This was stated by the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell.
He emphasized that Brussels wishes to rely on Serbia as a partner with shared principles and values, thus wanting to ensure the "strategic direction" of Belgrade.
In this context, Borrell noted that the EU has "clearly" communicated to its partners, particularly Serbia, that friendly relations with Russia cannot be acceptable following its invasion of Ukraine.
Additionally, the head of European diplomacy identified the deepening of Serbia's relations with China as a "strategic problem." He acknowledged that there are "different approaches" among EU members regarding Beijing, but it is important for Brussels that "newcomers understand the strategic interests of the bloc in the current geopolitical context."
Borrell added that Serbia is "probably the most important political and economic partner" in the region, reminding that the EU, in turn, is the largest donor to Belgrade.
Serbia applied for EU membership in 2009 and received candidate status three years later.
Currently, Belgrade and Brussels are negotiating the accession. It was anticipated that Serbia could join the European Union by 2025.
The greatest obstacle to Serbia's EU membership is its strained relations with Kosovo. The EU has also expressed dissatisfaction with Serbia's refusal to join sanctions against Russia.