BELGRADE – Andreas Fon Bekerat, Head of the EU Delegation in Serbia, stated that it is now evident that Russia is not a reliable energy supplier for Serbia and does not act in the country’s best interests. He praised the EU for providing significant support to Serbia in diversifying its energy imports, including both oil and gas. This remark was made during the “Serbia Investment Compass” conference in Belgrade when asked about alternatives to Russian gas. Fon Bekerat highlighted the establishment of an energy working group between the EU and Serbia, initiated during European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s recent visit. He noted that this group has met several times, with the EU consistently offering support in finding more reliable energy sources than those provided by Russia.
When questioned about the expected opening of Cluster 3 in the EU accession negotiations, Fon Bekerat mentioned that the European Commission had confirmed that the technical conditions for its opening have been fulfilled, and the decision now rests with the member states. He emphasized that these states will closely monitor Serbia’s reform commitments, particularly regarding fundamental rights, the rule of law, energy policies, foreign relations, and the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina.
Fon Bekerat expressed confidence in Serbia’s substantial economic potential, observing strengths in various sectors, including IT, agriculture, biotechnology, and a budding startup scene. However, he stressed the necessity of accelerating reforms to realize this potential. He recognized the role of CEBAC and European business chambers in advocating for reforms aligned with EU expectations, particularly in the rule of law, judiciary, business environment, and reducing bureaucracy. He underlined the importance of implementing these reforms for the benefit of Serbian citizens, especially concerning human rights, media freedom, and the electoral framework, calling for renewed trust in the electoral system following ODIHR’s recommendations post the last parliamentary elections.
Italian Ambassador Luka Gori conveyed Italy’s commitment to remaining actively engaged in Serbia, fostering investments, and encouraging Italian companies to establish a presence there. He acknowledged concerns among Italian businesses operating in Serbia and emphasized the importance of an ongoing dialogue with Serbian authorities to ensure stability and cooperation for these companies.
Silvija Rakić, Secretary General of CEBAC, highlighted the European business community’s role in enhancing Serbia’s business and social environment, proposing accelerated technological adoption. She clarified that this does not necessarily imply workforce reductions but rather a transformation in production processes, internal organization, and supply chains.
The “Serbia Investment Compass” conference aimed to analyze current and future investment trends in Serbia, focusing on the competitiveness of the domestic economy and instruments to encourage new investments and bolster innovation within companies. The event gathered representatives from various institutions, international financial organizations, the business sector, and the diplomatic community. (4 December)
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