"Romania and Bulgaria Partially Join Schengen Area, Air and Sea Passport Checks Lifted"

Romania and Bulgaria have partially joined the Schengen travel zone, allowing free access for travelers arriving by air or sea but maintaining land border checks due to opposition primarily from Austria over illegal migration concerns. The move has been hailed as a "huge success" and a "historic moment" by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Both countries have been fulfilling the criteria for joining the Schengen area for years and are expected to fully accede by the end of the year, with Bulgaria aiming for full accession by the end of 2024. However, concerns have been raised about potential long queues at EU land borders and the impact on trade and the health and safety of drivers.