Beckerath: The Future of Serbia Lies in the EU, Visible Progress in Voter Registry Reforms and the REM Council

He highlighted progress regarding the voter registry and the Council of the Regulatory Authority for Electronic Media (REM).

At the meeting of the European Union - Serbia Stabilization and Association Parliamentary Committee (SAPC) held in the National Assembly of Serbia, Beckerath said that Serbia is expected to accelerate its European path, adding that this, in practice, means achieving tangible progress in key reforms related to the rule of law, the electoral framework, and media freedom.

"Since assuming my post here, I have constantly emphasized European support - not only in words but, more importantly, through actions - for this process in Serbia, so that it may successfully undergo the transformation required by European integration and make the most of this unprecedented momentum of EU enlargement currently taking place," Beckerath stated.

He pointed out the progress achieved in improving the voter registry and the REM Council.

"We welcome the recent establishment of a joint monetary committee for the Growth Plan, which includes representatives of civil society. This is one of the first steps toward engaging the whole of society and the entire political spectrum. These agreements now need to be fully implemented," said Beckerath.

He noted that "polarization within Serbian society is evident" and added that "respect for key fundamental values - the right to peaceful assembly, freedom of the media, and academic freedom - are essential elements on Serbia’s path toward European integration."

Foto: ATAImages/Miloš Tešić

According to Beckerath, it is important to create the conditions for a renewed dialogue among all stakeholders across the political spectrum and throughout society.

"The European Union expects that all allegations of excessive use of police force will be investigated as a matter of priority. We also condemn expressions of hatred and acts of vandalism during protests and call on everyone to deescalate tensions," Beckerath emphasized.

He urged all parties to ensure that the anniversary of the collapse of the canopy in Novi Sad is marked in a peaceful and dignified manner.

The EU ambassador also stated that progress on the European path requires normalization of relations with Pristina, including the implementation of the Ohrid Agreement.

Beckerath stressed that Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija should return to Pristina’s institutions and welcomed the peaceful conduct of local elections in Kosovo and Metohija, which saw high voter turnout among Serbs.

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