Theme of the day of 26 September 2006

Bulgaria and Romania: EPP-ED Group welcomes green light for accession on 1 January 2007

In a first statement after the official presentation of the Commission's progress report on Romania and Bulgaria in Strasbourg today, EPP-ED Chairman Hans-Gert Poettering warmly welcomed the Commission's decision to recommend the accession of Romania and Bulgaria on 1 January 2007. "This is not only a decision the EPP-ED Group has expectantly hoped for. Above all it is a historical milestone for these two countries on their long and often arduous return to the united European family they always belonged to", said Poettering. "Romania and Bulgaria have made good progress in the last months and years. Their efforts were not in vain and we are looking forward to their successful membership in the European Union."

The setting of clearly defined benchmarks for both countries by the Commission in order to monitor their progress in further essential reforms was also welcomed by Poettering, who underlined the need for a continued reform process in order for all European standards to be met. "Today's confirmation of their accession date does not mark the end for Romania's and Bulgaria's work. It is a clear acknowledgement of their efforts and their willingness to meet European Union's standards. But the Commission's progress report is also a clear call for continued efforts. Both countries have to go on reforming their society, consolidating their democracy, in strengthening the rule of law in their countries. Many things are yet to be achieved, but we are confident that both countries will continue their reform process and make quick progress," concluded Poettering.

On 25 April 2005, Bulgaria and Romania signed the Treaty of Accession, which foresees their joining the EU on 1 January 2007. The Commission has presented Monitoring Reports on their preparedness in October 2005, in which a number of shortcomings were identified. The current reports review the progress since May 2006.

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