Várhelyi: EU helps Serbia with € 93 mill to fight epidemic

Out of a total figure, 15 million was for immediate needs, while 78 million Euro for short-term mid-term needs, Várhelyi said, answering an MEP's question.

Those 15 million Euro was used to finance 15 flights and other transport costs for 720 tonnes of essential medical equipment, Várhelyi said, adding the EU directly purchased

the equipment to help Serbia fighting the health crisis."The EU is currently discussing with the country's authorities the best way to help Serbia to deal with the short and mid-term social-economic crisis," Várhelyi said,

He added Serbia would benefit from the 455 million Euro package meant for the private sector – small and mid-size companies - in the Western Balkans."

"The support to Serbia includes a chance to take part in the mechanism of support across Europe… Serbia also has benefited from the EU Mechanism for Coordination Public Health and Readiness for Pandemic," Várhelyi said in a written reply.

He added that "the EU is still firmly committed to Serbia's European path. The support during this crisis has been yet another proof of that. On the other side, Serbia has declared its integration with the EU as its national interest and strategic commitment."

Várhelyi reiterated that in line with the Negotiating Framework Serbia was obliged to adjust its policy toward the third countries and its position in the international organisations with politics and stands adopted by the EU and member states.