Russian Ambassador to Serbia Alexander Bocan-Harchenko stated that the embassy is in constant contact with the management of the Serbian Oil Industry (NIS) and emphasized that the company is well-prepared for the current situation, adding that Russia will not abandon Serbia.
He noted that it was anticipated that tensions would rise eventually and that U.S. sanctions would come into effect. “They have reserves and the ability to manage. In any case, I believe there should be no expectations of shortages or market alarms, including regarding Serbia’s energy security,” Bocan-Harchenko told RT Balkan.
He added that further contacts will take place between Serbian authorities, NIS, Gazprom, and Russian officials, as well as between the governments of both countries. Bocan-Harchenko stressed that the sanctions are a political decision and not based on economic or energy considerations.
He reiterated that Gazprom is a reliable partner and that Russia has no intention of turning its back on Serbia. “Within our bilateral cooperation, Serbia will maintain energy security as it has in the past,” Bocan-Harchenko concluded.
