After nearly 10 years of waiting, Romania and Bulgaria are finally set to become full-fledged members of the Schengen Area on January 1, 2025. The European Commission first deemed both countries ready to join the borderless zone back in 2011, but the decision was met with resistance from certain Schengen members. However, following years of negotiations and assessments, Romania and Bulgaria have finally been given the green light to join the Schengen Area, which currently includes 22 EU member states.
The Schengen Area is a symbol of European unity and cooperation, allowing for the free movement of people and goods across its member states without the need for border controls. For Romania and Bulgaria, joining the Schengen Area represents a significant milestone in their integration into the European Union and will further strengthen their ties with other European countries.
The move has been widely welcomed by both countries, with leaders expressing their excitement at the prospect of full membership in the Schengen Area. The decision is seen as a testament to the progress that Romania and Bulgaria have made in meeting the strict criteria and standards set by the EU for Schengen membership.
With the addition of Romania and Bulgaria, the Schengen Area will become even larger, offering more opportunities for travel, trade, and cooperation among its member states. This development is a positive sign for European unity and integration, demonstrating the continued commitment to strengthening ties and promoting collaboration among European countries.
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