Hungary to Discuss Lifting Schengen Border Checks for Bulgaria and Romania in December
- Hungary will discuss lifting checks at the Schengen borders of Bulgaria and Romania at the EU interior ministers' meeting on December 12, 2023.
- Bulgaria and Romania have fulfilled all Schengen requirements, but Austria has reservations about removing border checks.
- European officials are optimistic about a positive decision, indicating significant public support for Schengen membership in Bulgaria.
In Luxembourg, on October 11, 2023, the Hungarian Minister of the Interior, Sándor Pintér, announced that Hungary will place the issue of lifting checks at the Schengen borders of Bulgaria and Romania on the agenda for the upcoming EU interior ministers' meeting scheduled for December 12. This decision comes amid ongoing discussions about the Schengen membership of both countries, which have been fulfilling all necessary legislation and requirements. European Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson, expressed optimism regarding a positive outcome, noting that Austria is currently the only country with reservations about the removal of border checks. Pintér highlighted the significant progress made by Bulgaria and Romania in enhancing their border security and cooperation with other EU nations. The Acting Minister of the Interior of Bulgaria, Atanas Ilkov, emphasized the strong support for their Schengen membership and the effective bilateral cooperation between Bulgaria and Romania. Despite the positive assessments, the final decision remains uncertain as Austria has not yet taken a definitive stance on the matter. The discussions reflect broader sentiments among Bulgarian citizens, with a majority recognizing the benefits of Schengen membership for cultural exchange, business, and security. The outcome of the December meeting could mark a significant step forward for Bulgaria and Romania in their pursuit of full Schengen integration.