Serbia’s Minister of Energy and Mining in the technical mandate, Dubravka Đedović Handanović, stated that the sanctions imposed on the Oil Industry of Serbia (NIS) are a form of retaliation by the previous U.S. administration against Russia, and emphasized that Serbia is not responsible for the situation.
Đedović Handanović told TV Prva that it is very important that Serbia managed to delay the sanctions on NIS, although she pointed out that this is not a permanent solution. “If nothing else, we succeeded in securing a second delay, but it’s not for the long term,” the minister explained.
She noted that the Serbian government has faced various challenges in recent times, but emphasized that she has always been dedicated to her work, which is reflected in the numerous projects her ministry has completed.
“We have successfully completed large projects, from Kostolac to desulfurization in Obrenovac. We have fulfilled all the EU’s reform agendas, and I believe that with a responsible and committed approach, we can make significant progress,” said Đedović Handanović.
She also mentioned that Serbia currently has good relations with the new U.S. administration, a fact confirmed by the visit of Donald Trump Jr. to Serbia in March.
“Political changes have occurred in the U.S. We have good relations with the new U.S. administration, which was confirmed by Donald Trump Jr.’s visit to Serbia,” she said.
Regarding the statement from the Serbia Center (SRCE) party, which opposed the construction of the reversible Bistrica Hydroelectric Power Plant, she described it as one of the most challenging and important projects, which will be a milestone for Serbia’s energy sector.
“It is almost unnecessary to comment on this. When everything you do is distorted and manipulated, it makes no sense to comment. Bistrica is one of the most important projects we are developing. We are working on this project with Japanese partners and the Japanese development agency, and as you know, they are very rigorous about such matters. The project must meet both their standards and the EU’s standards. This project will be the crown of our energy sector,” she explained.
When asked if she expects to be part of the new government, she expressed confidence that the designated prime minister, Dr. Đuro Macut, would assemble a successful team, which will be beneficial for Serbia. She also believes that in the coming days, he will best assess what needs to be done.
“I think the decision to appoint Macut as prime minister is excellent, as he is a person with an impressive biography, domestic and international experience, and is a recognized expert in his field. Moreover, he has all the personal qualities to be a successful prime minister, and I believe he will gather a team that is good for Serbia – primarily when it comes to the economy, but also political issues, as it is important to ease tensions,” added the minister.
She emphasized that it is crucial for the new prime minister to receive all the necessary support.
“I congratulate all the citizens of Serbia, as they now have a new prime minister. The political moment in Serbia is very risky right now, and it is important that the new prime minister has all the necessary support,” concluded Đedović Handanović.
