A delegation of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia, headed by its chairperson, Gordana Comic, met a delegation of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Italian Parliament’s lower house, or Camera dei Deputati, headed by the chairman, Umberto Ranieri.
Emphasising that this was the first visit by a foreign delegation to the National Assembly after Serbia’s new Constitution was confirmed by popular vote, Ms Comic said that the country was now facing elections that should stabilise the political situation, strengthen state institutions, and create conditions for the rule-of-law state to solve its many problems by democratic means. The elections should, however, primarily accelerate economic and social reforms aiming at the creation of a modern European nation.
Ms Comic expressed her pleasure at the recent statements by high Italian officials advocating a non-discriminatory approach to Serbia and a speedy resumption of EU accession negotiations.
Italian MPs said they supported greater co-operation between the two parliaments, which should contribute to better mutual understanding and strengthen mutual relations. They also voiced support for a quick resumption of EU and NATO accession negotiations, as soon as full co-operation with the Hague Tribunal is established.
Serbian Committee members emphasised that Italy was an important partner for Serbia economically, and hailed the increasing presence of Italian investors in Serbia. They underlined that the liberalisation of the visa regime with Italy, and strengthened regional co-operation, would surely further contribute to improving mutual co-operation.
The deputies said they appreciated Italy’s commitment to an objective approach and a balanced solution for the status of Kosovo and Metohia through negotiation, and rejected any unilateral imposition of a solution by the international community. They also added that Serbia was prepared to offer Kosovo the widest possible standards of autonomy, but that no political party would accept the taking away of 15% of Serbian territory. Instead of bringing stability, a violent secession would cause new conflicts and make the entire Balkans more volatile.
Committee members voiced support for Italy’s bid to join the UN Security Council as a temporary member for the period 2007-08.