European Commission - Statement

Statement after meeting with the Prime Minister of Serbia Mr. Aleksandar Vučić (Belgrade) Brussels, 15 January 2016 Check Against Delivery I am very pleased to be here in Belgrade today. Let me first deeply thank Prime Minister Aleksandar Vučić for the constructive meeting and the fruitful discussion. Let me also thank Minister Aleksandar Vulin for his productive cooperation. Serbia is a key partner of the European Union. This is demonstrated by the opening of the first chapters of the accession negotiations last December. Serbia is also a key partner in managing the refugee crisis. This is not a national crisis. Not just a European one. It is a global crisis. Today, we discussed four main issues: First, I expressed my sincere appreciation to the Government of Serbia for their management of the refugee crisis. Serbia is doing an admirable job under challenging circumstances. I commended in particular the response of national, regional, and local authorities. Border officers. And civil society groups. All have one aim: helping those who are fleeing from conflict. Second, I reassured the Prime Minister of the EU's commitment to continue supporting Serbia with the refugee crisis. In December last year, I announced an additional thirteen (13) million Euros in humanitarian aid. Bringing the total support to twenty-two (22) million. The majority for Serbia. With this funding, we are addressing the essential needs of refugees. With our humanitarian partners on the ground. Here in Belgrade but also in Sid and Presevo. We have also established safe spaces for the most vulnerable. Especially women and children. This funding will also allow Serbia to prepare for future arrivals. Third, this crisis requires strong coordination between all involved. Between international, regional, national and local authorities. And the humanitarian community on the ground. Working as a team, we can respond more effectively. But emergency aid can only go so far. We must address the root causes of the refugee crisis. We must find political solutions inside Syria. Inside Afghanistan. Inside Iraq. Finally, we discussed the participation of Serbia in the European Civil Protection Mechanism. Serbia's participation has a clear added value. It strengthens the Mechanism. At the same time, it allows Serbia to strengthen its links with the European Union. Once again, Mr Prime Minister, thank you for your hospitality. I am looking forward to continuing our cooperation. STATEMENT/16/4536