The meetings were part of the Party of European Socialists and the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D Group) in the European Parliament Delegation to Belgrade, Serbia on 23-24 February. They also met Dragoljub Micunovic, President of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the National Assembly.
PES President Sergei Stanishev stated: “The President of Serbia and the current government have made tremendous efforts in the past year with crucial reforms and a determined fight against organised crime. President Tadic and Prime Minister Mirko Cvetkovic have led the country with responsibility and resolution in a context of deep global economic crisis. PES Member Party DS has also worked hard on the path to EU accession with real and tangible results. This the message of the Party of European Socialists to Serbia and its people ahead of the crucial elections this year.”
He added: “The talks in Brussels between Belgrade and Pristina have advanced positively. I am extremely happy with this development. This is the kind of dialogue and progress that we want to see to ensure a fair and constructive evolution for both sides. It shows their shared commitment to the European agenda. This agreement is also crucial for the EU”
He continued: “The Serbian people deserve that the EU Council grants EU ‘candidate status’ to their country. It would be a positive message and encouragement for further reforms. The EU accession process for the Western Balkans has no alternative. This is the only viable path towards peace, prosperity, democratic development and cooperation for the region.”
The delegation also met EU officials, international organizations active on the ground, experts and the media. The PES is committed to the region of the Western Balkans and the continued progress of the EU Enlargement process.
