Bulgaria optimistic on two-stage Schengen entry

(SOFIA) - Bulgaria remains hopeful that it will be allowed a two-stage entry into Europe's visa-free Schengen zone this year, Interior Minister Tsvetan Tsvetanov said Thursday.

"Of course, a stage-by-stage entry is acceptable in the present situation," Tsvetanov told journalists in Sofia.

According to Tsvetanov, the first step of opening Bulgaria and Romania's air and sea borders by the end of the year "will be proof that we have fulfilled the criteria for Schengen accession."

An opening of the land borders at a later stage, in 2012, will meanwhile allow Bulgaria to curb already increasing pressure from migrants from Greece and Turkey, he added.

Bulgaria and neighbouring Romania had initially hoped for full Schengen entry as early as March but their hopes were quashed by opposition from France, Germany, Finland and the Netherlands who have been pushing for more results in the fight against crime and corruption.

France eventually suggested in June a two-stage membership as a compromise solution.

Asked whether he expected a greenlight for two-stage membership at the next EU home affairs council in Brussels on September 22, Tsvetanov said Thursday: "I am very hopeful for a decision that will satisfy both Bulgaria and Romania as well as the other EU member states."

In order to enter into force, the proposal has to win approval from all EU member states.