PM for close co-op with nearby regions to control migration to Europe

Prime Minister Petteri Orpo on Friday underscored the need for closer cooperation with the neighbouring regions to control migration to Europe more effectively.

“Closer cooperation with the EU's neighbouring regions is essential in order to control migration to Europe more effectively,” said Orpo at the meeting of European Council in Brussels, according to a government press release.

On Friday, the second day of the meeting, the EU leaders continued the discussion on migration, which they had started on the previous day.

President of the European Council Charles Michel in his statement said that migration is a challenge that requires a European response.

The EU seeks to address the root causes of illegal immigration, which cause people to leave their home countries and embark on a dangerous journey, and to strengthen cooperation with Tunisia and other countries of origin and transit in order to manage migration flows.

The European Council on Friday also discussed the Commission's recent communication on enhancing the EU's economic security.

Finland considers that economic security must be based on developing the EU's strengths and the internal market and on improving competitiveness.

The EU leaders also continued their discussion on the EU’s relations with China. China is simultaneously a partner, an economic competitor and a challenger for the EU.

The European Council calls on China to press Russia to end its war of aggression against Ukraine and withdraw its troops. The EU also encourages China to take more ambitious action on climate change and to promote human rights and fundamental freedoms.

The European Council discussed preparations for the upcoming EU-CELAC summit in Brussels in July, which will bring together the EU and the Latin American and Caribbean states.

“I am pleased with the outcome of my first summit. During the two-day meeting we made progress on issues that are important for Finland. Yesterday we agreed that the EU would strengthen its security and defence capability and develop self-sufficiency in strategic sectors,” said Orpo.