Thank you Madam President,
Excellencies, distinguished guests,
All countries have the aim to manage migration in a safe, orderly, and regular fashion.
All our societies expect us to combat human trafficking and migrant smuggling.
For the same reason, our societies expect proper border management and a fair migration system.
And our societies expect that those who can stay,
will integrate, prosper and become successful in our societies,
and that those who do not have the right to stay, will return to their country of origin.
That’s why we have the Global Compact on Migration and that’s why the Kingdom of the Netherlands is part of the discussions today.
We continue to believe that international cooperation is the only way to achieve these goals.
Also we believe that safeguarding the rights of migrants is the only way to achieve these goals in a sustainable way.
In this context the efforts made by UN organizations and member states are crucial.
As an example, The Netherlands works to achieve these goals
through our contributions to the Migration Multi Partner Trust Fund.
I’m pleased to announce here that the Netherlands will contribute an additional 2 million euros to the Trust Fund this year.
I invite others to add to the Fund as well.
Our combined efforts should provide momentum for the full, 360-degree implementation of the Global Compact.
Route based cooperation is the key, because migration cooperation does not stop at our borders.
Our societies expect us to have credible migration management systems
so that we have more control over who can stay.
This needs to be complemented by effective partnerships.
One of our priorities is returns.
Also to tackle migrant smuggling and trafficking.
The Netherlands places strong emphasis on safe, dignified, and sustainable return and reintegration.
Voluntary return is always our preference.
Through our COMPASS programme, we assist not only returning migrants,
but also voluntary returns from partner countries to third countries.
The Global Compact on migration has developed positively over the past few years.
We see the need for new ways of cooperation.
These new arrangements, that may include return hubs or safe third country concepts,
should ensure the safeguarding of the rights of migrants.
As a committed multilateral partner, the Kingdom of the Netherlands looks forward to the next four years of cooperating on the Global Compact.
And to make its objectives a reality.
Thank you.