Brnabic: Serbia's CEI chairmanship to focus on EU integration process

BELGRADE - Serbian Parliament Speaker Ana Brnabic said on Wednesday Serbia's Central European Initiative (CEI) chairmanship would focus on the EU integration process, development of artificial intelligence and biotechnology, infrastructural connectivity and migration management.

"We are honoured to be starting the active stage of Serbia's 2025 CEI chairmanship in Belgrade. Serbia is proud to have the opportunity to chair the oldest regional initiative in Southeast Europe, which has been affirming the values of cooperation, dialogue and solidarity for 36 years," Brnabic said at a session of the CEI Parliamentary Committee in the parliament building.

The CEI is unique in that it is bringing together EU member states as well as aspiring EU members, building bridges, rather than walls, which is especially important in these times, which are fraught with challenges, she said.

"Our chairmanship is an expression of a strong commitment to European integration and proof of our readiness to advance regional cooperation to the benefit of all citizens living in this region. That is precisely why, in coordination with our Hungarian partners, we have decided to take over the chairmanship in 2025, which represents not only an opportunity for us, but also a responsibility to demonstrate that our commitment to the EU is unquestionable, and that, in times of global challenges, regional connectivity is the most effective response, she said.

Serbia remains consistent with itself, independent in decision-making and deeply aware of its responsibility as a key actor of stability in the Western Balkans, she said.

"Serbia wants to be a voice of reason, a reliable partner and a connecting factor between different interests. In accordance with these principles, our chairmanship will be focused on specific priorities that reflect both regional needs and European goals: the European integration process, development of artificial intelligence, biotechnology, infrastructural connectivity and migration management," Brnabic said.