Migration is a European challenge that requires comprehensive and coordinated solutions. These can only be found when acting together. The European Commission is committed to strengthen

its efforts and support to its Member States in addressing the challenges of migration in a sustainable manner. Efficient border management, swift asylum and return procedures are essential for a well-functioning migration system. 

To address the current migration challenges, the Commission President's letter of 26 January and the European Council of 9 February 2023 called for implementing key operational actions in the area of border protection, asylum and return. One of the targeted operational actions foresees setting up pilot projects in interested Member States for fast asylum and return procedures. 

Following close cooperation between the European Commission and the Romanian authorities, an agreement was reached on launching a pilot project in Romania today. The pilot project foresees the implementation by Romania of several tools in the area of asylum, returns, border management and international cooperation, building on the good Romanian practices in these areas. The pilot project will be implemented with strong operational, technical and financial support of the Commission and the key Home Affairs EU agencies (EUAA, Europol and Frontex).

This is a concrete important deliverable of Romania's high-level commitment and support for sustainable migration management solution at EU-level based on its strong track-record in managing migration. Romania, in its strategic geographical position, bordering Serbia, Ukraine and Moldova, plays a key role in securing our common external border, effectively contributing to managing migration and ensuring a high level of security.