TIRANA, July 29 – US Congressman Joe Wilson called on Serbia to end its reliance on Russian energy, distance itself from Moscow, Beijing and Tehran, and align fully with Western institutions.

In an interview with Radio Free Europe’s Balkan Service, Wilson reaffirmed his support for Kosova’s independence and criticised what he described as Serbia’s continued threats towards Kosova.

Meanwhile, the US lawmaker said Serbia should eventually join the European Union and NATO. He argued that this would require a clear break from authoritarian influences.

Earlier, Wilson sponsored a resolution in the US Congress that seeks to move the 2027 annual session of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly from Belgrade to Charleston, South Carolina.

At the same time, he explained that his main objective was to hold the meeting in the United States. However, Wilson also cited Serbia’s relations with Russia, China and Iran, as well as its approach towards Kosova, as concerns over Belgrade hosting the event.

In addition, the congressman stressed that Serbia should strengthen its ties with Western institutions and reduce external influences. He added that Belgrade should end relations with Russia, China and Iran and move closer to European and Euro-Atlantic structures.

Regarding Russian energy imports, Wilson argued that negotiations were not enough. He urged Serbia to take direct action to stop financing Russia through energy purchases.

Finally, he said Charleston had resolved previous logistical concerns related to food, staff and interpretation. Wilson suggested that Belgrade could host the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly in 2028.

/a.p./