The EU strongly rejects strongly reject Turkey’s use of migratory pressure for political purposes, a statement after a special meeting of interior ministers said.

“In line with the strong statements of the four presidents of EU institutions during their recent visit to the Greek-Turkish border, the Council expresses its solidarity with Greece, with Bulgaria and Cyprus and other member states, which might be similarly affected, including in efforts to manage EU’s external borders.
“The EU will also continue to closely cooperate with the Western Balkans partners in managing migratory flows. While the Council of the EU acknowledges the increased migratory burden and risks Turkey is facing on its territory and the substantial efforts it has made in hosting 3.7 million migrants and refugees, it strongly rejects Turkey’s use of migratory pressure for political purposes. This situation at EU’s external borders is not acceptable”, - reads the statement.
The EU interior ministers said that they expect Turkey to implement fully the provisions of the 2016 Joint Statement with regard to all EU countries.