28/02/2008 (Agence Europe) - In Brussels, on Thursday 28 February, Liechtenstein and the EU signed the protocol for accession to the Schengen Acquis and to the Dublin/Eurodac Acquis. This protocol has still to be ratified by the countries of the Schengen Area. Liechtenstein's formal entry into the Schengen Area is foreseen for November, at the same moment as Switzerland, given the lack of border controls between the two countries. “Member States must understand that the important thing is to have Liechtenstein in Schengen. It is simply impossible to have a gap in the centre of Europe”, even if it is a tax haven, said Franco Frattini, Commissioner for Justice and Home Affairs, upon his arrival at the meeting of European justice and home ministers. During the signing ceremony, Liechtenstein clearly pledged to seal a “reasonable” agreement with the EU to combat fraud, which should reassure Germany (EUROPE 9607). (B.C.)