Brussels‑appointed head of the European Union’s delegation in Serbia, Andreas fon Bekerat, used a video posted on the platform X to say goodbye to the Serbian public after 15 months in Belgrade. In the message, he praised the “generosity, openness and friendship” he experienced, calling the Serbian people’s determination an “inspirational force” that will shape the country’s future.

Fon Bekerat emphasized that Serbia now “stands at the beginning of a new chapter” and that a “real window of opportunity is opening for its people.” He linked this moment to core democratic values – rule of law, responsible governance, a vibrant civil society and free media – which he said must remain the heart of Serbia’s journey toward European integration.

The EU envoy specifically addressed the newly elected government formed by the Students’ List, noting his belief that the administration “shares that ambition” and that the European Union is ready to support Serbia “at every step.” He wished the incoming cabinet success in “reforming institutions and building a stronger, fairer Serbia that is ever closer to a future as part of the EU.”

Reflecting on his own tenure, fon Bekerat described the 15 months as “too short to fully repay the generosity, openness and friendship” shown by Serbians, yet “long enough to leave memories for a lifetime.” He concluded the video with a heartfelt “Thank you, Serbia! I depart with humility, deep respect and faith in your future.”

The departure comes at a pivotal moment for Belgrade, as the Students’ List – a coalition of young and student‑led politicians – secured a parliamentary majority in the recent elections. Their platform prioritises accelerating EU accession talks, strengthening democratic institutions, and deepening anti‑corruption reforms. EU officials have repeatedly signalled that tangible progress on rule‑of‑law benchmarks will be essential for the next enlargement round.

While fon Bekerat’s farewell message is largely ceremonial, it underscores the EU’s continued diplomatic engagement with Serbia and its willingness to back reforms under the new government. Analysts note that the EU’s “readiness to support Serbia at every step” will likely translate into technical assistance, financial programmes, and political backing, provided Belgrade delivers measurable advances in judicial independence, media freedom and public administration.

The video was posted on X at 13:47 CET on 7 November 2026 and quickly garnered reactions from Serbian officials, civil‑society leaders and ordinary citizens, many of whom echoed the envoy’s gratitude and optimism for the country’s European path.

Sources (learn more):

insajder.net — https://insajder.net/prenosimo/sef-delegacije-eu-u-srbiji-andreas-fon-bekerat-se-oprostio-od-gradana-srbije-u-video-poruci-srbija-stoji-na-pocetku-novog-poglavlja