She thanked Ambassador Giaufret for the close and intensive cooperation and assistance in great many issues important for Serbia and its European path.

Brnabic stressed that as the Speaker of Parliament she remains adherent to the view that Serbia belongs in the European Union and that European partners can count on its continued commitment, but she also hopes for a positive assessment by the European Union of all that our country has been conducting on its path of reform.

The Ambassador underlined our country’s significance for the EU enlargement considering that is the key country in the Western Balkans in many fields. He also said that Speaker Brbnabic’s personal dedication, efforts and work in this, as well as in previous positions, have been important for Serbia’s Eurointegration and for the country itself.

Ambassador Giaufret said, though he himself is leaving Serbia, the European Union remains fully committed to supporting Serbia and its citizens on the path to EU accession. He stressed that the EU’s goal is to continue to build, together with Serbia and its people, a Europe based on the democratic values shared by all European citizens. According to him, the principles of human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, rule of law and respect for human rights are the essence of what the EU stands for and expressed his conviction that these are values that the people of Serbia strive for. He noted that he had witnessed this during his mandate and underlined the importance of continuing to work together to that end.

Speaker Brnabic wished Ambassador Giaufret good luck and success in his new work endeavours.