Siding with reports from the European Commission, the EU's executive, the ministers said strong courts and efficient administrative systems were necessary to function properly in the bloc.

"The Council (of EU ministers) calls on Bulgaria and Romania to intensify their efforts by taking all necessary steps without delay and by demonstrating tangible and lasting results, especially in the areas highlighted by reports," the ministers said in a statement.

The Commission issued a scathing indictment of corruption in Bulgaria in July, suspending aid worth hundreds of millions of euros (dollars) and barring two key payments agencies from receiving EU funds.

Romania was also criticised, but it avoided sanctions.

The Commission has the option of further penalising both countries unless they take the required action.

The ministers said fair, independent and well-resourced administrative and judicial systems were necessary to allow EU policies to function and ensure citizens could enjoy the benefits of membership of the 27-nation bloc. Bulgaria and Romania became the latest members on Jan. 1, 2007.