Dear friends,
It is a pleasure for me to be here in Berlin
I would like to thank Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier for hosting this discussion, which brings together key political, economic and international stakeholders to discuss the current migration challenges.
We are not where we were a year ago. Made progress but ot here yet. Commission has proposed many mesures, working to address these challenges.
Whether it is about offering protection and integration opportunities, addressing root causes, fighting smugglers or improving returns – we all need each other.
This is a global challenge and needs a global approach.
Germany is role model and essential player in this area.
Our cooperation with them is key.
Today’s discussions come one day before I will present a second package to reform the EU asylum system, tomorrow in Brussels.
All these elements are interconnected.
Europe is working towards a stronger comprehensive approach within the EU, but also globally.