When discussing Serbia’s strategic decisions, do not forget that the lithium agreement was signed with Europeans, not the Chinese, that gas market liberalisation will soon take place, and do not overlook the significant support for Ukraine, stated the European Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, Oliver Varhelyi.
Speaking at a session of the European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee in response to remarks made by the rapporteur for Serbia, Tonino Picula, Varhelyi said Serbia still faces many reforms, with media being one of the areas requiring noticeable progress.
He highlighted ongoing judicial reforms, addressing claims of regression: “Regarding the setbacks you mentioned, our report does not reflect any regression,” Varhelyi clarified.
Responding to comments about Serbia’s alignment with the EU’s foreign and security policies, Varhelyi reminded attendees of his earlier remarks on the strategic choices made by Belgrade.
“Do not forget, the lithium agreement was signed with Europeans, not the Chinese. Do not forget the upcoming liberalisation of the gas market. Do not forget the immense support Serbia is providing to Ukraine, including ammunition and other assistance. Sometimes, we need to take a broader view,” Varhelyi suggested.
Answering other questions, Varhelyi reiterated that there would be no shortcuts to EU membership, emphasising that the process is merit-based.
He agreed with some MPs that the Western Balkans must reclaim not five, but ten years lost in their EU integration efforts, referencing the promise of a European perspective made to the region in Thessaloniki in 2000.
Varhelyi supported the MPs’ proposal for the European Parliament to open offices not only in Podgorica but throughout the region, to ensure direct access to information on each country’s progress in the accession process.
He concluded by noting that this was his final address to the Foreign Affairs Committee in his role as Commissioner for Enlargement, thanking members for their cooperation over the past five years.
(Danas, 18.11.2024)
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Publish date : 2024-11-19 02:09:00
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