In a significant step towards enhancing cooperation in sustainable raw materials, battery production, and electric vehicles, the European Union and Serbia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding during the Summit on Sustainable Raw Materials held in Belgrade.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz highlighted the importance of the Jadar project, which involves lithium mining, stating that it is beneficial for Serbia. Alongside European Commission Vice President Maroš Šefčovič, Scholz assured that the highest environmental standards would be adhered to during the mining process.
“The European Commission and Serbia have signed an important agreement that will strengthen our cooperation in the supply of raw materials,” said Scholz.
Speaking at a joint press conference, Scholz emphasized that this is a European project: “Mining will be conducted with respect for the highest environmental protection standards, and Germany will assist in this effort.”
Scholz noted that the Jadar project brings significant development prospects and will create new jobs in Serbia. “This decision requires courage; we are taking an important step. By mining lithium in Serbia, we can meet our climate goals,” he said, adding, “We need batteries.”
Chancellor Scholz underscored that lithium is crucial for future mobility, akin to the role oil has played thus far. He mentioned that he had requested the president of Rio Tinto to ensure compliance with all environmental standards during exploitation and received assurances in return.
He also confirmed that Germany would support Serbia in environmental protection control, responding affirmatively to the Serbian government’s request.
The signing ceremony at the Palace of Serbia was attended by Serbian government ministers, President Aleksandar Vučić, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and ambassadors Luca Gori of Italy, Anke Konrad of Germany, and Christopher Hill of the United States.
Additionally, a Letter of Intent for developing the e-mobility value chain in Serbia was signed by Economy Minister Anđelka Atanasković, President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) Odile Renaud-Basso, and Executive Board member of KfW Group Christian Leibhach.
The Letter of Intent was also signed by Paolo Lombardo, Director of International Development Cooperation at Cassa Depositi e Prestiti, Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz, and Jakob Stausholm, CEO of Rio Tinto Group.
Moreover, the document was signed by Diego Pavia, CEO of EIT InnoEnergy, Marian Boček, CEO of InoBat, and Nemanja Mikač, CEO of ElevenEs.
This strategic partnership marks a pivotal moment for Serbia as it integrates more closely with European sustainability initiatives, promising substantial economic and environmental benefits.