The family photo controversy with the leaders of the Berlin Process, how the truth of Brnabić's absence lies

A controversy arose yesterday at the Berlin Process summit in Albania's capital when Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic did not appear for a family photo with other regional and EU leaders, sparking speculation as to why. Brnabić later stated that she was late, denying claims that she refused to take the photo.

Some have interpreted that Brnabić did not want to be photographed due to the presence of the Kosovo flag, which has not been a problem during previous iterations of the summit. Many media noticed the absence of the Prime Minister of Serbia, European Western Balkans writes.

The Serbian government, however, has denied that the prime minister refused to take a photo and has released one that shows her presence.

 

 

During a press conference held several hours later, Brnabić confirmed that she was late for the photo, but insisted that there was no underlying motive, saying that she did not know exactly "when the photographers were going to press the camera buttons".

She added that those who are spreading these stories want to harm Serbia.

In the press release, the Government of Serbia said that it does not lead a policy of isolation, but one of cooperation and solving open issues through dialogue.

Neither the press conference nor the press release provided specific details explaining its late arrival.

Yesterday in Tirana, the 10th summit of the Berlin Process took place, the first in the Western Balkan region. The regional governments were represented at the prime ministerial level and the topics of the meeting include the EU growth plan for the region, as well as the signing of the agreement on the mutual recognition of professional qualifications.