The Special Co-ordinator of the Stability Pact, Erhard Busek, lauded the admission of Serbia and Montenegro as a timely reminder to its people and the region as a whole, that there is no alternative to further integration of Southeastern Europe. After the tragic assassination of Prime Minister Djindjic, there were concerns that the integration and reform process would be slowed down. By sending this strong signal through the Council of Europe, the European family of nations highlights to Serbia and Montenegro its continued commitment to assist the SEE countries on their way to closer European integration.

Busek added that the Council of Europe stands for European values, which the Serbian and Montenegrin Government is now even better equipped to instil in their country. The Stability Pact will continue to assist Serbia and Montenegro with their efforts. In this context, Busek commended the EU for their most welcome and reassuring preparations of the upcoming Thessaloniki Summit as a means of reinvigorating the European perspective for Western Balkan countries.