EU warns of risk to Schengen area

BRUSSELS, Feb 12 (KUNA) -- The European Union warned Friday that the Schengen area which allows passport-free travel through 26 European countries is at serious risk due to the refugee crisis.
"The overall functioning of the Schengen area is at serious risk. The difficulties faced by Greece have an impact on the EU as a whole, and have to be resolved collectively," said the EU Council of ministers in a statement.
The Council adopted Friday recommendation on addressing serious deficiencies identified during an evaluation of Greece's application of the Schengen rules in the area of external border management.
"Because of its geographical situation, and as result of the shift in migration routes as well as the overall increase in numbers, Greece has been particularly affected by these developments," it said.
The recommendation proposes to Greece remedial action to address these deficiencies.
The recommendation also notes that Greece has taken a number of measures to deal with the situation, but that given the scale of the situation, further efforts are needed. (end) nk.bs