12/03/2013 President
Strasbourg, 12.03.2013 – In his speech to the Serbian National Assembly, PACE President Jean-Claude Mignon today welcomed the major progress made by Serbia in honouring the commitments and obligations it entered into upon becoming a member of the Council of Europe. “You have made profound changes in the functioning of your democratic institutions, whether in the reform of the electoral system and the judicial system, devolution, minority rights or the ratification of a large number of European conventions,” said Mr Mignon.
“There are still some areas where further efforts are required: strengthening the judicial system so that it becomes truly independent and effective, enhancing media freedom and stepping up the fight against corruption and discrimination,” he added.
“The situation regarding Kosovo* remains a sensitive issue that must nonetheless be resolved in order to sustain peace and reconciliation in the region, and we welcome the constructive approach of your government concerning the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina,” said Mr Mignon.
He pointed out that in its resolution on the situation in Kosovo* and the role of the Council of Europe, PACE called on the Council to extend the scope of the co-operation programmes, enabling the competent authorities in Kosovo* to be directly involved in the implementation of the Council of Europe’s activities and programmes. The Assembly, meanwhile, had decided to step up its own dialogue with the representatives of the political forces elected to the Assembly of Kosovo*.
The PACE President also gave his full support to Serbia’s goal of obtaining a date for the opening of negotiations for accession to the European Union. “I know that the Union wishes to see some further progress in order for this objective to be attained and the Council of Europe is ready to do everything in its power to help you achieve that progress,” he said.
Jean-Claude Mignon concluded his speech with an overview of his first year in office, regarding three specific priorities: strengthening co-operation with the European Union, helping solve frozen conflicts, and making the PACE more relevant and more participatory.
The PACE President yesterday began an official visit to Serbia which will continue until 13 March. This morning he met the Speaker of the Serbian National Assembly, Nebojša Stefanovic, and will continue his talks throughout the day with the Prime Minister, Ivica Dacic, the State Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Vera Mavric, members of the National Assembly’s Foreign Affairs Committee and the Serbian delegation to the PACE. Tomorrow, he will meet the Minister of Justice, Nikola Selakovic, and representatives of Serbian civil society.
* All reference to Kosovo, whether to the territory, institutions or population shall be understood in full compliance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 and without prejudice to the status of Kosovo.