Minister of European Integration Jadranka Joksimović has spoken today with Italian Ambassador Carlo Lo Cascio about Serbia’s EU accession process, the upcoming elections, the Belgrade – Pristina dialogue and the activities of the two countries in tackling the effects of the pandemic.
Joksimović has stressed that the political and economic relations that Serbia and Italy have built so far received a new dimension of high solidarity in challenging times for the citizens of both countries.
“When first Italy sent assistance to our country after the catastrophic floods in 2014, and then when Serbia sent assistance in return in the form of medical equipment in late April, together as two close European nations, we contributed to our citizens’ better understanding of European solidarity in practice and how much it can be significant to every individual,” emphasised Joksimović.
Lo Cascio has assessed Serbia’s gesture as a sign of great friendship with the Italian citizens, saying it is a real proof of European solidarity as one of the fundamental values of the European Union. The Italian ambassador has confirmed that Italy will continue to actively support Serbia’s EU accession by advocating consistent implementation of key elements and principles of a credible EU enlargement policy.
Thanking Italy for the political and technical assistance it has been providing to Serbia on its path towards the full EU membership, Joksimović has stressed that Serbia is entirely committed to the implementation of reforms. According to her, these are reflected in the adoption of European rules and values, which primarily contributes to the development of the state and society as a whole.
“Therefore, it is important that the EU member states recognise the progress achieved in the chapters related to the rule of law – 23 and 24, as presented in the EC Report – the so-called non-paper on Serbia’s progress in the rule of law, which recognises progress and certain delays in a very balanced way,” stressed Joksimović. “Thus, we expect to get a consent to open at least some of the five chapters Serbia has prepared by the end of June,” she added.
“We also expect that Italy will continue to provide support for Serbia’s inclusion in concrete Union activities that will further define the future of the European continent, such as the adoption of the Economic and Investment Plan for the WB and the Green Agenda,” said the Minister.
Joksimović and Lo Cascio have also discussed the Serbian Government’s activities aimed at improving the electoral conditions, mutually expecting that the upcoming elections will be conducted in a good and democratic spirit. In addition, they have talked about the Belgrade – Pristina dialogue and Serbia’s commitment to regional stability and cooperation.
Source: Tanjug
