Romania and Bulgaria to Become Full Members of European Union

After seven years of negotiations and reform European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso declared Romania and Bulgaria will be joining the European Union. Barroso went on to say “The accession of Bulgaria and Romania will mark a historic achievement. Their readiness is a direct result of the sustained progress both countries have made.”

While the two Balkan countries will be admitted on January 1st, there will be a few restrictions to keep existing member countries at ease.

A primary concern for some EU members is the influx of immigrants into their work force. To guard against any dissention and protect the interests of those countries Romania and Bulgaria will face tight restrictions when it comes to accessing other EU markets.

Both countries will also be subject to close monitoring in areas where the commission felt reforms have not been satisfactory. Romania and Bulgaria will have to offer the commission reports every six months to show their progress in a number of areas unique to their country.

The European Union will increase its membership to 27 countries with the addition.