US signs visa-waiver deals with Hungary, Lithuania and Slovakia

(WASHINGTON) - The US administration on Monday signed deals with Hungary, Lithuania and Slovakia paving the way for visa-free travel for their citizens despite concerns in Brussels over the bilateral agreements.

The Department of Homeland Security said in a statement the three former communist states agreed to improvements in security with the possibility of securing visa-free travel for nationals travelling to the United States.

"I applaud Slovakia, Hungary and Lithuania for their leadership on these enhanced security measures, and I look forward to the day when their citizens can travel to the United States without a visa," Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff said in a statement.

The Czech Republic, Estonia and Latvia signed similar agreements with Washington in recent weeks.

The country-by-country deal making has caused consternation in Brussels, where the commission traditionally negotiates on behalf of the entire European Union membership.

Ambassadors for the 27 member countries this month agreed to adopt a common position on red-line issues where individual governments would not cede to specific US demands.

The visa waiver had previously been enjoyed by the existing 15 EU member states, with citizens from Greece and 11 of the 12 newest states -- Slovenia being the exception -- obliged to secure visas, even for a short stay, when they arrive on US soil.

"We're fortunate to have strong ties with each of these countries, and with the European Union," Chertoff said.

"As we move forward with other aspiring allies toward visa free travel, we will also continue to collaborate with the European Union, especially in areas where it has unique legal authority."