Moldovans rush for Romanian citizenship 

The prospect of Romania joining the EU in January 2007 has made neighbouring Moldovans wake up to new opportunities. Thus, according to Associated Press, more than 400,000 Moldovans have applied for Romanian citizenship. 

Romania's Foreign Minister Mihai Razvan Ungureanu expressed his surprise, since a 2004 census indicated that only 70,000 Moldovans declared themselves to be Romanians.

Romania has already adopted a simplified visa regime for Moldovan citizens, which begins on 1 January 2007. Visas will be issued free of charge and without any additional documents and the holders of business and diplomatic passports will need no visa to enter Romania.

Romanian Prime Minister Calin Popescu-Tariceanu stated earlier in October that Romania will help Moldova to get an association agreement with the EU.