Declarations of Chancellor Scholz who upset Serbia

Following statements in Pristina that the Western Balkan countries' membership process in the EU is very important, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz explained in Belgrade that further reforms are needed for this in the Western Balkan countries. After meeting with Serbia's president, Aleksandar Vuciq, the Chancellor said that specifically it is about guaranteeing rule of law and media freedom, as well as the fight against corruption and organised crime. Scholz praised judicial reform in Serbia, adding at the same time that further steps must now follow.

Anger in Belgrade over Kosovo statements

During his visit to Pristina, Scholz had also indicated about Kosovo and Serbia's efforts for EU membership. The agreement should finally clarify the issue of Kosovo's recognition, because it is unimaginable that two countries that mutually do not recognise each other become EU members”. This declaration of Kosovo's recognition provoked outrage in Belgrade.

After meeting with Scholz, Serbia's President Aleksandar Vuciq said he is hearing “for the first time today that mutual recognition is required by the EU”, adding that “we do not react to pressure, that is, that someone threatens us and we have to do something later. ”

Scholz reacted calmly to Vuciki's anger at the joint press conference, saying that “said something that is clear and that maybe this will help. ”

The Chancellor stressed once again that his aim is for Western Balkan countries to join the EU “not in a very distant future, but as soon as possible. ”

Critics of Serbia's stance on Russia

Since prior to his visit to Belgrade, Scholz had suggested that Serbia change its course in politics towards Russia. Anyone who wants to become a member of the European Union must accept all related directives and regulations. The sanctions imposed by the EU against Russia are one of them. In Belgrade, Scholz stated: “We expect sanctions to be implemented even by those countries involved in the EU membership process”.

Vuciq said Belgrade had condemned Russia's attack on the UN General Assembly and other organs, but that his country has a different attitude towards sanctions, because Serbia is found in a highly complicated “softs” when it comes to power supply.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz continues his tour of the Balkans tomorrow with visits to northern Macedonia and Bulgaria. / DW