The rapporteur for Serbia in the European Parliament, Croatian MEP Tonino Picula, emphasized today that Serbia must renounce the idea of a “Serbian world” and the destabilization of its neighboring countries.

Picula stated on N1 Croatia television, “For a future within the EU, Serbia needs to abandon the notion of the ‘Serbian world’ and the destabilization efforts in neighboring countries, which it influences through political avenues and the Orthodox Church.”

In response to a question about Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić’s discussions with EU leaders, Picula noted the importance of these meetings with the presidents of the European Commission and the European Council, highlighting Vučić’s interactions with key EU and NATO officials.

“After a prolonged period of ambiguity regarding the situation in Serbia, it’s essential that straightforward political messages are delivered to him from the upper echelons, differing from those that have distanced a significant number of Serbian citizens from the European Union,” Picula commented.

He pointed out the notable absence of EU flags at protests in Serbia, contrasting it with the presence of Romanian flags, which spotlighted European Prosecutor Laura Kovesi as a symbol of anti-corruption efforts underlying the protests in Serbia.

“In this intricate geopolitical context, Von der Leyen must ensure there are distinct guarantees to prevent regional destabilization, alongside ensuring Serbia meets its commitments, which implies aligning with the EU’s legal framework by 2026,” Picula remarked.

When questioned about Vučić’s assertions to European representatives regarding the absence of a sound cannon during the mass protest in Belgrade, Picula argued that the matter should not be dismissed.

“I believe the EU’s messages to Vučić are equally clear and impactful, urging not just an investigation into the events but also stressing that current domestic and foreign policies will not facilitate closer ties with the European Union,” Picula conveyed to N1 Croatia.

While acknowledging that Serbia’s government is chosen by its populace, Picula insisted that the EU retains the right to evaluate how well Serbia is fulfilling its obligations on the route to EU accession. He highlighted additional issues, such as adherence to the EU’s common security and foreign policy, noting that Serbia remains the sole country on its European trajectory that has yet to impose sanctions against Russia.

In response to inquiries about the attacks from Serbian tabloids he frequently faces, Picula remarked that Vučić had been notably critical of his actions even prior to his appointment as EP rapporteur for Serbia. “He mentioned my background and political affiliations, but that is merely alibi politics,” Picula stated, asserting that many of the challenges stemming from stagnation predate his appointment.

He concluded by noting that the Serbian regime has repeatedly failed to deliver on its promises.

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