Deal with the UK sends a positive signal, we have to tackle the migration crisis together

“The EPP Group welcomes the results of the European Council on the referendum in the UK, and on responding to the migration crisis” said Manfred Weber, Chairman of the EPP Group in the European Parliament. On the issue of the referendum in the UK, Manfred Weber stressed that “we have a preliminary fair deal. However, where there is light there is also shadow. We support the deal but we are going to look at the details before making a final evaluation. In any case we will contribute to the smooth and speedy adoption of the legislative aspects of the deal by the European Parliament.

“United Kingdom belongs in the EU and should stay on board. In concluding this deal, our target was a better Europe. The Member States proved that they can act together and find solutions” concluded Manfred Weber

Regarding the issue of migration crisis Manfred Weber stressed that “we have to rapidly stem the migration flows, protect our external borders, reduce illegal migration and safeguard the integrity of the Schengen area. To this end we have to work together with Turkey, implementing the EU-Turkey Action Plan.

 “Furthermore we should reach a political agreement on the European Border and Coast Guard as soon as possible. At this stage and due to the recent developments we have to also do our outmost in order to avoid a military escalation in the region. All EU Member States have to understand the urgency of the situation and work towards a common solution,” underlined Weber.