The German ambassador to Serbia Thomas Schieb told N1 on Thursday that Belgrade had not made some progress in the rule of law, a key area for a candidate country in joining the European Union, and that was noted in the European Union October's report.

Berlin ends the presidency over the EU Council on December 31 and will be succeeded by Portugal in the first half of 2021.

„The speed of the accession with the EU mostly depends on the reforms in the rule of law. This year, Serbia did not make any significant progress in that area and in curbing corruption,“ Schieb said, adding „it was noted the progress had been modest and not enough for the opening of a new negotiating chapter.“

He also recalled that the opening of a chapter had to be a unanimous decision by all EU member states, „and as the situation is now, such decision will not be brought.“

The ambassador said this year was specific for Serbia since it, besides the coronavirus pandemic, had elections and several months before forming a new government.

„Taking all that into account, the result in the rule of law was not satisfactory. However, I think the new government is committed to the issue. We can encourage the government to continue along that road, and when there are the first results, I don’t see why we wouldn’t open a new chapter next year. There is no reason for disappointment, but it should go on with full dynamic and enthusiasm,“ Schieb said.

„The European perspective is still there. The process of European integration is still there for the Western Balkans’ countries. They have a clear perspective. Serbia, and the whole region, go in the right direction. Germany is here to support Serbia and advise it. This year, the progress wasn’t as we wanted. But I’m convinced that it will happen next year,“ the ambassador told N1.

Referring to the Belgrade – Pristina dialogue on the normalisation of relations, Schieb said it was an important topic, as a part of the European integrations.

„The good thing is that the dialogue resumed after 20 months. It restarted this summer. Patience is crucial, but it’s a positive sign that the talks are going on. That is a crucial issue for Germany,“ the ambassador said.