site.btaOutgoing Deputy PM Gabriel: March 31 Marks Historic Moment as Bulgaria Becomes Part of Schengen

Outgoing Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mariya Gabriel Sunday said that Schengen is one of the achievements of the European project, and March 31 marks a historic moment because Bulgaria is becoming part of it. Gabriel was speaking at a ceremony marking this country’s entry into the Schengen area by air and sea.

"Bulgaria is becoming part of a community of millions of people travelling freely, with benefits for business, tourism, and culture. Let us all progress together toward the ultimate goal of abolishing land border checks," Gabriel said.

"There are few moments in our lives when we celebrate a result achieved through joint efforts and working hard together," Gabriel noted. "This day represents a landmark because it serves to show that Bulgaria is no longer just an onlooker at the table and in the debates related to a strengthened, strong, and well-functioning Schengen area," the outgoing Deputy Prime Minister said.

"Bulgaria sets the direction and serves as a good example. With its experience, Bulgaria will shape the future of the Schengen area and will have a useful contribution in making all citizens feel safer," Gabriel added.

Bulgaria’s accession to the Schengen area was marked by a symbolic opening of the border. Sunday's ceremony was attended by outgoing Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov, Interior Minister Kalin Stoyanov, Transport Minister Georgi Gvozdeikov, the Head of the European Commission Representation in Bulgaria, Yordanka Chobanova, and the Ambassador of Belgium to Bulgaria, Frederic Meurice, among others. During the ceremony,  an incoming flight from Berlin was welcomed with some 200 passengers who entered the country without having to go through passport control.