Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu said on Thursday that Romania’s accession as a full member of the Schengen Area, starting January 1, 2025, represents „a historic decision.”

For Romanian companies doing business with partners from European countries, the removal of border controls will facilitate trade and reduce logistical costs, the prime minister said in a press conference held at the Victoria Governmental Palace.

„This is a historic decision that was made recently at the JHA [Justice and Home Affairs] Council meeting in Brussels. This is, in fact, a victory for justice and national dignity, and a clear signal that we will never accept being second-class citizens in Europe. It is – above all – a triumph for all Romanians, regardless of political preference or social status. It is a victory of teamwork, for the good of Romania, because at this moment, opinion leaders from the country and abroad, public personalities, ordinary people, along with ministers, diplomats, MEPs, and technicians from dozens of institutions, have contributed. For Romanian companies doing business with partners from European countries, the removal of border controls will facilitate trade and reduce logistical costs. This means that Romanian goods will become more competitive, which will stimulate the economy and create new business opportunities and jobs. For Romanians, this decision brings concrete and immediate benefits,” Ciolacu said.

AGERPRES