Calay News
The leaders of the 27 countries of the European Union (EU) are on the second day of a summit in Brussels with the aim of overcoming the blockages in migration policy and asylum law, starring Hungary and Poland. After a discussion that lasted until the wee hours of the morning, the leaders decided to suspend the meeting without reaching an agreement due to the blockade of Hungary and Poland. However, this Friday, they continue to try to reach agreements.
The sticking point concerns the pact reached by EU interior ministers on June 8 to reform the asylum granting system, which was approved by a qualified majority. Hungary and Poland argued that this option was unacceptable and threatened to block any final summit declaration unless the demand for unanimity was considered.
The proposed agreement states that member countries must take in a certain number of asylum seekers or make a financial contribution for each refugee not relocated. Poland and Hungary voted against the proposal, while four other countries abstained.
Although the original agenda for the summit included discussions on the economic situation, relations with China, and preparations for the EU summit with Latin American and Caribbean countries, the focus has shifted to the issue of migration and asylum.
Some leaders expressed hope for an agreement but also acknowledged the lingering bitterness and accumulated tensions around this issue, dating back to the 2015 humanitarian crisis.The need to find solutions to reduce migration pressure was emphasized.
In relation to Ukraine, EU leaders expressed their support for the country in the face of Russian encroachment and endorsed the idea of providing possible long-term security commitments. The EU and its member countries expressed readiness to contribute, along with their partners, to such security commitments to assist Ukraine in its defense.
As the summit continues, leaders are expected to continue to seek common ground and find solutions that address the concerns of all countries involved in migration policy and asylum law.
