LOCAL PRESS

 

A new round of dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina at the technical level on November 16 (RTS)

 

The next meeting at the technical level between the chief negotiators of Belgrade and Pristina will be held on November 16 in Brussels, Tanjug learns from diplomatic sources. Then, with the mediation of the European Union, Petar Petkovic and Besnik Bisljimi should meet. The chief negotiator of the Pristina side, Besnik Bisljimi, confirmed that a new round of dialogue at the technical level will be held on November 16.

 

The Director of the Office for Kosovo and Metohija (KiM), Petar Petkovic, previously said that Pristina rejected the invitation for a dialogue between the main negotiators at the technical level, which was supposed to be held on November 7 in Brussels, while Belgrade accepted the invitation.

 

The last time the two sides were in Brussels was on October 26, when separate meetings were held between President Aleksandar Vucic and Prime Minister of Pristina's temporary institutions, Albin Kurti, with EU representatives. After a series of those meetings, President Vucic pointed out that Belgrade, in accordance with its policy, clearly said that it wants all the signed agreements to be implemented, but that it cannot accept membership in the UN or the so-called independence of Kosovo.

 

Petkovic: ZSO will never be a non-governmental organization (RTS)

 

The Director of the Office for Kosovo and Metohija (KiM), Petar Petkovic, said that the Union of Serb Municipalities (ZSO) will never be a non-governmental organization within the framework of which, as he says, representatives of certain Western representative offices in Pristina would like to place it. The ZSO represents the only mechanism for the survival and survival of the Serbian people in KiM, says Petar Petkovic. "Pristina's refusal to fulfill its obligation from the dialogue for a full ten years directly enabled Albin Kurti to carry out terror, persecution and escalating moves against the Serbian people. He says that the ZSO is "the most concrete framework and guarantor for the preservation of collective and individual rights, as well as negotiated executive powers for Serbs in KiM in the most important social, economic, political, cultural, developmental, economic and security issues".

 

"As such, all agreements on the Statute of the ZSO and the already established competences of the Serbian people in KiM, according to the agreements from 2013 and 2015, must be in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of Serbia, the Charter of the United Nations and Resolution 1244 of the UN Security Council. And this is precisely what the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vucic, has clearly and unequivocally said in the face of international officials several times, including the last meeting in Brussels with European leaders," emphasizes Petkovic.

 

He also states that for us "the Constitution of the Republic of Serbia is sacred, and in KiM Resolution 1244 of the UN Security Council is still in force and there are no media conferences, nor reference to the so-called Kosovo Constitutional Court, which has no credibility outside of individual cabinets or foreign embassies, they cannot suspend or cancel it".

 

"The ZSO with concrete and clearly defined competences for the Serbian people was negotiated more than ten years ago in Brussels, and not a single statement, nor anyone's wish list, can cancel what was guaranteed by the entire European Union and what the representatives signed Belgrade and Pristina," says Petkovic. He points out that whoever does not want to respect agreements, but also international law, "should not think of unilaterally suspending all valid agreements and agreements from Brussels from 2013 and 2015, which clearly define the competences of the ZSO, and should not think of canceling all previous outcomes of the dialogue".

 

"Unfortunately, we are witnessing that force does not care about international law, but we can never and will not give up on facts and principles. One thing should be clear to everyone - President Vucic never reacted to pressure, no matter from which side they came and no matter how much were violent and will continue to fight strongly for the interests of the Serbian people and for peace in KiM," concluded Petkovic.

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European Commission report warns of political polarization in Serbia (N1)

 

The European Commission said in its progress report on Serbia that political polarization is still in place and has deepened following the mass shootings in May. It said that Belgrade still needs to address a number of long-standing recommendations by the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights at the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE/ODIHR) and Council of Europe bodies concerning the electoral framework.

 

The progress report noted tension in parliament debates between the ruling majority and opposition and the fact that most of sessions were called with the minimum advance notice of 24 hours, which should only be used in exceptional circumstances. “The code of conduct was not systematically applied, and the frequent use of inflammatory language was not penalized. Sanctions and fines were only issued to opposition MPs,” it said.

 

“Further efforts are needed to ensure systematic and genuine cooperation between the government and civil society,” the report said and warned of continued verbal attacks and smear campaigns against those organizations, including by high-level officials.

 

The European Commission feels that Serbia is moderately prepared in terms of public administration reform with limited progress was made in this area.

 

“Serbia has some level of preparation when it comes to its judicial system. Overall, some progress was made during the reporting period. Serbia took an important step towards strengthening the independence and accountability of the judiciary with the timely adoption of most of the implementing legislation giving practical effect to the 2022 constitutional amendments,” the report said.

 

It said that Serbia has some level of preparation in the fight against corruption but that limited progress was made, including on last year’s recommendations. “There was a slight increase in the number of new investigations and final convictions in high-level corruption cases, but the number of new indictments fell. There were no cases of final confiscation of assets, for which a track record is required. Serbia still needs to adopt a national anti-corruption strategy and the accompanying action plan,” it added.

 

“In the fight against organized crime, Serbia has some level of preparation. Limited progress was made in addressing last year’s recommendations, in particular on detection and prevention of migrant smuggling and trafficking in human beings. A slight increase in financial investigations and confiscation of assets can also be noted in 2022,” the report said. “Serbia is late in conducting an analysis of the roles and practices of security services and of the National Security Council in carrying out criminal investigations relating to serious and organized crime, although preparatory works have started. There is well- established cooperation with CEPOL, Eurojust, Europol and INTERPOL, notably on weapons trafficking, drugs trafficking, and the fight against high-profile organized crime groups. Serbia needs to further increase the technical, financial and human resources capacity of the Prosecutor’s Office for Organized Crime to perform its duties in an independent manner,” the progress report said.

 

It said that Serbia’s legislative and institutional framework for upholding fundamental rights is broadly in place.

 

Limited progress was made in terms of freedom of expression. It said that the police and prosecution reacted swiftly to several cases of attacks and threats, working with the standing working group on the safety of journalists. “However, cases of threats, intimidation, hate speech and violence against journalists remain a concern, as is the increase of strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPP), notably launched by members of national and local authorities, that may produce a chilling effect including self- censorship,” it added.

 

“Serbia continued implementing the action plan of the media strategy,” it said and added that the recently adopted media laws will strengthen the independence of the regulatory body for electronic media (REM), codify the role of the Press Council and render the process of public co-funding more transparent and accessible. The report said that legislative process was not finalized fully in line with the EU acquis and European standards. “The ownership of media by state-owned enterprises was prominent in deliberations. An important step was taken with respect to the application of criteria aligned with the EU acquis to the assessment of state aid, while it should be clarified that antitrust and merger control rules apply to the media sector and safeguards to protect media pluralism and editorial independence remain to be improved,” the report said.

 

“Serbia is at a good level of preparation and has made some progress in developing a functioning market economy,” the report said adding that the state retains a strong footprint in the economy with a private sector underdeveloped and hampered by weaknesses in the rule of law, in particular corruption and judicial inefficiency, and in the enforcement of fair competition. Serbia is moderately prepared and has made some progress in coping with competitive pressure and market forces within the EU, the report said.

 

“On good neighbourly relations and regional cooperation, Serbia remained committed overall to maintaining good bilateral relations with other candidate countries, potential candidates and neighbouring EU Member States. Relations with Croatia improved. Relations with Hungary have further intensified. In general, Serbia actively participates in regional cooperation,” the progress report said.

 

“Overall, Serbia has remained engaged in the EU-facilitated Dialogue on the normalization of relations with Kosovo, but it needs to demonstrate more serious commitment, invest more efforts and make compromises to take the process of normalization of relations with Kosovo forward. Serbia needs to uphold its Dialogue commitments and commit to the full implementation of all past Dialogue agreements and the Agreement on the Path to Normalization and its Implementation Annex. Serbia and Kosovo are expected to engage more constructively to enable negotiations on the comprehensive legally binding normalization Agreement to start and show flexibility in order to make rapid and concrete progress. Normalization of relations is an essential condition on the European path of both Parties and both risk losing important opportunities in the absence of progress,” the report said. It added that Belgrade is expected to fully cooperate in apprehending the perpetrators behind the Banjska armed incident.

 

“Regarding Serbia’s ability to assume the obligations of EU membership, the country continued the work on alignment with the EU acquis in several areas,” it said and listed the internal market cluster, competitiveness and inclusive growth cluster, Green agenda and sustainable connectivity cluster, the cluster on resources, agriculture and cohesion. “On the external relations cluster, Serbia is yet to finalize its accession to the World Trade Organization which is one of the opening benchmarks for Chapter 30.

 

Serbia should also abstain from introducing unilateral trade-restrictive measures without prior consultation of the Commission, in line with its obligations under the Stabilization and Association Agreement. Serbia continued not to align with EU restrictive measures against Russia and the majority of declarations by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on this matter,” the report said.

 

“Serbia contributed to the management of the mixed migration flows towards the EU and cooperated with the EU, EU Member States and its neighbours to implement the EU Action Plan on the Western Balkans presented by the Commission in December 2022. Additional progress along all the pillars of the Action Plan is expected,” it said.

 

Vucic: It is important to protect state interests; I will meet with Macron (TV Prva)

 

President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vucic, was hosted on the "News" show on TV Prva. The plan to increase salaries and pensions in 2024 is coming soon. Vucic spoke about the opposition's attacks on him and his family.

 

Vucic said Wednesday that there are good things in the European Commission (EC) progress report on Serbia, that “progress” in reforms shows, but that, for him, the developments in the economy are far more important. “Inflation is dropping, prices are significantly lower,” Vucic said, adding that, by the end of the year, he will address the citizens regarding further increase in the standard of living. He said progress shows in Chapter 31 in the European Union accession negotiations, “it is important for our democracy, and also because of the many lies that have been said, that there has been special progress in the media sphere.”

 

“But there is still a lot more we need to do, there are also obstacles, mostly in connection with Kosovo and Metohija, you could see that in the report, but that is nothing unexpected,” said Vucic.  The President said, “it is important that we are going forward on the European path, but that we know how to look after our state and national interests.”

 

We note that the legislative process in adopting the media laws was not finalized fully in line with the EU acquis and European standards. Serbia has made limited progress regarding freedom of expression. The conduct of the members of national and local authorities sometimes produces a chilling effect, including self- censorship, so high-level officials should refrain from repeatedly issuing statements on the daily and investigative work of journalists. The Regulatory Authority for Electronic Media (REM) has not awarded a fifth media service license with national frequency, without credible justification, and has failed to demonstrate its independence. These are some of the conclusions from the European Commission annual progress report on EU candidate countries that was presented on Wednesday.

 

"People in Serbia can expect good news"

 

"Tomorrow I'm going to Paris, I'm going to Pirot first, and afterwards, from Nis I'm flying straight to Paris. We're going there, it's called an Annual Peace Conference, it's due to November 11, Armistice Day, and President Macron organizes it, I believe I will have a meeting with President Macron. I know there were some other ideas related to Pristina, but I don't have any confirmation so far or anything like that. I myself will have a bilateral meeting with Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo. And those are important meetings for us, and I just want to remind people of one more thing. Just 20 days ago, a brutal campaign was conducted, that we are threatened with sanctions, that restrictive measures are definitely coming. My question is, do you remember that I said then, just please, I can't give guarantees, as other people make decisions. But I said, just calm down citizens, be sure, you have a serious and responsible leadership, nothing like that will happen. Are they now going to say sorry for lying? There are no sanctions or restrictions. They won't. They will continue with the same story. Because one lie catches up with another," said Vucic.

 

Soon the plan to increase salaries and pensions in 2024 is coming into effect: "And now, what I would like to say to the citizens of Serbia and what seems to me to be very important, I believe that we will create an additional plan that the citizens can expect, apart from what we said as we see 2027 and what it will look like. "People in Serbia, for me it is much more important that people in Serbia can expect new good news soon, not to worry about all these big things, important meetings, many important events are waiting for us, from which we will bring only good things for our country."

 

Giaufret presents report: Brnabic says EC recognized Serbia’s clear progress (FoNet)

 

Head of European Union (EU) Delegation to Serbia Emanuele Giaufret said Wednesday that enlargement is the central EU theme and that there is an opportunity that should be seized.

Following his meeting with Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic at which he presented her the European Commission 2023 Progress Report on Serbia, Giaufret said that Serbia continued judicial reforms and that the report takes note of the progress made in this area. He said two important media laws have been adopted, which will strengthen the independence of the Regulatory Authority for Electronic Media (REM). However, Giaufret said that Brussels sees no progress on Serbia’s part in aligning its foreign policy with that of the EU.

 

Prime Minister Brnabic said that the European Commission has recognized the clear progress made by Serbia in the European integration process because, in its annual report, there is no mention of any regression, while progress has been noted in all but three areas. Following her meeting with Giaufret, Brnabic said the state carried out the judicial reform on its own and that the opposition even obstructed the process. Limited progress has been recorded in the fight against corruption, she said, stressing that the strategy for the fight against corruption has not been completed, which is why there is no greater progress.

 

REGIONAL PRESS

 

Bosnia and Herzegovina

 

College of Commissioners from 27 EU countries decides that if B&H fulfills key EC priorities by March 2024, accession negotiations between B&H and EU will be opened (RTRS)

 

The College of Commissioners from 27 EU countries decided on Wednesday that if Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) fulfills the key priorities of the European Commission by March 2024, accession negotiations between B&H and the EU will be opened. In the annual Report on B&H, it was assessed that B&H has harmonized its policy with the EU's foreign and security policy to a considerable extent. The Report on B&H also cites as a challenge the fact that Republika Srpska (RS) passed a number of unconstitutional laws, as European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen said. Von der Leyen pointed out that this is an extended hand from Brussels for the rapid formation of the B&H Council of Ministers (CoM) and progress in preventing money laundering and the fight against crime and terrorism. On the other hand, von der Leyen accused the RS of hindering the European path of B&H. “We note with concern that the RS has passed a number of unconstitutional laws. Because of this, B&H will have to harmonize certain principles,” Von der Leyen said.

 

“We note with concern the various unconstitutional laws adopted by the representatives of the entities of the RS, and in this context, the Commission recommends that the Council (of the EU) opens accession negotiations when the necessary degree of compliance with the criteria for membership is achieved. Here, the Commission will report to the Council on the progress by Von der Leyen said that the EC gave B&H a conditional green light to open accession negotiations with the EU. Von der Leyen was quoted as saying: “EC recognized numerous positive steps, taken by B&H authorities, such as fast formation of the B&H Council of Ministers, commitment of all political parties to the same goal - accession of the country to the EU, progress in the fight against organized crime, money laundering or terrorism. However, we note with concern that the RS entity has passed a number of unconstitutional laws. In this context, the EC recommends to the European Council that negotiations be opened when the necessary degree of compliance with the 14 criteria, that were set earlier, is achieved. We open the door very wide and invite B&H to pass through that door, of course, in order to do that, results must be shown, but the door is wide open to welcome B&H in the accession negotiations. The EC will report to the European Council on the progress on this path in March 2024”.

 

Varhelyi: The plan is to integrate partners from the Western Balkans that want to join the EU as soon as possible (N1)

 

N1 reports that the EC also presented on Wednesday the special financial plan for the Western Balkan countries. The Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, as it is called, envisages an additional EUR 6 billion for the region which should help accelerate the necessary pro-EU reforms. The ultimate goal of this assistance package is to begin the integration of the region even before the enlargement, in areas where the countries of the Western Balkans are ready for integration. Addressing the press conference in Brussels on Wednesday European Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement Oliver Varhelyi said that the plan is aimed at four things - integrating the Western Balkans into the four freedoms as fast as they can, mutual integration among the Western Balkan economies themselves, helping the Western Balkan countries to implement the reforms and increased financial contribution for the region.

 

Varhelyi said “we want to help the integration on the ground, the integration of the economy and the market of the countries of the Western Balkans.” “Varhelyi said that the growth plan for the Western Balkans will grant some of the advantages to citizens in the region already in the accession stage, which implies gradual introduction of the Western Balkans into the European single market that should contribute to reducing economic and social gap between the EU and the region. Addressing the press conference, Varhelyi said: “It is a real benefit for both parties. They should be granted advantages of the membership even before it is reached. The goal of this plan is in four aspects, to integrate partners from the Western Balkans who want to join (EU) as soon as possible, bearing in mind all obligations arising from our regulations and rule’’.

 

EUD Head Sattler hands over EC progress report on B&H to B&H CoM Chair Kristo; Sattler: EU doors are wide open for B&H; It is necessary to carry out reforms (Dnevni avaz)

 

Head of EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) and EU Special Representative Johann Sattler delivered EC Report on B&H to Chairperson of Council of Ministers Borjana Kristo. Addressing the press conference after handing over of the Report, Sattler said that this is “conditional opening of the talks and the EU doors are wide open for B&H”. “It is now up to B&H to carry out necessary reforms, use this opportunity and pass through open doors,” said Sattler. He added that the Report contains the item which reads that B&H even before March 2024 can submit arguments for member-states to reach a decision on opening of the talks. “Another good thing here is that B&H is catching up with the rest of the region. You know that this is the entire Enlargement Package, which regards Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia. The only country in the Western Balkans worth this discussion is B&H. The EU recognizes and confirms positive progress in B&H, but one of the issues of the Report lists negative steps that obstruct B&H on the EU path.

 

The very Report connects to awarding the status of the EU candidate a year ago and it is undisputable signal that B&H belongs to the EU. The EU institution noted that the enlargement process is again in their focus,” said Sattler. The Ambassador also said that there is much to do and what needs to be done on economic issues. “This brings us to final note today, which concerns the Growth Plan for Western Balkans. The Plan, which was adopted, secures targeted funds for reforms to attract investments i.e. investments are encouragement for reforms. This is a generous offer for the entire region, something unseen in last decades in the enlargement processes,” said Sattler.

 

The Ambassador noted he wants to work together on regional integration, the process which started within the Berlin Process. “This needs to be followed by thorough reforms, we want stronger market and attention of the part which regards the rule of law, corruption, organized crime. Fourth thing, which is the most interesting to everyone, is the financial one - six billion euros, two are non-returnable funds, grants and four loans and credits. This is not some additional financial instrument. If you add other financial aids to this, with this we in fact reached the level of financial support comparable to funds withdrawn by member states in terms of benefits they make. This is novelty coming with Growth Plan and I think it is a great message given to countries of the region,” said Sattler.

 

The Ambassador explained that these funds will be granted under the condition of reforms and will follow modality of program of reconstruction and recovery, designed by member states after the pandemic. Sattler called on domestic leaders and institutions to undertake steps, which will have positive effects on quality of lives of B&H citizens. Sattler also announced that the new EU- Western Balkans Summit will take place mid-December: “We hope that B&H will already then have some more concrete drafts of reforms for upcoming four years and that we will have adoption of these reforms by the CoM,” said Sattler. The Ambassador concluded: “The EU remains by B&H as you biggest trade partner.”

 

Kristo addresses press conference: We receive encouragement for work in the future (Dnevni avaz)

 

Head of the EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) and EU Special Representative Johann Sattler delivered EC Report on B&H to Chairperson of Council of Ministers Borjana Kristo who addressed the media after this. Kristo noted that we need to continue to work stronger, faster, better and stronger, most notably because of us and then for the sake of country’s obligations toward the EU. She noted that the report is extensive, and it will take a lot of time to analyze what is expecting us in the following period of time. “What is important if that the Report is based on what has been done by the CoM, i.e. B&H institutions and that compared to last years, we made significant step on the issue of European reforms, on rule of the law, democratic institutions, harmonization of foreign-policy stances with the EU, on the issue of fight against corruption and crime and creating of functional B&H society,” said Kristo. She stressed that they are happy because the EC also adopted today the new Growth Package, which Ursula Von der Leyen presented last week in Sarajevo. “This package refers to significant investment when it comes to EU. In line with this, we are expected to make a significant step forward in order to fulfill certain conditions. Through the growth plan, B&H has opportunity, and everything is up to us.

 

As the CoM Chair, I am glad that our efforts were recognized and that the EC is on the trace of what we have done, and naturally there is room for improvement. This what we received today, is encouragement for better work in the future. I want to say I am glad that EC evaluated everything we have done and reviewed B&H in the context of geopolitical environment and that it assisted B&H, as was the case when we received status of candidate. This progress that we have, is result of good policies, i.e. policies of compromise, agreement and consensus and therefore I thank the leaders of political parties. Only in such way, B&H can make progress,” said Kristo. She called for implementation of remaining reforms and underscored importance of Election Law. “An overall reform is needed which regards the judgements of ECHR and decisions of Constitutional Court and naturally that in this way we would unburden relations in B&H and convey a message that B&H in this way is more stable and has European future. I expect from colleagues in the CoM to make progress in the following period on the other issues, which we mostly agreed, Law on Prevention of Conflict of Interest, Law on Prevention of Money Laundering and Terrorist Activities, Law on Courts, Decision on appointing IPA Coordinator.”

 

MEP Picula considers it paradox fact that Ukraine and Moldova received recommendation for start of negotiations on membership, and that in case of B&H it is conditional (Dnevni avaz)

 

MEP and member of the European Parliament's Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) Tonino Picula has called the European Commission’s 2023 Enlargement Package historical, because it includes ten countries for the first time. At the same time, Picula considers it a paradox the fact that Ukraine and Moldova received a recommendation for the start of negotiations on membership, and that in the case of Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) it is conditional. “Negotiations are opened for Ukraine, a country that is at open war, and one hesitates for B&H as a country that is not at war. Negotiations are opened with a country whose government does not control its entire territory, I am talking about Moldova, but they are not opened with B&H. Why did B&H, despite its complexity and wartime past, not receive an unconditional date for negotiations with the EU this time? What is wrong with B&H, or we will turn the saw upside down and say what is wrong with the European Commission and European institutions,” Picula said in a statement to the daily.

 

Niksic: Positive signals are confirmation of correctness of our policy of compromise and talk, contrary to the policy of populism which dominates at the B&H political scene (Slobodna Bosna)

 

Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FB&H) Prime Minister Nermin Niksic commented on the EC progress report on B&H, and he said that “positive signals are confirmation of correctness of our policy of compromise and talk, contrary to the policy of populism which dominates at the B&H political scene”. He added that B&H has been stagnating for the last eight years when implementation of reforms is in question. He added that when they came to power, they were aware that difficult job is ahead of them, but they were committed to work. Niksic added that the result of this is adoption of a part of European laws and the best EC report on progress of B&H so far. Niksic added: “This illustrates enough the result of work in these six months, and it is an excellent ground for a positive decision on opening of negotiations in December.” In his opinion, the stance of the EC is just additional engorgement. Niksic finds the report realistic since it was grounded on what has been done, which is the best option for B&H. He also said: “B&H is in focus and the EU has done everything which was necessary to make it easier of us. The report states progress that we have made, but constructive criticism is also present.” He added that the EU is also aware of blockades in the reform process and for this reason their criticism primarily refers to Republika Srpska (RS) politicians. Niksic concluded: “In the upcoming period, I expect from all actors in B&H, and especially from us in the ruling coalition at all levels, to get to work and finish what was started. I remind that the EU has also overcome internal political and economic disputes on the path to the community that we know today. This should serve as an example to us.”

 

FM Konakovic: We got message that EU doors are wide open (Dnevni avaz)

 

Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) Foreign Minister (FM) Elmedin Konakovic held a press conference on the occasion of the European Commission (EC) publishing the 2023 Report on B&H and conditional opening of accession negotiations. “There is no country in the region that went through a period of some ten months from getting the candidate status to a conditional decision on opening of the negotiations”, said Konakovic, arguing that Croatia waited from June 2004 to October 2005, whilst North Macedonia waited more than 15 years. “This one is for the people who ask what’s so sensational about it”, added the B&H FM. He stressed it is an excellent message for B&H, which has its weight because of the fact, “nobody was hiding it, we got the candidate status undeservingly, that it happened because of geo-political events and the change to the enlargement policy, but we fought very, very quickly to win that famous word recommend, about which we fought until the last minute, and not we will recommend”. Konakovic reminded of the complexity of adoption of decisions in the EU, arguing this must not be a reason to be euphoric, but it must be a reason for continuation of fulfilling of the 14 priorities and all other reforms that bring benefits to citizens of B&H. “To the skeptics who were saying ‘Europe does not want us’, I think it is inappropriate behavior on their part and to send such messages. We got messages from the EU that the doors are wide open, and it is clear there are rule that must be fulfilled in order to become member”, said FM Konakovic. He went on to say, among other issues, that all this today was an important political message and that, if he could choose, he would choose the support package. “We will be lot more competitive through business opportunities. Our exporters wait on border crossings 3,000 years per year to export their products. Imagine when those borders are gone, what kind of potential for people who export goods that is”, said Konakovic adding “today is a concrete offer, it is not happening just because of us, but also because of the war in Ukraine”. “No EU country has regressed, but has made drastic and rapid progress in the economic conditions, it has provided its citizens with better living conditions and has reduced what troubles us the most, the brain drain, the departure of young people,” Konakovic said.

 

Dodik on EC’s decision: Return the sovereignty of B&H, withdraw false Schmidt and foreign judges, then we will believe you (RTRS)

 

Republika Srpska (RS) President Milorad Dodik commented on the European Commission's recommendation that the (accession) negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) open once the necessary degree of compliance is achieved. Dodik stated that ‘we’ expected unconditional recommendation and the green light in order to, irrespective of all uncertainties with the future of the EU and the enlargement, continue with the real work of organizing and conducting the negotiations. “I am glad the EU again did not miss the opportunity to miss the opportunity. But I also understand the European Commission, which has been under such a pressure in last few weeks and under fire by people who are against Dayton B&H and everything we do”, Dodik wrote on social networks.

 

Dodik further wrote that the EU now wants additional progress. “We will see what exactly, but both the RS and I are prepared and will make it happen. We understand that the European Commission, by advocating the rule of law, believes, in line with one of the fourteen priorities, that these measures mean automatic end of the international interventionism, departure of the OHR and false High Representative and departure of foreign judges in the Constitutional Court of B&H. If this is the European Commission’s goal, we are on the same path. If not, then the speculations are clear from such a senior body and confirmation of false advocating for sovereignty of B&H”, wrote Dodik, adding that there is no sovereignty where foreigners rule and that he welcomes the growth plan. At the end of the statement, Dodik wrote: “Return the sovereignty of B&H, withdraw false Schmidt and foreign judges in the Constitutional Court in B&H. Then we will believe you”.

 

Montenegro

 

Popa handed over Progress Report to Spajic: Starting point for reform processes (CDM)

 

EU Ambassador to Montenegro Oana Cristina Popa handed over European Commission Report on Montenegro’s progress to Prime Minister Milojko Spajic. “The European Union hopes that last week’s election of the new Government of Montenegro could mark a turning point in terms of the country’s accession to the European Union. We welcome the declared commitment of the Montenegrin authorities to achieve rapid results in EU-related reforms. The annual report of the European Commission gives important guidelines in that direction”, said Popa.

 

Spajic pointed out that the Report represented an objective picture of the situation and at the same time a good starting point for the Government’s further actions. “We will carefully consider all evaluations and recommendations in order to give decisive action to the integration process and reform processes for the European perspective of Montenegro”, concluded Spajic. The meeting was attended by Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorcevic.

 

Popa: We hope that election of 44th Govt. can be a turning point for EU accession (CDM)

 

We all hope that the election of the 44th Government can be a turning point for Montenegro when it comes to joining the European Union, said the Ambassador of the European Union to Montenegro, Oana Cristina Popa, at the press conference regarding the European Commission Report.

 

The first message that President of the European Commission Von der Leyen conveyed last week during her visit to the country was that Montenegro must now be fully focused on the goal of joining the EU, that it must cross that last mile and the finish line. Popa also presented the new Growth Plan, which, with a total of €6bn for investments, has the potential to double the Montenegrin economy in a decade. However, “the prerequisite for obtaining these funds is not only commitment, but also the implementation of all necessary reforms”, stated Popa.

 

Then she referred to this year’s European Commission Report on Montenegro. As for political criteria, she emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive reform of electoral legislation, the right to vote and run for office, transparency, dispute resolution mechanisms and monitoring of campaign financing and media activities. The Report cited political tensions and polarization, a failure to build consensus around key issues of national interest. The uncertainty was also created by the lack of a functional Constitutional Court due to the inability of the Parliament to elect new members by the end of February. In the field of public administration, the Parliament adopted amendments to the Law on Local Self-Government in order to harmonize it with the Law on Civil Servants and State Employees, disregarding the recommendation of the European Commission.

 

There was no progress in judicial reform. As for the fight against corruption, they have seen some progress because several cases of high corruption are under investigation, she stressed.

There were certain achievements in the fight against organized crime, Popa stated. Regarding fundamental rights, the EU has observed increased polarization and divisions within society.

 

As far as freedom of expression is concerned, Montenegro has a pluralistic media environment, while in recent cases of attacks on journalists, the authorities generally gave a quick and effective response in terms of law enforcement and institutional reaction.

 

When it comes to migration, the Report welcomes the signing of the new Status Agreement between Montenegro and the European Union, which enables the deployment of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) anywhere in Montenegro.

 

Economic expansion of Montenegro, she pointed out, continued at a strong pace in 2022, supported by private consumption and strong growth in tourism. On the positive side, for example, they saw good progress compared to last year in areas such as: Intellectual Property Rights (chap. 7), Science and Research (chap. 25), Transport Policy (chap. 14), Foreign, Security and Defense Policy (chap. 31).

 

The EU also noted limited progress in the following chapters: Statistics (chap. 18), Financial Supervision (chap. 32), Freedom of Movement of Workers (chap. 2), Right of Establishment and Freedom to Provide Services (chap. 3), Taxes (chap. 16), etc. As she emphasized, the potential exists. “Use it and seize the moment. Your children and grandchildren will thank you for it. As a first step, we should see the rapid appointment of the chief negotiator and a fully functional negotiation structure with working groups for all chapters, which can encourage all necessary reforms and legislative plans”, said Popa.

 

European Commission comments Montenegro’s progress regarding rule of law reforms (AJB)

 

In its 2023 Report for Montenegro, the European Commission (EC) said that in regard to the rule of law, a key field for the EU path, there was no progress achieved. Montenegro was warned that without fulfilling the things stated in Chapter 23 and Chapter 24, this country will not be able to close other chapters. The EC also expressed concern over fight against high-level corruption. The Report noted that on several occasions, the Montenegrin government and the Parliament ignored the recommendations of the EC and the Venice Commission, and that political parties were even ready to cause a constitutional crisis with the aim of achieving short-term goals. However, Montenegro was actually commented for harmonization of its foreign policy with the EU’s foreign policy.

 

Montenegrin Minister of European Affairs, Maida Gorcevic, stated that the report of the European Commission provides an objective presentation of the situation and serves as a guideline. Gorcevic expressed her expectation that the Parliament will proceed with the appointments in the judiciary so as not to miss the opportunity. She added that all chapters are equally important because the negotiation process cannot be closed without one of them.

 

Executive Director at the Center for Civic Education Daliborka Uljarevic spoke for Al Jazeera about the EC Report on Montenegro. Montenegro was warned that without fulfilling the requirements listed in the Chapter 23 and Chapter 24, this country will not be able to close other chapters. The EC also expressed concern over fight against high-level corruption. Uljarevic noted that this is the third report for Montenegro that had negative remarks regarding country’s path towards the EU. Montenegro has been leading negotiations with the EU for the past 11 years, and Uljarevic believes this behavior of current officials is frivolous because they are actively stopping the EU path of Montenegro. She concluded that this report did not come as a surprise to anyone in Montenegro.

 

Picula: No one can be satisfied with Report, Podgorica can regain necessary rhythm (RSE)

 

The rapporteur for Montenegro in the European Parliament, Tonino Picula, told RSE that no one could be satisfied with the Report and that serious stagnation had taken valuable time away from Montenegro. “And that in a key period when the EU’s interest in the enlargement policy was renewed. The optimal opportunity for European institutions to make significant progress in this mandate was lost”, Picula said. As he stated, Montenegro is formally still the leader of European integration in the Western Balkans. “Podgorica can regain the necessary rhythm, but concrete results are needed for that, not just declarations and the appropriate naming of parties”, Picula pointed out. He recalled that a few months ago, President Jakov Milatovic asked the European Commission to postpone this year’s Progress Report in order to give the Government and Parliament more time. He emphasized that the new parliament and government were expected to show commitment on Montenegro’s path to the EU and meet the expectations of a large percentage of citizens who want their country in the EU.

 

Ivanovic: Montenegro supports Israel’s right to self-defense, but also strongly supports protection of civilians in Gaza (TVCG)

 

In a telephone conversation with the Ambassador of Israel, Jahel Vilan, Minister of Foreign Affairs Filip Ivanovic emphasized that Israel was an extremely valuable and strong partner for Montenegro. In the context of the current situation in Gaza, Ivanovic expressed his condolences regarding the suffering of civilians in an attack by the terrorist organization Hamas, which Montenegro condemns. He added that our country fully supported Israel’s right to self-defense, “as long as it is within the limits of International Humanitarian Law”. Ivanovic stressed that Montenegro strongly advocated for the protection of civilians in Gaza, Minister Ivanovic stated, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ statement.

 

North Macedonia

 

Ambassador Geer hands over EC Progress Report to President Pendarovski (MIA)

 

European Union Ambassador David Geer handed over Wednesday the European Commission's Progress Report on North Macedonia to President Stevo Pendarovski. "The Report, which notes the work done during the screening, the first stage of the accession negotiations, provides a detailed representation of developments in the Macedonian society and represents a roadmap for institutions, while highlighting areas that require our attention," President Pendarovski wrote in a Facebook post. Earlier in the day, Ambassador Geer handed over the EC Progress Report to

 

Parliament Speaker Talat Xhaferi and Deputy PM for European Affairs Bojan Marichikj. Xhaferi said the Parliament would continue to be open to all remarks related to North Macedonia's Euro-Atlantic integration process. Ambassador Geer voiced strong assurance that enlargement remains the EU's vital commitment and top priority, the Parliament said in a press release.

 

Marichikj said North Macedonia would resume its firm commitment for implementation of reforms while supporting the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. The Growth Plan is a result of our requirements to use the benefits of EU enlargement in advance, namely during the accession negotiations. EU is set to provide EUR 6 billion for the Western Balkans, of which EUR 1 billion to be used by North Macedonia. The plan ensures access to the EU Single Market and strong economic progress, which means that North Macedonia's products and services can be distributed at the Market.

 

EU aims to make the first transfer of funds to North Macedonia and other countries of the Western Balkans by March 2024. "The Government and the administration have mobilized significant resources and have actively participated in the screening process. This does not mean that the job is done. On the contrary, the screening process provides the basis in defining the future reform priorities within the EU agenda that require broad societal consensus. In this regard, we are working on the development of the roadmaps related to the rule of law, administration reforms and functioning of democratic institutions. The Growth Plan puts the focus on reforms for more investments and the country's progress," said Marichikj.

 

No progress made in judiciary, assesses EC in Report on North Macedonia (MIA)

 

In its 2023 Progress Report on North Macedonia, the European Commission assesses that there was no progress in the field of the judiciary during the reporting period, and that the country’s judicial system is in between some and moderate level of preparation to apply the EU acquis and European standards in this area. In the section on the judiciary, the Report notes the Judicial Council should strive to protect the integrity and independence of judges and institutions and should resist any external influence.

 

“The controversial dismissal of the President of the Judicial Council raised concerns about undue political influence. The adoption of a new judicial reform strategy is behind schedule. It should aim to improve the performance of institutions. Progress on implementation of the human resources strategies for the judiciary and prosecution services was limited. The lack of measures to address the impact of scheduled retirements affected efficiency. Most promotions for higher courts faced further delays. Work continued on upgrading the automated court case management information system (ACCMIS) for random distribution of cases in courts. A similar system was introduced in the Public Prosecutor’s Office,” states the Report.

 

It highlights that the Commission’s recommendations from last year have not been implemented and remain valid. Noting that in the coming year, the country should in particular: complete the implementation of the judicial reform strategy and the updated action plan, with a specific focus on adopting a new Law on civil procedure, in line with European standards and prepare the new strategy on judicial reform (2023-2027) without delay; revise the legislative framework and overall functioning of the Judicial Council to enhance its transparency and independence and step up the implementation of the human resources strategies for the judiciary and the prosecution; ensure that ACCMIS is fully functional and compatible with level of complexity of court cases and the method for assessing judges and presidents of courts.

 

In the section on the fight against corruption, the EC assesses that no progress has been made, and the country is in between some and moderate level of preparation in the prevention and fight against corruption.

 

“Corruption remains prevalent in many areas and is an issue of concern. Delays and reversals in trials of high-level corruption cases increased, resulting some cases in the expiration of the statute of limitations. The Criminal Code was amended through an expedited parliamentary procedure. The maximum legal penalties for specific corruption-related criminal offences were reduced, having implications on the application of the statute of limitations and affecting, halting or even terminating, a large number of high-level corruption cases, including from the former Special Public Prosecutor’s Office (SPO). The amendments also hamper the authorities’ ability to investigate and prosecute such offences. This is a matter of serious concern,” notes the Report.

 

The Report highlights that the State Commission for the Prevention of Corruption was proactive in providing public institutions with policy guidance on preventing corruption. “It opened several cases, but its recommendations need to be effectively followed up on. Efforts to improve the functioning of the State Commission for the Prevention of Corruption should continue, especially by allocating additional funding for the recruitment of specialist staff,” states the Report. According to the Report, additional human resources and financial means should also be made available to the Public Prosecutor’s Office, investigative centers and law enforcement units in charge of investigating corruption, while the sectors most vulnerable to corruption require targeted risk assessments and dedicated actions.

 

The Report adds that last year’s recommendations have not been fully addressed and remain valid. According to the EC, in the coming year the country should in particular:  enhance implementation of the national strategy for the prevention of corruption and conflict of interests and properly implement GRECO’s recommendations; allocate sufficient human and financial resources, including financial experts, to the Office of the Basic Public Prosecutor for Organised Crime and Corruption to ensure effective accountability in high-level corruption cases; improve its track record in high-level corruption cases – with timely, professional and transparent proactive investigations, prosecutions, final convictions and recovery, including confiscation of criminal assets, value-based confiscation, extended confiscation and third-party confiscation.

 

In the section on the fight against organized crime, the Report assesses that North Macedonia has some level of preparation, and that some progress was made during the reporting period. “The country continues to have a good level of operational cooperation with EU Members States, non-EU neighbouring countries, Europol and Eurojust. A new Law on money laundering and financing of terrorism entered into force in July 2022. Implementing legislation now needs to be drafted and adopted promptly. More needs to be done to improve the effectiveness of law enforcement in fighting certain forms of crime, such as money laundering and financial crimes,” states the Report.

 

According to the EC, North Macedonia also needs to adopt and implement the necessary legislation to regulate the activity of the Asset Recovery Office, as well as to improve the capacity of the National Coordination Centre for the Fight against Organized Crime. “Coordination remains crucial for all stakeholders involved in fighting organized crime, including between prosecutors and police,” says the EC in the Report.

 

In the section on the fight against terrorism and violent extremism, the Report assesses that some progress was made in line with the objectives set out in the joint action plan on counterterrorism for the Western Balkans and the new bilateral implementing arrangement. The national strategies for countering terrorism (2023-2027) and countering violent extremism (2023-2027) were adopted in May 2023, with the related action plans.

 

The EC Report notes that North Macedonia continues to play an active role in the management of mixed migration flows. “Efforts continued to ensure basic living conditions and services for all migrants in the country. There is, however, a need to enhance institutional and administrative capacities for all aspects of migration management. More staff and additional material and technical resources are required to increase capacity to a satisfactory level,” states the Report.

 

According to the Report, systematic registration of migrants is needed, and protection-sensitive profiling needs to be improved. It states that the country should establish a proper system for managing irregular movement and stop the practice of returning migrants outside a legal framework. A contingency plan to manage large migratory flows needs to be finalized and adopted, notes the Report.

 

The Report also highlights that the Status Agreement for operational cooperation in border management with the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) entered into force on 1 April 2023, allowing the launch of a joint operation with the deployment of officers from EU Member States to provide support with border control and the management of irregular migration and cross-border crime.

 

Varhelyi hopes all sides will support constitutional amendments to push North Macedonia forward (MIA)

 

Authorities in North Macedonia have continued to demonstrate and declare in public their commitment for progress on the European path, and now that the country has started the process of accession negotiations, it has to speed up the pace of reforms related to EU membership, said European Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Oliver Varhelyi while presenting the 2023 Enlargement Package and the new Growth Plan for the Western Balkans before members of the European Parliament's Committee on Foreign Affairs on Wednesday.

 

"The Parliament and the Government promote the priority implementation of the relevant constitutional amendments. We hope that all sides will support them, so the country can move forward," said Commissioner Varhelyi and added that adoption of the amendments is the country's sovereign decision that would further enhance fundamental rights.

 

According to him, the Criminal Code amendments relating to a number of high-level corruption cases have caused concern. "Strengthening of the trust in the judiciary and countering corruption, including through solid investigations, prosecution and final judgments in high-level corruption cases is of key importance," added Varhelyi. Regarding the screening process, the Commissioner said it is processing without any hindrances and the country's authorities have demonstrated a high degree of commitment in its realization.

 

In his address, Varhelyi said the European Commission recommends the opening of accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, as well as Bosnia and Herzegovina, once the country reaches the required degree of alignment with membership criteria. "We also recommend giving Georgia a candidate status, recognizing the steps that the country has undertaken," noted Varhelyi. He also referred to the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, which goal is to provide stimulus to the countries in the area over the coming years, for the purpose of reducing the socio-economic gap between them and EU member-states by the end of the decade. "We want to gradually integrate the Western Balkans into the EU Single Market before its full-fledged membership in the Union," said Varhelyi and added that the plan would help regional countries to speed up fundamental reforms, including those related to the rule of law and democracy, attraction of private investments, promotion of sustainable economic growth and reducing pollution. "In short, the Growth Plan will create the required circumstances for our regional partners to become Union members," concluded Varhelyi.

 

Albania

 

Rama: The migrant agreement with Italy is not linked to the opening of EU negotiations (Radio Tirana)

 

The Albanian Prime Minister clarified to RaiNews24 some details of the agreement signed with the Italian government regarding the transfer of migrants who arrived illegally in Italy to Albania. According to the protocol signed with Italy, Albania will have only one reception center with a capacity of three thousand seats, in addition to a first arrival facility where migrants will be hosted in 'dignified conditions' before being transferred. Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama clarified to Rainews24 that these do not constitute two separate reception centers.

 

The signing of the agreement with Italy for the construction of a center in Albania to house immigrants rescued at sea by Italian ships was not linked to the opening of negotiations with the European Union, Prime Minister Edi Rama stated in an interview with Rai News 24.

 

"First and foremost, I want to underline that there won't be two separate centers, as this misconception has been circulating and distorting the truth. There will be a single reception center and an arrival point where individuals will be screened before being transported to the reception center. So, it's one center, not two," stated Rama.

 

"The second point is that while we are not an EU country, we are indeed a European country. We are located in Europe, just across the sea, and I fail to comprehend why there should be one international law for EU countries and a different one for countries outside of it. Or perhaps, I may be mistaken," he added.

 

"The third point is that we have received requests from other European countries, and not just from them, but also from other countries in the Western Balkans, to undertake operations of this nature, and we have declined," stated Rama.

 

"Italy has been the country that stood by our side from the very first moment of our escape from the hell of 1999 and the 50 years of isolation. Italy has been our steadfast companion throughout all these years, not only within Italy where it welcomed hundreds of thousands of Albanians, offering them a future, but also within Albania when we were on the brink of disaster. Italy sent not just one, but two military missions, volunteers, and provided incredible assistance. Italian firefighters, in particular, arrived as the largest team in terms of numbers when our people were trapped under the rubble of an earthquake. They selflessly sacrificed their lives to save ours like never before," he remarked.

 

"Because with Italy, it's different. Italy, for us, is the other side of the same sea, a place where Albanians feel at home. This feeling of belonging isn't limited to when they work, study, or do business there; it extends to tourism as well. Italy is like their home within the EU. When Italy requests our assistance, it's an honor to offer our support. How did it come about?" asked Rama.

 

"Let me emphasize that all Italian journalists, without exception, ask this question: 'What is the benefit? What does Albania gain? What's behind this deal?' But why should there be a benefit? What compensation has Italy asked from us all these years? Even the idea that we did this because Italy will help us open negotiations with the EU is somewhat amusing because we have already initiated negotiations with the EU. Entering the EU is not a straightforward process. It's not a matter of Italy saying, 'Take 3,000 immigrants, and we'll let you into the EU.' What kind of world are we living in? We must approach these issues with greater accuracy and seriousness, as this is a complex matter for me. 'I don't see any magical solution that anyone has discovered for the issue of migratory flows and the influx of desperate people arriving on Italy's shores who then wish to enter EU countries," said Rama.

 

"No one has discovered a perfect solution. Political battles are being waged from all directions, and there is rarely a normal debate or common discussion to understand how to address this issue. Unfortunately, Albania is not directly involved in this matter because we are not part of the European Council, we are not an EU member, and we are not responsible for finding a solution. I must emphasize that there are EU countries that do not conceal their reluctance to accept immigrants from regions with different ethnic backgrounds or religious beliefs. However, these same countries have shown great generosity in hosting millions of Ukrainian refugees fleeing Russian aggression because, let's be honest, they are of the same ethnicity, white and share a similar religious belief, Christians.

 

On the other hand, there are European countries like Sweden, among others, that have adopted an inclusive policy for everyone, regardless of their color or religion. However, there is a need to find a middle ground to treat everyone as a human being, as someone escaping from the threat of death is a person, irrespective of their color or creed. At the same time, we must find a European approach to address two critical questions: how to regulate these flows while respecting the right of all individuals to be saved, protected, and provided with a future, without allowing this generosity to benefit terrorists, criminals, and traffickers. On the other hand, we must consider how these regulated flows can support an aging Europe by providing a workforce that can sustain the European economy," emphasized Rama.

 

“These are very important issues that cannot be resolved by engaging in daily political battles with everyone. I say this with all due respect, as I do not engage in debates regarding Italian internal politics or any other party because it's not within my purview. Italy has made investments in our country without the need for any such agreement, and it will continue to invest. It is in Italy's strategic interest to invest in Albania and our neighboring countries. This connection is historical, cultural, and deeply rooted. Let's once again set aside this notion of an agreement for immigrants as an easy way to enter the EU against international law because such a path doesn't exist. States become EU members after fulfilling specific internal tasks, which include reforming, implementing the rule of law, combating organized crime, and addressing corruption. Europe is not a sanctuary where one gains entry because someone says, 'Take these people in; they've helped us, and they have big hearts,'" he added.

 

"I am not the Prime Minister of Italy; I'm not here to determine what Italy should do or define the legal framework of this operation in Italy. I'm here to account for what Albania has done and for what I have signed. The figure of 36,000 is based on a calculation where 3,000 places will initially be available, and if there is a rotation of 3,000 people every month, it can reach 36,000. However, the reception center has a capacity of 3,000," explained Rama.

 

"We had over 4,000 Afghans who escaped death in Afghanistan, and both we and NATO promised them a new world. Among them were translators and drivers who worked alongside our armed forces. How could we leave these people behind, vulnerable to murderers and the Taliban?" asked Rama. "Other countries, particularly the wealthy and larger nations, have looked away and said, 'No, we can't do this.' Today, many of them have found refuge in other destinations such as the USA, Canada, and Albania is proud to have saved thousands of lives," he underlined.