Romanian President Traian Basescu stated in Belgrade Tuesday that there is no relation between the process of ratification of the Stabilization and Association Agreement (SAA) between the EU and Serbia at the Romanian parliament, and the so-called issue of Vlachs.

Vlachs are an ethnic minority of Serbia culturally and linguistically related to Romanians. When asked if the issue of Vlachs is the reason why Romania has still not ratified the SAA with Serbia, and whether this will affect Romania's position on December 9 when the EU candidacy of Serbia is due to be voted on in Brussels, Basesku responded negatively.

We will continue to raise the question of Vlachs, who still declare themselves as Romanians. However, you have to take into account that there is no relation whatsoever between the SAA ratification and this matter, Basesku stated after the meeting with Serbian President Boris Tadic.

Basesku recalled that the SAA has already been ratified by the Romanian parliament's Chamber of Deputies, adding that he hopes the Senate will ratify it on time, before December 9.