Slovakia wants common European policy on migration

Slovakia wants the European Union (EU) to discuss the migration issue openly, honestly and comprehensively, according to a comprehensive stance passed by the Slovak Government on Wednesday.

The Slovak Foreign and European Affairs Minister Miroslav Lajcak pointed out that one of the EU's fundamental pillars - the free movement of people - is shaking at its foundations. The government doesn't only want to discuss what to do with the migrants who are already in Europe, but also to look at how they are coming.

"De facto, Schengen has fallen apart. Migrants are transiting absolutely freely through countries that are responsible for protecting the Schengen borders. Under normal circumstances it's difficult to get a Schengen visa, but now tens of thousands of people are coming here without any checks. So, do we have Schengen or don't we?" asked Lajcak.

The Slovak Government, therefore, proposes not only consistent protection of Schengen borders but also efforts to address the causes of migration and human smuggling gangs. "I refuse to see Slovakia as a country without solidarity," stressed Lajcak.

Lajcak pointed out that Slovakia wants a common European policy on this issue because there's no such thing at the moment.

"Everyone is addressing this in their own way at present," he said. The Slovak Government insists on a voluntary principle. "Quotas have nothing to do with addressing the problem," said Lajcak. Enditem