The Fifth Interparliamentary Meeting between the European Parliament and National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia, chaired by Laszlo Varga, National Assembly European Integrations Committee Chairman and Eduard Kukan, Chairman of the European Parliament’s Delegation for South-East Europe, was held in Brussels, on 18 and 19 April.

Following the meeting, the two delegation heads adopted a Joint Statement stressing that Serbia’s future is with the European Union and underlining that, with its conclusion of 25 October 2010, the European Council invited the European Commission to submit an opinion on Serbia’s application for EU membership. The Statement also emphasises that full cooperation with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia is of key importance for the country’s progress toward full membership and urges the Serbian Government to continue its cooperation with the Tribunal.

Regarding the reform processes in the country, they stress that domestic institutions should prioritise strengthening the rule of law, adding that although the fight against corruption shows some improvement, it still requires further efforts. The Statement applauds the first stage of judiciary reform, but urges better control over the financing of political parties and electoral campaigns and expresses concern over the amendments to the Anti-Corruption Agency Law. The Joint Statement commends the opening of the AP Vojvodina regional representative office in Brussels. It also commends the beginning of dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina and expresses belief that a gradual approach to the problem may be beneficial for both sides. It also emphasises the importance of the reconciliation process in the Western Balkans.

Regarding the economic situation in Serbia, the Joint Statement says that the existence of monopoles inhibits the development of a functioning market economy and urges the Government to take active measures to ensure competition. In addition, the Serbian authorities are urged to continue and intensify their activities on creating an atmosphere of tolerance and respect for persons with disabilities and all minority groups. The Joint Statement also encourages the National Assembly to immediately abolish the practice of “blank resignations” and discontinue the practice of arbitrarily awarding parliament seats. Finally, the document expresses concern over the social discontent in the country and urges all the political parties to work on avoiding instability which could significantly hurt the country’s European future. A Special Statement was adopted on the occasion, on the current political events in Serbia.

Click here to view the Joint Statement of the delegation heads.

Click here to view the Special Statement on current political developments in Serbia.