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Foreign Minister Steinmeier on the designation of Western Balkan countries as safe countries of origin
Foreign Minister Steinmeier commented as follows on 8 August on the discussion about the designation of Western Balkan countries as safe countries of origin:
The inclusion of Western Balkan countries among the safe countries of origin cannot be a taboo. We can only ensure that people in Germany remain prepared to accept refugees in need if we undertake credible efforts to accelerate procedures and establish clarity for those who stand no chance of being recognised. The attacks and insinuations against Sigmar Gabriel and the SPD Minister‑Presidents in this matter are completely out of order.