| Author (Corporate) | European Commission: DG Communication |
|---|---|
| Series Title | Press Release |
| Series Details | IP/08/1195 (23.07.08) |
| Publication Date | 23/07/2008 |
| Content Type | News |
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The Commission approved a series of reports assessing the progress in Bulgaria and Romania of judicial reform and the fight against corruption under the Co-operation and Verification mechanisms set up when both countries joined the EU last year. The Commission also adopted a separate report on the management of EU funds in Bulgaria. These reports assessed the progress and shortcomings that exist in Bulgaria and Romania on the commitments made at the time of accession. The Commission concluded that genuine efforts and some progress have been made, mainly in terms of judicial reform but much more needs to be done by both countries to fight high level corruption and in Bulgaria on organised crime. The reports highlighted the need for sustained political commitment and implementation on the ground if the benchmarks set at the time of accession are to be met in full. The reports put forward a series of concrete follow up measures. Progress in meeting the benchmarks and in dispelling doubts about the two countries ability to deal with corruption will allow their citizens to reap the full benefits of EU membership and enhance their confidence in the rule of law. In the case of Bulgaria, the Commission took a formal decision to suspend certain EU funds until the Bulgarian authorities are able to demonstrate that sound financial management structures are in place and operating effectively. |
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| Source Link | http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/08/1195&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en |
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| Countries / Regions | Bulgaria, Romania |
