In her speech on the state of the EU, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also indirectly criticized Austria. The 64-year-old called on Romania and Bulgaria to join the Schengen area “without further delay”.
As is known, the federal government in Vienna is blocking the two states’ access to the border-free area. The negative attitude is justified by the large number of refugees who would enter the EU through these states. In her speech, Von der Leyen said that border protection in the EU has been strengthened. Bulgaria and Romania have set a good example in this area. They have proven that they meet the necessary conditions.
In her speech on Wednesday in the EU Parliament in Strasbourg, Von der Leyen placed particular emphasis on the fight against smugglers. She called for stricter application of the law and more powers for the Europol, Eurojust and Frontex agencies. She also announced an “international conference to combat human trafficking.”
Von der Leyen defends agreement with Tunisia
The head of the Commission also defended the EU-Tunisia deal, which “benefits both sides”. The pact stipulates that Tunisia prevents migrants from crossing the Mediterranean Sea. In return, the North African state was promised border protection funds worth 105 million euros. Von der Leyen announced that the Commission now wants to negotiate similar contracts with other countries. She also called for an early agreement on reforming the EU’s migration and asylum policies.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
