Hungarian ambassador declares Schengen decision as historic achievement

On December 12, 2024, the EU Council made a significant decision to abolish border checks between Bulgaria and Romania, marking a historic achievement during Hungary's presidency of the EU Council. This decision is seen as a critical step for both countries and the wider EU in enhancing competitiveness and addressing illegal migration. Hungarian ambassador Balint Odor expressed optimism about fostering momentum for Western Balkan nations towards EU integration, specifically highlighting potential advancements in negotiations with Albania and Montenegro. Additionally, the ambassador noted the EU's focus on implementing new sanctions against Russia due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing Hungary's role as an honest broker during these discussions. The decision to eliminate border checks is a culmination of extensive negotiations and reflects the commitment of the current EU leadership to facilitate greater cooperation among member states. It demonstrates the EU's ability to reach consensus on crucial issues, including agricultural policies, which reportedly found unanimous support for the coming years. This situation not only benefits Bulgaria and Romania but also reinforces the EU's overall strategic goals regarding migration and security. In the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine, the EU Council's agenda is increasingly aligned with addressing the implications of the conflict, including the impact of Russian actions on European stability. The upcoming EU-Western Balkans meeting in Brussels is expected to build upon this momentum, focusing on enhancing relations and potentially advancing integration discussions with neighboring countries. Moreover, Hungary, while navigating its leadership role within the EU, is looking to strengthen its influence and stabilizing presence amid a changing global landscape. The Hungarian presidency seeks to promote dialogue with the United States under the incoming administration of Donald Trump, indicating Hungary's desire to play a constructive role in EU-US relations. Overall, the EU's recent decision is a significant milestone that could reshape the dynamics of Europe while addressing pressing migration challenges and fostering collaboration in the region.