Minister Fajon hails Croatia joining Schengen and the eurozone as a historic moment and major milestone

1. 1. 2023

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Minister of Foreign Affairs Tanja Fajon attended an event to mark Croatia joining the Schengen area and the eurozone at the Obrežje/Bregana border crossing point, which was hosted by Prime Minister of Croatia Andrej Plenković.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Tanja Fajon with the President of the Republic of Slovenia Nataša Pirc Musar and the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen | Author Ministrstvo za zunanje zadeve

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"Schengen and the removal of borders is the greatest New Year's gift for Croatia. This is a historic moment and an important milestone that will positively affect the lives of people living near the border, who will now be able to move freely and travel," Minister Fajon said and congratulated Croatian citizens.

She added that Slovenia, having recently celebrated the 15th anniversary of joining Schengen, has always supported Croatian efforts. "Slovenia is no longer protecting the EU’s external borders; however, I firmly believe that this will have no effect on the Union's security." The Minister went on to stress that this change comes at a time when Schengen is not fully functioning and needs revision.

Minister Fajon also attended a bilateral meeting between President of Slovenia Nataša Pirc Musar and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. They discussed current EU topics and the need to spread the European values to the Western Balkans.