An overwhelming majority of the member states of the European Union said that Romania deserves to be in Schengen, instead, the right-wing government in Austria chose "to go against the grain," Social Democratic Party (PSD) chairman, Marcel Ciolacu wrote on Facebook on Thursday, referring to the non-admission of Romania and Bulgaria to the Schengen area.
He added that "Austria's unfair opposition is a free Christmas present for Vladimir Putin".
"European unity and stability received a hard blow today from a state that chose, in difficult times, to abandon its European comrades and serve - instead - the interests of Russia. It is clear that Austria has disconnected itself from Europe. Certainly, there will be consequences for Austria following this absurd vote! European states will not forget that today's decision of the Austrian right-wing government has serious effects on the European future. Romania does not need Austria's indulgence! We just want to be treated fairly, with the respect due to any other European state," Ciolacu said.
The PSD leader "specially" thanked the European social-democratic political family, "which understood Romania's efforts and permanently supported us".AGERPRES