Brussels, 10/11/2011 (Agence Europe) - European Parliament President Jerzy Buzek, speaking on Thursday 10 November, gave his support to granting Serbia candidate status. Addressing the European Parliament committee on human rights, he said that, during the December plenary, they must do everything they can to give Serbia candidate status, and that a powerful message will be delivered showing their support for Serbia's efforts. He added that such a political signal would be important for that country and explained that “Serbia is becoming a key Balkan state”. Buzek pointed out that the country has achieved a number of results but that there is still tension between Belgrade and Pristina. He stated that the idea of reconciliation must not be discarded and that it was essential to settle the question between Serbia and Kosovo if conflict and tension in the region is to be avoided.
Andrzej Grzyb (EPP, Poland) joined in saying: “Steps must be taken towards Serbia, for the stability of the Balkans”. His colleague, Eduard Kukan (EPP, Slovenia), took up saying: “We must be credible, show that we are responsible and keep our promises”. He went on to point out that the decision on Serbia's candidate status and on the beginning of membership talks with Montenegro could be postponed. “That is not right”, he said.
The president of the European Parliament explained that “proposing EU membership” to countries that can take part is a way to have an impact on democracy and human rights. “We must show that the EU remains open and that respect of the Copenhagen criteria means opening the EU door”, he explained. (CG/transl.jl)