The enlargement of the European Union is a "geostrategic necessity," which also applies to Serbia's accession to the EU, but the pace of the country's progress will depend on Serbia's readiness to implement reforms and align itself with the bloc's policies, European Council President António Costa said at a joint press conference with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić in Belgrade, according to Report's European bureau.
The President of the European Council reaffirmed the EU's unwavering support for Serbia"s European perspective, but stressed that the accession process is based on trust and requires the fulfilment of specific conditions.
According to him, the key priorities remain the normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina, including the implementation of the Ohrid Agreements, aligning Serbia's foreign policy with that of the EU, and continuing domestic reforms.
Costa placed particular emphasis on the rule of law, media freedom, and electoral law reform. "We call for continued acceleration of reforms in these important areas," he said.
The President of the European Council welcomed the adoption of four laws related to the electoral system last week, calling it "a very important step." At the same time, he stressed the need to complete the implementation of remaining recommendations, including measures to prevent the abuse of administrative resources and pressure on voters.
The head of the European Council also emphasized that the European Union remains Serbia"s largest partner in trade, investment, and support for democratic institutions.
"We want and are ready to do more. But let me be very clear: the pace of progress depends on Serbia"s own determination," Costa said. He also noted that time is very important, stressing that the window of opportunity for decisive action is open now.