03/06/2021 09:34
"Cyprus is not ready yet" to enter the Schengen area, said in response to a question by CNA, Commissioner Ylva Johansson, during the presentation of the package for the strengthening of the free movement area in the EU.
As the Commissioner pointed out, "that is why we are preparing to move forward, but it (Cyprus) is not yet in a position to be evaluated and is not considered ready to enter the Schengen area at the moment."
Replying to the same question, Vice President Margaritis Schinas stressed that "in this revised strategy for us, Schengen enlargement is a priority for the three countries, Bulgaria, Romania and Croatia."
"As you know, the final decision is not up to us, but we constantly support this, the need for this enlargement, and we are of the opinion that the facts show that (the three states) are ready to join," he said.
"Now, in relation to Cyprus. It is a different situation, because you know that Cyprus also has this peculiarity with a green line, as well as other types of situations that have an impact. But clearly, in the turn of enlargement, Cyprus is clearly coming in fourth position, and yes Cyprus remains a candidate for Schengen ", the Vice President concluded.