European Parliament votes today on the report on Serbia: EU Membership yes, but...

The report expresses support for Serbia's future membership in the EU, but with the request that, in addition to the rule of law and the normalization of relations with Pristina, compliance with sanctions against Russia will be a key element that will determine Serbia's overall progress on the path to accession.
In the text of the report, it was added with amendments that Serbia and Kosovo are expected to sign a legally binding agreement on the normalization of relations "based on mutual recognition", which is the first time that mutual recognition is mentioned in an official document of the EU institution as a necessary solution to the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina.
The European Parliament reiterates its call to Serbia to take steps to further increase media freedom, guarantee freedom of expression, media independence and media pluralism.
The text of the report praises the progress achieved in Serbia in the development of a functional market economy, as well as the cooperation shown by Serbia in managing migration.
The report of the European Parliament adopted at the plenary session takes the form of a resolution, which is not binding, but represents political guidelines for the country in the process of European integration.

"The ball is now in Serbia's hands"

European Parliament's rapporteur for Serbia, Vladimir Bilik, said that the EP is committed to Serbia's accession to the EU.
He added that the Parliament insists that a credible perspective of enlargement is based on political will, sustainable efforts and irreversible reforms in all areas, especially in the rule of law and commitment to European standards and values.
"The overall speed of Serbia's progress towards the EU depends on the rule of...