EU Council head says efficient management of migration is 'priority'

By Burak Bir

LONDON (AA) - The president of the European Council said Thursday that he agreed with the Italian prime minister who said an efficient management of migration is a priority.

The remarks by Charles Michel came after he met Giorgia Meloni in Rome to discuss migration and the fight against human trafficking and smuggling.

Referring to the Pact on Migration and Asylum that was adopted Wednesday by the European Parliament, Michel noted that the EU is reforming its system.

"Implementation now key, allowing also for efficient returns. And we continue to strengthen partnerships with third countries, including through opportunities for legal migration," he wrote on X. "Fight against human trafficking and smuggling is also a challenge we are addressing together, through all available tools."

Under the reforms, asylum claims will be examined more quickly, including at the EU’s borders, and returns will be done more effectively, according to a statement by the bloc.

It also gives member states the option of taking responsibility for asylum applicants, making financial contributions or providing operational support.