Orphan issue threatens Romania's EU ties

BUCHAREST, Romania, Feb. 4 (UPI) -- The European Union has asked Romania to explain the adoption of its orphans overseas, which continues despite a Romanian government ban on the practice.

The BBC reports the orphan adoption threatens Romania's ties with the EU, although the Romanian government denies violating its own adoption ban.

Romania hopes to join the EU in 2007, and is involved in continuous negotiations with the group.

EU Commissioner Guenter Verheugen has formally asked the Romanian government for more information concerning the issue.

The BBC said the dispute follows the publication of data confirming nearly 900 children found foster parents abroad since 2001 when the ban became effective

A European Parliament official has proposed the EU suspend Romania's membership negotiations until it does more to tackle corruption and improve the rights of children.