00:00European Union countries agreed on Wednesday to bring into force the entry-exit system,
00:07the bloc's automated registry for short-stay travellers.
00:12Delayed for years over technical problems and lack of preparedness, interior ministers
00:18reached an agreement in Brussels for a likely start of operations in autumn.
00:24The entry-exit system's main purpose is to modernise checks at the EU's external borders
00:30and replace the stamping of passports.
00:33It will apply to non-EU citizens who come to the bloc for visits, holidays or business
00:38trips.
00:39The collection and sharing of information in real time is meant to help authorities
00:45crack down on those who overstay their short-term visas and commit identity fraud.
00:51Cyprus and Ireland will not partake in the scheme.
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