After more than 80 years resting on the Danube riverbed near Prahovo, the German fleet from World War II is finally set to be salvaged. The ambitious project, part of the “Rhine-Danube Corridor,” received a significant boost with the signing of a 15.85 million euro grant from the European Union. This milestone was marked today at a press conference attended by key officials including Tanja Miščević, Minister for European Integration; Goran Vesić, Minister of Construction, Transport, and Infrastructure; and Robert De Groot, Vice President of the European Investment Bank for the Western Balkans, alongside EU Delegation Head Emanuel Giaufret.
Miščević underscored the project’s importance in restoring the Danube’s navigability, enhancing river traffic, and protecting the environment. The total project is valued at approximately 31 million euros, with additional funding secured through a favorable loan from the European Investment Bank.
“We’ve waited a long time to begin this endeavor, but we anticipate commencing the retrieval of 21 vessels, starting with four by year’s end,” Miščević announced.
Robert De Grot emphasized the project’s financial structure, combining grants and concessional loans, which will significantly benefit the region’s development. He noted that the EIB has already allocated three billion euros to Serbia’s transport sector, underscoring their commitment to sustainable infrastructure.
“This initiative will not only ensure the Danube’s navigability but also promote more efficient and environmentally friendly waterway transport, reducing our carbon footprint,” De Groot stated.
Emanuel Žiofre highlighted the broader significance of the project in shaping Serbia’s future within Europe, drawing parallels to the EU’s own origins as a post-World War II peace initiative.
“Addressing historical challenges is crucial for advancing towards a more prosperous future,” Giaufret remarked, emphasizing the project’s role in modernizing Serbia’s infrastructure and improving the Danube’s accessibility.
Minister Goran Vesić provided historical context, recounting how the German fleet of approximately 200 ships was scuttled with the advance of the Red Army. He acknowledged the complexities involved in salvaging vessels laden with weapons and ammunition, a process that has faced numerous obstacles over the decades.
Vesić expressed gratitude to the EU for its generous grant, highlighting the unique support provided that underscores Serbia’s integration aspirations.
“The EU’s investment reaffirms our shared commitment to a unified future, integrating Serbia into the larger European framework,” Vesić affirmed, citing EU support for critical infrastructure projects such as the Niš-Dimitrovgrad railway line.
“We are prepared to salvage four vessels by year’s end, with assessments pending on their condition as operations commence,” Vesić concluded optimistically.
