Bulgaria's Eurozone Entry by 2026: Possible, But Tense, Expert Warns
Financier Plamen Danailov, a municipal councilor from the "There Is Such a People" party, recently discussed Bulgaria's potential adoption of the euro
A challenge persists in admitting Bulgaria and Romania to the Schengen area via land routes, with sources from the Belgian presidency of the Council of the EU indicating resistance from a small group of countries, as reported by BNR. The topic is slated for discussion on June 13 during a meeting of interior ministers in Luxembourg. While both countries were incorporated into the Schengen zone for air and sea travel on March 31, opposition remains regarding land entry.
Efforts by the Belgian presidency to reconcile differing stances have been hindered by opposing opinions, particularly from Austria, which remains steadfast in its opposition. Despite Belgium's endeavors, a resolution may not be imminent, with discussions expected to continue beyond the current week. The issue is of utmost sensitivity for certain countries, with Austria's forthcoming parliamentary elections adding to the complexity.
The majority of EU member states are supportive of Bulgaria and Romania joining Schengen via land routes, yet unanimous approval is required within the Council. Belgium, concluding its presidency soon, aims to serve as a mediator post-tenure. The pending Schengen Declaration, anticipated to be ratified at the upcoming "Internal Affairs" Council, is intended to ensure the continued efficacy of the Schengen area amid evolving challenges.
US Vice President JD Vance delivered a critical speech at the Munich Security Conference
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that Europe cannot indefinitely rely on the US military presence
The NATO defense ministers' meeting in Brussels and the Munich Security Conference have drawn significant attention this week, with US President Donald Trump's approach to Ukraine and Russia
The European Parliament has reiterated its refusal to recognize the self-proclaimed authorities of Georgia
A major police operation is underway in Munich after a car plowed into a crowd of demonstrators near the city's central train station
The European Commission has referred Bulgaria, along with Spain, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal, and Finland, to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to transpose
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