January 1, 2007: Bulgaria and Romania Join the EU

Today, the European Union welcomes two new Member States and 30 million people as Bulgaria and Romania complete the EU's historic fifth round of enlargement, which peacefully reunited Western and Eastern Europe after decades of division.

To mark this important day in European history, José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission, said, “[Today] is a historic day to celebrate. I congratulate the people and leaders of Bulgaria and Romania for the courage, determination and work in preparing for membership. I thank the people and the leaders of the EU for their vision in supporting this project.”

EU Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn added, "My warm welcome to the people of Bulgaria and Romania. They deserve congratulations for impressive reforms in strengthening democracy, modernizing their countries, and making their justice systems more efficient and independent. EU accession will [also] bring concrete improvements to the every day life of citizens – such as safer food, a cleaner environment, and better roads.”

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