European Union is considering the possibility of freezing or reducing financial assistance to Serbia in the value of around 1,5 billion euros, due to concerns regarding reforms in the field of justice and foreign policy coordination with Brussels, especially when it comes to relations with Russia, writes Politiko.
According to that media, there is an increasingly pronounced dissatisfaction in the EU institutions with the pace and direction of reforms in Serbia, especially in the area of the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary. The changes related to the management of the court system and the position of the prosecutor's office, which some officials believe can lead to additional political control over judicial institutions, are considered problematic.
An additional reason for reconsidering financial support, as stated, is Belgrade's foreign policy. The EU expects the candidate countries to gradually align their positions with the common foreign and security policy of the Union, including the relationship towards Russia.
Funds intended for development and reforms
However, Serbia has still not imposed sanctions on Moscow and maintains active political and economic ties with the Kremlin, which causes criticism in Brussels.
The financial resources in question are part of a package of support through EU instruments intended for economic development and reforms in the countries of the Western Balkans. According to the same statements, the European Commission said that the funds are not automatically at risk, but that their payment depends on progress in key reform areas.
This is not the first time that Brussels has sent warnings to Belgrade regarding the reform processes, but Politico estimates that the tone is now much harsher, with more frequent consideration of specific financial consequences.
Serbia has been a candidate for membership in the European Union since 2012, and accession negotiations continue with occasional setbacks and political tensions, especially in the areas of rule of law and foreign policy coordination.
Source: Politiko
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