Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić said parliamentary elections could be held either on July 12 or between October and late November, depending on domestic and international developments.
Speaking on TV Pink, Vučić said the authorities would be guided by “state interests” and the wider global situation, particularly economic and energy pressures.
“Elections will be either on July 12 or in the period from October to the end of November,” Vučić said. “Everything depends on the situation in the country and in the world.”
He said Serbia would adopt recommendations from ODIHR and the Venice Commission, adding that voters would have the final say on the country’s political direction.
Energy and NIS
Vučić said Serbia expects a solution for oil company NIS by May 22, amid continued uncertainty linked to energy markets and sanctions pressure.
He said Serbia had managed to limit fuel price increases through reserves, tax measures and state intervention, adding that the global energy situation remained complicated.
China visit and technology push
Vučić also announced what he described as one of the most important visits of his political career to China, saying Serbia hopes to finalise agreements linked to robotics and advanced technology.
He said Serbia has invested heavily in supercomputers and data infrastructure, with Kragujevac positioned as a national technology hub.
According to Vučić, Serbia expects first robots by June and wants to expand cooperation in artificial intelligence, robotics and industrial development.
Economy and wages
Vučić said Serbia expects first-quarter growth of around 3%, which he said could open space for future increases in pensions and salaries.
He argued that Serbia had performed better than many European economies despite global instability, but warned that uncertainty in energy and geopolitics could still affect economic planning.