EC: No decision on freezing EU funds for Serbia

BRUSSELS - The European Commission (EC) has made no decision on freezing funds intended for Serbia, or on anything similar, EC spokesperson Markus Lammert said on Monday, adding that the EC is continuously evaluating whether the relevant conditions for EU support through financial instruments have been met.

"That is a part of the normal implementation of these instruments and applies throughout the process, including the phases of each request for payment as part of the Growth Plan. Evaluations are underway," Lammert was quoted as saying.

Asked by reporters if disbursement of monies from IPA funds would be halted for Serbia, Lammert reiterated that "nothing has changed."

"To date, we have voiced concern over the recent passage of judicial laws in Serbia, and we now expect Serbia to fully implement an urgent Venice Commission opinion on these laws, and we are watching closely the steps that will follow. At the same time, we continue to support Serbia on its path to the EU and expect progress on key reforms, especially on rule of law, fundamental rights and democratic principles," Lammert said.

Earlier, EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos said the EC was still considering whether to disburse the Growth Plan funds to Belgrade.