Serbia and the European Union have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a strategic partnership focused on sustainable raw materials, including lithium, battery production, and electric vehicles. This agreement was finalized during a summit in Belgrade, where Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz discussed key issues for Serbia’s future.
Vučić emphasized that lithium reserves, critical for the green and digital transition, are a significant asset for Serbia. He assured that lithium mining in Western Serbia, near Loznica, will only proceed with full protection for human life and the environment. Despite anticipated public opposition to the Rio Tinto-led project, Vučić received guarantees from the EU that the “Jadar” project will adhere to the highest standards.
Chancellor Scholz highlighted the importance of lithium for future mobility, comparing its significance to that of oil in the past. He expressed confidence that the mining project would create new opportunities in the production chain and generate jobs in both mining and processing stages.
European Commission Vice President Maroš Šefčovič, who signed the memorandum on behalf of the EU, stressed the dual goals of strengthening Serbia’s economy through quality jobs and adhering to transparent environmental standards to address local concerns.
Activists opposing the lithium mining project, led by Rio Tinto, held a press conference expressing their concerns. They argue that the project will harm the local community and displace residents, describing the memorandum as a “death sentence” for the area of Gornje Nedeljice.
President Vučić, reflecting on the project’s importance, asserted that Serbia must seize this opportunity and make bold decisions for its future, despite facing challenges and opposition.
