The Commission expressed, in its report on the evaluation and future development of the Frontex Agency of 13 February 2008, the view that in the light of the constant and high migratory pressure at certain parts of the EU border, the cooperation between Member States needs to be further enhanced compared to what has been the case so far. One of the core elements to enhance border controls at the EU external borders could be the more permanent nature of the joint operations at specific high-risk areas.

Concerning the budget of the Frontex Agency, the Commission has always supported the development of the Agency, including the increase of its financial means since its inception in 2005. This is also reflected in the budget proposal for 2009, whereby EUR 75 million is foreseen. This results in an increase of EUR 42 million for the Frontex Agency's budget compared to the Commission's original budget plans made in 2006.

In addition, the Commission would like to underline that the budget allocation for Frontex has to be in line with the requirements and the overall context of the financial perspectives of the EU. Furthermore, it needs to take into account in a realistic manner the management capabilities of the Agency.