The Report on Serbia’s Progress published by the European Commission last autumn clearly identifies what needs to be put into practise. In fact, this document should be used as a reform roadmap.
The latest discussions in the European Union have only reasserted the European prospects of the Western Balkan countries, including Serbia. In this light, the Portuguese Presidency of the Council of the European Union is putting forth a concerted effort, together with all Member States and the European Commission, to hold an Intergovernmental Conference with Serbia under the new methodology prior to the end of the Portuguese Presidency, during the upcoming month of June.
Nevertheless, this is a two-way process, which means that Serbia needs to speed up its EU integration dynamics, reinvigorate its reform impetus, focusing specifically on the rule of law, fundamental rights and the functioning of democratic institutions, as well as on the fight against corruption and organised crime. This means not only the adoption of the necessary legal frameworks in those areas, but also their full implementation. I believe that the Serbian Authorities are quite aware of this and that there will soon be more tangible results, which are needed to demonstrate their clear commitment to European integration.
I believe that the Serbian Authorities are quite aware of the needs and that there will soon be more tangible results, which are needed to demonstrate their clear commitment to European integration
Serbia should also continue working on the implementation of economic reforms, with an increased focus on environmental protection, as the green economy will be an essential dimension of the sustainability of Europe.
When it comes to steps forward, the Report on Serbia’s Progress published by the European Commission last autumn clearly identifies what needs to be put into practise. In fact, this document should be used as a reform roadmap, in order to build a better Serbia – not just for the sake of EU accession, but mainly for the wellbeing of the Serbian people, as it will ensure an unquestionable improvement of their living standards.
Let me stress that Portugal, having benefited from its own EU accession, remains a staunch supporter of the enlargement process and the accession of candidate countries, provided they meet the defined criteria. It is also undisputable that relations between our two countries are excellent, therefore Portugal stands ready to assist Serbia on its path to the European Union, where we strongly believe Serbia belongs.
