The Serbian Minister for International Economic Cooperation and the Social Position of the Church, Nenad Popović, stated that intensive efforts are being made to sign a new agreement for the delivery of Russian gas under preferential terms by May this year.
Minister Popović met today with Maxim Oreshkin, the Deputy Chief of Staff of the President of the Russian Federation, in the Serbian Government. The focus of the meeting was the development and enhancement of economic cooperation between Serbia and Russia, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, robotics, energy, infrastructure, mechanical engineering, information and communication technologies (ICT), digitalization, innovation, and the implementation of new technologies.
Both Popović and Oreshkin agreed to continue strengthening cooperation in these key sectors for both countries.
Minister Popović emphasized the diversity of trade between Serbia and Russia, which includes energy, chemicals, food, industrial, and pharmaceutical products. He highlighted that cooperation with Russia represents a strategic partnership, especially in the gas industry, noting the very favorable gas supply agreement signed three years ago.
“Thanks to this agreement, gas prices for Serbian citizens and industries are the lowest in Europe, and we are working intensively to sign a new agreement under preferential terms by May. This cooperation guarantees our energy security and ensures the uninterrupted growth of our industry and economy,” added Popović.
Popović also mentioned that Serbia would make all decisions related to the NIS (Naftna Industrija Srbije) together with its Russian partners. “We discussed the issues related to NIS and the sanctions imposed by the U.S. government. Everything we do regarding NIS will be done in collaboration with Gazprom, our Russian partners, and all decisions will be made jointly,” said Popović after the meeting.
The Minister also reminded of the strong political and diplomatic ties between Serbia and Russia, stressing that future efforts will be focused on strengthening economic relations. “There are many opponents to strengthening the economic ties between our two brotherly nations. Serbia greatly respects Russia’s economic successes, and in the coming period, we will focus on significantly improving trade with Russia. We are committed to this goal and will do everything in our power to surpass the record levels of previous years,” emphasized Popović.
Popović then reminded of Russia’s support for Serbia on the international stage, especially on crucial issues such as Kosovo and Metohija and the adoption of the Srebrenica resolution at the UN. “Russia has always been and will remain our reliable friend and partner in the most important international issues. Despite immense pressure, Serbia has firmly refused to impose sanctions on Russia and remains consistent in this stance,” said Minister Popović.
He highlighted the importance of the fraternal bond and friendship between the two nations and states, which have deep historical, cultural, and spiritual roots. “Serbs and Russians remain brothers forever, sharing common values and interests, relying on mutual respect and support in all aspects of life,” added Popović.
Finally, he emphasized that on May 9th, Victory Day, when Nazi Germany signed its surrender in World War II, the two presidents, Aleksandar Vučić and Vladimir Putin, will meet in Red Square. “This meeting will send a strong message of brotherhood and friendship between two nations that, in the most difficult moments of history, have always stood together, on the right side. It will further confirm our centuries-old ties and mutual support, which will continue to grow stronger through all the challenges ahead,” concluded Minister Popović, as stated in the Ministry’s announcement.
