Swedish Government Redirects Aid to Civil Sector Due to Dissatisfaction with Reforms in Serbia, MFA Reacts

(Patria) - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia has regretfully taken note of the announcements regarding the intention of the Government of the Kingdom of Sweden to redirect part of the development aid intended for Serbia, with the justification referring to alleged problems in the areas of the rule of law, media freedom, and the fight against corruption.

"Such views, if official, do not reflect the real situation nor the spirit of partnership that has existed between our two countries for years.

Serbia is a sovereign state that implements its reforms in accordance with the Constitution, laws, and European obligations, but not under pressure, conditionality, or political labels. Our country fully respects the right of every state to independently determine its priorities, but at the same time expects that assessments of institutional processes will be based on objective and verifiable facts. In the previous period, measurable progress has been made in numerous areas that directly affect the daily lives of citizens, and therefore we expect that any assessment of reform efforts will be based on real indicators, not on political narratives or media interpretations.

The Republic of Serbia remains open to cooperation with all partners who build their relationship on mutual respect and equality, but will always decisively reject approaches that involve lecturing, conditioning, or attempts at internal political influence. At the same time, it continues its European path as a state that expects respect and makes its decisions independently, in the interest of its citizens and the stability of the region," the reaction of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Serbia states.

In a statement by the Swedish Minister for Development Cooperation, Benjamin Dousa, it is stated:

"Funds that once supported Serbia's state institutions will now be redirected to strengthen civil society – while Serbia can expect renewed support when it makes progress and shows readiness for reforms."