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Good afternoon. We have just finished a long European Council with the following outcomes.
As regards our deal on migration, it is far too early to talk about a success. We have managed to reach an agreement in the European Council. But this is in fact the easiest part of the task, compared to what awaits us on the ground, when we start implementing it.
As for the text of our compromise, the leaders accepted three proposals I put forward, that is disembarkation platforms outside Europe, a dedicated budgetary tool in the next MFF to combat illegal migration, as well as boosting EU support for the Libyan Coast Guard. On top of that, we have sent a clear message to all vessels, including those of NGOs, operating in the Mediterranean, that they must respect the law and must not obstruct the operation of the Libyan Coast Guard. This demonstrates our clear and univocal support for the actions of the Maltese authorities.
Another part of the compromise is the Franco-Italian proposal of controlled centres on EU territory, in countries that are willing to build them. All the measures in the context of these centres, including relocation and resettlement, will be taken on a voluntary basis.
Last but not least, we agreed to launch the next tranche of financing for Turkey and to transfer 500 million euros of development money to the EU Trust Fund for Africa.
Moving on to this morning’s proceedings. The Euro Summit agreed, as promised in December, to progress on the completion of the Banking Union and to strengthen the European Stability Mechanism, including by providing the backstop to the single resolution fund. This reform of the EMU will strengthen the euro, and as a result, also our Union. In turbulent times, this is welcome news for all Europeans.
On Brexit. The EU27 has taken note of what has been achieved so far. However, there is a great deal of work ahead, and the most difficult tasks are still unresolved. If we want to reach a deal in October we need quick progress. This is the last call to lay the cards on the table.
Before concluding, let me thank my good friend, Prime Minister Boyko Borissov, for the outstanding and effective Bulgarian Presidency. You and your team have done a truly remarkable job. Including on the Sofia Summit, which was a historic moment in terms of our relations with the Western Balkans. Thank you very much, Boyko.
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