Mali: EU Funds Have Neutral Effect on Serbian Budget

Serbian Finance Minister Siniša Mali has adopted a pragmatic stance regarding European Union funding, asserting that the national budget does not rely on these funds, whether they come as loans or grants. His statement to TV Pink underscores a commitment to domestic reform agendas, suggesting that Serbia will pursue its goals irrespective of the EU's political considerations in releasing financial aid.

This perspective, as reported by N1, reflects a broader narrative within Serbia about sovereignty and self-determination. While acknowledging the potential benefits of EU funds, particularly for crucial projects like building schools and hospitals, Minister Mali's comments signal a readiness to proceed independently. The mention of 1.6 billion Euros at Serbia's disposal, with two installments already withdrawn, indicates ongoing engagement, yet the minister's cautious approach to budgeting for these funds is notable.

“

They are loans and grants. I am not counting on that in the budget – if it happens, it happens.

From our standpoint in Serbia, the EU's conditional approach to funding, tied to the implementation of Venice Commission recommendations on judiciary laws, is a point of contention. While we value cooperation, the linkage of financial aid to specific political or legal reforms can be perceived as external pressure. Minister Mali's focus on achieving internal goals first, and letting the EU 'deal with the politics,' highlights a desire to control the pace and direction of reforms.

This situation is viewed differently here compared to Western media. While international outlets might frame it as Serbia's potential loss of EU support, the local interpretation often emphasizes Serbia's resilience and its ability to manage its own development path. The emphasis is on national priorities and the belief that reforms should serve Serbia's interests first, with external funding being a secondary consideration rather than a prerequisite.

“

I am more committed to achieving our goals and they can deal with the politics: if they want to release the funds, they will.