European Commissioner for Enlargement and Neighbourhood Policy, Johannes Hahn said in an interview to Vienna-based daily “Kurir” that 2025 represents a tentative date for the accession of new members to the EU, and Serbia can be part of it only if it swiftly implements decisive reforms and obligatory and permanently normalizes relations toward Kosovo, RTS reports.

Hahn, added that same as all other candidates, Serbia must focus on the three priorities – strengthening democracy and legal state, economic reform and reform of a labour market, and regional reconciliation with neighbours, RTS further writes.

He said there was progress in these areas, but “a real breakthrough” is needed now.

Asked if Serbia is doing enough to fight corruption, Hahn pointed out much was done, but still far from enough.

He also clarified 2025 is not a fixed but rather symbolic date, aiming to motivate the region.

“Even for Serbia this would be very ambitious, but theoretically possible (…),” Hahn said, mentioning needed reforms and obligatory and permanently normalized relations with Kosovo.