Serbian President Boris Tadić says that Serbia expects the candidate status for EU membership and, shortly thereafter, the start of accession negotiations. At the same time, said he, the country “will not change its stance on not recognizing the self-proclaimed independence of Kosovo”.

The charges against Ratko Mladić are strong and the prosecution is working to expedite proceedings against him, said Hague Chief Prosecutor Serge Brammertz. Brammertz pointed out the Prosecutor’s Office would do everything to prove Mladić’s individual accountability for numerous crimes.

The general strike called in Greece will result in the closing of the Gevgelija border for crossing with Macedonia for 48 hours, it has been announced. Some flights from the main airport in Athens have also been canceled.