### 35. calls on the government to take measures regarding river pollution and further align with the eu acquis on water quality and nature protection; ### 35. calls on the government to take measures regarding river pollution and further align with the eu acquis on water quality and nature protection; welcomes the establishment of a special police unit for environmental crimes , while calling for increasing its resources and capacities so as to make it fully capable for dealing with eco crimes;


### — having regard to the agreement on free movement between the governments of serbia and kosovo of 27 august 2022 , and to the agreement on licence plates of 23 november 2022 , ### — having regard to the agreement on free movement between the governments of serbia and kosovo of 27 august 2022 , and to the agreement on licence plates of 23 november 2022 , as well as the energy agreements’ implementation roadmap in the eu-facilitated dialogue of 21 june 2022 ,


### — having regard to the council conclusions of 13 december 2022 on enlargement and the stabilisation and association process , ### — having regard to the council conclusions of 13 december 2022 on enlargement and the stabilisation and association process , in particular the council’s support for visa liberalisation for kosovo ,


### a. whereas enlargement is the most effective eu foreign policy instrument , one of the eu’s most successful policies and a geostrategic investment in long-term peace , stability , and security throughout the continent; ### a. whereas enlargement has historically been the most effective eu foreign policy instrument , one of the eu’s most successful policies to incentivise and encourage fundamental reforms , including in the rule of law area , and a geostrategic investment in long-term peace , stability , and security throughout the continent;


### c. whereas the eu is the largest provider of financial support to kosovo; ### c. whereas the eu is the largest provider of financial support to kosovo , notably from the instrument for pre-accession assistance , having provided over 1.2 billion euro since its inception in 2007;


### 1. welcomes kosovo’s application for eu membership , which reflects the pro-european orientation of its citizens and a clear geopolitical strategic choice; ### 1. welcomes kosovo’s application for eu membership , which reflects the pro-european orientation of its citizens , a cross party consensus on the eu integration , as well as a clear geopolitical strategic choice; calls on the council to mandate the european commission to prepare an opinion on the merits of the country’s application;


### 2. welcomes the long-awaited agreement on granting visa liberalisation to the citizens of kosovo; ### 2. welcomes the long-awaited agreement on granting visa liberalisation to the citizens of kosovo and reiterates that the european parliament repeatedly called on the member states in the council to proceed with its adoption as kosovo fulfilled all the benchmarks since 2018; regrets that this short-sighted blockade in the council , driven by internal considerations/reservations of some member states , has hampered the credibility of the enlargement policy , contradicting its merit-based approach , increased pessimism and negative views among the population regarding the eu and the accession perspective and decreased the eu’s political leverage for supporting reforms in the country , which can now hopefully be overcome; commends kosovo’s achievements in its fight against corruption and organised crime and management of migration;


### 3. urges the member states that have not yet recognised kosovo as a sovereign state to do so; ### 3. urges the member states , notably spain , slovakia , cyprus , romania , and greece , that have not yet recognised kosovo as a sovereign state to do so and thus allow it to progress on its european path on an equal footing with candidate countries;


### 5. commends kosovo’s ongoing alignment with the eu’s foreign and security policy , in particular its strong condemnation of russia’s war of aggression against ukraine and its implementation of the eu’s restrictive measures against russia and belarus; ### 5. commends kosovo’s ongoing alignment with the eu’s foreign and security policy , in particular its strong condemnation of russia’s war of aggression against ukraine and its implementation of the eu’s restrictive measures against russia and belarus , confirming its clear geostrategic orientation , firmly anchoring the country in the european and transatlantic alliance as reliable and valuable partner;


### 6. reiterates its support for kosovo’s application for membership of the council of europe and the country’s plan to join the nato partnership for peace programme; ### 6. reiterates its full support for kosovo’s application for membership of the council of europe , the country’s plan to join the nato partnership for peace programme and bids to join other international organisations , such as interpol; calls on the organisations and member states to proactively support kosovo’s respective bids;


### 7. commends kosovo’s progress in strengthening democracy and the rule of law and its increased legislative activities on eu-related reforms; ### 7. commends kosovo’s efforts in strengthening democracy and the rule of law and its increased legislative activities on eu-related reforms , while reiterating that implementation is key to the success of these reform and for sustainable progress; urges the government to make use of a stable majority in the parliament and to urgently speed up the necessary reforms;


### b. whereas the palestinian leadership has repeatedly called for renewed peace talks leading to a two-state solution , which has not been reciprocated by the israeli government; ### b. whereas the palestinian leadership has recognized the state of israel and the establishment of a state of palestine in the pre-1967 border , which has not been reciprocated by the successive israeli governments; whereas the palestinian leadership has repeatedly called for renewed peace talks leading to a two-state solution , which has not been reciprocated by the israeli government;


### c. whereas the israeli occupation of palestinian territory has been ongoing for 55 years; whereas the number of settlers in the west bank and east jerusalem has dramatically increased since the signing of the oslo accords in contravention of international law and the objective of peace; ### c. whereas the israeli occupation of palestinian territory has been ongoing for 55 years; whereas under international law permanent occupation is unlawful; whereas the number of settlers and the construction of related infrastructure in the west bank and east jerusalem has dramatically increased since the signing of the oslo accords and constitute a flagrant violation under international law and a major obstacle to the achievement of the two-state solution and a just , lasting and comprehensive peace ; whereas this has profoundly changed the social and demographic landscape of the west bank and led to the fragmentation of palestinian areas; whereas israel treats the settlements as a permanent and integral part of its territory , which is tantamount to de facto annexation; whereas this has severely undermined the possibility to establish a palestinian state as part of a two-state solution and instead entrenched a one-state reality of unequal rights , perpetual occupation , and conflict; whereas major israeli , palestinian and international human rights organisations as well as several united nations special rapporteurs have recently issued reports concluding that the israeli government systemically oppresses and institutionally discriminates against palestinians across israel and the occupied palestinian territories;


### f. whereas eu funding includes a multiannual contribution to unrwa , whose work parliament continually supports and advocates to be continued; ### f. whereas eu funding includes a multiannual contribution to unrwa , whose essential humanitarian and development work parliament continually supports and advocates to be continued;


### i. whereas socioeconomic and employment conditions in palestine have severely deteriorated; whereas the israeli occupation involves significant restrictions on the palestinian economy , which undermines the effectiveness of eu aid and increases palestinian dependence on foreign aid; ### i. whereas socioeconomic and employment conditions in palestine have severely deteriorated; whereas the israeli occupation imposes significant restrictions on the palestinian economy , due to the the lack of control over land , water , physical boundaries , revenues and mobility which prevent the palestinian society and economy from realising their potential; whereas unctad estimates the economic cost for palestinians of israeli restrictions only on area c of the west bank at $50 billion between 2000 and 2020; whereas this inhibits palestinian exports to the eu under the eu-plo interim association agreement; whereas this also undermines the effectiveness of eu aid and increases palestinian dependence on foreign aid;


### reiterate the eu’s strong support for the two-state solution , as the only viable solution to the conflict , with the state of israel and the state of palestine living side by side , together in peace , security and mutual recognition under the 1967 borders with mutually agreed upon land swaps and jerusalem as the capital of both states; ### reiterate the eu’s strong support for the two-state solution , as the only viable solution to the conflict , with the state of israel and the state of palestine living side by side , together in peace , security and mutual recognition under the 1967 borders with mutually agreed upon equivalent land swaps and jerusalem as the capital of both states; reiterate the eu’s commitment to equal rights of all israelis and palestinians;


### continue to underline that israeli settlements in the opt are illegal; call for an end to all actions that undermine the viability of the two-state solution on the ground; ### continue to underline that israeli settlements in the opt are illegal and constitute a major impediment to the viability and prospects of the two-state solution; call for an end to all actions that undermine the viability of the two-state solution on the ground; consider targeted eu measures against israeli individuals leading the planning of settlement expansion in the west bank or implementing annexation; prevent eu-based operators from doing business with and in illegal settlements or annexed territories; ensure that all eu policies and eu-funded programmes with israel comply with international and eu law;


### stress the importance of direct negotiations between israel and palestine and remind both sides of the importance of the participation of women in all levels of the negotiations; ### stress the importance of direct negotiations between israel and palestine based on internationally agreed parameters and remind both sides of the importance of the participation of women in all levels of the negotiations; set up a european peace initiative in order to restore a political horizon for fair , comprehensive , long-lasting peace between israel and palestine;


### support palestinian calls for renewed and inclusive political representation; strongly urge the pa and president abbas to hold free and fair national elections in order to strengthen the legitimacy of the palestinian political leadership; call on israel to respect its obligations to allow these elections to take place in east jerusalem; promote the participation of youth and women; ### support palestinian calls for renewed and inclusive political representation; strongly urge the plo , pa and president abbas to hold free and fair legislative and presidential elections in order to strengthen the legitimacy of the palestinian political leadership; urge the palestinian leadership in the west bank and hamas to provide for the necessary conditions to hold free and fair elections , including an independent judiciary and the respect for freedom of expression; call on israel to respect its obligations to allow these elections to take place in east jerusalem; provide all necessary political and technical assistance to facilitate this process , notably in east jerusalem; promote the participation of youth and women;


### strongly call for east jerusalem , the west bank and the gaza strip to be brought under one legitimate , democratic pa rule; facilitate political consensus and reconciliation among palestinian political factions; stress the importance of democratic elections being respected by all parties involved; ### strongly call for east jerusalem , the west bank and the gaza strip to be brought under one legitimate , democratic pa rule; facilitate national dialogue reconciliation and consensus-building among all political and societal actors in palestine; stress the importance of democratic elections and their results being respected by all parties involved , including by the eu;


### encourage measures to include youth and women in all levels of societal decision-making; call for concrete measures to be enacted to fight discrimination against women and lgbtqi+ persons; ### encourage measures to include youth and women in all levels of societal decision-making regardless of their socio-economic background; call for concrete measures to be enacted to fight discrimination against women and lgbtqi+ persons as well as human rights defenders , activists , journalists and artists;


### urge the pa to eliminate repressive restrictions on the funding and registration of non-governmental organisations and to respect the freedom of assembly and expression; ### urge the pa to eliminate repressive restrictions on the funding and registration of non-governmental organisations and to respect the freedom of assembly and expression; urge the pa to respect the exercise of freedom of association , peaceful assembly and expression and the right to public participation , both offline and online and in conformity with international law and standards;


### demand that the pa establish independent and reliable mechanisms to investigate occurrences of torture or ill-treatment; ### demand that the pa establish independent and reliable mechanisms to investigate occurrences of torture or ill-treatment in line with its obligation under the optional protocol of the convention against torture which it acceded to in 2017; support an independent investigation into the death of nizar banat and call for those responsible to be held accountable; urge palestinian authorities to hold security forces accountable for arbitrary arrest , abuse and torture;


### call on the pa to guarantee respect for the principles of the rule of law , the separation of powers and the independence of the judiciary in order to restore public confidence in institutions; ### call on the pa to guarantee respect for the principles of the rule of law and establish the separation of powers and the independence of the judiciary by repealing the decree of october 2022 establishing the supreme council of judicial bodies and authorities also in order to restore public confidence in institutions;


### comply with the commitment to fully and effectively implement existing eu legislation and the bilateral arrangements applicable to settlement products; demand the adoption of eu legislation banning trade with settlements in the opt , in compliance with international humanitarian law; ### comply with the commitment to fully and effectively implement existing eu legislation and the bilateral arrangements applicable to settlement products; ensure that the principle of legal differentiation between the territory of the state of israel and the territories occupied since 1967 is applied consistently to the full scope of eu bilateral relations with israel , in accordance with existing cjeu rulings and unsc resolution 2334; demand the adoption of eu legislation banning trade with settlements in the opt , in compliance with international humanitarian law;


### engage with the pa to jointly establish a more regular political dialogue at the ministerial level and to launch , as soon as possible , negotiations on a full association agreement between the eu and palestine; convene an association council when an agreement has been reached; ### engage with the pa to jointly establish a more regular political dialogue at the ministerial level and convene an association council; launch , as soon as possible , negotiations on a full association agreement between the eu and palestine; designate the eu office in palestine to a fully-fledged eu delegation;


### work towards an immediate end to the blockade of the gaza strip; ### work towards an immediate end to the blockade of the gaza strip including the possibility for palestinians to travel outside for work , study , medical reasons or to visit family relatives in the west bank as well as the circulation of goods;


### enhance funding , including humanitarian aid and development assistance , for the green transition , good governance and anti-corruption efforts , including public financial management reform; expand aid to palestinian civil society , including to human rights defenders under attack; ### enhance funding , including humanitarian aid and development assistance , for the green transition , youth participation , democratisation and anti-corruption efforts , including public financial management reform; ensure continuous funding for essential services for the palestinian people including education and health; expand aid to palestinian civil society , including to human rights defenders under attack;


### provide palestinian partners with long-term planning security and predictability by accompanying the 2021-2024 joint strategy with a multiannual action plan; ### provide palestinian partners with long-term planning security and predictability by accompanying the 2021-2024 joint strategy with a multiannual action plan; underlines that the european commission must not suspend any funds to palestinian civil society or the palestinian authority without tangible evidence of misuse;


### express concern about how eu policy and effectiveness of financial assistance in palestine are undermined by illegal settlements , the israeli occupation and related restrictions on the palestinian economy; demand compensation for the demolition of all eu-funded infrastructure in the opt; ### express concern about how eu policy and effectiveness of financial assistance in palestine are undermined by illegal settlements , the israeli occupation and related restrictions on the palestinian economy; demand compensation for the demolition of all eu-funded infrastructure in the opt; bring policies towards israel in line with the euʼs goal to the achievement of an “independent , democratic and viable palestinian state and the two-state solution” and hold the israeli government to account for explicit opposition to and policies that obstruct a viable palestinian state;


### advocate the adjustment of the paris protocol on economic relations to provide the pa with more autonomy in economic and fiscal governance , for instance by allowing them to set their own vat rates; ### advocate the overhaul of the paris protocol on economic relations to provide the pa with more autonomy in economic and fiscal governance , for instance by allowing them to set their own fiscal policy (e.g.vat rates) and tax collection; urge israeli authorities to refrain from non-transparent deductions of tax revenues to the palestinian authorities for political purposes;


### exclude the pa ministry of interior from eu financial assistance through pegase to the pa , while retaining the overall level of financial support , until authorities take effective steps to end arbitrary arrests and torture and to investigate and prosecute those responsible for abuses; ### exclude the pa ministry of interior from eu financial assistance through pegase to the pa , while retaining the overall level of financial support , until authorities take effective steps to end arbitrary arrests and torture and to investigate and prosecute those responsible for abuses; consider redirecting funds dedicated to the pa ministry of interior to palestinian civil society and human rights watchdogs until the ministry fulfils benchmarks;


### ensure continued and additional financial support to palestinian refugees through unrwa to meet the increasing needs on the ground; ### ensure continued and additional financial support to palestinian refugees through unrwa to meet the increasing needs on the ground; earmark the additional funds for the agency incorporated in the joint text on the eu general budget for 2023 towards unrwa’s core programme budget , which supports the delivery of core essential services;


### take the view that , in a multipolar context where some countries are promoting selective multilateralism rather than effective multilateralism anchored in universal values , the eu must seek to promote further an unconditional commitment by un members to universal values , a rules-based system and the primacy of human rights in all policy areas; calls for the promotion of the mainstreaming of such values across all policy and programming areas of the un , in close cooperation with like-minded countries , with a view to advancing policy dialogue and policy solutions , implementation and mainstreaming capacity; ### take the view that , in a multipolar context where some countries are promoting selective multilateralism rather than effective multilateralism anchored in universal values , the eu must seek to promote further an unconditional commitment by un members to universal values , a rules-based system and the primacy of human rights in all policy areas; calls for the promotion of the mainstreaming of such values across all policy and programming areas of the un , in close cooperation with like-minded countries , with a view to advancing policy dialogue and policy solutions , implementation and mainstreaming capacity; praise , in this regard , the ‘global summit for democracy to renew the spirit and shared purpose of the nations of the free world’ proposed by the president-elect of the united states and involve itself in the organisation of this summit , aimed at bringing together the world’s democracies in order to strengthen democratic institutions and to promote rule of law and human rights;


### continue with its efforts to enable the eu and its member states to progressively speak with one voice in the un , with particular reference to the un security council (unsc) and the good track record of cooperation with permanent and rotating unsc members which are eu member states , with the un general assembly (unga) and with the human rights council (hcr); praises the excellent role played by the eeas and its delegations , as well as the delegations of the eu member states , in facilitating such dialogue and cooperation; ### continue with its efforts to enable the eu and its member states to progressively speak with one voice in the un , with particular reference to the un security council (unsc) and the good track record of cooperation with permanent and rotating unsc members which are eu member states , with the un general assembly (unga) and with the human rights council (hcr); praises the excellent role played by the eeas and its delegations , as well as the delegations of the eu member states , in facilitating such dialogue and cooperation; call on the member states to speak with one voice and to coordinate their actions and positions within the eu , so that eu coherence and credibility at the un level is improved;


### continue to provide valuable support to the un secretary-general in his quest to advance the programme of reforms in the un and reinforce the un’s capacity to further development , promote peace and security , and streamline its internal management system with a view to an effective , transparent , financially sustainable and accountable un that is able to reconnect with its citizens; underlines that the major progress achieved in the un reform process has been in the administrative and bureaucratic sphere , while major political reforms remain pending; ### continue to provide valuable support to the un secretary-general in his quest to advance the programme of reforms in the un and reinforce the un’s capacity to further development , promote peace and security , and streamline its internal management system with a view to an effective , transparent , financially sustainable and accountable un that is able to reconnect with its citizens and to be more in line with the challenging global agenda; underlines that the major progress achieved in the un reform process has been in the administrative and bureaucratic sphere , while major political reforms remain pending , which should include the revitalization of the un general assembly and concrete steps to accelerate the alignment of the development system with the 2030 agenda;


### continue to seek greater synergies between the work of the un human rights council (hrc) , the unga and the unsc; commends the work of the eu in supporting the work of the hrc , in the context of the need to mainstream respect for human rights across all decision-making and policy areas of the un; ### continue to seek greater synergies between the work of the un human rights council (hrc) , the unga and the unsc; commends the work of the eu in supporting the work of the hrc , in the context of the need to mainstream respect for human rights across all decision-making and policy areas of the un; call on the member states to fully engage in protecting and promoting respect for human rights , democracy and the rule of law;


### pursue further dialogue on the capacity of the un system to deliver on and expand its capability in terms of responsibility to protect; stresses the importance of dialogue and cooperation with the un on effective peacekeeping missions with clear objectives , a clear capacity of delivery , and effective mechanisms , including the perspectives of women in line with un security council resolution 1325 and all subsequent resolutions , as well as the need to ensure respect for human rights and the protection of civilians , which are at the core of peacekeeping mandates; underlines the importance of eu support to countries emerging from violent conflict and , therefore , calls for reinforced cooperation in addressing the fragility of transition settings , including through strengthening national ownership and consolidating peacebuilding gains; ### pursue further dialogue on the capacity of the un system to deliver on and expand its capability in terms of responsibility to protect; stresses the importance of dialogue and cooperation with the un on effective , credible and transparent peacekeeping missions with clear objectives , a clear capacity of delivery , and effective mechanisms , including the perspectives of women in line with un security council resolution 1325 and all subsequent resolutions , as well as the need to ensure respect for human rights and the protection of civilians , which are at the core of peacekeeping mandates; underlines the importance of eu support to countries emerging from violent conflict and , therefore , calls for reinforced cooperation in addressing the fragility of transition settings , including through strengthening national ownership and consolidating peacebuilding gains;


### remain committed as a front-runner in mobilising all means of effective implementation and follow-up of the objectives of agenda 2030 across all internal and external policies of the eu; stresses the urgent need to adequately support and recognise the important and indispensable work of humanitarian agencies such as the world food programme; ### remain committed as a front-runner in mobilising all means of effective implementation and follow-up of the objectives of agenda 2030 across all internal and external policies of the eu and in the national strategies and priorities of the member states; stresses the urgent need to adequately support and recognise the important and indispensable work of humanitarian agencies such as the world food programme;


### support the un secretary-general’s call for an affordable and accessible covid-19 vaccine , to be considered a global public good; ### support the un secretary-general’s call for an affordable and accessible covid-19 vaccine , to be considered a global public good; welcome the work done by the who in coordinating government’s efforts to fight the covid-19 pandemic and call on the organization to conduct an impartial , transparent and independent investigation into the spread of the virus;


### continue to pursue and expand capacity cooperation within the un system on the promotion of effective common standards in new policy areas such as data protection , due diligence , artificial intelligence or cyberspace , while promoting adequate support for those countries that may wish to expand their regulatory capacity and implementation of standards; ### continue to pursue and expand capacity cooperation within the un system on the promotion of effective common standards in new policy areas such as data protection , due diligence , artificial intelligence , counterterrorism , preventing extremism , non-proliferation or cyberspace , while promoting adequate support for those countries that may wish to expand their regulatory capacity and implementation of standards;


### address migration and forced displacement and cooperate in the implementation of both the global compact on migration and the global compact on refugees; support and reinforce the work of relevant un bodies such as unhcr and the united nations relief and works agency (unrwa); ### address migration and forced displacement and cooperate in the implementation of both the global compact on migration and the global compact on refugees; support and reinforce the work of relevant un bodies such as unhcr and the united nations relief and works agency (unrwa); continue building the shared commitment towards preserving the humanitarian space and improving the humanitarian response system;


### a. whereas georgia and the eu , as associated partners , are committed to promoting political association and economic integration based on common values and principles such as democracy , human rights and fundamental freedoms , the rule of law and good governance; ### a. whereas georgia and the eu , as associated partners , are committed to promoting political association and economic integration based on common values and principles such as democracy , human rights and fundamental freedoms , the rule of law and good governance; whereas georgian society continues to show strong support for the country’s european aspirations;


### 1. welcomes the continuous deepening of eu-georgia relations and the firm support that georgia’s chosen path of european and euro-atlantic integration enjoys across the political spectrum and in society; acknowledges the progress achieved by georgia , which has made it a key partner of the eu in the region , and reiterates the need to continue implementing reforms under the association agreement (aa) and the deep and comprehensive free trade area; ### 1. welcomes the continuous deepening of eu-georgia relations and the firm support that georgia’s chosen path of european and euro-atlantic integration enjoys across the political spectrum and in society; acknowledges the progress achieved by georgia in implementing comprehensive reforms in the rule of law sector , which has made it a key partner of the eu in the region , and calls on further progress regarding constant implementation and monitoring of reforms under the association agreement (aa) and the deep and comprehensive free trade area;


### — having regard to the council conclusions on belarus of 15 february 2016 , ### — having regard to the council conclusions on belarus of 15 february 2016 and the main outcomes of the video conference of foreign affairs ministers of 14 august 2020 ,


### — having regard to the commission communication of 6 october 2020 entitled ‘an economic and investment plan for the western balkans’ (com(2020)0641) , ### — having regard to the commission communication of 6 october 2020 entitled ‘an economic and investment plan for the western balkans’ (com(2020)0641) , its annex , and the commission staff working document entitled ‘guidelines for the implementation of the green agenda for the western balkans’ ,


### — having regard to the joint communication of 8 april 2020 of the commission and high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy entitled ‘communication on the global eu response to covid-19’ (join(2020)0011) , ### — having regard to the joint communication of 8 april 2020 of the commission and high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy entitled ‘communication on the global eu response to covid-19’ (join(2020)0011) , and the commission communication of 29 april 2020 entitled ‘support to the western balkans in tackling covid-19 and the post-pandemic recovery’ ,


### b. whereas democracy and rule of law are fundamental values on which the eu is founded and are at the heart of enlargement and stabilisation and association processes; whereas reforms are needed to tackle the challenges that remain in these areas; ### b. whereas democracy , human rights , and rule of law are fundamental values on which the eu is founded and are at the heart of enlargement and stabilisation and association processes; whereas reforms are needed to tackle the significant challenges that remain in these areas;


### d. whereas serbia has been continuously engaged in the normalisation of relations with kosovo; ### d. whereas serbia has an interest in the normalisation of relations with kosovo;


### 1. welcomes the fact that eu membership continues to be serbia’s strategic goal and that it is among the priorities of the newly elected government; ### 1. welcomes the fact that eu membership continues to be serbia’s strategic goal and that it is among the priorities of the newly elected government; notes however that the stated intentions of serbian officials are often not followed by actions; expects a clear and unambiguous commitment by serbia , in both words and deeds , to fulfilling all of its obligations towards eu accession in a visible and verifiable way;


### 2. underlines that the momentum created by the new mandate following the 21 june 2020 elections in serbia is an opportunity to make important progress towards serbia’s european perspective; advocates for the opening of additional negotiating chapters as serbia makes the necessary commitments to reform; notes that the opening of chapters is a tool for achieving sustainable pro-european change in serbia; ### 2. underlines that the momentum created by the new mandate following the 21 june 2020 elections in serbia is an opportunity to make important progress towards serbia’s european perspective; advocates for the opening of additional negotiating chapters when serbia adopts and implements the necessary reforms; notes that the opening of chapters is a tool for achieving sustainable pro-european change in serbia;


### 2. underlines that the momentum created by the new mandate following the 21 june 2020 elections in serbia is an opportunity to make important progress towards serbia’s european perspective; advocates for the opening of additional negotiating chapters as serbia makes the necessary commitments to reform; notes that the opening of chapters is a tool for achieving sustainable pro-european change in serbia; ### 2. underlines that the momentum created by the new mandate following the 21 june 2020 elections in serbia is an opportunity to make important progress towards serbia’s european perspective; takes note of the osce/odihr report on the elections and the substantial deficiencies of the election process outlined therein; notes that the new composition of the serbian parliament does not guarantee an effective scrutiny over the government's actions , which is usually provided by the opposition; advocates for the opening of additional negotiating chapters as serbia makes the necessary commitments to reform; notes that the clearly set conditionality linked to the opening of chapters is a tool for achieving sustainable pro-european change in serbia;


### 3. notes that serbia has continued aligning its legislation with the acquis; underlines that progress on the rule of law and fundamental rights chapters , as well as on the normalisation of relations with kosovo , continues to be essential and will determine the pace of accession negotiations; ### 3. underlines that progress on the rule of law and fundamental rights chapters , as well as on the normalisation of relations with kosovo , continues to be essential and will determine the pace of accession negotiations;


### 3. notes that serbia has continued aligning its legislation with the acquis; underlines that progress on the rule of law and fundamental rights chapters , as well as on the normalisation of relations with kosovo , continues to be essential and will determine the pace of accession negotiations; ### 3. notes that serbia has continued aligning its legislation with the acquis; regrets that the pace of the alignment has been significantly slower than what the government originally planned , including in the period before the outbreak of the covid-19 pandemic; underlines limited progress on the rule of law and fundamental rights chapters; stresses that the normalisation of relations with kosovo and the factual respect of fundamental rights continue to be essential and will determine the pace of accession negotiations;


### 4. stresses the importance of strategic communication on eu accession by serbian stakeholders; underlines that public discussion about eu accession must be based on facts; encourages the serbian authorities to communicate more actively their commitment to european values in public debate; ### 4. stresses the importance of strategic communication on eu accession by serbian stakeholders , and the adverse effect of anti-eu rhetoric of office-holders; underlines that public discussion about eu accession must be based on facts; encourages the serbian authorities to communicate more actively their commitment to european values in public debate and to increase transparency of its communication , including access to information for the general public;


### 4. stresses the importance of strategic communication on eu accession by serbian stakeholders; underlines that public discussion about eu accession must be based on facts; encourages the serbian authorities to communicate more actively their commitment to european values in public debate; ### 4. stresses the importance of strategic communication on eu accession by serbian stakeholders; underlines that public discussion about eu accession must be based on facts and must promote the full respect of fundamental rights and democratic values upon which the eu is based; ; encourages the serbian authorities to communicate more actively their commitment to european values in public debate;


### 5. calls on serbia and the eu member states to pursue a more active and effective communication policy on the european perspective , aimed at both serbian and eu citizens; ### 5. calls on serbia and the eu member states to pursue a more active and effective communication policy on the european perspective , aimed at both serbian and eu citizens; expresses concern over the promotion of anti-eu messages and rhetoric by publicly financed media outlets;


### 5. calls on serbia and the eu member states to pursue a more active and effective communication policy on the european perspective , aimed at both serbian and eu citizens; ### 5. calls on serbia and the eu member states to pursue a more active and effective communication policy on the european perspective , aimed at both serbian and eu citizens , including those belonging to national minorities;


### 6. believes that the conference on the future of europe should seek ways of involving serbian representatives; ### 6. believes that the conference on the future of europe should seek ways of involving serbian government and civil society representatives in an open and inclusive democratic dialogue , without any form of intimidation or exclusion of parts of serbian society.


### 6. believes that the conference on the future of europe should seek ways of involving serbian representatives; ### 6. believes that the conference on the future of europe should seek ways of involving representatives nominated by the republic of serbia , including from civil society;


### 7. takes note of the conclusions of the final report of the osce/odihr special election assessment mission that the 21 june 2020 parliamentary elections were administered efficiently but that the dominance of the ruling party , including in the media , was of concern; calls on the authorities to address fully all odihr recommendations well ahead of the next elections; ### 7. takes note of the conclusions of the final report of the osce/odihr special election assessment mission that the 21 june 2020 parliamentary elections were administered efficiently but that the dominance of the ruling party , including in the media , was of concern; regrets the persistence throughout this election cycle of long-term trends of pressures on voters , media bias and blurring of the lines between activities of state officials and partisan campaigning , including in the case of the president of the republic; expresses concern over allegations of irregular voter registration in the june 2020 elections and urges the authorities to investigate this matter; calls on the authorities to address fully all odihr recommendations in order to guarantee free and fair future elections;


### 7. takes note of the conclusions of the final report of the osce/odihr special election assessment mission that the 21 june 2020 parliamentary elections were administered efficiently but that the dominance of the ruling party , including in the media , was of concern; calls on the authorities to address fully all odihr recommendations well ahead of the next elections; ### 7. takes note of the conclusions of the final report of the osce/odihr special election assessment mission that the 21 june 2020 parliamentary elections were administered efficiently but that pressure on voters , media bias , the dominance of the ruling party , including in the media , was of concern , as well as the blurring of lines between the activities of state officials and partisan campaigning , including in the case of the president of serbia; in this regard , points out the role of state-sponsored disinformation campaigns aiming to shift opinions vis-à-vis elections; calls on the authorities to fully and promptly address all odihr recommendations well ahead of the next elections;


### 8. regrets the decision by parts of the opposition to boycott the elections; stresses that the only way to guarantee political representation for their constituents is by engaging in political and electoral processes; ### 8. regrets the decision by parts of the opposition to boycott the elections and stresses that in light of the findings of the osce/odihr special election assessment mission , the authorities should also be held responsible for provoking such decision; stresses that the only way to guarantee political representation for their constituents is by engaging in political and electoral processes;


### 9. welcomes the establishment of the inter-party dialogue (ipd) facilitated by the european parliament and the initial measures taken by the serbian authorities and the parliamentary majority to improve electoral conditions; calls for further implementation of all commitments undertaken in the framework of the ipd; ### 9. welcomes the establishment of the inter-party dialogue (ipd) facilitated by the european parliament and the initial measures taken by the serbian authorities and the parliamentary majority to improve electoral conditions; regrets that the majority of given commitments were only partially or not at all fulfilled by the serbian authorities , including appointments to the regulatory council on electronic media (rem) which were decided without any input from the participating opposition and the failure of the public service broadcaster (rts) to properly implement all of the agreed changes; calls for further implementation of all commitments undertaken in the framework of the ipd;


### 10. calls for the continuation of the ipd with the involvement of all relevant stakeholders and pro-european political forces in the country; ### 10. calls for the continuation of the ipd with the involvement of all relevant stakeholders and pro-european political forces in the country; urges that new rounds of a more inclusive ipd take place as soon as possible and that all parties be treated as equal participants in the preparation and implementation of the dialogue;


### 10. calls for the continuation of the ipd with the involvement of all relevant stakeholders and pro-european political forces in the country; ### 10. calls for the continuation of the ipd with the involvement of all relevant stakeholders and pro-european political forces in the country; calls on all sides to lead the ipd in an inclusive manner and define clear goals , criteria , benchmarks and interlocutors in order to render this dialogue effective and legitimate;


### 11. calls on the new government to focus on fundamental reforms and address structural shortcomings in the areas of rule of law , fundamental rights , the functioning of democratic institutions and public administration; ### 11. calls on the new government to focus on effective and verifiable fundamental reforms and address existing and potentially additional deep structural shortcomings in the areas of rule of law , fundamental rights , the functioning of democratic institutions and public administration;


### 12. urges serbia to deliver convincing results , including a sustainable track record with effective investigations in areas of concern such as the judiciary , freedom of expression and the fight against corruption and organised crime; reiterates its call for justice from 2018 with regard to the unlawful demolition of private property in belgrade; ### 12. urges serbia to deliver convincing results , including a sustainable track record with effective investigations in areas of concern such as the judiciary , media freedom , freedom of expression and the fight against corruption and organised crime , in particular regarding corruption allegations with a high level of public interest , such as the cases of krušik , jovanjica and telekom srbija; reiterates its call for justice from 2018 with regard to the unlawful demolition of private property in the belgrade neighbourhood of savamala;


### 13. urges the serbian parliament to adopt constitutional reforms aimed at strengthening the independence of the judiciary; ### 13. urges the serbian parliament to adopt constitutional reforms aimed at strengthening the independence of the judiciary in consultation with all associations of judges and prosecutors , and to submit them to the constitutionally required referendum without delay;


### 13. urges the serbian parliament to adopt constitutional reforms aimed at strengthening the independence of the judiciary; ### 13. urges the serbian parliament to adopt constitutional reforms aimed at strengthening the independence and professionalism of the judiciary;


### 14. welcomes improvements to the practices and procedures of the national assembly; underlines that the quality of the legislative process still needs to be improved by increasing transparency and social dialogue and ensuring that independent regulatory bodies are empowered to exercise their oversight roles effectively; ### 14. notes the announcement of changes to the practices and procedures of the national assembly and looks forward to their effective implementation; is concerned about the lack of a real opposition in the new parliament and inflammatory rhetoric among politicians , and therefore calls on political actors to adhere to a respectful attitude towards each other; underlines that the quality of the legislative process still needs to be improved by increasing transparency and social dialogue and ensuring that independent regulatory bodies are empowered to exercise their oversight roles effectively; notes with concern the lack of transparency around the reappointment process of the commissioner for the protection of equality;


### 14. welcomes improvements to the practices and procedures of the national assembly; underlines that the quality of the legislative process still needs to be improved by increasing transparency and social dialogue and ensuring that independent regulatory bodies are empowered to exercise their oversight roles effectively; ### 14. welcomes improvements to the practices and procedures of the national assembly; underlines that the quality of the legislative process still needs to be improved by increasing transparency and social and political dialogue and fully ensuring that independent regulatory bodies are legally empowered and staffed in a way that allows them to exercise their oversight roles effectively; calls for additional measures to ensure cross-party dialogue and effective involvement of civil society;


### 16. regrets the lack of progress on media freedom , abusive language , intimidation and even hate speech; urges serbian authorities to take immediate measures to guarantee freedom of expression and media independence; ### 16. regrets the deterioration of media freedom and increase in abusive language , intimidation and hate speech , especially against independent journalists; urges serbian authorities to publicly condemn these actions , take immediate measures to guarantee freedom of expression and media independence and to ensure proper investigations into these cases;


### 16. regrets the lack of progress on media freedom , abusive language , intimidation and even hate speech; urges serbian authorities to take immediate measures to guarantee freedom of expression and media independence; ### 16. regrets the lack of progress on media freedom , abusive language , intimidation and even hate speech , including from members of the ruling parties , whose responsibility to act with respect towards all the representatives of the media is of utmost importance; urges serbian authorities to take immediate measures to guarantee freedom of expression and media independence;


### 17. notes that the legal and institutional framework for upholding human rights is broadly in place and calls for its more effective implementation , with particular regard to the most vulnerable groups in society , including national minorities , in the areas of education , use of minority languages , adequate representation in public administration and the judiciary; ### 17. notes that the legal and institutional framework for upholding human rights is formally broadly in place , but lacks mechanisms to ensure that these fundamental rights are effectively respected; calls for its more effective implementation , with particular regard to the most vulnerable groups in society , including national minorities , in the areas of education , use of minority languages , adequate representation in public administration and the judiciary;


### 17. notes that the legal and institutional framework for upholding human rights is broadly in place and calls for its more effective implementation , with particular regard to the most vulnerable groups in society , including national minorities , in the areas of education , use of minority languages , adequate representation in public administration and the judiciary; ### 17. notes that the legal and institutional framework for upholding human rights is broadly in place and calls for its more effective implementation , with particular regard to the most vulnerable groups in society , including national minorities , such as the roma community , in the areas of education , health , employment , housing , use of minority languages , adequate representation in public administration and the judiciary;


### 18. takes note of serbia’s efforts to fight violence against women and children and domestic violence; stresses , however , that implementation and improvements are needed; ### 18. takes note of serbia’s efforts to fight violence against women and children and domestic violence; stresses , however , that implementation and improvements are needed , in particular during the current pandemic; welcomes the grevio report on serbia , which stresses the lack of a coherent policy approach towards the implementation of the istanbul convention , the need for preventive measures , gaps in service provision for victims , low levels of awareness , sensitisation and capacity-building , as well as particular obstacles for a wide range of women due to intersecting factors such as ethnicity , poverty , social origin and disability;


### 19. underlines the need for protection of lgbti rights; calls for more adequate responses from the authorities to hate speech and hate-motivated crimes; ### 19. underlines the need for protection of lgbti rights; calls for more adequate responses from the authorities to hate speech and hate-motivated crimes; calls on the government to legally regulate same-sex unions , and change of name and gender of transgender persons according to relevant jurisprudence of the european court of human rights , create a safe environment for lgbti persons and promote a culture of tolerance towards them; stresses the importance for all institutions to support the preparation of europride 2022 and ensure the safety of all participants;


### 19. underlines the need for protection of lgbti rights; calls for more adequate responses from the authorities to hate speech and hate-motivated crimes; ### 19. underlines the need for protection of lgbti rights; calls for more adequate and effective responses from the authorities to hate speech and hate-motivated crimes;


### 20. commends the strong female representation in the new government; welcomes the representation of national minorities in the parliament; ### 20. commends the strong female representation in the new government , in the hope that it will lead to the meaningful and substantive promotion of the human rights and political liberties of women; welcomes the representation of national minorities in the parliament;


### 21. welcomes serbia’s engagement in regional cooperation initiatives; encourages serbia to sustain its efforts at all levels aimed at reconciliation and strengthening good neighbourly relations; ### 21. welcomes serbia’s engagement in regional cooperation initiatives; encourages serbia to sustain its efforts at all levels aimed at reconciliation and strengthening good neighbourly relations; invites serbia to engage in the resolution of all remaining border disputes with its neighbours in a constructive and timely manner.


### 22. stresses that the normalisation of relations between serbia and kosovo is a priority and a precondition for eu accession; calls for active and constructive engagement in the eu-facilitated dialogue led by the eu special representative seeking a comprehensive and legally binding agreement , in accordance with international law; reiterates its call to move forward with the full implementation , in good faith and in a timely manner , of all the agreements already reached; ### 22. stresses that the normalisation of relations between serbia and kosovo is a priority and a precondition for eu accession; calls for active and constructive engagement in the eu-facilitated dialogue led by the eu special representative seeking a comprehensive and legally binding agreement , in accordance with international law; reiterates its call to move forward with the full implementation , in good faith and in a timely manner , of all the agreements already reached; in relation to possible adjustments of the border between serbia and kosovo , including exchanges of territories , reiterates the importance of the multi-ethnic nature of both serbia and kosovo and that ethnically homogeneous states should not be the objective in the region;


### 22. stresses that the normalisation of relations between serbia and kosovo is a priority and a precondition for eu accession; calls for active and constructive engagement in the eu-facilitated dialogue led by the eu special representative seeking a comprehensive and legally binding agreement , in accordance with international law; reiterates its call to move forward with the full implementation , in good faith and in a timely manner , of all the agreements already reached; ### 22. stresses that the normalisation of relations between serbia and kosovo is a priority and a precondition for eu accession; calls for active and constructive engagement in the eu-facilitated dialogue led by the eu special representative seeking a comprehensive and legally binding agreement , in accordance with international law; reiterates its call to move forward with the full implementation , in good faith and in a timely manner , of all the agreements already reached; reiterates its call to the authorities to refrain from using inflammatory language towards the citizens of kosovo of albanian ethnicity;


### 24. stresses the importance of regional cooperation on war crimes and missing persons , including of recognising and respecting court verdicts on war crimes , rejecting hate speech and the glorification of war criminals , and supporting domestic prosecutors in bringing perpetrators to justice; ### 24. stresses the importance of regional cooperation on war crimes and missing persons , and calls on serbian authorities to achieve justice for victims by recognising and respecting court verdicts on war crimes , fighting against impunity for wartime crimes , investigating cases of missing persons , rejecting hate speech and the glorification of war criminals , investigating grave sites , and supporting domestic prosecutors in bringing perpetrators to justice;


### 26. welcomes the progress serbia has made in the development of a functional market economy; invites serbia to continue its efforts to boost competitiveness and long-term and inclusive growth through structural reforms; ### 26. notes the progress serbia has made in the development of a functional market economy; invites serbia to continue its efforts to boost competitiveness and long-term and inclusive growth through structural reforms; calls on the serbian government to directly tackle the issue of corruption , which stifles the development of a functional market economy , and to address the 2020 group of states against corruption (greco) concerns;


### 27. calls on serbia to increase the sustainability of its energy sector by diversifying its energy sources and moving towards renewables while at the same time adopting the necessary measures to preserve and protect environmentally sensitive areas; ### 27. calls on serbia to increase the sustainability of its energy sector by diversifying its energy sources and moving towards renewables and less polluting fuels to ensure compliance with its indicative trajectory while at the same time removing all non-compliant coal subsidies and converting the existing coal-based or petroleum products-based district heating into a high efficiency cogeneration-and renewables-based system; notes with concern the consistent lack of compliance with the acquis of the energy community and hence the breach of international law; encourages serbia to step up the monitoring of the implementation and the enforcement of the national emissions reduction plan; urges the authorities to urgently take measures to reduce air pollution , stop sweet water and soil degradation;


### 27. calls on serbia to increase the sustainability of its energy sector by diversifying its energy sources and moving towards renewables while at the same time adopting the necessary measures to preserve and protect environmentally sensitive areas; ### 27. calls on serbia to increase the sustainability of its energy sector by diversifying its energy sources and moving towards renewables and less polluting fuels to ensure compliance with its indicative trajectory; urges the authorities to remove all non-compliant coal subsidies and convert the existing coal-based or petroleum products-based district heating into a high efficiency cogeneration- and renewables-based system; encourages serbia to adopt the necessary measures to preserve and protect environmentally sensitive areas and to step up the monitoring of the implementation and the enforcement of the national emissions reduction plan;


### 28. urges the authorities to ensure alignment with eu standards and policy objectives on climate protection and environment , in order to facilitate the transition to a circular economy; encourages serbia to work on regional connectivity and the completion of the regional energy market; ### 28. urges the authorities to invest resources in improving the environmental , energy efficiency and climate laws and to ensure alignment on climate protection and environment with eu standards and policy objectives , the paris agreement , and international obligations under the energy community treaty , including but not limited to the introduction of carbon emissions pricing , update of energy efficiency legislation , and the development and adoption of an integrated national energy and climate plan , in order to facilitate the transition to a circular economy and adopting the necessary measures to preserve and protect environmentally sensitive areas; encourages serbia to finalise the reforms of the national electricity and gas sectors by ensuring in particular unbundling of the system operators and to work on regional connectivity and the completion of the regional energy market;


### 28. urges the authorities to ensure alignment with eu standards and policy objectives on climate protection and environment , in order to facilitate the transition to a circular economy; encourages serbia to work on regional connectivity and the completion of the regional energy market; ### 28. urges the authorities to ensure alignment with eu standards and policy objectives on climate protection and environment , in particular in light of the sofia declaration on the green agenda for the western balkans – including but not limited to the introduction of carbon emissions pricing , the update of energy efficiency legislation and the development and adoption of an integrated national energy and climate plan , in order to facilitate the transition to a circular economy; encourages serbia to finalise the reforms of the national electricity and gas sectors by ensuring in particular the unbundling of the system operators , and to work on regional connectivity and the completion of the regional energy market in electricity and natural gas;


### 30. reiterates the importance of alignment with the eu common foreign and security policy (cfsp) , which must progressively become an integral part of serbia’s foreign policy; ### 30. reiterates the importance of alignment with the eu common foreign and security policy (cfsp) , which must progressively become an integral part of serbia’s foreign policy; is concerned by the fact that serbia is consistently failing to align with eu cfsp by repeatedly backing russia over the annexation of crimea in the un general assembly;


### 30. reiterates the importance of alignment with the eu common foreign and security policy (cfsp) , which must progressively become an integral part of serbia’s foreign policy; ### 30. reiterates the importance of alignment with the eu common foreign and security policy (cfsp) , which must progressively become an integral part of serbia’s foreign policy; regrets the general lack of effective alignment with the cfsp in the past 5 years;


### 31. welcomes the fact that serbia aligned with the eu’s position on the presidential elections in belarus; calls on serbia to increase its level of alignment with the declarations of the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy on behalf of the eu , and with council decisions; ### 31. welcomes the fact that serbia aligned with the eu’s position on the presidential elections in belarus; remains however concerned that serbia has failed to align with the sanctioning of belarusian officials and with the eu’s position on the new security law in china; calls on serbia to increase its level of alignment with the declarations of the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy on behalf of the eu , and with council decisions;


### 32. calls for the strengthening of european cooperation with serbia on addressing disinformation and hybrid threats that seek to undermine the european perspective of the region; ### 32. calls for the strengthening of european cooperation with serbia and urges the eeas to address foreign and domestic disinformation and hybrid threats that seek to undermine the european perspective of the region by more strategically underscoring the eu’s relevance to citizens in the region; is particularly concerned about the disinformation narratives emanating from the kremlin and distributed through sputnik in belgrade and other domestic actors in serbia , and calls on the serbian government to revisit the arrangements allowing these operations;


### 34. takes note of serbia’s decision to sign a free trade agreement with the eurasian economic union in october 2019; expects serbia , however , to align with eu trade policy; ### 34. takes note of serbia’s decision to sign a free trade agreement with the eurasian economic union in october 2019; expects serbia , however , to align with eu trade policy; regrets that serbia is still not a member of the world trade organisation; recalls the union’s commitment to defend its interests by mitigating the negative effect of free-trade agreements with the eurasian economic union signed by countries which have applied for membership of the european union and signed an saa , such as serbia;


### 34. takes note of serbia’s decision to sign a free trade agreement with the eurasian economic union in october 2019; expects serbia , however , to align with eu trade policy; ### 34. takes note of serbia’s decision to sign a free trade agreement with the eurasian economic union in october 2019; expects serbia , however , to align with eu trade policy; regrets that serbia is still not a member of the world trade organisation;


### 36. expresses concern over serbia’s increasing dependence on defence equipment and technologies from the people’s republic of china and the insufficient transparency of the security sector’s public procurement practices; continues to be concerned about serbia’s close political and military cooperation with russia; ### 36. expresses concern over serbia’s increasing dependence on defence equipment and technologies from the people’s republic of china , including a mass surveillance system in belgrade provided by huawei and personal data collection on a massive scale , and the insufficient transparency of the security sector’s public procurement practices; continues to be concerned about serbia’s close political and military cooperation with russia , frequently camouflaged as civilian activities , such as the “regional humanitarian centre” in niš;


### 36. expresses concern over serbia’s increasing dependence on defence equipment and technologies from the people’s republic of china and the insufficient transparency of the security sector’s public procurement practices; continues to be concerned about serbia’s close political and military cooperation with russia; ### 36. expresses concern over serbia’s increasing dependence on defence equipment and technologies from the people’s republic of china and the insufficient transparency of the security sector’s public procurement practices; continues to be concerned about serbia’s close political and military cooperation with russia , including the continued presence of russian air facilities in nis;


### 37. welcomes the commission’s economic and investment plan (eip) for the western balkans; recognises the importance of the eip in reinforcing regional and cross-border cooperation; ### 37. welcomes the commission’s efforts to invest more strategically in the western balkans through a dedicated economic and investment plan (eip) for the western balkans , in particular in terms of regional and cross-border cooperation , with a view to improving the opportunities of local and regional level administrations to reap the benefits of this investment; stresses that any investment must be in line with the objectives of the paris agreement and eu decarbonisation targets;


### 38. calls on the council to fine-tune both incentives and conditionality in the future instrument for pre-accession assistance (ipa iii); reiterates that the scale of financial assistance should match the goal of serbia’s european perspective; ### 38. calls on the council and the commission to fine-tune both incentives and conditionality in the future instrument for pre-accession assistance (ipa iii) and to make use of suspension mechanisms in case of serious backsliding; reiterates that the scale of financial assistance should match the actual rate of implementing reforms and serbia’s commitment to eu accession;


### a. whereas covid-19 has caused a global pandemic , which is affecting millions of human lives , giving rise to an unprecedented global health , economic , social and humanitarian crisis; ### a. whereas covid-19 has caused a global pandemic , which is affecting millions of human lives , giving rise to an unprecedented global health , economic , social and humanitarian crisis , while having a strong impact on security and defence inside and outside the european union;


### 1. affirms that the global outbreak of the covid-19 pandemic is a game changer in the international environment and a catalyst of change in the global order; ### 1. affirms that the global outbreak of the covid-19 pandemic is a game changer in the international environment , a risk multiplier and a catalyst of change in the global order;


### 2. regrets the lack of global leadership and coordinated international response in the initial phases of the covid-19 crisis , as well as tendencies to opt for isolationist solutions , the withholding of critical information , the rise of authoritarian nationalism , state-sponsored disinformation campaigns and the promotion of false narratives which create distrust and undermine international cooperation; ### 2. regrets the lack of global leadership and coordinated international response in the initial phases of the covid-19 crisis , as well as tendencies to opt for isolationist solutions , the withholding of critical information , the rise of authoritarian nationalism , state-sponsored disinformation campaigns and the promotion of false narratives which create distrust and undermine international cooperation , raising questions around the role that the eu could and should play in the world;


### 2. regrets the lack of global leadership and coordinated international response in the initial phases of the covid-19 crisis , as well as tendencies to opt for isolationist solutions , the withholding of critical information , the rise of authoritarian nationalism , state-sponsored disinformation campaigns and the promotion of false narratives which create distrust and undermine international cooperation; ### 2. regrets lack of global leadership and coordinated international response in the covid-19 crisis , condemns the withholding of critical information and rejects the pursuit of isolationist strategies; strongly objects to the withholding of critical information , the rise of authoritarian nationalism , state-sponsored disinformation campaigns and the promotion of false narratives which create distrust and undermine international cooperation;


### 3. calls on the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy (vp/hr) to review the 2016 global strategy , reflecting these geopolitical shifts and ensuring that the eu plays its part in defending the rules-based multilateral world order that was created after the second world war; ### 3. calls on the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy (vp/hr) to review the 2016 global strategy , reflecting these geopolitical shifts and ensuring that the eu plays its part in defending , promoting and developing the rules-based multilateral world order that was created since the second world war , guided by the eu’s values and interests;


### 4. notes the geopolitical competition and tensions following the covid-19 outbreak , and recognises that the european union still has to position itself in the new world order in which , alongside the eu , the us , china and russia play a leading role; ### 4. notes the growing geopolitical competition and tensions following the covid-19 outbreak , and stresses the need for the european union and its member states to pursue a more active and more coherent external policy; notes that the european union has to position itself not only vis-à-vis great powers like the us , china or russia , but also seek stronger cooperation with like-minded countries including from the southern hemisphere and in particular with other democracies;


### 5. is concerned about the lack of leadership the united states has shown in fighting covid-19; believes that the false information in president trump’s tweets and during his press conferences have been very unhelpful in the joint fight against the virus; ### 5. is concerned about the lack of leadership the united states has shown in fightingcovid-19 and about the lack of participation in joint initiatives on vaccines; believes that the false information in president trump’s tweets and during his press conferences , as well as the attempts to buy european pharmaceutical companies working on potential vaccines and treatments have been very unhelpful in the joint fight against the virus;


### 5. is concerned about the lack of leadership the united states has shown in fighting covid-19; believes that the false information in president trump’s tweets and during his press conferences have been very unhelpful in the joint fight against the virus; ### 5. hopes that the unites states will find the leadership necessary in fighting covid-19 which has taken an exceptional toll among american citizens on the basis of a science-oriented approach and in pursuit of as much meaningful international cooperation as possible;


### 6. is worried about the decision of the us to withdraw funding from the world health organization (who) and the general tendency of its president to withdraw the us from the multilateral organisations that were created to establish a rules-based world order; ### 6. is worried about the decision of the us to withdraw funding from the world health organization (who) , open skies treaty and the general tendency of its president to withdraw the us from the multilateral organisations that were created to establish a rules-based world order , expresses concern about president trump’s decision to withdraw 12.000 american troops from germany and sees this move as another blow to transatlantic cooperation;


### 6. is worried about the decision of the us to withdraw funding from the world health organization (who) and the general tendency of its president to withdraw the us from the multilateral organisations that were created to establish a rules-based world order; ### 6. regrets the decision of the us to withdraw from the world health organization (who) and calls on the us to resist the temptation to withdraw from the multilateral organisations that were created to safeguard a rules-based world order;


### 7. acknowledges the need to find a new method of cooperation between the eu and us , based on mutual respect and a joint agenda to defend multilateralism , the rule of law and human rights; ### deleted


### 7. acknowledges the need to find a new method of cooperation between the eu and us , based on mutual respect and a joint agenda to defend multilateralism , the rule of law and human rights; ### 7. acknowledges the need to find a new and more effective method of cooperation between the eu and us , based on mutual respect and a joint agenda to defend multilateralism , the rule of law and human rights , notes that , in a world marked by great power competition , it is essential for the eu and the us to strengthen ties , to better manage china’s rise and the accompanying challenges and to cope with a more assertive russia;


### 8. notes the strengthening of the people’s republic of china’s worldwide diplomatic efforts following the covid-19 outbreak , seeking to position itself as the dominant global player; ### 8. notes the assertiveness of the people’s republic of china’s worldwide diplomatic efforts following the covid-19 outbreak , seeking to position the prc as dominant global player; warns against the prc’s efforts of stronger power projection in the region , resulting in border disputes with many of its neighbours;


### 9. recognises the emergency contributions provided by china to fight the virus; also recognises , however , a clear geopolitical and geo-economic dimension , bolstered by ‘virus and wolf warrior diplomacy’ and the politicisation of humanitarian assistance; ### 9. recognises contributions made by china to fight the virus; also notes , however , geopolitically and geo-economically motivated efforts , bolstered by ‘virus and wolf warrior diplomacy’ to politically exploit humanitarian assistance;


### 10. is concerned about the lack of transparency related to the chinese reaction to the global outbreak , involving the withholding of information , censorship , the suppression of whistle-blowers and human rights activists , and the projection of power in the region; ### 10. is concerned about the lack of transparency related to the chinese reaction to the global outbreak , including its failure to provide reliable and accurate information about the virus and its transmission in the early stages to the who and international partners , the withholding of information , censorship , the suppression of whistle-blowers and human rights activists , and the projection of power in the region , stresses the need for the eu to actively contribute to the who investigation into the origins and handlings of covid-19;


### 10. is concerned about the lack of transparency related to the chinese reaction to the global outbreak , involving the withholding of information , censorship , the suppression of whistle-blowers and human rights activists , and the projection of power in the region; ### 10. is concerned about targeted disinformation campaigns as outlined in the joint communication “tackling covid-19 disinformation - getting the facts right” and the eeas special report on covid-19 and disinformation;


### 11. is concerned about the potential ‘debt trap’ that might affect african countries as a result of covid-19 , since the economic downturn will make it difficult for them to reimburse chinese loans that are part of the belt and road initiative; ### 11. is concerned about the ‘debt trap’ risk affecting countries that have accepted chinese loans in the belt and road context and find themselves , as a result from covid-19 , exposed to a strong economic downturn that makes debt forgiveness imperative;


### 12. urges the chinese regime to fully cooperate with an independent investigation into the origins of covid-19 , and calls on the member states to present a united front towards a rising china , which is leading a crackdown on the pro-democracy movement in hong kong and has threatened to annex taiwan; calls on the member states to advocate taiwan’s membership of the who; ### 12. urges the chinese regime to fully cooperate with an independent investigation into the origins of covid-19 , and calls on the member states to present a united front towards a rising china with which the eu does not share the same values , political system and approach to multilateralism , in order to fully protect the eu’s strategic autonomy , notes that china which is leading a crackdown on the pro-democracy movement in hong kong and has threatened to annex taiwan; calls on the member states to advocate taiwan’s membership of the who;


### 12. urges the chinese regime to fully cooperate with an independent investigation into the origins of covid-19 , and calls on the member states to present a united front towards a rising china , which is leading a crackdown on the pro-democracy movement in hong kong and has threatened to annex taiwan; calls on the member states to advocate taiwan’s membership of the who; ### 12. urges the chinese leadership to fully cooperate with an independent investigation into the origins of covid-19 , and calls on the member states to present a united europe towards the prc , in particular in relation to grave violations of international law , to the a crackdown on the pro-democracy movement in hong kong , to the threats against taiwan , as well as the brutal persecution of uighurs in xinjang; calls on the member states to advocate taiwan’s membership as an observer in the who/wha and other international organisations;


### 13. calls on the vp/hr to recognise these concerns and simultaneously create an atmosphere of dialogue , engagement and genuine cooperation , based on a new , more assertive strategy in which the eu pushes back when necessary to defend european values; is of the view that , as part of this new strategy , the eu should seek closer collaboration with countries in the region and other democracies; ### 13. calls on the vp/hr to recognise the concerns and to give them full play in dialogue , engagement , cooperation and competition with the prc , based on a coherent china strategy in which the eu and the member states together push back when necessary to defend european values and strategic interests; is of the view that , as part of this new strategy , the eu should seek closer collaboration with countries in the region and other democracies , for which the eu connectivity strategy should be used to the fullest;


### 13. calls on the vp/hr to recognise these concerns and simultaneously create an atmosphere of dialogue , engagement and genuine cooperation , based on a new , more assertive strategy in which the eu pushes back when necessary to defend european values; is of the view that , as part of this new strategy , the eu should seek closer collaboration with countries in the region and other democracies; ### 13. calls on the vp/hr to recognise these concerns and simultaneously create an atmosphere of dialogue , engagement and genuine cooperation , based on a new , more assertive long-term strategy in which the eu pushes back when necessary to defend european values , strategic autonomy and security; is of the view that , as part of this new strategy , the eu should seek closer collaboration with countries in the region and other democracies;


### 14. expresses concern over the structural attempts of the russian federation to undermine eu unity by the intensification of disinformation campaigns; ### 14. expresses concern over the structural attempts of the russian federation to undermine eu unity by the intensification of disinformation and propaganda campaigns as soon as the pandemic began; is concerned about the strong disinformation campaigns that russia and china promoted in the western balkans , particularly in serbia and in the serbian part of bosnia-herzegovina , aimed at discrediting eu’s help in the region;


### 15. recognises the global security , socio-economic and political risks that could be caused by the consequences of the covid-19 pandemic , and is worried about the fact that the eu’s main international counterparts were prepared to use the crisis to unravel the rules-based world order underpinned by multilateral organisations; ### 15. recognises the global security , socio-economic , environmental and political risks that could be caused by the consequences of the covid-19 pandemic , and is worried that many powerful international actors have attempted to use the crisis in order to unravel the rules-based world order and to undercut multilateral organisations that are underpinning it;


### 16. stresses that the multilateral rules-based world order is vital for global peace , the rule of law and democracy; believes that a geopolitical eu must play a firmer role in defending it and seek ways to de-escalate tensions between powers; ### 16. stresses that the multilateral rules-based world order is vital for global peace , the rule of law and democracy; believes that a geopolitical eu must play a firmer role in defending it and seek ways to de-escalate tensions between powers; underlines the european union's commitment to effective multilateralism , with the united nations at its core , as a central element of the eu’s external policy; notes the need for the eu to actively participate in restructuring the who , including by financial means , especially in the absence of us leadership in this regard , with the aim to create a more comprehensive , multilateral strategy on health , able to better prepare and respond to global pandemics or local outbreaks; notes the need for the eu to lead reforms of the wto;


### 17. stresses that only a more united eu , backed up by sufficient and credible military capacities , will be able to conduct a strong foreign policy , and believes that the vp/hr should receive a stronger mandate in speaking on behalf of the eu; ### 17. stresses that only a more united eu , backed up by sufficient and credible actions , efficient and fast decision-making and reliable security capacities , will be able to conduct a strong foreign policy , and believes that the vp/hr should receive a stronger mandate in speaking on behalf of the eu;


### 19. underlines the important role of the armed forces during the covid-19 pandemic and believes that a more in-depth joint operation and coordination of member states’ armed forces within existing frameworks - such as the european medical command - or within new frameworks - such as military hospital trains - could lead to greater efficiency and contribute to the eu’s preparedness to fight pandemics; recognises the need to review the eu’s security and defence strategies to develop strategic autonomy , to become better prepared and more resilient to the new and hybrid threats and technologies that have made the nature of warfare less conventional and challenge the traditional role of the military , as well as for a future in which russia and china are becoming more assertive; stresses that the future strategic compass on security and defence should reflect these developments and take account of the broader geopolitical implications of covid-19; believes that , given the new political balance and a potential worsening of the international security environment following covid-19 , the eu defence budgets must not be cut; ### 19. underlines the important role of the armed forces during the covid-19 pandemic and believes that a more in-depth joint operation and coordination of member states’ armed forces within existing frameworks - such as the european medical command - or within new frameworks - such as military hospital trains - could lead to greater efficiency and contribute to the eu’s preparedness to fight pandemics; recognises the need to review the eu’s security and defence strategies to develop strategic autonomy , to become better prepared and more resilient to the new and hybrid threats and technologies that have made the nature of warfare less conventional and challenge the traditional role of the military , as well as for a future in which russia and china are becoming more assertive; underlines the need for military mobility to be strengthened in order to help member states to act faster and more effectively in the context of a future possible conflict , including by funding dual use transport infrastructure and simplifying diplomatic clearances and customs rules; stresses that the future strategic compass on security and defence should reflect these developments and take account of the broader geopolitical implications of covid-19; believes that , given the new political balance and a potential worsening of the international security environment following covid-19 , the eu defence budgets must not be cut , as eu defence initiatives , such as the european defence fund (both research and non-research) , are aimed to strengthen collaborative actions and cross-border cooperation throughout the union;


### 19. underlines the important role of the armed forces during the covid-19 pandemic and believes that a more in-depth joint operation and coordination of member states’ armed forces within existing frameworks - such as the european medical command - or within new frameworks - such as military hospital trains - could lead to greater efficiency and contribute to the eu’s preparedness to fight pandemics; recognises the need to review the eu’s security and defence strategies to develop strategic autonomy , to become better prepared and more resilient to the new and hybrid threats and technologies that have made the nature of warfare less conventional and challenge the traditional role of the military , as well as for a future in which russia and china are becoming more assertive; stresses that the future strategic compass on security and defence should reflect these developments and take account of the broader geopolitical implications of covid-19; believes that , given the new political balance and a potential worsening of the international security environment following covid-19 , the eu defence budgets must not be cut; ### 19. believes that a more in-depth joint operation and coordination of member states’ armed forces within existing frameworks - such as the european medical command - or within new frameworks - such as military hospital trains - could lead to greater efficiency and contribute to the eu’s preparedness to fight pandemics; recognises the need to become better prepared and more resilient to the new and hybrid threats and technologies that have made the nature of warfare less conventional and challenge the traditional role of the military stresses that the future strategic compass on security and defence should reflect these concerns;


### 20. calls for the expansion and modernisation of eu communication strategies so that eu action is sufficiently visible both within and beyond the eu; urges the european external action service (eeas) to further strengthen its capacities to counter disinformation , including the creation of a dedicated far-east stratcom task force focused on the disinformation emanating from china , and imposing costs on countries that deliberately spread disinformation to divide and harm the eu and its member states; ### 20. calls for the expansion and modernisation of eu communication strategies so that eu action is sufficiently visible both within and beyond the eu; urges the european external action service (eeas) to further strengthen its capacities to counter disinformation and propaganda by creating a concrete european legal framework , by improving coordination efforts and information sharing among the member states , by including the creation of a dedicated far-east stratcom task force focused on the disinformation emanating from china , and imposing costs on countries that deliberately spread disinformation to divide and harm the eu and its member states; stresses the need for the member states to create strong national action plans to fight disinformation and propaganda , together with fact-checkers , researchers , start-ups and civil society organisations;


### 20. calls for the expansion and modernisation of eu communication strategies so that eu action is sufficiently visible both within and beyond the eu; urges the european external action service (eeas) to further strengthen its capacities to counter disinformation , including the creation of a dedicated far-east stratcom task force focused on the disinformation emanating from china , and imposing costs on countries that deliberately spread disinformation to divide and harm the eu and its member states; ### 20. calls for the expansion and modernisation of eu communication strategies; asks the eu institutions to step up its efforts on increasing the visibility of the eu actions and eu 'support to third countries


### 20. calls for the expansion and modernisation of eu communication strategies so that eu action is sufficiently visible both within and beyond the eu; urges the european external action service (eeas) to further strengthen its capacities to counter disinformation , including the creation of a dedicated far-east stratcom task force focused on the disinformation emanating from china , and imposing costs on countries that deliberately spread disinformation to divide and harm the eu and its member states; ### 20. calls for the expansion and modernisation of eu communication strategies so that eu action is sufficiently visible both within and beyond the eu; urges the european external action service (eeas) to further strengthen its capacities to counter malicious interference and disinformation , including the creation of a dedicated far-east stratcom task force focused on the interference and disinformation emanating from china , and imposing costs on countries that deliberately spread disinformation to divide and harm the eu and its member states;


### 21. stresses that its biggest global consumer market of almost 500 million people gives the eu leverage on the world stage , and believes that a geopolitical commission should use this leverage when other countries are not prepared to comply with the rule of law or international treaties; ### 21. stresses that the internal market of roughly 500 million people , and our economic and technological strength give the eu leverage on the world stage , that should be used in the pursuit of the rule of law or international treaties;


### 22. notes that the covid-19 pandemic has shown the need to reduce dependency on third countries in certain strategic and existential sectors and might prompt diversification of its most critical supply chains; ### 22. notes that the covid-19 pandemic has shown the need to reduce dependency on third countries in certain strategic and existential sectors such as health or future technologies and might prompt diversification of its most critical supply chains;


### 22. notes that the covid-19 pandemic has shown the need to reduce dependency on third countries in certain strategic and existential sectors and might prompt diversification of its most critical supply chains; ### 22. notes that the covid-19 pandemic has shown the need to reduce dependency on third countries in certain strategic and existential sectors and to enhance resilience through diversification of the most critical supply chains;


### 23. recalls its request for a strong global sanctions regime to address serious human rights violations , which would be the eu equivalent of the so-called magnitsky act; ### 23. recalls its request for a strong global sanctions regime to address serious human rights violations before the end of 2020 , which would be the eu equivalent of the so-called magnitsky act;


### 24. underlines the strategic importance of eu engagement and support in its neighbourhood , both in the east and in the south; stresses that the eu must give western balkan countries that are not yet part of the eu a fair chance to join the eu , and that the eu must continue its efforts to invest in the region; ### 24. underlines the strategic importance of eu engagement and support in its neighbourhood , both in the east and in the south , by actively engaging with the civil society and decision-makers willing to engage in dialogue and reform; stresses that the eu must give western balkan countries that are not yet part of the eu a fair chance to join the eu , and that the eu must continue its efforts to invest in the region;


### 24. underlines the strategic importance of eu engagement and support in its neighbourhood , both in the east and in the south; stresses that the eu must give western balkan countries that are not yet part of the eu a fair chance to join the eu , and that the eu must continue its efforts to invest in the region; ### 24. underlines the strategic importance of eu engagement and support in its neighbourhood , both in the east and in the south; stresses that the eu must give western balkan countries that are not yet part of the eu a fair chance to join the eu , and that the eu must continue its efforts to invest in the region; calls for an inclusion of all western balkan countries in the eu solidarity fund;


### 24. underlines the strategic importance of eu engagement and support in its neighbourhood , both in the east and in the south; stresses that the eu must give western balkan countries that are not yet part of the eu a fair chance to join the eu , and that the eu must continue its efforts to invest in the region; ### 24. underlines the strategic importance of eu engagement and support in its neighbourhood , both in the east and in the south; welcomes the inclusion of the western balkans countries in the eu joint procurement of medical equipment and stresses that the eu must continue its efforts to invest in the western balkans;


### 25. stresses that the covid-19 crisis could destabilise countries in africa which often have a fragile health infrastructure and high debts; calls for the eu presence in africa to be strengthened , for financial assistance and recovery plans to be fostered and for an alternative to chinese investments to be provided; ### 25. stresses that the covid-19 crisis could destabilise countries in africa which often have a fragile health infrastructure and high debts; calls for the eu partnership with africa to be strengthened , for financial assistance and recovery plans to be fostered;