In the framework of preparation to the UN High Level Dialogue on Migration and Development (HLD), on the eve of the meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of Migration Agencies, IOM, CIS Ex Com and FMS of Russia organized a CIS preparatory meeting between the heads of migration services of the 10 countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) entitled “Labour Migration as a Factor of Development in the CIS”.

The meeting took place on 5th of June 2013 in FMS Centre in Vatutinki with representatives of federal executive bodies, international organizations, scientists and experts were also invited to participate in the meeting. IOM Director General, Head of IPC and DMM as well as Regional Director from Vienna participated in both events.

Migration as a global phenomenon is becoming an important factor of economic, social, political and cultural development of all the countries in the world. Therefore the priority is given to the development of cooperation between the leading international organizations and world communities. Russia’s main priorities in the field of migration are strengthening international cooperation and interaction with the CIS countries, in particular within integration processes.

In the course of the meeting the participants reviewed the main opportunities in the CIS region and studied the issues of effective migration management based on the principles and mechanisms of organized recruitment of migrant workers. At the end of the meeting the States adopted a joint statement expressing their commitment toward managing labour migration in the CIS region. The statement will be forwarded to the UN General Assembly HLD.

During the events, bilateral meetings took place between Director General Swing and Head of the FMS of Russia, Mr. Romodanovsky as well as Regional Director, IOM HQ officials and Deputy Head of FMS, as well as other Council meeting participants.

In good tradition of CIS Council meetings hosted by FMS in Vatutinki, IOM Director General Swing was invited by Mr. Romodanovsky to jointly plant a tree as a sign of warm relationship between IOM and FMS.