Bulgaria to join EU operation against human smugglers in Mediterranean

Bulgarian government decided on Wednesday to join the European Union (EU) naval operation against human smugglers and traffickers in the Mediterranean "EUNAVFOR Med" that was launched in June, officials said.

Bulgaria would participate in EUNAVFOR Med through one serviceman who would occupy an important position at the headquarters of the operation, the government said in a press release.

"The realization of this participation actively engages our country in the EU's efforts to resolve the crisis with the flow of migrants from North Africa to Europe," the press release said.

Bulgarian participation in the operation would also confirm the country's commitment to the Common Security and Defense Policy, and be beneficial for the accumulation of experience in operations and increasing the level of interoperability with the allies, the government said.

According to the European Council, the mission of EUNAVFOR Med is to identify, capture and dispose of vessels and assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers in the Southern Central Mediterranean. Endit