MFA: Announced redirection of part of Swedish development aid for Serbia not in spirit of partnership

BELGRADE - The Serbian MFA has said it had taken note, with regret, of an announced intention of the Swedish government to redirect a part of its development assistance intended for Serbia over alleged issues in the areas of rule of law, media freedom and the fight against corruption.

"If such positions are indeed official, they do not reflect the actual situation or the spirit of partnership that has existed for many years between our two countries.

Serbia is a sovereign state that implements its reforms in accordance with its Constitution, laws, and European commitments — but not under pressure, conditionality, or political labelling. Our country fully respects the right of every state to independently determine its own priorities, yet at the same time expects that assessments of institutional processes be based on objective and verifiable facts. In the previous period, measurable progress has been achieved in numerous areas that directly affect the daily lives of citizens, and therefore we expect that any evaluation of reform efforts be grounded in real indicators, rather than political narratives or media interpretations," the MFA said in a statement on Monday.

"The Republic of Serbia remains open to cooperation with all partners who build their relations on mutual respect and equality, but will always firmly reject approaches that imply lecturing, conditioning, or attempts at internal political influence. At the same time, Serbia continues on 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," it also said.