Romania Expects Immigration Wave From Moldova

Romanian President Traian Basescu (file photo) (epa) February 4, 2007 -- Romanian President Traian Basescu has said that he expects a wave of potential immigrants from neighbouring Moldova as a result of Romania's accession to the European Union.

In the interview broadcast on Romania's "Pro TV" today, Basescu said the only way to stop the migration trend was if Moldova's citizens were to receive "a European perspective", meaning hope of eventual EU membership.

He said some 1.5 million Moldovan applications for Romanian citizenship are expected this year.

Romania, along with Bulgaria, joined the European Union at the start of 2007.