Fule: Serbia became one of our closest partners

Fule: Serbia became one of our closest partners

In an article for the Belgrade-based daily Blic, Fule said that Serbia has become one of the closest partners of the EU, and that Serbian government has taken the right approach to reforms aimed at modernizing the state.

The serious economic challenges Serbia is facing, made even more difficult by the recent floods, call for bravery and strong will of the political leaders, as well as the citizens, said Fule. It is encouraging to see the Serbian government set ambitious economic goals on its own, the good start of the implementation of structural reforms, and the continuation of the dialogue with Kosovo, he added.

With the formal opening of the accession talks and the reaction to the devastating floods, the EU has demonstrated that Serbia has become one of its closest partners, he pointed out.

Since February 2010, Serbia has applied for the EU membership, received the candidate status and started the accession negotiations, which was the turning point in the relations with the EU, with new responsibilities and chances for Serbia, he said.

The response after the floods has shown that the EU is determined to stand by Serbia not only in good times but also in bad times, noted Fule.

It is not about what Brussels wants from you, but what you want for yourselves, Fule pointed out, adding that the accession talks are a good opportunity that Serbia should take in order to reach the EU standards, for the benefit of its citizens.

Stressing that the process is demanding, he said that the speed of negotiations will depend on Serbia's ability to carry out the key structural reforms of the rule of law, public administration and economy.

During the negotiation process, Serbia will be required to achieve progress in many areas, from human rights, freedom of speech and the rule of law, to environmental protection, health care standards and consumer protection, said Fule, adding that Serbia can rely on the solidarity of the EU, and that the EC will continue to provide the expertise, guidelines and financial support.