Next week’s EU summit will consider a proposal to allow Romania and Bulgaria to join the passport-free Schengen zone.

The Netherlands is the only country still opposed to the proposed expansion. The Hague argues that the two prospective Schengen members have failed to take adequate measures against organised crime and corruption.

The European Commission on Wednesday confirmed its support for a compromise proposal submitted by the other EU member states, which would see border checks lifted in two phases. European Euro Commissioner Olli Rehn said in the European Parliament that the compromise was both practical and politically wise.

(gsh)

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