European member states today approved Croatia’s accession to the Schengen Treaty. This was reported by Reuters on the basis of statements by Croatian EU representatives.
All EU countries have agreed to Croatia’s accession, reports the Czech Republic, which presides over the European Union this semester. The Balkan country will join the 26 European countries that are already part of the Schengen area on 1 January. If the Slavic country joins the Schengen area, free movement to and from Croatia will be possible. “The last hurdle has been overcome,” Croatia’s permanent representation to the EU said on Twitter. “It has been officially confirmed that Croatia will join the Schengen area on 1 January 2023.”
Where Croatia has succeeded, Romania and Bulgaria are still awaiting accession. The possible entry of the latter in particular is a problem for the Netherlands. The Netherlands has been blocking Bulgaria’s accession to Schengen for years, out of fear of more refugees at the EU’s eastern border. However, State Secretary for Asylum Eric van der Burg believes equal measures should be used. “Bulgaria does not respect the rules and we have to treat everyone equally. Only if you respect the rules can you join Schengen, otherwise not”.
Source: BNR
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