Alexis Delafontaine (special envoy to Albania)
modified to
08:13, December 07, 2022
The leaders of the countries of the European Union and the Western Balkans met this Tuesday in Tirana (Albania) on the occasion of a summit marked by the war in Ukraine. Several areas of agreement have been found between the two regions, particularly on the migration issue.
Emmanuel Macron arrived this Tuesday in Tirana, Albania, to participate in the summit between the EU and the Balkans. This strategic region between Turkey and Europe is a place of obligatory passage for migrants who pass by land. Discussions focus on border controls and trade agreements between the two regions.
“Necessary measures to reduce migratory pressure”
Europe and the Balkans seem to have found common ground on the thorny issue of immigration. The Balkans welcome three times more migrants than last year. In response, the Frontex agency should be able to operate inside the Balkan countries. The Balkans are also committed to aligning their visa allocation system with that of Europe.
“Necessary measures to reduce migratory pressure,” says an adviser. In exchange, the European Union is very generous with the region: one billion euros will be distributed to households to fight against rising energy prices, announces Emmanuel Macron. For security, France promised special help against cyberattacks and a system to fight foreign interference. Finally, on the educational side, Europe is going to open its Erasmus program to the six Balkan countries, with the desire to remove Moscow’s hold on the region.