Brussels, 10/10/2012 (Agence Europe) - In its 2012 follow up report, published on 10 October, the Commission states that although efforts have been made in its relations with Pristina, “progress must be made towards a visible and sustainable improvement of relations with Kosovo”. It says that it is ready to recommend opening negotiations if progress is made in this area. The Commission states that steps leading to “the full normalisation of relations between Serbia and Kosovo” should be taken in the context of the framework for the conduct of future accession negotiations.
The report says that the pace of reforms must also be “reinvigorated”. Although Belgrade continues on the path to sufficiently fulfilling the political criteria and the conditions of the stabilisation and association agreement, it must pay particular attention to the rule of law, especially to the judiciary (the recent setbacks underline the need for renewed engagement in pursuing the reforms), and also to the independence of key institutions, including the central bank, and rights for vulnerable groups. Serbia must also make progress in its fight against corruption and freedom of the media, and make great effort to restructure its economy. Progress is also awaited on strengthening the country's administrative capacity. (CG/transl.fl)