The European Commission recommends Romania’s and Bulgaria’s accession to the EU on January 1st, 2007, showing that Romania recorded a significant progress in the economic reforms. Still, some areas are a reason for worries, in the eyes of some European officials: the level of tax collecting, the public expenses, privatization and companies’ debt erasing.

The president of the European Commission, Jose Manuel Barroso, said: „EU looks forward for Romania’s and Bulgaria’s accession. Both countries are ready to join the Union on January 1st, 2007. It is a historic moment”.

The Commission is about to implement a mechanism designed to check the progress of the two new members in areas such as the Justice reform and the anti corruption and anti organized crime activity.

Commissioner Olli Rehn: „Romania and Bulgaria must present a report every six months, presenting their progress. In case the expected results aren’t obtained, the European Commission may demand a reduction of the European funds allocated for the respective country. I trust Romania and Bulgaria will be enriching for Europe, without compromising it”.