Photo: Wi Pa/PixabayBelgrade is urged to return to dialogue with Pristina. Serbia's regression in terms of alignment with the EU's foreign and security policy, deficiencies in the rule of law, freedom of expression and independence of the media are noted.
While in the north Barricades and blockades continue in Kosovo, European Union ministers call on "Kosovo and Serbia" to return to dialogue "in good faith and in the spirit of compromise" in order to reach a "comprehensive legally binding agreement in accordance with international rules".
The conclusions on the Western Balkans, which will be on the agenda of the Summit of European leaders on Thursday, state that the agreement between Belgrade and Pristina should address all open issues and that all previous agreements are expected to be fully implemented.
As Radi Slobodna Evropa (RSE) reports, both sides are urged to "refrain from unilateral and provocative actions that could lead to tensions and violence, as well as from rhetoric that does not help the positive atmosphere of dialogue."
Tensions with Kosovo are not the only concern of the ministers of European affairs. There is also the backsliding of Serbia in harmonizing with the foreign and security policy of the European Union, due to the refusal of the Serbian authorities to impose sanctions on Russia. The Council of the EU "deeply regrets" this and expects Serbia to show "unequivocal commitment" to the accession process and common European principles and values.
The EU ministers did not miss the authorities' harsh rhetoric against the European Union, so they call on the official Belgrade to "communicate objectively and unambiguously about the EU and to be actively involved in preventing and suppressing all forms of disinformation."
Where the concerns of the EU are, there is also the area of the rule of law. The ministers welcomed the progress that Serbia has made in some areas, due to constitutional changes, but emphasized that there are constant delays in a number of other areas. A clear demonstration of political will to implement concrete and tangible results is sought in key chapters 23 and 24.
"The Council reiterates its serious concern about the lack of progress in improving the general environment for freedom of expression and media independence, which also affects the ability of voters to make fully informed electoral decisions, and calls on Serbia to address these serious concerns as a matter of urgency," it said. conclusions of the ministers of European affairs of EU member states.
These conclusions will be presented to the heads of state and government of the EU, who will decide on Thursday whether to take a step forward with Serbia in the negotiations with the EU. Taking into account these conclusions, as well as the critical report of the European Commission from October, there is very little chance that Serbia will open a new negotiating cluster in December.
From today's meeting of EU ministers, good news came to Sarajevo. On Thursday, Bosnia and Herzegovina will be officially approved as a candidate for EU membership.
SP/RSE
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