Hoge Vertegenwoordiger Ashton zal aandringen op toetredingsonderhandelingen Servië (en)

EUROPEAN UNION

Brussels, 26 June 2013 A

Remarks by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton i following her meeting with Prime Minister of Serbia Ivica Dacic

I just wanted to say, Prime Minister, how happy I am that all 27 Member States yesterday in our discussions were united in acknowledging that Serbia - and indeed Kosovo - have done a huge amount of work. I am extremely happy that they were so supportive of Serbia's way forward in the European Union, and that they commended the Prime Ministers and the leaderships for their political courage

I am extremely satisfied with the General Affairs Council Conclusion. They have recommended to the European Council the opening of accession negotiations with Serbia now. They have recommended a concrete date: January at the very latest. These are the two elements which were needed and I'm pleased to say that they determined upon

At the European Council when we meet on Friday, there will be a decision based on these recommendations. I will be there to say that Serbia has delivered and the European Union needs to deliver

I've also acknowledged that this is a great day for Kosovo too because the Council took the decision to open negotiations with Kosovo on a Stabilisation and Association Agreement, and that will be formally adopted at the end of this week

Prime Minister, in welcoming you once again to Brussels - it's almost like your second home - I want to say how pleased I am to see you and how absolutely delighted I am with the discussions that have taken place at the General Affairs Council. And to do as they did: commend you for your leadership, your determination and your willingness to look forward for the future of your country in support of your people