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EU interior ministers discussed the internal security of the European Union, the interconnection of large-scale IT systems and the external dimension of migration in Budapest on Monday.
Hungarian Interior Minister Sándor Pintér said at a press conference that they outlined the tasks for the next five years in the field of home affairs. They identified the shortcomings that have made or could make the Union’s internal security vulnerable, he noted. He added that participants agreed that without cooperation, the EU’s security cannot be guaranteed and that there is a need to respond more quickly to challenges.
However, it was agreed that “certain countries cannot economically ensure the fulfillment of the various expectations” and that
a central economic fund should be created to ensure that the tasks are properly carried out.
As regards the so-called EU interoperability package to ensure effective access to information systems for border guards and asylum services, he said that the border control system could be launched in October-November, which would significantly improve internal security and help in the fight against terrorism.
Sándor Pintér. Photo: MTI/Szigetváry Zsolt
The external dimension of migration was also discussed, and participants agreed that no significant progress can be achieved without stepping up cooperation with third countries. Monitoring existing partnerships is essential, and new, mutually beneficial, comprehensive partnerships need to be developed, Sándor Pintér noted. He added that there is a need to develop the necessary institutional framework for the return of those who do not qualify for refugee status and to speed up and increase the efficiency of return.
However, this can only be done in cooperation and a common economic basis must be created to ensure that it is done “properly, quickly and on a level playing field.”
Asked by journalists why many countries were not represented at the meeting, the minister said that ten ministers were present, which was “a good number for a peacetime,” but that he was confident that all his colleagues would attend the regular meetings. He also noted that there were very well prepared colleagues and valuable contributions.
Via MTI, Featured image: MTI/Szigetváry Zsolt