Speaking on “European integration: results and aspirations” Gojkovic stressed that regional cooperation is one of the strategic priorities of Serbia’s foreign policy and that maintaining peace and stability, conducting the necessary reforms and creating a better living environment for young people has to be the central task of today’s politicians in the Western Balkans.

Addressing the parliament speakers of the Western Balkans Gojkovic said that it is their duty to openly discuss EU’s internal challenges.

“I am sure that these difficulties do not impede the enlargement policy, on the contrary they emphasize the need for better unity and stronger integration. In it, the Western Balkans has to be viewed as part of the solution and an integral part of Europe.”

The National Assembly Speaker said she expected Serbia to open three more negotiation chapters by the end of the year, adding that the progress, though dynamic, still needs to be sped up because Serbia is technically, administratively and capacity-wise ready for negotiations and all the inherent obligations.

“The opening of new chapters also sends an important message that the enlargement policy goes on in the face of the challenges before the European Union. That would be the EU’s message not just to Serbia but to the entire region”, said Gojkovic.

The National Assembly Speaker said that Serbia has repeatedly demonstrated that it is a reliable and predictable partner to the EU by taking active part in addressing the existing challenges.

Gojkovic said that the Serbian Parliament is predominantly in favour of EU accession, adding that the citizens of Serbia support the European perspective and the deep, dynamic and often difficult reforms conducted for their benefit, regardless of the European framework within which they are taking place.

Gojkovic also said that the Berlin Process has opened new perspectives for the region as regards infrastructure, economy and youth cooperation, and that the indications that a new parliamentary dimension to the process might open up on the eve of the coming London Summit are very encouraging.

“Economic growth, raising standards and youth dialogue are the key to long-term stability and development of our region”, said Gojkovic.

The Conference was opened by the host, Hungarian Parliament Speaker Laszlo Kover who said that Hungary endorses the European integration of the Western Balkans and that the region can count of the Hungarian Parliament’s support.