11/12/2023 (Agence Europe) – On Monday 11 December, the European Commission “welcomed” the right direction taken by Austria with regard to the accession of Romania and Bulgaria to the Schengen area, and said it was ready to lend its support. It was reacting to announcements made by the Austrian Interior Minister, Gerhard Karner, on the same day, according to which air borders could already be opened with these two countries in exchange for increased security at the EU’s external border. “Yes, I can imagine changes for airports in Romania and Bulgaria”, the minister told ORF radio, adding that he had written to the Commission and that the ball was “now in its court”. The Commission has reiterated its determination to strengthen the external borders and is working with the countries concerned to find a solution by the end of the year. (SP)