The last week was marked by turmoils within the largest opposition party and the question whether Serbia will take part in gatherings in which Kosovo representatives are participating and whether the southern Serbian province will be represented with a footnote at regional forums. More from Jelica Tapušković.
While governments in other states, such as France or Italy, have taken a collective vacation, the Serbian government is working at full speed as it has just been formed. The cabinets ought to be completed by September 1st and all the assistant ministers and state secretaries appointed by that date. The budget rebalance bills and other draft laws important for the functioning of the state should be completed meanwhile.
News about problems within the largest opposition party in Serbia – the Democratic Party, have filled the media. Until recently, this party was the dominant ruling force. Some of its MPs, however, tried to obstruct the process of the formation of the new Serbian government, whereby they showed that they will not be reconciled to the defeat. This was followed by quarrels within the party itself, publicized by the media. There is mention of two fractions within the party, followed by guesses who belongs where. A meeting of the Democratic Party, to decide about further moves and reforms, which are obviously necessary, is likely to follow soon.
Another issue discussed was that of the representation of Kosovo at regional gatherings and the question whether the footnote will be used on such occasions and how Serbia should act in such circumstances. While some categorically reject the idea of Serbia’s participating in international gatherings where Pristina is taking part, others think differently, claiming that such international meetings are significant for the state. It has been mentioned that the idea has been created by Brussels and that the fact could speed up Serbia’s EU integrations.