Serbian Prime Minister Aleksandar Vucic told the TV Pink broadcaster on Wednesday Serbia’s membership in the EU was a strategic objective.
“The strategic goal is to become a member of the EU and in this field we do everything we can to make Serbia a well-ordered country, which when it becomes a member will not be even close to the poorest countries,” said Vucic.
It was for this reason that difficult measures have been undertaken, he continued, and added that the austerity measures are the reason why “Serbia is today more respected than many countries of southern Europe.”
Vucic then said he was worried “about the things that could happen, not only Ukraine, but also in the whole of southern Europe,” and pointed out that Serbia has managed to retain its position and remain neutral.
“We have managed to preserve our position, although critics explained that it was impossible to do and not impose sanctions on Russia. As you can see, with out clear stance and protection of national and state interests, we succeeded,” underlined Vucic.
Vucic also revealed he would “deal with a government reshuffle” after “a solution” has been found for the Zelezara steel mill in Smederevo.
He said he “thought that people (ministers) fought and made an effort” – but “would not deal with it until he finishes the story about Zelezara.”
The prime minister pointed out that a reshuffle would not be a goal in itself, “but a way for the government to function better and more efficiently.”
Vucic also said that opening chapters 23 and 24 would mean a lot in the EU membership negotiations “in terms of whether Serbia will be a well-ordered country or not,” and that the opening of chapter 35 (on Kosovo) that was “the most difficult for the government of Serbia and for him personally.”
“I cannot say that we are happy when we travel to Brussels (for Kosovo talks). There’s not flowers or cakes there,” he was quoted as saying.
Vucic also announced that “several chapters” in negotiations with the EU would be opened this year – and “at least four in the first half of 2015.”
He added it was “obvious that the opening of chapters was politically conditioned.”
“Everyone should know that in order to open chapter 35, they are asking for additional talks, and everyone is waiting to see what will happen on February 9, after which they could consider whether to give it to us or not,” the prime minister said.
Vucic also stated that as the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue continues, Serbia will be represented by him, FM Ivica Dacic, and by other ministers, “depending on the topic.”
Vucic said he expected “great support from President Tomislav Nikolic” during Serbia’s chairmanship of the OSCE in 2015, and that the country would “improve its reputation” during this period.
However, the prime minister does not count himself “among those who think Serbia will now solve all the world’s problems.”
According to him, there are good ties, and even friendships in international relations – “but our country’s position is not such that we can avoid being pressured.”
“We will be exposed to pressure and that is no secret,” Vucic concluded.
