With Romania officially joining the Schengen area on January 1st, 2025, the country is set to close more than 30 land border crossing points with its neighboring countries of Hungary and Bulgaria. This decision, announced by the Romanian Ministry of Interior on December 25th, has been met with mixed reactions.
The Schengen area, which is made up of 26 European countries, allows for the free movement of people and goods without the need for border checks. Romania has been working towards joining this area since its accession to the European Union in 2007. However, due to concerns regarding its border security and corruption, it has faced numerous delays in its bid for membership.
The closure of these border crossing points is seen as a necessary step in ensuring Romania meets the strict security and anti-corruption standards set by the Schengen agreement. This move will also bring the country closer to its goal of becoming a fully integrated member of the European Union.
The decision has been met with support from government officials, who see it as a necessary measure in order to fully realize the benefits of Schengen membership. Interior Minister Lucian Pahontu stated, «This is a significant step towards ensuring the security and integrity of our borders, as well as demonstrating our commitment to meeting the high standards of the Schengen area.»
However, there are concerns from some citizens and businesses who fear the closure of these border points will have a negative impact on trade and tourism. The affected areas, such as the northern border with Hungary and the southern border with Bulgaria, are popular destinations for cross-border shopping and tourism. The closure of these points could result in longer travel times and increased costs for those who rely on these border crossings for work or leisure.
To address these concerns, the Romanian government has stated that alternative routes will be put in place and additional resources will be allocated to ensure the smooth flow of people and goods across the borders. They have also assured that the closure of these border points will not affect the free movement of Romanian citizens within the Schengen area.
The closure of these border crossing points is also seen as a step towards strengthening the relationship between Romania and its neighboring countries. By closing these points, Romania is demonstrating its commitment to the principles of the European Union and its desire to work together with its neighbors towards a safer and more prosperous future.
This decision has also been welcomed by other Schengen member states, who see it as a positive move towards further integration and cooperation within the European Union. With Romania’s close proximity to non-EU countries, such as Ukraine and Moldova, the closure of these border points is seen as a crucial step in strengthening the external borders of the Schengen area.
In conclusion, the closure of more than 30 land border crossing points with Hungary and Bulgaria is a significant step towards Romania’s full integration into the Schengen area. While there may be concerns and challenges that come with this decision, it is ultimately a necessary measure in order to meet the high security and anti-corruption standards set by the Schengen agreement. With its official membership in the Schengen area, Romania will not only benefit from the free movement of people and goods, but also strengthen its relationship with its neighboring countries and the European Union as a whole.
