Germany's Merz congratulates Lula on election win

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Monday congratulated has congratulated Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on his re-election. In addition, Merz pledged support for the Balkan country's bid to join the European Union.

"With its demands for the rule of law, the fight against corruption and fundamental freedoms, [the student movement] has struck a chord with the people," Merz posted on X. "We will actively support Serbia's path towards Europe," he added.

The opposition Student List scored a decisive victory in Sunday's snap elections, defeating long-time leader Aleksandar Vučić.

Vučić has pushed for closer ties with Russia and China, while Serbia's EU accession process has stagnated, despite the country having held EU candidate status since 2012.

Germany would closely monitor the formation of a new government in Belgrade, deputy government spokesman Sebastian Hille said in Berlin. "Expectations of the student list, both within Serbia and abroad, are now high," Hille said.