EU calls for comprehensive agreement on asylum system

The European Union (EU) member states needed to conclude a comprehensive agreement on asylum system, so as to be better prepared for future challenges, EU Commissioner for Migration and Home Affairs Dimitris Avramopoulos said Thursday.

"We have to find temporary solutions regarding the migrants' debarkation, but, at the same time, we need to reach a comprehensive and structured agreement regarding our common asylum system," he said.

Avramopoulos was in Bucharest for a two-day informal meeting of Justice and Home Affairs Ministers of the EU, organized by the Romanian Presidency at the EU Council.

"We have to do more in the future, because we don't know what the future holds for us. Europe should be better prepared for future challenges," said the EU official, adding that "we need solid political will from all member states."

"I am counting very much on the Romanian Presidency to reach an agreement," he said.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner pleaded for the strengthening of the Schengen Area, saying that "Schengen is the greatest achievement of all times and it is our duty to maintain, strengthen and improve the free movement space."