European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that the EU promotes freedom over repression, supports partnership instead of subjugation, and prioritizes diplomacy over aggression, during a joint press conference with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić.
She highlighted Serbia’s historical choice to pursue EU membership, calling it a heartfelt decision reflecting the will of the people, and urged the country to accelerate its integration efforts. Von der Leyen stressed that connecting Serbia to the EU energy market ensures security and warmth for Serbian families during winter.
“The first priority is to see progress in the rule of law, electronic media, and electoral legislation. Persistence and patience are required… it is worth the effort because it brings you closer to your goal and lays the foundation for a stable and peaceful society. I commend the progress regarding voter lists and the REM council. Implementation is key. I invite you to visit Brussels in a month to review the situation,” she said.
Von der Leyen also noted that Serbia has aligned 61% of its foreign policy with the EU, and that a supervisory board was established under the growth plan, calling it an excellent signal of progress.
President Aleksandar Vučić reaffirmed that EU membership remains a strategic priority of Serbia’s foreign policy, stating:
“This will certainly not change before the next elections, and I believe even afterwards.”
Vučić reflected that since the start of the war in Ukraine, Serbia has not opened any negotiation chapters with the EU, though some regulatory and energy-related reforms have been implemented domestically.
“We aim to fulfill the so-called reform agenda, and I hope to receive support from the European Union. Not everything is simple, and it is not easy to fully present all aspects to our citizens,” Vučić added.
He also noted two key issues for Serbia without specifying details, indicating they will need discussion in the coming months.
