The EU has urged Turkey not to encourage the further movement of refugees and migrants to the EU borders and to fulfill its obligations under the 2016 deal, said head of the EU diplomacy Josep Borrell.

He has visited Ankara together with the European Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarcic. 

Borrell has noted the need for joint work and expressed understanding of the difficult situation for Turkey. However, current events do not lead to any solution and can only exacerbate problems.

He said the EU was ready to consider working with Turkey on an approach that would offer a joint political path forward.

“We have a common interest and that is to end the conflict in Syria. Only in this way will we be able to bring to an end the suffering of the civilian population and contribute to address the most significant challenges Turkey is currently facing. Increased pressure at EU-Turkey border and unilateral actions will not provide answers.” Josep Borrell said.