The Netherlands cited corruption and immigration concerns for its dissent
The Netherlands has agreed on Bulgaria’s accession to the Schengen zone, the European Free Trade Area, the Dutch Ministry of Justice announced today, ending the country’s long-standing opposition to this accession, the Dutch news agency ANP reports.
The Hague had previously opposed granting access to the eastern European country, citing concerns over corruption and immigration. However, the ministry announced today that Bulgaria has met the conditions to join in the Schengen area strengthening its borders and combating irregular immigration.
The Dutch government “has come to the conclusion that Bulgaria fulfills the conditions set to join the Schengen area” and that it can therefore “accept a decision on the full integration of Bulgaria into the Schengen area,” said responsible immigration minister Erik van de Burgh.
Austria still opposes Sofia’s bid to join the world’s largest free-movement zone, although it said on Monday it was willing to give in on allowing air travel in exchange for tighter security at the European Union’s external borders.
Source :Skai
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