EU Pushes Serbia for Reform Acceleration, Emphasizes Kosovo Dialogue as a Priority
The European Union’s Ambassador to Serbia, Emanuele Giaufret, has urged Serbia to intensify its reform agenda, emphasizing that the current lack of elections provides a crucial window for progress. Highlighting key areas for improvement, Giaufret stressed the need for advancements in rule of law, democracy, anti-corruption, and tackling organized crime, all essential for Serbia’s EU accession. He also underscored the necessity of continuing the dialogue with Kosovo, calling it an irreplaceable part of the integration process.
In an interview with Politika, Giaufret acknowledged Serbia’s contributions to EU crisis management missions and its humanitarian and financial aid to Ukraine. However, he pointed out Serbia’s need to more closely align with the EU’s foreign policy objectives.
“Serbia must make substantial progress in these fundamental sectors. The normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina is not only crucial but will also bring tangible benefits to local populations,” Giaufret said.
Discussing energy, Giaufret remarked on Serbia’s dependency on Russia and the critical importance of diversifying energy sources. “The EU is collaborating with Serbia to boost energy independence, as evidenced by the gas interconnector with Bulgaria. More cooperation is needed to solidify Serbia’s energy security,” he explained.
The EU remains Serbia’s biggest trade partner and donor, but Giaufret acknowledged the economic gap between the region and the EU. To bridge this, the EU’s Growth Plan includes €6 billion for the Western Balkans, with €1.5 billion allocated for Serbia. This funding is contingent on Serbia’s successful implementation of reforms aimed at economic growth and governance improvements.
“Financial support will be released as Serbia achieves milestones in its reform process,” Giaufret concluded.
