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European Council discussed economic growth and EU's external relations

Government Communications Department
Publication date 29.6.2016 1.00
Press release 293/2016

The leaders of the EU Member States began their meeting on 28 June by discussing migration, economic growth and external relations.

In the European Council the discussion focused especially on the external dimension of migration. It is important that the EU continues and strengthens cooperation with the countries of origin and transit in order to further stabilise the situation and find a lasting solution.    

The leaders of the EU Member States declared that they will speedily promote agreed projects to boost growth, employment and investment. Finland considers it important that the European Council regularly discusses Single Market issues that are essential for growth.

"The necessary strategies exist, so now is the time for implementation. In the implementation process, it will be important to ensure better regulation and to reduce the regulatory burden. Any need for new regulation must be considered carefully and excessive regulation avoided, especially in quickly changing business sectors including digital environment," says Prime Minister Juha Sipilä.

EU High Representative Federica Mogherini presented the European Global Strategy on Foreign and Security Policy to the European Council. The European Council members also discussed the strengthening of cooperation between the EU and NATO with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. The President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission will issue a statement jointly with the NATO Secretary General at the NATO summit next week.

"In Finland's view, the global strategy is a significant demonstration of unity and of the will to strengthen Europe's security and its global role. The EU must focus on its fundamental role of ensuring peace and stability globally. Together we can more effectively meet the expectations of our citizens regarding the strengthening of Europe's internal and external security," says Sipilä.

At the EU leaders' working dinner, British Prime Minister David Cameron gave an account of the outcome of the EU referendum carried out in the UK. The meeting will continue on Wednesday, when 27 Member States will discuss the further development of the EU.

Inquiries: Kare Halonen, State Secretary, EU Affairs, tel. +358 295 160 315, and Jari Haapiainen, Special Adviser (EU Affairs), tel. +358 295 160 406, Prime Minister's Office

English translation of the press release published on 29 June 2016 

 
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