Varhelyi: Serbia to step up efforts to align with EU, including sanctions

NEWS 20.10.202211:35
srbija EU evropska unija n1
N1

European Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement Oliver Varhelyi said that, in the current geopolitical context, Serbia should step up efforts to align with European Union’s (EU) foreign policy positions, including declarations and sanctions, in line with the negotiating framework, and that progress also needs to be made in the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue.

In an interview with the Beta news agency’s new Daily European Service, Varhelyi said Brussels expects the formation of the new Serbian Government so key reforms regarding the judiciary, fight against corruption, media freedoms, freedom of association and attitude towards war criminals could continue.

It is also important to say that Serbia’s progress in the rule of law is crucial and that it will continue determining the overall pace of accession negotiations, said the European Commissioner.

Varhelyi said that the normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina through the EU-mediated dialogue is of vital importance for their future and for the peace and stability of the entire region, especially in the current geopolitical situation, and added that there is currently an opportunity for real progress on that front.

Asked to what extent Serbia’s path to the EU is hindered by its poor alignment with EU’s foreign policy, especially regarding sanctions against Russia, Varhelyi said Serbia is “in a very specific situation” and that Brussels understands the complexity of this issue.

However, the current geopolitical situation requires a more concrete response from our partners, Varhelyi stressed, adding that, when it asked for membership in the EU, Serbia made a strategic choice and this decision also implies aligning with EU’s foreign policy.

Varhelyi said the EU is counting on Serbia as a true partner and ally, that it is aware of the challenges Serbia faces and that it will help Serbia tackle these challenges.

But now we need Serbia to help us overcome the biggest challenge to European peace and security since World War II, Europe needs Serbia’s help, said Varhelyi.

Regarding the possibility of opening a new cluster in negotiations with the EU by the end of the year, Varhelyi said Serbia has met the initial criteria for Cluster 3 (competitiveness and inclusive growth) and that this Cluster is technically ready for opening.

However, said Varhelyi, the decision on the opening and closing of clusters is “in the hands of” member states and such decisions need to be made unanimously.

In the current situation, our members need Serbia’s clear commitment and direct support in our most important challenges, said the European Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement.