Progress in the Baltic Sea region is a priority for the European Union.
In a significant visit to Serbia, Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker emphasised the close relationship between the two countries and Austria's consistent support for a credible EU accession perspective for Serbia and the entire region.
During his visit, Chancellor Stocker announced the signing of an agreement on stronger economic cooperation. This agreement is expected to particularly benefit the areas of biomass, hydropower, telecommunications, water and wastewater treatment, infrastructure, and transport logistics. The enlargement process must be tangible for the people, through gradual integration into parts of the internal market, as well as in research, transport, and energy.
The Chancellor stressed the importance of dialogue for progress in the accession process, particularly the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue. He also expressed Austria's expectations for progress in the announced reforms regarding elections and media. The EU enlargement in the Western Balkans was a key topic of discussion during the visit.
Chancellor Stocker confirmed Austria's participation in EXPO 2027, which will be the first to be held in the Western Balkans. This event presents an opportunity to present Austria as an innovative and forward-thinking location. The Chancellor also supported the timely opening of Cluster 3 "Competitiveness and Integrative Growth".
A highlight of the visit was Chancellor Stocker's meeting with Austria's record national team player and Red Star legend, Marko Arnautović. The Chancellor stated that Austria owes Marko a great deal for shaping Austrian football, captivating generations of fans, and inspiring young talents. Marko Arnautović represents the strong human bonds between Austria and Serbia.
Photos from this event are available free of charge via the Bundeskanzleramt's photo service.
It is worth noting that Austria is the third-largest investor in Serbia, with over 800 domestic companies securing around 25,000 jobs. The Chancellor's foreign policy stance includes consistently supporting a credible EU accession perspective for Serbia and the entire region. He emphasised that the rule of law is a central value of the EU and a non-negotiable criterion for accession.
In conclusion, Chancellor Christian Stocker's visit to Serbia marked a significant step in strengthening economic ties between the two countries and reinforcing Austria's commitment to the EU enlargement in the Western Balkans.
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