Verklaring namens Van Rompuy over ontmoeting met Servische premier Dačić (en)

It is an immense pleasure to be in Belgrade only three days after the European Council decided to open accession negotiations with Serbia. I want to congratulate wholeheartedly the Government and citizens of Serbia on this important step forward towards membership of the European Union.

This historic moment is the outcome of courageous and far-sighted decisions by the Serbian - and Kosovar - leadership. The Union and its High Representative, Cathy Ashton, played a key role. Indeed, the agreement reached in April between Belgrade and Priština paves the way to final reconciliation between communities that need each other, that share common geography and history. It puts an end to a period of conflict that erupted in the heart of Europe two decades ago. It is fitting that the Union, itself born from the ashes of the Second World War, becomes now a place of reconciliation and encounter for the Balkan nations. We cannot change the past. We can only change the future. And we are doing so.

I have underlined to Prime Minister Dačić, and will do so as well with President Nikolić, that Serbia has the full support of the European Council in its path towards EU membership. The next step of the process will be the intergovernmental conference. European Heads of State and Government have also agreed on timelines to ensure that it is held at the very latest in January 2014.

The accession negotiations, as Serbian leaders know well, are no waiting period. The crucial efforts to implement the April agreement and normalise relations with Kosovo must continue. Over time, Serbia will align with the EU "acquis”. All this can only happen with the strongest possible commitment, of all involved. This commitment is what will ultimately determine the pace at which reforms are undertaken and progress is made - towards a more effective administration at the service of its citizens and “plugged” into common European policies. The accession negotiations will also help Serbia in modernising its economy and attract foreign investments. It will help on your way to prosperity and jobs.

Reform is already underway. I congratulate the Serbian leadership and encourage it to continue its efforts, notably in the area of rule of law and the fight against organised crime and corruption. The European Union will bring substantial support during this period - not only political, but also financial - to ensure the necessary changes and adaptations.

Today we are also celebrating Croatia’s full membership of the European Union. Together with the opening of accession negotiations with Serbia and the negotiating mandate for the stabilisation and association agreement with Kosovo, a new chapter is being opened in this region of Europe. I trust that other Balkan countries will feel inspired by these momentous steps, leave aside divisions and concentrate on common interests, values and goals.

In closing, I want to express again my respect for Prime Minister Dačić, who together with President Nikolić and other key Serbian leaders, have taken political risks in order to secure a democratic, more prosperous and brighter future for their country, fully within the European Union. History is made by man. Together we will make history.