European Union

Good evening. Today, leaders discussed the handling of the migration crisis. All the elements of a strategy are there, but there is still a delivery deficit when it comes to hotspots, relocation, resettlement and returns. Above all, we are failing to protect our external borders. That is why leaders have decided to speed up on all these issues.

In my view, the most important discussion today was on the EU's external borders. Not only because I have been advocating external border control from the very beginning of this crisis, but also because without it we will fail as a political community. And by that I mean potentially more serious consequences than dismantling Schengen. Tonight, we can be a bit more optimistic, because all leaders have agreed to protect Schengen. In this context, we agreed to rapidly examine the European Commission's proposal of strengthening the EU's external borders, including the European Border Guard idea. Ministers should adopt their position by July, but the leaders' broad acceptance means that in the future Europe will not remain vulnerable because the Schengen border is insufficiently protected.

This evening I have also received good news from Frontex about an agreement with Greece on deploying a Rapid Border Intervention Team already in December. This is yet another indication that we have started to move in the right direction when it comes to the protection of the external border.

On the UK, we had a substantive and constructive discussion over dinner. I didn't want to sound too dramatic before the meeting but I do believe that tonight was a make-or-break moment. Prime Minister Cameron set out in detail his position, in particular regarding benefits and free movement. He explained his request for a model based on four years and reiterated the openness to alternative solutions only if they could achieve the same objective. Leaders voiced their concerns, but also demonstrated willingness to look for compromises. Building on this positive debate, we agreed to work together to find solutions in all four baskets raised by PM Cameron. Hard work on all baskets is still ahead of us. First, we will work closely with the UK and the Commission. And in the run-up to the February European Council, I will table a concrete text to all the leaders.

The European Council will reconvene tomorrow at 10 to discuss strengthening the Economic and Monetary Union and the Energy Union, as well as the fight against terrorism. Thank you

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EU leaders are expected to decide further measures to reinforce  EU action against terrorism and discuss migration topics, the Five presidents' report on the Economic and Monetary Union, the completion of the single market and a forward-looking climate policy following a historic climate deal at the COP21 in Paris. The European Council also discusses the state of play on the referendum in the UK over EU membership and is expected to adopt conclusions on Syria.

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The European Union welcomes the signature of the Libya Political Agreement, and pledges support to the upcoming Government of National Accord. 

A historic step has been taken today towards restoring peace and stability for the Libyan people. The signature of the Libya Political Agreement by representatives of the members of the House of Representatives and General National Congress, Independents, Municipalities, political parties and civil society paves the way to a peaceful solution to a terrible crisis that has divided, impoverished, and inflicted so much suffering on the Libyan people, and which poses a growing threat not just to Libya itself but also its neighbours, including the EU. 

The EU pledges its support to the upcoming Government of National Accord, and will no longer have official contacts with individuals claiming to be part of institutions which are not validated by the Libya political agreement. 

The EU stands ready to offer immediate and substantial support in a number of different areas that will be prioritised together with the Libyan authorities: a 100 million euro aid package is already available including for the delivery of services the Libyan population urgently needs. 

The EU underlines the Libyan ownership of this process and the importance of continuing to keep it open and inclusive. The responsibility lies with the Libyans for the successful implementation of the agreement and the EU, and the international community stand ready to support them in this endeavour. The EU expresses its gratitude to UNSMIL and the UNSGSR Martin Kobler for the dedication and skill they have shown in bringing Libyan parties together for this important step.

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Source : © European Union, 2014 - EP