The main subjects for discussion between President Barroso and Romanian Prime Minister Victor Ponta were the latest progress report under the Cooperation and Verification Mechanism, adopted by the Commission last week, and Romania's economic situation.
On the Cooperation and Verification Mechanism (CVM), President Barroso expressed appreciation for Prime Minister Ponta's efforts over the last six months to deliver on the commitments he made last July. "The conditions now exist, with a more stable political situation – a new Government and Parliament – to make a real push on the reform process", said the President. He noted that further progress on the independence of the judiciary and the appointment to key posts will be crucial milestones in order to succeed in the reform process. He also stressed that the politicians should lead by example by stepping aside where integrity rulings or corruption charges exist.
On the economy, President Barroso welcomed the efforts of the Romanian government to reduce the deficit, expected to be below 3 per cent of GDP in 2012. "This is a real achievement, especially against a background of economic and political difficulties", underlined the President.
Schengen accession was also among the other issues discussed. "As you know, I support, and the Commission supports, Romania's accession to Schengen", he said in his statement after the meeting.
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