Croatia admitted to Schengen area

The meeting has also discussed Romania and Bulgaria's accession to the area.

The European Commission has called on the countries of the European bloc to enable the entry of these states into the free movement area, but not all states have supported the proposal.

Austrian Chancellor Carl Nehammer has said on Tuesday that his government is willing to accept Croatia, but opposes Romania and Bulgaria's accession due to concerns about migration.

The Netherlands Parliament has adopted a resolution in October, saying the most significant analysis is needed for the functioning of the rule and law, but also the level of fighting corruption in Bulgaria and Romania.

Bulgaria and Romania's efforts to enter the area have been blocked for more than a decade, since the Commission has estimated that these two countries are ready for membership.

Member states must unanimously approve the admission of a new state.

The Schengen area of 26 member states means suspension of border controls among member states and enables citizens to travel, work and live in another member state, without needing additional visas or permits.

Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Ireland and Cyprus are the only EU nations that are not part of the Schengen area.

On the other hand, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein are not EU countries, but are members of the Schengen area. / REL/