Enikő Győri, Hungarian Minister of State for EU Affairs stated that EU must preserves and protects the major achievement of the free movement of persons in the Schengen area even if at the same time, the EU assists Member States that were affected by the mass influx of North African refugees.

The Council remains fully committed to the further development of the Common European Asylum System. Related work is underway in the Council and the Parliament. Besides, the most directly countries affected are receiving contributions of funding, equipment and technical expertise.

With regard to the Schengen system, Enikő Győri confirmed that the Hungarian Presidency will protect the Schengen achievements. The Minister of State reiterated that, in compliance with the Communication of the Commission published on 4 May, the Hungarian Presidency’s position is that internal border control may only be reintroduced temporarily, in a coordinated manner, based on objective criteria and respecting the Community method.

In addition, Enikő Győri stressed that not only the external borders of the EU are affected by the North African events, but also the freedom of movement within the EU. In relation to this issue, she underlined that the Presidency considers the free movement of persons within the Schengen area, a major achievement. She reassured the Parliament in its May 2011 Plenary session, that it is the intention of the Presidency and all Member States, to preserve and protect the free movement of EU citizens.

On the efforts of Bulgaria and Romania, the Hungarian Presidency makes a clear distinction between the enhancement of the Schengen system and its enlargement. Minster of State reminded MEPs that the technical preparedness of Romania was already declared in February. At that time, Bulgaria had received some homework to do, and has completed it, since then. Therefore, they are already prepared to join the Schengen system.