On Wednesday 14 June, MEPs hailed Serbia's continuing work on its path to EU integration. They also hailed the country's constructive approach and good preparation for its EU accession negotiations – a situation which, in the opinion of MEPs, is a clear sign of Serbia's determination and political resolve in this direction.
In the report by David McAllister (EPP, Germany) on the 2016 report on Serbia, which was adopted by a large majority (524 votes in favour, 70 against and 79 abstentions), MEPs hail the recent opening of several negotiation chapters. They call on Serbia's authorities to continue their work on promoting among the Serbian people the strategic decision to want to become a member of the EU, and they call on the Serbian authorities to refrain from delivering anti-European speeches and messages.
The European Parliament also states that the full implementation of reforms and policies is a determining indicator of success in the integration process. In addition, the Parliament highlights the independence of the judiciary and public administration, the fight against corruption, the freedom of expression and the protection of minorities, as well as the review of the Serbian constitution. It again calls on Serbia to bring its foreign and security policy gradually into line with that of the EU – including its policy on Russia.
In addition, the Parliament calls on the Serbian authorities to investigate properly the irregularities, violence and intimidation that were reported during the electoral process for the presidential elections on 2 April 2017.
With regard to Kosovo, Belgrade and Pristina should move ahead with implementing the agreements that aim to normalise their relations, and they should do this in good faith, as soon as possible, and with determination, Parliament states. It adds that Belgrade and Pristina should refrain from any initiative likely to endanger the progress made thus far, and should avoid acts of provocation and any words likely to hamper normalisation. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)