Brussels, 08/11/2005 (Agence Europe) - On 7 November, the Council of the EU adopted conclusions on regional protection programmes, backing the approach outlined in the Commission Communication of September this year, recognising that such programmes are a first step in improving access to protection and durable solutions for those in need of international protection, setting guidelines for pilot projects (see EUROPE 9018). The Council reiterated the importance of working with third countries and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees in regions refugees hail from and travel through. The EU25 justice and interior ministers adopted similar conclusions at the JHA Council in Luxembourg on 12 October (see EUROPE 9048).