EU and Serbia Strengthen Border Management Cooperation

The European Union and Serbia have signed an operational cooperation agreement on border management with the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex). Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson and Serbian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Ivica Dacic signed the deal in Belgrade, solidifying closer collaboration between Frontex and Serbia.

Importance of Partnership in Managing Migration Routes

During the signing ceremony, Johansson emphasized the significance of Serbia as a key partner in managing migration routes. She commended the existing cooperation between Serbian border police and Frontex in combating crime, smuggling, and irregular migration. The agreement aims to enhance this partnership further.

Enhanced Border Security Measures

Under the new agreement, Frontex will provide support to Serbian border police and law enforcement at the borders with Bosnia Herzegovina and North Macedonia. This collaboration will help strengthen border security and address cross-border challenges effectively. The agreement marks Serbia’s second partnership with Frontex, demonstrating a commitment to combatting crime and irregular migration.

Frontex currently has over 480 officers deployed in the Western Balkans, with 111 officers already stationed in Serbia as part of joint operations. These efforts contribute to enhancing security at the Union’s external borders with Albania, North Macedonia, and Montenegro. The cooperation between Frontex and Serbia plays a vital role in safeguarding borders and ensuring regional security.