The blocking of Romania and Bulgaria's access to the European Union's Schengen area after Austria's objection represents a "bad day for Europe", reports BTA, citing German Foreign Minister Analena Berbock.

"Until the last minute... we fought to ensure that Bulgaria and Romania would be accepted into the Schengen area," Berbock told a press conference in Dublin.

"I think this is more than wrong from a European point of view, but also from a geopolitical point of view," she said.

"Instead of being proud that we have achieved a good and strong day for Europe, we should say that this is a bad day for Europe," Berbock added.

They rejected Bulgaria's entry into Schengen

The German foreign minister also called on British and EU negotiators to seize the opportunity to patch up their relationship after the Brexit-triggered trade dispute over Northern Ireland.

"This is the message I will take to London tomorrow".

said Berbock, who will be visiting the British capital tomorrow.

Germany

reception in Schengen