In the backdrop of the European People's Party (EPP) congress, Romania's President Klaus Iohannis engaged in discussions with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer in
Bucharest on Thursday morning, March 7. Among the focal points of their dialogue was Romania's endeavor towards full integration into the Schengen area, a matter complicated by Austria's reservations, advocating solely for the "Air Schengen" alternative wherein ports and airports align with Schengen standards while land borders remain intact.
Iohannis affirmed the commitment to advancing Romania's Schengen accession, emphasizing the imperative of a unified, robust European Union that bolsters security for all citizens. Nehammer, in response, reiterated Austria's steadfast opposition to the expansion of Schengen, underscoring the systemic shortcomings that preclude its enlargement.
Post-meeting reflections underscored the importance of the Romanian-Austrian partnership, acknowledging significant economic ties and the contributions of Romanian workers in Austria's healthcare sector. However, Nehammer reaffirmed Austria's reservations concerning Schengen expansion, citing concerns over the efficacy of the current system.
Nehammer's subsequent address at the EPP congress reiterated Austria's stance on migration, a contentious issue influencing its reluctance towards Romania's and Bulgaria's Schengen accession. Emphasizing the need for comprehensive border defense and streamlined asylum procedures, Nehammer articulated the imperative of addressing citizens' apprehensions, particularly regarding illegal migration.
The EPP congress in Bucharest provided a platform for robust discussions on European integration and policy imperatives. Notably, the party's manifesto advocates for the full admission of Bulgaria and Romania into Schengen, accompanied by reforms to enhance the functionality of the Schengen Area and fortify external border security.
Amidst deliberations on European integration, the EPP reaffirmed its endorsement of Ursula von der Leyen as its lead candidate for the European elections, signaling support for her bid for a second term as President of the European Commission. Photo by lraul06 from Brasov / Cluj, Romania, Wikimedia commons.