The Council of the EU yesterday adopted adecision to conclude the agreement with Serbia on border management cooperation between thiscountry and the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex).

Close cooperation with our Western Balkan partners is essential if we are to address the shared migratory challenges which we face. The agreements concluded today on border management cooperation with Montenegro and Serbia are an important part of our overall strategy on border management.Davor Bozinovic, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of Croatia

This agreement will allow Frontex to assist Serbia in border management, carry out joint operations and deploy teams in the region of thiscountry that borders the EU, subject to the country’s agreement.

These activities are aimed at tackling illegal immigration, in particular sudden changes in migratory flows, and cross-border crime, and can involve the provision of increased technical and operational assistance at the border.

Strengthened cooperation between priority third countries and Frontex will help tackle illegal immigration and further enhance security at the EU’s external borders.