Greek FM Papandreou and EUHR Solana after the GAERC meeting

The President of the Council, Greek Foreign Minister George Papandreou said in Brussels on Monday (19 May) that one of the aims of the Thessaloniki European Council next month would be to shape different policies on migration in the European Union into a more comprehensive approach and possibly establish a regular annual report on migration.

"We want to see a comprehensive view of migration policy, beginning to articulate different policies in the European Union into a more comprehensive approach…We will be looking forward to seeing if we can get a regular report on migration every year" Papandreou told reporters at a joint press conference with EU High Representative for CFSP Javier Solana after a meeting of the General Affairs and External Relations Council.

The GAERC convened in Brussels to discuss a range of issues, including the agenda of the Thessaloniki European Council, the Western Balkans, the Middle East peace process and developments concerning Iraq.

Papandreou reiterated that the "rejectionist forces opting for violence" must not be allowed to derail the Middle East peace process and again voiced support for the Quartet Road Map "as the opportunity that exists to move forward for peace and for ensuring a secure Israel and a viable Palestinian state."

While noting the importance of Israel's "obvious and legitimate" security concerns, Papandreou said "we are also preoccupied by the number of Palestinian civilian deaths and have asked for restraint on the Israeli side…"

Regarding the Western Balkans, Papandreou said a number of ideas and proposals have been tabled, which will be discussed by COREPER, regarding the possibility of further funding for the region to facilitate the process of stabilization and subsequent integration.

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• Joint Statement by the Quartet - The Road Map (30/4/2003)
• EU Presidency statement of the Quartet's Road Map (30/4/2003)