The European Parliament’s Petitions Committee has adopted a resolution urging the Council to allow Romania and Bulgaria into the Schengen zone by the end of 2023. They argue that both countries meet the requirements and that vetoing their accession has led to anti-European sentiment and harmed the economy. MEPs stress that a larger Schengen area would strengthen the EU and alleviate burdens faced by businesses and citizens in Romania and Bulgaria. They mention discriminatory delays and costs for travel and business, along with negative impacts on truck drivers. MEPs also highlight the exploitation of the situation by anti-EU propaganda, including Russian influence. The resolution will be voted on in July. Currently, all EU member states except Bulgaria, Cyprus, Ireland, and Romania, as well as non-EU states Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein, are part of Schengen. Austria vetoed Romania’s accession, citing concerns about illegal migration. Romania aims to persuade Austria to lift the veto through an extended plan.
Source: Romania-insider.com
