, the two countries are responsible for controlling those entering Europe, so more effective solidarity in European policies is needed to avoid a repeat of the 2016-2017 immigration crisis. d.

Strengthening the mechanisms for reliable border control and strengthening the security capabilities are important for the security not only of the region but also of the whole of Europe, was the common position of President Radev and Minister Nuris.

To this end, the EU must find the right balance between responsibility and solidarity, taking into account the concerns of countries at the external borders of the union and the specifics of each country, said the Bulgarian head of state. The mechanisms for return to illegal EU entry were also discussed during the meeting.

Bulgaria and Cyprus also share the common position that the countries receiving Ukrainian refugees should be adequately supported by the European Commission.

Cyprus supports Bulgaria’s accession to the Schengen area, the Cypriot Interior Minister said during the meeting.

–