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Quotes:
"Tomorrow marks an important day: Bulgaria and Romania join the Schengen family. I welcome the lifting of internal air and sea
border checks. This is a great success for both countries. And a historic moment for the Schengen area - the largest area of
free movement in the world. Together, we are building a stronger, more united Europe for all our citizens. "
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission - 30/03/2024
"Romania and Bulgaria's accession makes Schengen stronger – fortifying this ‘crown jewel’ so emblematic of our European way
of life, to the benefit of the internal market, our economies and European citizens everywhere. I wholeheartedly congratulate
both countries for all the hard work you have done to get here – this is your achievement, and it is not only deserved but
overdue. And we will continue to walk every step of the road forward together."
Margaritis Schinas, Vice-President for Promoting our European Way of Life - 30/03/2024
"From today Bulgaria and Romania will fully apply the Schengen acquis, making the EU stronger and safer with better protection
of our external borders, changing the lives of millions, and making travel easier. I am so proud of the work done by so many in
both Romania and Bulgaria. Today internal border controls will be lifted at air borders and sea borders. Next step is lifting
checks also at internal land borders. Discussion in Council will continue this year. And I promise this is the priority for the end of
my mandate. "
Ylva Johansson, Commissioner for Home Affairs - 30/03/2024
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