Bulgaria and Romania made a significant stride towards further European integration on Sunday by partially joining the Schengen area. This move allows for passport-free travel by air and sea between the two countries and other Schengen member states.
The European Commission officially announced the partial entry, stating that Schengen rules now apply to Bulgaria and Romania. This includes the issuance of Schengen visas and the removal of controls at air and sea borders.
Last year, the European Council approved the partial entry of both countries into the Schengen zone, which includes a majority of European Union nations. Bulgarian Prime Minister Nikolai Denkov hailed the move as a major diplomatic achievement for the country since its EU admission in 2007.
Speaking at a ceremony in Sofia Airport, Yordanka Chobanova, head of the EC Representation in Bulgaria, noted that millions of travelers pass through Bulgaria’s airports annually, especially to and from the Schengen area. Chobanova expressed hope that the process of lifting internal land border controls will soon be finalized.
The European Commission emphasizes the benefits of the Schengen area, highlighting the facilitation of free movement of people and significant economic advantages for Europe.
