In Budapest, Acting Bulgarian Prime Minister Dimitar Glavchev expressed cautious optimism about Bulgaria’s ongoing efforts to join the Schengen Area.
Addressing journalists on November 8 during his official visit to the Hungarian capital, Glavchev highlighted that Bulgaria’s accession prospects remain closely linked with Romania’s, suggesting that any developments for Romania could also influence Bulgaria’s Schengen progress.
“Whatever developments are reported on Romania, they apply to us as well,” he commented, underscoring the interconnected nature of the two countries’ applications for the European Union’s border-free zone.
Glavchev’s comments come as Romania’s Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu indicated that Romania might see a decision on Schengen land border entry before the second round of the country’s presidential elections, scheduled for December 8.
This timeline could potentially allow Romania’s Schengen entry to be finalized by the end of the year, though Bulgaria has not confirmed similar estimates.
Glavchev advised caution in anticipating specific outcomes or timelines, indicating that while progress is expected, diplomatic developments must proceed without premature conclusions.
During discussions at an informal European Council meeting in Budapest, Glavchev also reflected on broader geopolitical issues impacting the EU, particularly the relationship between the European Union and the United States.
He emphasized that the United States remains the EU’s “primary strategic partner,” with cooperation deemed crucial across multiple domains, including security and defense.
As part of these discussions, Glavchev reiterated the shared commitment to peace, particularly in relation to ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
He called for any peace initiatives to be based on the principles of the United Nations Charter and uphold international law, stressing that peace must reflect stability and fairness.
High on the agenda for cooperation between the EU and the US, according to Glavchev, are economic partnerships, advancements in high technology, security and defense measures, and joint efforts to combat disinformation.
These elements are viewed as essential to strengthening the transatlantic relationship, which he noted is vital to both EU and global stability.
The EU’s approach, Glavchev explained, involves leveraging these areas to foster resilience and promote democratic values.
The close coordination between Bulgaria and Romania on Schengen accession continues to be a significant point of focus for both countries, given the impact of membership on their economies and border management systems.
Bulgaria’s entry into Schengen would eliminate internal EU border controls, allowing for smoother trade and travel within the Schengen Area.
Despite positive sentiments, both countries have faced delays, often linked to EU concerns about security and rule of law within their borders.
Romania’s Prime Minister Ciolacu remains optimistic about imminent progress for his country’s Schengen entry, particularly at the land borders, signaling a new phase in Romania’s Schengen ambitions.
While a definitive timeline for Bulgaria has not been provided, the alignment between the two countries suggests that any favorable developments could potentially pave the way for both Bulgaria and Romania to join Schengen soon.
As Bulgaria moves forward with measured optimism, Glavchev’s remarks emphasize a strategic, patient approach in securing a place within Schengen, alongside a broader commitment to strengthening the EU’s alliances and advancing peace in key conflict zones.