Relations with Russia and China, among key provisions of Serbia's Progress Report

Serbia's relations with Russia and China, dialogue with Kosovo, as well as early elections are key aspects of the political chapters in the Progress Report for Serbia, compiled by the European Commission.

This annual report, with which the EU candidate countries' progress is estimated, is expected to be published on October 30th.

But sources close to Radio Free Europe have already had access to its draft.

According to them, Serbia, following Russia's aggression in Ukraine, has acted only partially in line with EU positions at international forums, including the UN General Assembly.

It is said that Serbia has continued to co-operate with the EU in providing financial and humanitarian support to Ukraine, but notes that it has not respected any restrictive measures against Russia.

The document stresses that Serbia has maintained a high level of relations with the Russian Federation and that it has intensified relations with China Which <x0.g. questions its strategic direction”.

In the report, the European Commission recalls that Serbia is expected to gradually harmonise its policy with positions approved by the EU, including sanctions against Russia. Green says Serbia's future is near US, not China and Russia

Dialogue is key

Draft-report also stresses that Serbia's progress towards the EU will largely depend on progress in the process of normalising relations with Kosovo.

It says that the agreement on the road to normalisation of relations, reached by Kosovo and Serbia leaders in February 2023, as well as Anex for its implementation, are legally binding documents for both sides.

No formalities, including those concerning his approval, should prevent progress in implementing the” agreement, said the draft of the document, which has been announced. REL- You.