Italy backs Romania to join Schengen

Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi visited Romania on Monday and said that Italy supports Romania’s bid to join the Schengen Area.

“We wanted Romania to join the EU with all our heart and we are now siding with you again for acquiring full-scale EU membership,” said the Italian premier, making reference to the objective of the Bucharest authorities to join the Schengen Area, reminding at the same time Italy’s support to Romania before 2007, during the latter’s preparation for EU accession.

During their meeting, Romanian President Emil Boc thanked Berlusconi for the support that Italy has offered for Romania’s accession to the European Union, “but also for constantly backing Romania in its Schengen accession bid.”