Commissioner Várhelyi's message for the launch of the #Eupravozato project

Message for the launch of the #Eupravozato project

Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am delighted to have the opportunity to address you today at the #Eu pravo zato project launching event.

I welcome this initiative because its primary goal is to foster understanding between Serbia and the EU and to bring Serbia closer to the EU.

Therefore, investing in any direct communication with the citizens and businesses on the benefits of EU integration in Serbia is very much appreciated.

Because the European Union remains Serbia's biggest trade and investment partner, the largest provider of financial assistance to the country, and the main partner in supporting development and ongoing reforms.

Being the largest recipient of EU funds in the Western Balkan region, just last year, Serbia, received more than 330 million euros in bilateral assistance from IPA funds only.

Also, Serbia has received over 1 billion euros of EU assistance in the energy sector alone.

Last year, our Energy Support Package helped cushion the impact of high energy prices on Serbian households and businesses with a dedicated 165 million euros for the country.

To date, we have mobilized investments for a total value of EUR 5.9 billion, including EUR 1.1 billion in EU grants for major infrastructure projects under the EU's Economic and Investment Plan.

Let me give you some example:

We are building together the Kostolac Wind Farm, the Serbia-Bulgaria gas interconnector, the Tiršova 2 University Children's Hospital in Belgrade, and the Corridor X railway project, connecting Belgrade and Niš with a high-speed connection of 200 km per hour.

Also, last year, Serbia joined the Digital Europe and the Single Market programs, which support small and medium-sized businesses in improving their competitiveness, so they are well-prepared for the EU Single Market.

And since October, roaming charges between the EU and the Western Balkans have been lowered and will be further reduced in the coming years.

These are only some examples of how this Plan benefits Serbia's citizens and economy.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Let me assure you that more opportunities are in the pipeline for Serbia and the whole Western Balkans region.

Because the EU recognizes that it is not enough to wait for aspiring EU members to move closer to the EU – we need to take responsibility for bringing them closer.

With this in mind, we proposed our Growth Plan for the Western Balkans in November last year. The Plan aims to bring the Western Balkans closer to the EU Single Market, deepen regional economic integration, accelerate fundamental reforms, and increase funding. It will have a positive and direct impact on the lives of Serbian citizens and could create more opportunities to showcase the tangible results of EU assistance and cooperation.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The Commission stands ready to support Serbia's work to advance accession negotiations and bring your country into the EU.

And we count on Serbia as a sincere European partner and ally standing with us for common values, security, and prosperity.

Thank you for your attention!