Vučić: EU could have admitted new members five, seven, or ten years ago

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić responded to a statement by European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, who suggested that future EU member states might lose their veto power. Vučić remarked that the EU could have welcomed new members five, seven, or even ten years ago if there had been a genuine intention.

Vučić noted that while he saw reactions from Ukraine and others, his own response would not be harsh. He explained that he understands the situation and believes the EU could have expedited the process for all aspiring members. "Of course, they didn't want to, it just required someone to understand and be rational, not to deceive their people," Vučić told reporters in Tbilisi.

However, the Serbian president acknowledged that Marta Kos's statement has "confronted many with reality." He asserted that he has been transparent with the citizens of Serbia about the actual situation for a long time. "If I were to thank Marta Kos for anything, it would be precisely for the fact that she has confronted many others with reality," he added.

Vučić emphasized that Serbia's interests lie in open borders within the Balkans and towards Europe, as well as joining the single European market. He indicated that while the EU demands adherence to its policies for market access, the current clarity on the situation might initiate a more productive dialogue. He concluded that this situation offers Serbia greater freedom in its behavior and relations with others, despite potential challenges.