EU calls on members to take in more Syrian refugees

BRUSSELS

The EU on Tuesday called on member states to take in more Syrian refugees.

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said EU members should offer temporary protection to those fleeing the conflict in Syria according to their ability to host them.

“This scheme will help establish a fair sharing of the responsibility for the protection of displaced Syrian refugees in Turkey,” he said in a statement. “Turkey is a key partner in our efforts to support these unfortunate people in a dignified way.”

Turkey currently hosts 2.3 million Syrian refugees. More than 750,000 refugees have crossed into the EU from Turkey so far this year.

On Nov.24, Turkey and the EU agreed on a refugee action plan that entailed 3 billion euros ($3.27 billion) in support for Syrians in Turkey.