Infrastructure Improvements Needed
Following Bulgaria and Romania's accession to the Schengen Area, MEP Emil Radev emphasized the need for infrastructure improvements on the borders with Turkey, Serbia, and Romania. These improvements would facilitate traffic flow, making it faster and more convenient.
Radev highlighted the impact on transportation, stating that goods destined for Central Europe previously passed through Rotterdam due to the lack of competitiveness of Black Sea ports like Varna, Burgas, and Constanța. He believes that Schengen entry will boost these ports, but infrastructure improvements are crucial.
Specifically, Radev pointed to the need for upgrades on roads leading to border checkpoints, including the Danube Bridge 2 and the bridge near Ruse. These roads are currently at full capacity and cannot handle the increased traffic. Additionally, improvements to transport corridors like Veliko Tarnovo - Ruse and the Hemus Motorway would facilitate smoother traffic flow for tourists, goods, and trucks traveling to the interior of Europe.
In summary, while Bulgaria and Romania's accession to Schengen presents a positive step, infrastructure improvements are essential to fully capitalize on the benefits and ensure efficient and convenient movement of people and goods.