Sofia and Bucharest airports have eliminated passport checks for travelers to and from most EU countries as Bulgaria and Romania partially enter the Schengen open-travel area. The move follows an agreement last year, allowing air and sea travel integration after Austria’s opposition to full membership. Interior Minister Kalin Stoyanov aims for full Schengen status for Bulgaria by year-end, extending to land crossings. Romania anticipates completing negotiations on land borders this year. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen lauded the development, emphasizing unity in building a stronger Europe. Additionally, both countries have joined a regional police initiative to address migrant flows, with Frontex tripling its officers in Bulgaria to curb illegal crossings from Turkey.
Bulgaria and Romania Partially Join Schengen Zone, Removing Passport Checks at Airports
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