European Council

I. JOBS, GROWTH AND COMPETITIVENESS

1. To steer the Council's discussions on the 2016 European Semester, the European Council endorsed the policy priority areas of the Annual Growth Survey: re-launching investment, pursuing structural reforms to modernise our economies, and conducting responsible fiscal policies. Member States will reflect these priorities in their forthcoming National Reform Programmes and Stability or Convergence Programmes. Such policies will contribute to placing the current recovery on a more sustainable basis and to fostering growth and employment. The European Council notes the Commission consultation on social issues and stresses the importance of well-functioning labour markets and welfare systems.

2. At its June meeting, the European Council will discuss the progress achieved in the work towards completing the Economic and Monetary Union. It will also adopt an Agenda for the implementation of all aspects of the Single Market, including delivery of the Commission's Single Market, Digital Single Market and Capital Markets Union strategies, with a view to exploiting in full its untapped growth and productivity potential.

3. In the light of the difficult situation of the European steel sector, in a context of overcapacity at global level, the European Council calls on the Council to rapidly examine the Commission's communication with a view to taking strong action in response to this challenge

4. The European Council notes the situation of farmers, notably in the dairy and pig sectors, who are seriously affected by the drop in prices. It invites the Commission to quickly act upon the outcome of the Council (Agriculture) meeting of 15 March. It will closely follow the evolution of this sector of such importance for Europe.

5. The European Council notes that the Commission intends to publish shortly a communication on an action plan on VAT. It welcomes the intention of the Commission to include proposals for increased flexibility for Member States with respect to reduced rates of VAT, which would provide the option to Member States of VAT zero rating‎ for sanitary products.

II. CLIMATE AND ENERGY

6. The European Council welcomes the submission by the Commission of the package on energy security as well as of the Communication "Road from Paris". It encourages the legislators to proceed with work on the proposals to reinforce the EU energy security as a matter of priority on the basis of its previous conclusions and the relevant strategies endorsed by the European Council. It also recalled the importance of a fully-functioning and interconnected energy market. Based on the Climate Communication, it underlines the EU's commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions domestically and to increase the share of renewable energies and improve energy efficiency as agreed by the European Council in October 2014. Adapting the legislation in order to implement this framework remains a priority. The European Council invites the Commission to rapidly present all the remaining relevant proposals to this end so as to swiftly engage the legislative process. The European Council looks forward to the signature of the Paris Agreement in New York on 22 April and underlines the need for the European Union and its Member States to be able to ratify the Paris Agreement as soon as possible and on time so as to be Parties as of its entry into force.

Today marks the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. 

While many positive steps have been made around the world in eliminating racial discrimination, we remain confronted by critical barriers and challenges.  

In September of last year, European and world leaders agreed on the United Nations Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development, pledging to leave no one behind in our common commitment to eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable development across the globe. Conversely, we are also faced these days with increasing challenges connected to the global economic crisis, migration, terrorism, poverty and rising inequalities. 

These challenges affect in particular those who are already subject to discrimination on the grounds of their colour, race, descent, caste and ethnic or national origin. The European Union will continue to operate to eliminate all forms of discriminations, within its borders and in the world, so that all may enjoy human rights and fundamental freedoms, without restrictions or exceptions. The EU also stands firm in addressing and combating hate speech. All human beings are equal in dignity and are entitled to enjoy their rights as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.   

On this day, the European Union once again calls on all states that have not yet done so to become parties to the International Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Racial Discrimination. Determined and effective measures at the national, regional, and international levels are essential if we are to prevent and put an end to racial discrimination.   

The European Union will continue to work closely with all our partner countries, regional and international organisations, as well as civil society for the elimination of racial discrimination across the world.

Two years on from the illegal annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol by the Russian Federation, the European Union remains firmly committed to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. 

The European Union reiterates that it does not recognise and continues to condemn this violation of international law. It remains a direct challenge to international security, with grave implications for the international legal order that protects the unity and sovereignty of all states. 

The European Union remains committed to fully implementing its non-recognition policy, including through restrictive measures. The EU calls again on UN Member States to consider similar non-recognition measures in line with the UNGA Resolution 68/262. 

The EU reaffirms its deep concern at the military build-up and the deterioration of the human rights situation in the Crimean peninsula, including the denial of freedom of expression, freedom of peaceful assembly, freedom of religion and belief, and the persecution of persons belonging to minorities, in particular the Crimean Tatars. The filing of a request to ban the activities of the Mejlis, a self-governing body of the Crimean Tatars, as an extremist organisation, is a particularly worrying development. The EU calls for full compliance with international human rights standards and other obligations under international law. All pending cases of human rights violations such as enforced disappearances, torture and killings should be thoroughly investigated.

Oleh Sentsov and Oleksandr Kolchenko, detained and sentenced in breach of international law, should be immediately released and guaranteed a safe return to Ukraine. Full, free and unrestricted access for international human rights actors to the whole territory of Ukraine, including Crimea and Sevastopol, continues to be paramount.

Good evening. Before I say anything else, let me express my deepest condolences to the victims and their families of yet another appalling terrorist attack here in Ankara. We cannot accept terrorism as the new normal. No matter how many times it has happened, we will never get used to it, and we will always fight it. On the 18th of February, EU leaders stood united with Turkey after the latest terrorist attack in Ankara, condemning terrorism in all forms and reaching out in solidarity. Let me reiterate this pledge and stress that we stand together in the fight against terrorism, yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

Events like these also remind us that our cooperation goes way beyond migration. It is about working together on our common challenges. They range from the economy to counter-terrorism, from visa-free travel to foreign policy. And it is about moving forward in the accession talks.

Prime Minister, we are in between two important summits of the European Union and Turkey. At our last summit on the 7th of March, we took stock of the implementation of our Joint Action Plan and the Joint Statement of last November. At that meeting I was also handed the mandate to work out the details of a new proposal to further enhance our cooperation to stem and ultimately end irregular migration from Turkey to Europe.

My task for our summit on Thursday and Friday is to put together the elements needed to make this proposal legally sound, in line with EU and international law, practically implementable, and of course acceptable to all 28 EU Member States as well as to Turkey. That is why I am here in Ankara today.

This is not an easy task, and we have to get it right. It is clear that there is still hard work to be done. Today we established a catalogue of issues that we need to address together if we are to reach an agreement by Friday. I will bring this catalogue back to Brussels, along with the confidence I have in the goodwill of Prime Minister Davutoglu.

Thank you again, Ahmet. I look forward to continuing our discussions this evening and I look forward to welcoming you back in Brussels this Friday. Thank you.

On 15 February 2016, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2016/220[1] amending Council Decision 2011/101/CFSP. 

The Decision extends the restrictive measures until 20 February 2017. The Decision maintains the measures against two persons and one entity and renews the suspension of the measures for five persons set out in Annex I to Decision 2011/101/CFSP. The measures against 78 persons and 8 entities are lifted. The Decision maintains the arms embargo in place. 

The Candidate Countries Turkey, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, Montenegro*, and Albania*, the country of the Stabilisation and Association Process and potential candidate Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the EFTA countries Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, members of the European Economic Area, as well as the Republic of Moldova and Armenia align themselves with this Council Decision. 

They will ensure that their national policies conform to this Council Decision. 

The European Union takes note of this commitment and welcomes it. 

 [1] Published on 17.2.2016 in the Official Journal of the European Union no. L 40, p. 11. 
* The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro and Albania continue to be part of the Stabilisation and Association Process.

The Spring Social summit held a discussion on "a strong partnership for job creation and inclusive growth", focusing in particular on: 

- The experience of implementing the country-specific recommendations (CSRs);
- Digitalisation: the labour market and skills challenges;
- Integrating refugees into the labour market: progress made and the role of social partners. 

In his opening statement, the President of the European Council, Donald Tusk, stressed the need to agree on well-adjusted measures and emphasised that : "I have no doubt that the successful integration of refugees into our labour markets is in our best interest. It is the only way to enable the newcomers to stand on their own feet. And it is the only way to turn the current wave of migration into an economic opportunity. But the integration of refugees must not be done on the back of the most vulnerable individuals of our own societies: the poor, the unemployed, the disadvantaged. Questions like "why do refugees get so much support from the government, while it seems to have given up on me?" are legitimate. We must not provide any breeding ground for such questions to arise. And this is where I very much count on the social partners. Their role in maintaining social cohesion in Europe is key". 

The President of the European Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker underlined: "Across the European Union as a whole, we have seen a return to growth but we know unemployment remains far too high and there are still fragilities and uncertainties. And there are more challenges ahead, like the integration of refugees into the labour market. There is a lot of work to be done to advance towards a fair and truly European labour market. On this journey, social dialogue and the deepening of Economic and Monetary Union have to go hand in hand - indeed there cannot be one without the other - just as EU institutions, member states and social partners have to work hand in hand. That is what we are doing and today's dialogue is proof of that vital and close cooperation." 

From the side of the rotating presidency, Netherlands' Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, said that "we need to deliver growth and employment to both citizens and companies in Europe. To this end it is crucial that member states address their challenges and implement necessary and sometimes difficult structural reforms. This is also why making the Single Market both deeper and fairer is a top priority of the Dutch Presidency. We need the European social partners to bring this agenda further. Lodewijk Asscher, Netherlands' vice Prime Minister and minister for Social Affairs and Employment stressed "The Netherlands presidency of the Council is committed to reinforcing the social dialogue. Therefore, the Presidency will continue discussions on this in the Council with a view to establishing a Council position. We are also looking forward to speak with social partners in the Informal EPSCO, that will be largely dedicated to the issue of labour mobility". 

For the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) General Secretary, Luca Visentini  put emphasis on “The ETUC is committed to working with employers and EU institutions for a strong and socially fair economy. The social partners' joint declaration on a new start for strong social dialogue underlines our readiness to help tackle the many challenges the EU is facing, and I urge the Commission and Council to support this declaration. The ETUC has agreed statements with employers on refugees, digitalisation and industrial policy. We are participating in the semester process and put forward more socially fair recommendations aimed at boosting investment and demand. We welcome the new social pillar and will engage in detailed discussions on content, and how it can be implemented. We will propose improvements to the revision of the posted workers directive. We deplore the lack of European unity in dealing with the humanitarian crisis facing refugees, and are actively encouraging and supporting the integration of refugees and migrants into the labour market - on the basis of equal treatment.”

BusinessEurope's President, Emma Marcegaglia, representing employers, declared "Europe is at a crossroads. A robust industry, supported by high-performing public services, is an indispensable basis to weather the multiple challenges facing us. Regulatory business environment has to be improved to strengthen private investments and job creation, in particular by SMEs. The European social partners - BusinessEurope, CEEP, UEAPME and ETUC- look forward to the swift adoption of the declaration on 'a new start for a strong social dialogue', in agreement with the Commission and Council. BusinessEurope's reform barometer 2016 shows that much more progress is needed to strengthen the implementation of CSRs. The European social partners have confirmed their interest in contributing to European solutions to the refugee crisis. Lastly, as part of a renewed European strategy on flexicurity, the EU employment policy agenda should be designed in a way that underpins the digital transformation of our economies".

The views cited in this text are those of the individual / organization concerned and do not collectively constitute the point of view of the Council or the European Council.

Good evening, we have just achieved a deal which strengthens Britain's special status in the European Union. It is a legally binding and irreversible decision by all 28 leaders. The settlement addresses all of Prime Minister Cameron's concerns without compromising our fundamental values.

During our long and often heated discussions, we haggled over the smallest details of the deal. Perhaps it was not an aesthetic spectacle, and far from glamorous. What matters, however, is that the European leaders did not walk away from the negotiating table, as something much more important was at stake. We have sent out a signal that we are all willing to sacrifice part of our interests for the common good, to show our unity.

The times we live in are stormy and unpredictable, with all the crises raging around us. If you think I am over-dramatising, just look at what is happening at this very moment. The greatest migration crisis in the history of Europe. The imminent threat of borders closing on our continent. Terrorist attacks in Turkey, airstrikes in Libya, war flaring up in Syria. The growing conflict between Russia and Turkey. Unfortunately, I could go on. 

Exceptional times need exceptional words. And nobody expressed himself better than Winston Churchill. Let me quote what he said in Zurich in 1946. His words maybe sound too solemn. But it is worth recalling them, to realize that even though everything has changed over the years, in fact nothing has changed. And surely one thing that has not changed is that all Europe needs to stand united.  

"If Europe is to be saved from infinite misery, as Churchill said, and indeed from final doom, there must be this act of faith in the European family. Can the peoples of Europe rise to the heights of the soul and of the instinct and spirit of man? What is sovereign remedy? It is to recreate the European fabric, or as much of it as we can, and to provide it with a structure under which it can dwell in peace, safety and freedom. Therefore I say to you, let Europe arise." End of quote.

I deeply believe that the United Kingdom needs Europe, and Europe needs the United Kingdom. To break the link now would be totally against our mutual interests. We have done all we could not to let that happen. But the final decision is in the hands of the British people.

Good evening. We began the European Council by expressing our solidarity with Turkey and condemning the Ankara terrorist attack that prevented Prime Minister Davutoglu from being in Brussels.

Let me start with migration, where we have adopted the conclusions. We agreed that our joint action plan with Turkey remains a priority, and we must do all we can to succeed. This is why we have the intention to organise a special meeting with Turkey in the beginning of March.

But equally important as the conclusions was our discussion in this critical moment of the migration crisis. This discussion has only reinforced our commitment to building a European consensus on migration.

To do that, we must first avoid a battle among plans A, B and C. It makes no sense at all, as it creates divisions within the European Union. Instead, we must look for a synthesis of different approaches. There is no good alternative to a comprehensive European plan.

Secondly, a European solution is not only about the decisions taken in Brussels. It is also, and even in the first place, about decisions taken in the capitals. We must accept that, but at the same time we should seek to improve the co-ordination of those decisions.

And thirdly, we must respect the rules and laws that we have all adopted together. This concerns both the decisions on relocation as well as the need to gradually get back to a situation where all Members of the Schengen area fully apply the Schengen Borders Code.

Finally, as you may know, Britain was also the subject of our talks today. For now I can only state that we have made some progress, but a lot still remains to be done. Now I will hold a series of bilateral meetings starting with Prime Minister Cameron, President Hollande, Prime Minister Sobotka, and Prime Minister Michel, obviously together with the President Junker of the Commission who is also key in this process. Thank you and I wish you a good and long night.

We, the leaders of the European Union, strongly condemn yesterday's terrorist attack in Ankara.

We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims and express our solidarity with the people of Turkey.

Acts of terrorism, by whomever and wherever they take place, are always unacceptable. The European Union and its Member States will step up all efforts to counter this scourge, in cooperation with partners.

II. MIGRATION

4. In response to the migration crisis facing the EU, the objective must be to rapidly stem the flows, protect our external borders, reduce illegal migration and safeguard the integrity of the Schengen area. As part of this comprehensive approach, the European Council assessed, on the basis of detailed reports from the Presidency and the Commission, the state of implementation of the orientations agreed in December.

5. The European Council welcomes NATO's decision to assist in the conduct of reconnaissance, monitoring and surveillance of illegal crossings in the Aegean sea and calls on all members of NATO to support this measure actively. The EU, in particular FRONTEX, should closely cooperate with NATO.

6. The full and speedy implementation of the EU-Turkey Action Plan remains a priority, in order to stem migration flows and to tackle traffickers and smugglers networks. Steps have been taken by Turkey to implement the Action Plan, notably as regards access by Syrian refugees to Turkey's labour market and data sharing with the EU. However, the flows of migrants arriving in Greece from Turkey remain much too high. We need to see a substantial and sustainable reduction of the number of illegal entries from Turkey into the EU. This calls for further, decisive efforts also on the Turkish side to ensure effective implementation of the Action Plan. The European Council welcomes the agreement reached on the Facility for Refugees in Turkey and calls on the Commission and the Member States to implement swiftly the priority projects. It also welcomes the progress on preparing a credible voluntary humanitarian admission programme with Turkey.

7. In addition,

a) regarding relations with relevant third countries, the comprehensive and tailor-made packages of incentives that are currently being developed for specific countries to ensure effective returns and readmission require the full support of the EU and the Member States. The European Council also calls on the Commission, the High Representative and the Member States to monitor and address any factors that may prompt migration flows;

b) implementation and operational follow-up to the Valletta Summit, in particular the agreed list of 16 priority actions, should continue and be stepped up;

c) humanitarian assistance should continue to be provided to Syrian refugees and to the countries neighbouring Syria. This is an urgent global responsibility. In this context, the European Council welcomes the outcome of the Conference on supporting Syria and the Region in London on 4 February and calls on the Commission, Member States and all other contributing countries to rapidly implement their commitments;

d) the continued and sustained irregular migrant flows along the Western Balkans route remain a grave concern that requires further concerted action and an end to the wave‑through approach and to uncoordinated measures along the route, taking into account humanitarian consequences for Member States affected. It is also important to remain vigilant about potential developments regarding other routes so as to be able to take rapid and concerted action;

e) the Council adopted a Recommendation on 12 February 2016. It is important to restore, in a concerted manner, the normal functioning of the Schengen area, with full support for Member States which face difficult circumstances. We need to get back to a situation where all Members of the Schengen area apply fully the Schengen Borders Code and refuse entry at external borders to third-country nationals who do not satisfy the entry conditions or who have not made an asylum application despite having had the opportunity to do so, while taking into account the specificities of maritime borders, including by implementing the EU-Turkey agenda;

f) with the help of the EU, the setting up and functioning of hotspots is gradually improving as regards identification, registration, fingerprinting and security checks on persons and travel documents; however, much remains to be done, in particular to make hotspots fully functional, to ensure the full 100% identification and registration of all entries (including systematic security checks against European databases, in particular the Schengen Information System, as required under EU law), to fully implement the relocation process, to stem secondary flows of irregular migrants and asylum-seekers and to provide the significant reception facilities needed to accommodate migrants under humane conditions while their situation is being clarified. Asylum seekers do not have the right to choose the Member State in which they seek asylum;

g) the humanitarian situation of migrants along the Western Balkans route calls for urgent action using all available EU and national means to alleviate it. To this end, the European Council considers it necessary to now put in place the capacity for the EU to provide humanitarian assistance internally, in cooperation with organisations such as the UNHCR, to support countries facing large numbers of refugees and migrants, building on the experience of the EU Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection department. The European Council welcomes the Commission's intention to make concrete proposals as soon as possible;

h) all the elements agreed last December should be implemented rapidly, including the decisions on relocation and measures to ensure returns and readmissions. As far as the 'European Border and Coast Guard' proposal is concerned, work should be accelerated with a view to reaching a political agreement under the Netherlands Presidency and to make the new system operational as soon as possible;

i) the European Council invites the European Investment Bank to rapidly develop ideas, in cooperation with the Commission, on how it can contribute to the EU response.

8. The comprehensive strategy agreed in December will only bring results if all its elements are pursued jointly and if the institutions and the Member States act together and in full coordination. At the same time, progress must be made towards reforming the EU's existing framework so as to ensure a humane and efficient asylum policy. To this end, following today's in-depth discussion, preparations will be stepped up so as to allow for a comprehensive debate at the next European Council, where, on the basis of a more definitive assessment, further orientations have to be fixed and choices made.

 

At their meeting in February, EU leaders agreed on a new settlement for the UK within the EU. They also discussed migration and the situation in Syria and Libya.

Tomorrow we will meet in the European Council. It will be a crucial moment for the unity of our Union and for the future of the United Kingdom's relations within Europe.

After my consultations in the last hours I have to state frankly: there is still no guarantee that we will reach an agreement. We differ on some political issues and I am fully aware that it will be difficult to overcome them. Therefore I urge you to remain constructive.

The negotiations are very advanced and we must make use of the momentum. There will not be a better time for a compromise. It is our unity that gives us strength and we must not lose this. It would be a defeat both for the UK and the European Union, but a geopolitical victory for those who seek to divide us.

We will work on the basis of the proposal that I put forward on the 2nd of February, with technical and legal clarifications which have been worked out by our Sherpas to be circulated today. But all the political issues will remain open for tomorrow. The objective has been clear from the start: to reach a legally binding and irreversible agreement which addresses UK concerns, while being satisfactory to all. At the same time we will not undermine our fundamental values. It is my goal to do the deal this week.

On choreography: after the traditional exchange of views with the President of the European Parliament, and the family photo, we will address the UK issue at our first working session on Thursday afternoon. This will be an opportunity for all members to state their positions and voice their concerns. Given that we are talking about a legally binding agreement, we will need time to assess all the necessary changes overnight and revert to the issue on Friday morning.

Over dinner, we will discuss the latest developments regarding migration. In December we agreed on a number of priorities to be addressed urgently. The detailed reports drawn up by the Dutch Presidency and the Commission show that the strategy we have put together is beginning to yield results but the progress achieved so far is not sufficient. I want us to keep up the pressure on all elements of the overall strategy. We should agree the conclusions at the end of the discussion. As the EU-Turkey Action Plan plays a crucial role in our strategy, I will meet PM Davutoglu beforehand to assess the progress and discuss speeding up the agreement so as to achieve a substantial and sustainable reduction of the number of illegal entries from Turkey into the EU.

We will meet on Friday morning in an informal session with a discussion on the United Kingdom. The President of the European Parliament will join us for the debate. The exact timing is still to be decided as we may need to meet for bilateral consultations. Once the final text is ready, we will resume the plenary session to adopt it formally.

Later we will turn to the situation in Syria and Libya, and adopt the remaining conclusions. Finally, we will endorse the euro area recommendations, under the revamped European Semester. I look forward to meeting you in Brussels tomorrow.

Good afternoon. Let me begin by thanking you, Prime Minister, for your warm welcome here in Prague. Also in your capacity as the Visegrad Group (V4) Presidency. Thank you for your constructive attitude and approach, which is helpful for V4 and for all of Europe.

Our meeting today is part of my final round of consultations in the run up to the European Council in only two days' time. It will be a summit dealing with two main challenges: The United Kingdom's future membership of the European Union and the migration crisis. On both topics, the Czech Republic and the Visegrad Group hold strong views.

First on Britain: At stake is the United Kingdom as member of the EU. A question which ultimately only the British people will decide. But the answer will affect us all. At stake are also changes to the functioning of the European Union, where we will all have to decide together, and where we cannot and will not compromise on our freedoms and values. It is in this spirit that I drafted my proposal for a new settlement for the UK in the EU.

There are still unsolved problems such as future treaty change, an emergency brake for non-euro area countries, a safeguard mechanism on access to in-work benefits, and finally the notion of ever closer union. We need to find solutions to all those issues.

In the Czech Republic as well as in other Visegrad countries, the issue of access to social benefits continues to be among the most sensitive. I believe that the proposal I have put on the table is fair and balanced; for all. It protects the freedom of movement, while helping the UK to address all its concerns when it comes to their specific system of in-work benefits. The safeguard mechanism on access to in-work benefits is not designed to apply to EU citizens currently working in the UK. We will now have to sort out the remaining issues in a constructive spirit of trust and cooperation. The position of V4 is very clear. In view of that I have no doubts: There is an extra mile we will have to walk to reach an agreement.

Let me add a remark on migration, which we will also discuss on Thursday. I hope the bilateral support you have offered to the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia to protect its borders can make a difference, especially when it comes to the humanitarian situation in the Western Balkans. Still, we must not forget about our fellow EU Member States most affected by this crisis, such as Greece. They need our continued and even increased assistance to cope with the flows. We need to help them protect their borders and to receive the migrants in a proper way. This is what I discussed with Prime Minister Tsipras earlier today in Athens. We all need to show solidarity. And that also means respecting and implementing all our common decisions and rules. From protecting our borders to relocating refugees. Let me be very clear: Only when united can we solve this crisis.

Let me conclude by thanking you once again for receiving me here in Prague, Prime Minister. Děkuji moc.

The European Union and the Republic of Tajikistan held their fifth Cooperation Council meeting on 16 February 2016. 

During the Cooperation Council, the European Commission reaffirmed its commitment to provide new development funding of €251 million to Tajikistan for the period 2014-2020. The funds will focus on vital sectors for growth and social stability, such as rural development, health, and education, which are particularly important in the present economic climate prevailing in Central Asia. 

The Cooperation Council also reaffirmed the commitment of both parties to strengthen relations in a number of cooperation areas, and took stock of the progress made since the fourth Cooperation Council meeting between the EU and the Republic of Tajikistan in October 2014. 

The EU emphasised that for the development of Tajikistan an open-minded policy based on respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms is essential. 

The Cooperation Council reiterated the importance of a comprehensive implementation of the EU Strategy for Central Asia, both on a regional and national basis, and welcomed Tajikistan's active engagement in the EU regional initiatives for Central Asia. Developments were discussed as relating to the three flagship initiatives of Rule of Law, Education, and Environment; and beyond this, issues of mutual importance such as political and administrative reforms, rule of law and human rights, religious freedoms, trade and economic relations, and border security. 

The Cooperation Council also addressed regional developments in the energy sector as well as security-related challenges, including border management and radicalisation. The Stability of Central Asia is of common interest to Tajikistan and the EU, and the parties will seek to increase their cooperation in this area.

The EU was represented at the Cooperation Council by Mr Bert KOENDERS, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, acting as head of the EU delegation. The delegation of Tajikistan was led by Mr Sirodjidin ASLOV, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan.  Mr Aslov will also meet the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Ms Federica Mogherini. Tuesday 16 February.

Good morning. Before anything else, let me thank you, Prime Minister Tsipras, for your hospitality here in Athens.

The European Council is meeting this week with the biggest challenges to the future of the European Union on the agenda: The United Kingdom's future membership of the European Union and the migration crisis.

On Britain. My trip to Paris, Bucharest, Athens, Prague and Berlin is part of the hopefully last but still fragile negotiations on a new settlement for the United Kingdom. The proposal I have put on the table is a fair and balanced one. It helps the UK to address all the concerns raised by Prime Minister Cameron, without compromising on our common freedoms and values. There are still many difficult issues to solve. Prime Minister Tsipras and I shared our views on these issues and I am happy that there is convergence between us. Thank you for your constructive approach. I will need your help in Brussels as well.

Now let me turn to the migration and refugee crisis. The migratory crisis we are currently witnessing is testing our Union to its limits. And Greece is among the most affected countries. It is no coincidence that the Greek citizens on the islands have been nominated to the Nobel Peace Prize for their generosity in helping people in need.

Greece did not cause this crisis, nor did Europe. To all those talking of excluding Greece from Schengen, thinking this is a solution to the migration crisis. I say: No, it is not. Let me be clear, excluding Greece from Schengen solves none of our problems. It does not end the war in Syria. It does not end Europe's attraction of migrants. And it is not a common European solution. What we must do is to improve the protection of our external borders, not least here in Greece. This requires more Greek efforts and it also requires more support from EU partners.

This week, I want leaders to engage in an honest discussion on where we stand on all the dimensions of our common response to the crisis. We are not meeting to alter course but to ensure that the decisions we have already taken are also carried out. Importantly, we need to take a close look at how our joint arrangements with Turkey are working.

Talking about migration, we cannot avoid referring to the situation in Syria. The whole world is hoping for peace and is ready for talks. Even though, the Russian bombing in Syria leaves us with little hope. The Assad regime is strengthened, the moderate Syrian opposition is weakened, and Europe is flooded with new waves of refugees.

I also want to underline that the EU appreciates and recognises all the efforts undertaken by Greece in the economic area. After our talks today, I feel more optimistic, also when it comes to the ongoing review process.

Let me conclude by once again thanking you, Prime Minister, dear Alexis, for your constructive approach that will allow us to move forward, together, on all the challenges ahead. Thank you.

Brussels, 17 February 2016 - Justus Lipsius building

Provisional media programme

Welcome by the President of the European Council Donald Tusk and the President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker
(VIP entrance, level 02 - photo/TV opportunity) :

• 20:25               Prime Minister of Croatia Tihomir Orešković
• 20:26               Prime Minister of Slovenia Miro Cerar
• 20:27               President of Serbia Tomislav Nikolić
• 20:28               President of former Yougoslav Republic of Macedonia Gjorge Ivanov

Access to VIP entrance

6-month badge for high level events in the Council (January-June 2016) or European Council badge for 18-19 February 2016 only.

• Full information on media accreditation

The accreditation centre in Lex building - rue de la Loi 145, will close at 20.00. 

N.B.

Due to the European Council taking place the following day, media will not be able to enter the Justus Lipsius as from 20.45 onwards. The press centre will close at 21.30.

Photos and video coverage of the event will be available for preview and download on http://tvnewsroom.consilium.europa.eu

On 15 February 2016, the EU amended its integrated border management assistance mission in Libya (EUBAM Libya) to provide for a civilian planning capacity.

The Council also extended the mission by six months until 21 August 2016.

The change enables EUBAM Libya to assist in the planning of a possible future civilian capacity building and assistance crisis management mission in the field of security sector reform. The civilian planning capacity will co-operate closely with, and contribute to, efforts by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya, liaising with the legitimate Libyan authorities and other relevant security interlocutors. 

As part of the EU's strategy aimed at supporting Libya's transition, the mission supports capacity-building for enhancing the security of Libya's borders by land, sea and air. 

The mission was launched in May 2013 by decision 2013/233/CFSP. It was amended and extended by decision (CFSP) 2015/2276 in December 2015.

Currently located in Tunis, its mandate has been extended a further six months until 21 August 2016 in order to allow increased civilian planning support.  The mission's new authorised strength will be 16 international staff.  The mission's budget is €4.475 million.

Good evening. Let me first of all thank you, President Iohannis, for your hospitality and for receiving me on short notice here in Bucharest. Our meeting today is part of my final round of consultations in the run up to the European Council in only three days' time. It will be a crucial summit with the two biggest challenges to the future of the European Union on the agenda: The United Kingdom's future membership of the European Union and the migration crisis. On neither can we afford to fail.

Let me begin with the United Kingdom. These are difficult but also hugely important negotiations. At stake is the United Kingdom's membership of the EU. A question which only the British people can and will decide. At stake is also the future of our European Union where we will all have to decide together, and where we cannot and will not compromise on the fundamental freedoms and values. It is in this spirit that I drafted my proposal for a new settlement for the UK in the EU.

There are still a number of outstanding political issues that we will have to agree on. These include the questions of future treaty change, a so-called emergency brake for non-euro area countries, a safeguard mechanism on access to in-work benefits, and finally the notion of ever closer union.

In Romania as well as in other EU countries, the issue of social benefits continues to be the most difficult one. Let me assure you that the proposal I have put on the table is a fair and balanced one. The safeguard mechanism on access to in-work benefits is not designed to apply to EU citizens currently working in the UK. This proposal protects the freedom of movement, while helping the UK to address its concerns when it comes to their specific system of in-work benefits.

After my talks today with President Iohannis, Prime Minister Cameron, and President Hollande and before meeting Prime Minister Tsipras, Prime Minister Sobotka and Chancellor Merkel tomorrow, I have only one political reflection: This is a critical moment. It is high time we started listening to each other's arguments more than to our own. It is natural in negotiations that positions harden, as we get closer to crunch time. But the risk of break-up is real because this process is indeed very fragile. Handle with care. What is broken cannot be mended.

Let me briefly turn to migration, which President Iohannis and I also discussed today. The migratory crisis we are witnessing now is testing our Union to its limits.

This week, I want leaders to engage in an honest discussion on where we stand on all the elements of our strategy. Most important is the protection of our external borders to stem the flow of migrants. Likewise, we must step up the return of economic migrants. We must increase our humanitarian assistance to Syria's neighbouring countries. We must make sure our agreement with Turkey works and delivers a very significant drop in numbers of arrivals; something we are still waiting to see. We must urgently address the humanitarian situation of migrants in Greece and along the Western Balkans route.

So, I am afraid we have a lot of work ahead of us. Together, as a Union, we will have to do our best to overcome all the challenges. I thank you for your constructive approach which should allow us to move forward, together. Mulțumesc, thank you! 

The European Union (EU) and the Kyrgyz Republic held their fourteenth Cooperation Council meeting on 15 February 2016. 

The Cooperation Council reaffirmed the commitment of both parties to strengthen bilateral and regional cooperation in a number of areas and reviewed achievements from 2015, notably in development cooperation, through which the EU has granted EUR 34.6 million to the Kyrgyz Republic. 

The Cooperation Council reviewed political developments in the Kyrgyz Republic. The EU welcomed the successful organisation of competitive parliamentary elections in October 2015 and encouraged the Kyrgyz Republic to continue its electoral reform process. The EU will provide support for electoral reform through a dedicated EU programme worth EUR 13.3 million. Kyrgyz efforts to build a stable parliamentary democracy must be reinforced by further implementation of key reforms. The rule of law, fight against corruption and judicial reform are necessary pre-conditions for sustainable development and an attractive business environment. The EU is committed to supporting the Kyrgyz Republic in this transition process. Our partnership is aimed at advancing values we share and working together for the prosperity and stability of democratic Kyrgyzstan. 

The EU emphasised the important role of civil society in the democratic transition of the Kyrgyz Republic and called on the Kyrgyz Republic to pursue an open-minded policy based on respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. 

The Cooperation Council addressed economic developments in the Kyrgyz Republic and in the region. The EU particularly welcomed the Kyrgyz Republic's successful application for Generalised Schemed of Preferences, GSP+, as an important development in EU-Kyrgyz relations. This unilateral offer by the EU will allow Kyrgyz exporters to supply a wide range of products to the EU at zero tariff rates. This is an incentive to growth and diversification of the Kyrgyz economy, as well as an additional incentive for the Kyrgyz Republic to make further progress in the field of human rights, labour rights and good governance. 

The Cooperation Council also addressed regional developments in the energy sector as well as security-related challenges, including border management and radicalisation. The stability of Central Asia is of common interest to the Kyrgyz Republic and the EU, and the parties will seek to increase their cooperation in this area. The EU welcomed the Kyrgyz decision to host an EU-sponsored meeting of the Central Asia Border Security Initiative (CABSI) in Bishkek in April.

The EU was represented at the Cooperation Council by Mr Bert KOENDERS, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, acting as head of the EU delegation. The delegation of the Kyrgyz Republic was led by Mr Erlan ABDYLDAEV, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic, acting as Chair of the Cooperation Council.  Meetings with the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Ms Federica Mogherini, and with the Commissioner for International Cooperation and Development, Mr Neven Mimica, are foreseen for Tuesday 16 February.

1. Recalling the Council conclusions of 31 January 2011, 20 June 2011, 23 March 2012 and 15 October 2012, the Council highlights the importance it attaches to relations with the Republic of Belarus and its people.
2. At the same time, the Council remains concerned with the situation of human rights in Belarus and recalls that EU-Belarus relations should be based on common values, especially respect for human rights, democracy and the rule of law.
3. The Council acknowledges the steps taken by Belarus over the last two years that have contributed to improving EU-Belarus relations, such as the proactive participation of Belarus in the Eastern Partnership and in the Interim Phase on Modernisation Issues, the resumption of the EU-Belarus Human Rights Dialogue, the start of negotiations on Visa Facilitation and Readmission Agreements and on a Mobility Partnership, the active pursuit cooperation in harmonisation of digital markets and the signature of a Cooperation Arrangement on an Early Warning Mechanism in the energy sector. The Council also values Belarus' constructive role in the region.
4. The release of all the remaining political prisoners on 22 August 2015 was a long sought step that the EU had consistently called for. In response to the releases and the presidential elections of 11 October 2015 that were held in an environment free from violence, and taking into consideration the overall state of EU-Belarus relations, the Council agreed in October 2015 on a four-month suspension of most of the restrictive measures.
   The Council recognises that there is an opportunity for EU-Belarus relations to develop on a more positive agenda and that progress in a variety of fields can better be achieved through enhanced channels of communication.
5. In this context, the Council agrees that the EU will not extend the restrictive measures for 170 individuals and three companies whose listings are currently suspended. The Council further agrees that the arms embargo and the restrictive measures related to the four individuals listed in connection with the unresolved disappearances of two opposition politicians, one businessman and one journalist, will be extended for a period of twelve months.
6. In view of the Belarusian 2016 parliamentary elections, the Council urges the Belarusian authorities to swiftly take forward the recommendations of the OSCE/ODIHR's final report on the conduct of the 11 October 2015 Presidential elections, including on the legal and procedural framework. The Council welcomes Belarus' growing openness to dialogue and cooperation with the OSCE/ODIHR. The Council recalls the importance it attaches to improvements in this area and to respect for human rights, democracy and the rule of law in Belarus.
7. The Council condemns the application of the death penalty in Belarus, and notably deplores the two recent death sentences pronounced, and urges the Belarusian authorities to set up a moratorium as a first step towards its abolition. The Council looks forward to forthcoming expert and public events on the death penalty planned to take place in 2016.
   The Council reiterates its call for the reinstatement of the civil and political rights of former political prisoners and highlights the need to ensure freedom of association and assembly, including by allowing the registration of political and civil society organisations. The Council stresses the importance of a vibrant civil society to the social and economic well-being of a country, and calls on the Belarusian authorities to allow civil society to be more involved in the discussions on government policy. The Council further urges the Belarusian authorities to eliminate all obstacles to the exercise of a free and independent media, including through the registration of new media outlets and the accreditation of journalists. The Council further calls on Belarus to respect the rights of persons belonging to national minorities. The Council will continue to follow closely the situation in this regard.
8. The Council welcomes the resumption of the EU-Belarus Human Rights Dialogue and looks forward to its next round, which Belarus has offered to host in Minsk in late spring. Together with Belarus' engagement in the 2015 Universal Periodic Review these are positive steps and the Council encourages the Belarusian authorities to continue work in these areas and calls on Belarus to do so with the participation of civil society.
   The EU further calls on Belarus to follow up on recommendations made by UN treaty bodies and to cooperate fully with UN special procedures - including the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Belarus - and other mechanisms. The Council encourages increased cooperation between Belarus and the Council of Europe with a view to becoming a full member.
   The Council reiterates the EU's willingness to assist Belarus to meet its obligations towards democratisation and full respect for human rights, and looks forward to discuss these matters soon at a bilateral level.
9. The Council reiterates its firm commitment to strengthening the EU's engagement with the Belarusian people and civil society. The EU attaches great importance to enhanced people-to-people contacts with Belarus, to be encouraged through programmes such as Erasmus+, and looks forward to the swift conclusion of the negotiations and signature of the Visa Facilitation Agreement, the Readmission Agreement and the Mobility Partnership.
10. The Council reaffirms that good neighbourly relations and regional cooperation are important elements for enhancing EU-Belarus cooperation. Recalling its conclusions of 20 July 2015 on Energy Diplomacy the Council reiterates the importance of ensuring nuclear safety beyond the borders of the EU and calls on Belarus to cooperate constructively with the relevant international authorities in this regard.
11. The Council remains open to the further development of EU-Belarus relations, and to taking further steps to enhance political relations and sectoral cooperation in the appropriate context. The Council welcomes the Commission's intention to start Twinning cooperation with Belarus this year. It underlines the importance of the ENP Review and notes that Belarus provides a good opportunity to apply a differentiated approach. The Council therefore decided to accelerate the implementation of measures aimed at enhancing EU-Belarus cooperation in a number of economic, trade and assistance related fields, with the goal of modernising Belarus and its economy and for the benefit of the Belarusian population, including in view of WTO accession and in cooperation with International Financial Institutions, in particular the EIB and the EBRD in line with their respective mandates. The Council also encourages Belarus to accelerate much needed economic reforms. Tangible steps taken by Belarus to respect universal fundamental freedoms, rule of law and human rights will remain key for the shaping of the EU's future policy towards Belarus.
12. The Council will remain seized of the work of the EU-Belarus Coordination Group as a follow-up to the Interim Phase on modernisation issues, including an agenda which contains human rights issues, and looks forward to the involvement of civil society.