Serbia says Russia, EU ambassador to Belgrade says: We have extended hands to welcome Serbia

“We want Serbia to be with us even in these difficult times and to respect the EU's statements and measures to counter Russia's apparent aggression and welcome all steps in this direction”, Giaufret said in an interview for Serbian Blic, broadcast Klakosova.tv.

Asked whether there was pressure before the UN vote, following reports that representatives of the largest German companies had agreed to shut down in Serbia because of the unclear “attitude towards the Ukrainian crisis”, he said there had been no pressure or blackmail against Serbia against the vote at the United Nations”.

“The trend is a myth”, the European official in Belgrade said, adding that the EU has a dialogue with key co-talkers in Belgrade and that they want Serbia to harmonise with EU positions, Klankosova broadcasts.tv.

According to him, Serbia remains an important EU partner.

“The EU has extended its hands to welcome Serbia”, the European official said, and added that Serbia must also address needed reforms, especially in key areas such as rule of law, media freedom, the fight against corruption, organised crime and public procurement.