BEIJING, Feb. 23 -- The European Commission, the executive arm of the European Union (EU), has adopted a favourable opinion on the accession of Bulgaria and Romania to the 25-nation bloc.

     The decision follows the successful conclusion of the accession negotiations by the European Council meeting in Brussels last December.

    EU enlargement chief Olli Rehn said the decision is a clear signal that the Commission welcomes Bulgaria and Romania in the European family.

    However he warned hard work is still needed to progress on the two countries' reforms in order to fully and timely meet all conditions for membership.

    Both Romania and Bulgaria now require the ¡®assent' of the European Parliament, and a formal decision by the council of ministers in April.

    The signature of the Treaty of Accession should then take place in Luxembourg on April 25th.

    EU membership must then be ratified in all 25 member states, as well as Bulgaria and Romania by 2007.

    (Source: CRIENGLISH.com)