site.btaForeign Minister Mitov, UNHCR Representative in Bulgaria Weil Discuss National Asylum and Protection System

Foreign Minister Mitov, UNHCR Representative in Bulgaria Weil
Discuss National Asylum
and Protection System


Sofia, August 28 (BTA) - Foreign Minister Daniel Mitov conferred
on Thursday with UNHCR Resident Representative in Bulgaria
Roland-Francois Weil, said the Foreign Ministry in a press
release. The two discussed the condition and development of the
national asylum and protection system.

"This is a challenge for Bulgaria, which we have not faced
before and have no acquired experience in this field. Despite
this, I think that the invested efforts on our part, as well as
the assistance from partner states, gave positive results," said
Mitov.

"We value the good cooperation with the Bulgarian institutions
on all levels," Weil said. According to him, after the initial
difficulties last year, Bulgaria's current capacity for
temporary accommodation is more than enough.

Mitov and Weil have discussed the need to create an integration
mechanism. "We are ready to work for setting specific steps in
this direction, which can be taken by the next government,"
Mitov said, adding that the adopted National Strategy for
Integration of Refugees must be implemented.

Mitov voiced concern that if the instability in the Middle East
is not overcome, such as the crisis in Iraq and the ongoing
conflict in Syria, the migratory pressure will continue. The
international community must act decisively and efficiently, so
that these people can return to their homes, Mitov said. PK/MY