Brussels, 29/03/2012 (Agence Europe) - MEPs welcomed the recommendation by the Council of 1 March 2012 to grant Serbia candidate status and called for the EU to open accession negotiations “as soon as possible” and thus demonstrate the importance the EU attaches to this country's European prospects. In the resolution prepared by Jelko Kacin on Serbia's European integration process, which was adopted by 542 votes in favour, 49 against, with 56 abstentions, MEPs welcomed the “considerable” progress made by Serbia with regard to the Copenhagen criteria. They also underlined the importance of continuing the dialogue between Serbia and Kosovo, as well as implementation, in good faith, of the agreements concluded.
Nonetheless, the Parliament is concerned by Serbia's shortcomings in the fight against corruption and organised crime, as well as the increasing influence of the government on the work carried out by independent organisations and media. Whilst taking note of the reform introduced in the judicial and prosecutor's offices, the Parliament calls for further effort to be made to guarantee the independence and professionalism of the sectors, “which should be reformed root and branch”. The Parliament also welcomed the progress made in the reform of public administration but points out that further efforts are required with regard to its professionalism and independence from political influence.
MEPs welcomed the significant measures taken to develop a functioning market economy and explained that the country must continue with structural reforms and reduce its budget deficit. They urged Serbia to continue its efforts to protect minorities but are extremely concerned by the lack of political will in the “proactive” promotion of policies to do with tolerance and respect for fundamental human rights. They also indicate that respect for minorities is part of the “important elements” contained in the accession criteria.
MEPs congratulate Serbia on its active participation in regional initiatives, as well as its increasing involvement in initiatives promoting reconciliation in the region. (CG/transl.fl)