EU launches pilot project with Bulgaria to improve border protection

The European Commission has announced the launch of a pilot project with Bulgaria to address the migrant challenges and improve border protection.

The pilot project sees the implementation of targeted tools and practices in the area of accelerated asylum procedures and effective returns by Bulgaria. The pilot project is based on Bulgaria's good practices and experience, including its excellent cooperation with Serbia, T rkiye and other neighbouring countries, as well as the EU agencies active in Bulgaria, as well as strong operational and technical support by the Commission and key EU agencies EUAA, Europol and Frontex. The external borders are strengthened with enhanced surveillance measures to be implemented at the Bulgaria-T rkiye border. The Commission and Bulgaria are finalising a needs assessment and the Commission will provide financial support to help Bulgaria with strengthening border management at its external border with T rkiye.