Plassnik: "Let’s switch to turbo mode in Serbia’s European reform course"
Foreign Minister welcomes formation of a pro-European government in Serbia
Vienna, 29 June 2008 - "This can be the starting signal for Serbia’s accelerated rapprochement with the EU. I hope to see a general sense of awakening that will engulf all Serbians“, said Foreign Minister Plassnik, welcoming the imminent formation of a new, pro-European government in Serbia.
Plassnik: "It is encouraging that EU integration was defined as the priority target of the government. The objective now is to make up for the time lost and switch to turbo mode in the reform process. Serbia has the potential make quick progress in its rapprochement with Europe. Provided that the political will is there, the existing obstacles can be removed quickly. This will first of all require full cooperation with the War Crimes Tribunal in The Hague“, said Plassnik, who welcomed the recent arrest and transfer of Stojan Zupljanin to the court as an important step in this direction. Full cooperation with The Hague is a condition for the ratification of the Stabilization and Association Treaty by the EU.
The consistent fight against crime and corruption, another major objective of the future government, is an equally fundamental requirement. Plassnik: "After all, the full implementation of security and the rule of law are the pillars of the European model of life. This is also an indispensable signal to potential foreign investors who want to intensify their activities in Serbia. They expect delivery on the promise of political stability."
The Foreign Minister added that "A government programme, however, is a list of objectives. Only the quick and unconditional implementation will prove the credibility of the government partners. Therefore, the next step will be an energetic and speedy implementation of the joint programme."
Plassnik concluded by saying that "Serbia can now develop its positive power in the region. Austria will not cease to support Serbia on its integration course with persistence, and in a multitude of ways – until it has become part of the EU. On our part, we cannot imagine a reunited Europe without our neighbour."
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