Migration: Europe doubles speed

The debate Thursday night at the European Summit on European governance of migration revealed Europe's heighten resolve for solutions, noted on Friday by the Belgian prime minister Charles Michel at the end of the European Summit.

"I have found that many countries have pleaded for a pro-active approach on migration", a phenomenon that will remain strong over the coming years because "the consequences are serious," said the Prime Minister.

"Despite this, it was not possible for some countries to assume their responsibilities. And I speak from the point of view of a country that is supportive and that takes its share of responsibility."

For Mr Michel, it is neither more nor less " a question of willingness to work together", pointing the debate on "two words (voluntary or compulsory,) that have important political strength for the future of Europe".

The debate was stretched on Thursday night between supporters of the Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, of a mandatory distribution of 60,000 migrants throughout Europe and the Baltic countries, the Poland and some Eastern countries, wishing that this distribution is on voluntary basis.

Ahead of his arrival on the second day of the Summit, Mr Michel had already criticized "a distressing and undignified spectacle for Europe".

Next to this heated issue, the question of the relationship between the United Kingdom and the EU (and the Brexit), briefly mentioned, finally provoked little emotion. Charles Michel was the only one to take the floor following the presentation of his British counterpart David Cameron, sparking a certain annoyance on the British side. He requested that all Member States and the European Commission are involved from the earliest moments in legal consultations and reflection.

The subject of the Brexit will return to the agenda at the European Council meeting in December after the conservative Convention in the fall.