Germany slowing down migrant flow "would be problem"

Germany slowing down migrant flow "would be problem"

After it was reported that Serbia was informed about the closure of the borders of Slovenia and Austria, Slovenian officials denied that the country will close its border.

"Slovenia and Austria have threatened to close the border so the movement of migrants is gradually slowing down. It was envisaged that about 2,000 migrants a day enter those countries, but Serbia cannot accept that because what should we do if 8,000 people enter Serbia, while we can let only 2,000 a day (leave). That is why we have asked for Europe's assistance," Stefanovic has been quoted as saying.

He added he plans to "propose measures that could lead to results" during a meeting of the Bureau for Coordination of Security Services later today.

"Of course, it is up to the prime minister to decide about it. We are committed and responsible both toward citizens of Serbia but also toward migrants who pass through Serbia," said the minister.

According to him, "Serbia is trying to be a fair partner to all countries in the region."

"Our neighbors, however, are aware that we can, to a smaller degree, slow down the movement of migrants, but that we cannot keep them here. They don't want it, and we can't accept them," said Stefanovic.

He pointed out that "various information coming from Europe is being considered."

"In terms of migration flows Germany's decision is important to us, and if it makes a decision to slow down the movement of refugees it will be a problem for us," Stefanovic said.

He added that "the Serbian prime minister, the same as the German chancellor, does not make decisions on the basis of daily politics."

"We will monitor what is happening and no matter what may be happening, Serbia will not be unprepared because we are preparing for all scenarios," the minister has been quoted as saying.

He also said that the security level has been raised in the country.

"We have increased security forces' presence in areas we believe to be the critical points. We have also intensified our intelligence work," said Stefanovic.

According to him Serbia has been suppressing "every kind of threat and extremism" for years, and offered as proof the fact there had been no serious terrorist act in Serbia.

"We have stepped up control of migrants and are talking with representatives of the EU about what can be improved," said the interior minister.

Stefanovic also revealed that members of Serbia's police and army will hold a joint exercise in Belgrade on Saturday, "demonstrating Serbia's response to terrorism."