Q: Commissioner you are difficult position, aren’t you? Even though dual nationals are allowed using their second passport, how does the Commission stand up for what you see as European values against this decision?
A: Good evening Richard, let me tell you that the European Union is built on values. As I said, the EU does not discriminate on the basis of religion, nationality or origin – not for migration, not for asylum or any other policy. To be frank with you, I will not hide that I am worried about what I see. I hope that the recently announced ban will indeed be TEMPORARY until the new administration works out its policy on refugees.
Yesterday I spoke to Secretary John Kelly and I am glad he clarified that the Executive Order will not affect EU nationals with dual nationalities. This was one of the main concerns of the Europeans during these days.
Q: You have got a Summit coming up in Malta with migration back on the agenda. There is also right wing grumbling in large parts of Europe, nationalism on the rise and there are elections in 3 very important countries. At the moment it doesn’t look for you.
A: We are at a crossroad in 2017, with many important elections coming up in Europe. As I said last time you were offering your hospitability, I still believe that one of the biggest threats to our unity and cohesion is precisely the rise of nationalism and xenophobia. Our citizens are worried and have fears – but we have to address these fears, take them away; NOT fuel them!
Some people feel disenfranchised by globalization – but all our challenges are global now, we have to admit it: migration, security, climate, even the economy. This is why our responses should be united and joint. In Malta, in two days from now, the leaders of Europe will address this issue and they are going to do it in a very responsible way. But in order to address this issue which is global we have to cooperate with the US and other global stakeholders.