Apostolović: Serbia should be even more consistent and active in fulfilling its obligations on the path to the EU

Serbia needs to demonstrate greater consistency and proactivity in meeting its commitments as it pursues European Union membership, according to Danijel Apostolović, head of the Operational Team for Serbia's EU Accession Process. Speaking in Belgrade, Apostolović noted that state administration bodies have continued intensive work through July and August but stressed the necessity for enhanced diligence.

Apostolović stated at a meeting of the Operational Team in the Serbian Parliament that Serbia "must show that it is a credible partner" of the EU, capable of diligently implementing its accession process obligations. He called for responsibility from all participants in the process and requested specific information on short-term plans for activities that can be completed before the upcoming elections.

The official highlighted the importance of the government continuing to prepare necessary regulations, even during its technical mandate. This preparation aims to ensure that documents are ready for adoption shortly after the new parliamentary assembly is constituted and regular government operations resume. He also announced that joint meetings with all negotiation groups, bilateral meetings with individual institutions, and sessions with the European Commission will intensify starting in September.

These intensified discussions are intended to preempt potential challenges in Serbia's European integration process and address them promptly to avoid further delays. Regarding the upcoming annual report from the European Commission, Apostolović indicated that efforts to fulfill its recommendations will begin immediately upon its publication. He also expressed readiness to consider implementing a software solution for precise monitoring of progress indicators if deemed necessary.

Apostolović, who also serves as Serbia's chief negotiator in the accession process, asserted that Serbia possesses the strongest administrative capacities in the region. He believes it is "high time that this is shown through concrete progress in accession negotiations," particularly in areas where Serbia alone determines the pace. The meeting included various government officials, including the Speaker of Parliament, ministers, and directors of government offices. The next regular meeting of the Operational Team is scheduled for August 31 via video conference.