Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis said on Wednesday that the European Union should clearly state what will happen with the Western Balkans.
Speaking after a meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Babis said Europe has to say where the continent will be defended from illegal migrations. “We appeal for Europe to define the Schengen area, to clearly say what will happen to the Western Balkans and where the European continent will be defended,” he told reporters after presenting his plan to combat illegal migrations.
Babis wants people smuggling chains cut, boatloads of migrants prevented from sailing and aid provided to the countries of Africa and the Middle East. In illustration, he cited the example of the Gaulish village of fictional characters Asterix and Obelix whose residents move around freely, working together to defend the village which he said represents Europe.
Merkel said that she disagrees with Babis on the issue of which people really need help but agrees on the aid to help solve the causes of the migrant crisis.
She said that she agrees on the importance of the Western Balkans for the EU, adding that the countries of that region have to have a clear perspective of membership in the Union.
