European Leaders Grapple with Migration Crisis and Seek Solutions

Paris and Rome, along with other European states, have called for a deal to address migration issues. Leaders from Albania, Britain, France, Italy, the Netherlands, and the European Commission chief discussed an eight-point document aimed at finalizing an agreement during the next European Political Community summit. The document includes pledges to tackle migrant smuggling, strengthen border protection, update the legal framework, and enhance cooperation on visa policy and return operations. The discussion comes as EU member states finalize their position on new common rules for managing unexpected mass arrivals of asylum seekers. The EU has been focusing on the external dimension and striking deals with third countries to stem irregular arrivals.