Skopje, 12 November 2024 (MIA) – Minister of Interior Panche Toshkovski is taking part on Tuesday in the 7th Ministerial Conference of the Budapest Process, where an action plan was adopted for the next five years of the Budapest Process cooperation. The plan includes six priority goals, including prevention of irregular migration and combating migrant smuggling and human trafficking.

In his address, Minister Toshkovski pointed out that countries should be clear in their migration policy, adding that migration is a European challenge that requires a European response, the Ministry of Interior said in a press release.  

"The Migration and Asylum Pact is the path forward for the member states of the Union, as well as for us, the aspiring countries that will eventually have to implement it or ensure its implementation," said Minister Toshkovski. 

He expressed hope that the Budapest Process will continue to grow with respect for human rights and protection of vulnerable persons.

Toshkovski also held bilateral meetings with Swiss State Secretary for Migration Christine Schraner Burgener and with Pakistan's Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, discussing future steps for cooperation in the fight against illegal migration. 

On the sidelines of the conference, Minister Toshkovski met with Turkey's Minister of Interior Ali Yerlikaya, discussing strengthening of cooperation. 

Photo: MIA archive