Von Der Leyen: Serbia Knows What Reforms It Needs to Deliver

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said in Tivat on June 5 that the process of joining the European Union was merit-based and that the Serbian authorities knew that they must carry out rule of law reforms and align with the EU's foreign and security policy.

Speaking at a news conference at the close of the EU-Western Balkans summit, she said in response to a question about Serbia that it was "very clear" that the EU accession process was merit-based and reiterated that "it's reforms that have to be delivered." "And indeed the rule of law is a central [...] cornerstone of the accession process. The same goes for media freedom. You know exactly what reforms have to be delivered. It's just traditional reforms. It is the [Electronic Media Regulatory Authority] Council, it's the electoral law, it's [Common Foreign and Security Policy] alignment. I will not go into detail," she said.

Von der Leyen said at the joint news conference with European Council president Antonio Costa and Montenegrin President Jakov Milatovic that it was "very clear" that Serbia would advance in EU integration if it carried out the reforms, adding that the EU wanted to see the country become a member.

"If Serbia delivers on these reforms, then the third cluster can be opened. Merit-based process, as we just explained. It is responsibility on two sides. If Serbia delivers, we will also deliver. And it's very clear that the European Union wants Serbia also being part of the European Union," she said.