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Foreign Minister Baerbock on the bids of Croatia, Romania and Bulgaria to join the Schengen area
Not only Croatia, but especially Romania and also Bulgaria have done lots to prepare for joining the Schengen area. This was once again confirmed by the European Commission only a few weeks ago. Especially these days, it is important for Europe to cooperate more closely. I would like to appeal to Austria in particular that it reconsider its no vote on Romania and Bulgaria. I do so especially because the concerns regarding border protection have been addressed in the most recent compromise proposals. It would send a strong pro-European signal if, at the end of this truly challenging year, today’s Council meeting in Brussels could pave the way for further progress towards European integration.