Latest News from Romania
Russian Airstrikes Leave Over One Million Ukrainians Without Power
In the aftermath of last night's devastating Russian airstrikes on energy facilities, over one million consumers in Ukraine find themselves without power, as reported by a senior presidential official today. The strikes have wrought havoc across multiple regions, leaving hundreds of thousands in darkness.
Schengen: Bulgaria-Romania Border Controls Persist Post-Accession Plans
Border checks between Bulgaria and Romania along the Danube River are set to persist post-March 31, even as both nations anticipate their admission into the Schengen zone by air and sea. This revelation was disclosed to BNR by a source within the European Commission, shedding light on a significant hurdle in the path to seamless travel within the European Union.
European Wage Growth Slows at End of 2023: Bulgaria Outpaces EU Average
Data released by Eurostat reveals a notable deceleration in wage growth across the European Union (EU) and the eurozone during the final quarter of 2023. While the average hourly wage in the EU increased by 3.8%, representing a marked slowdown from the previous quarter, Bulgaria saw a notable rise of 11.9%, according to the latest figures.
European Left Leader Criticizes Austria's Stance on Bulgaria's Schengen Bid
Walter Baier, the leading candidate of the European Left for the upcoming European elections, has expressed his dismay over Austria's stance on Bulgaria and Romania's entry into the Schengen zone. Describing the Austrian government's position as "shameful, unfair, and ineffective," Baier's remarks reflect broader discontent within the European Left regarding the issue.
Belgium Pushes for Full Schengen Integration of Bulgaria and Romania
The Belgian Presidency of the EU is spearheading efforts to fully integrate Bulgaria and Romania into the Schengen area. A draft resolution, expected to be voted on today in the European Parliament's Committee on Petitions, underscores the urgency of addressing the border issues between the two countries and the rest of the Schengen zone.
Eurostat Data: Bulgaria and Romania Report EU's Lowest Job Vacancy Rates in Q4 2023
According to Eurostat's latest publication, in the fourth quarter of 2023, the euro area witnessed a job vacancy rate of 2.7%, marking a decline from 2.9% in the preceding quarter and 3.1% in the same period of 2022. Notably, Bulgaria and Romania recorded the lowest job vacancy rates during this period, standing at 0.7% in both countries, BTA reported.
Clarity on Schengen Land Membership for Bulgaria, Romania Expected Post-EU Elections
Anticipation mounts as Vice-President of the European Commission, Margaritis Schinas, hints at an imminent decision regarding Bulgaria and Romania's potential accession to the Schengen Area via land routes. Following the European Parliament elections, Schinas foresees a pivotal moment where the two countries may finally secure this vital membership expansion.