The European Union signed an agreement with Serbia on border management cooperation between Serbia and the European Border and Coast Guard Agency. The agreement was signed on behalf of the EU by Dimitris Avramopoulos, Commissioner for Migration, Home Affairs and Citizenship and by Maria Ohisalo, Minister of the Interior of Finland and President of the Council and, and on behalf of the Republic of Serbia by Nebojša Stefanović, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior.
Dimitris Avramopoulos, Commissioner for Migration, Home Affairs and Citizenship said: "I would like to thank Serbia for its efforts and commitment to ensure closer cooperation with the EU on border and migration management. This is in the interest of both Serbia and the EU. With the agreement signed today, we are further strengthening our relations with Western Balkan partners, bringing this neighborhood closer to the EU."
Maria Ohisalo, Minister of the Interior of Finland said: “Cooperation with our partners in the Western Balkans is essential to ensure the successful management of our common borders. Through this agreement Frontex will be able to coordinate operational cooperation between EU member states and Serbia, and provide support and expertise which will bring benefits for all."
This agreement allows the European Border and Coast Guard Agency to assist Serbia in border management, carry out joint operations and deploy teams in the regions of Serbia that border the EU, subject to Serbia's agreement.
These activities aim at tackling irregular migration and cross-border crime, and can involve the provision of increased technical and operational assistance at the border.
Strengthened cooperation between priority third countries and the European Border and Coast Guard Agency will also contribute to further enhancing security at the EU's external borders.
For more information:
Natasha Bertaud
European Commission
Tel: +32 2 296 74 56
Email: natasha.bertaud@ec.europe.eu
www.ec.europa.eu