“The decision to deny Bulgaria and Romania accession to Schengen is wrong and undermines European principles of solidarity and unity,” President Rumen Radev said during a video conference with European Council President Charles Michel, Novinite reports. com.

The conversation, initiated by Charles Michel, concerns the preparation of the regular meeting of the European Council, which will be held on December 15, as well as the EU-ASEAN summit on December 14. The Bulgarian head of state will represent Bulgaria at two forums in Brussels.

On the occasion of the expected discussion between European leaders on the expansion of the Schengen zone, President Radev said that it is unacceptable to set additional requirements for accession, such as references to the rule of law, which are not part of objective accession. criteria.

Regarding the increase in the migration flow to Europe, the president said that an effective reform of the Schengen system should involve the accession of countries located on the external border of Europe, and not their blocking.

“Efforts on the front line must be strengthened,” urged Rumen Radev and stated that our country continues to invest significant financial and human resources for border security. The head of state expressed hope that the issue of expanding the Schengen zone will continue to be a priority during Sweden’s presidency of the EU Council, which will begin in January next year.

Regarding the future discussion on energy issues, President Rumen Radev said that the possibility of expanding natural gas transportation networks for access to additional resources, especially liquefied gas terminals, should be discussed with EU partners.

(source: news.ro)