The Minister of Mining and Energy, Dubravka Đedović Handanović, met in Belgrade with French inter-ministerial delegate for strategic ores and metals, Benjamin Galzo, to discuss enhancing collaboration in the research and exploitation of critical minerals. This follows the signing of a Declaration of Intent during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Serbia in August, which aims to foster partnerships in this crucial sector.
Đedović Handanović emphasized that expert-level cooperation is already underway, supported by the signed agreements. This initiative aims to bolster Serbia’s capacities and align with the highest standards in mining, geology and environmental protection.
The minister noted France’s advancements on its lithium mine project in Bouvoir, which is vital for supplying ore for 700,000 electric vehicles annually. “We are exchanging knowledge to achieve optimal solutions for our critical mineral resources,” she said.
Plans for amending the Law on Mining and Geological Research, along with the development of a new Strategy for the Management of Mineral Resources from 2025 to 2040, are also in progress. Đedović Handanović anticipates public review of these changes by year-end, aiming to protect state interests while strengthening its role in the mining sector.
The strategy will identify Serbia’s strategic raw materials and outline sustainable management policies. Through dialogue with developed mining nations like France, Serbia aims to adopt best practices and improve its mining sector.
Galzo highlighted that both countries face similar challenges regarding critical minerals, and that knowledge exchange spans legal and technical aspects from exploration to extraction. The meeting was attended by the French Ambassador to Serbia, Pierre Cauchard, and representatives from France’s geological and mining research office.
