Labus: Continue with Political Reforms

Belgrade, 11 November 2005 – Serbia-Montenegro’s priorities, according to the European Union recommendation, should be the respecting of Constitutional Charter, continued reform of public administration, functioning of efficient and independent judiciary, civil control over the military, full cooperation with the Hague Tribunal and political dialogue with Pristina, said today Serbian Deputy Prime Minister Miroljub Labus.

At the press conference organised by the Serbian European Integration Office and Conrad Adenauer Foundation, Mr Labus said that the European Commission assessed that nothing was done in terms of amendment of Serbia-Montenegro’s Constitution and that it is necessary to revise the major legal regulation in accordance with the European standards.

According to Mr Labus, it is necessary to improve the functioning of administration on the short run, as well as the operation of justice system.

He underlined that the field of human rights respect requires the fulfilment of obligations assumed by SCG at accession to the Council of Europe, adoption of law against discrimination and enforcement of laws relating to media operation.

In the field of economy, Mr Labus said, it is necessary to sustain the macroeconomic stability and continue with structural reforms.

In order for Serbia to accede to the World Trade Organisation, it is necessary to adjust the foreign trade regime to the European regulations, Labus said. He added that in the regional cooperation field this implies the respecting of Dayton agreement and improving of the status of refugees.