EU and Serbia sign strategic partnership
The European Union and the Republic of Serbia have formalized a Strategic Partnership through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement centers on sustainable raw materials, battery value chains, and electric vehicles (EVs), aiming to foster local industries and create high-quality jobs while upholding rigorous environmental and social standards.
Key Objectives of the Partnership:
The MoU establishes a framework for robust public-private engagement, involving EU institutions, Serbian industrial actors, business associations, civil society, and financial institutions. The partnership is designed to:
- Develop Value Chains
- Advance Research and Innovation
- Apply High Standards
- Mobilize Financial Support
- Build Skills
Next Steps and Broader Context
The EU and Serbia will develop a detailed roadmap within six months to implement the partnership. This initiative aligns with the EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act, which aims to ensure a secure and sustainable supply of critical materials. This partnership is part of a broader strategy involving similar agreements with countries like Canada, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and others.
Olivér Várhelyi, Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement stated “The MoU between the EU and Serbia lays a crucial foundation for deeper integration into EU’s green technology supply chains. It will create new job opportunities and bolster Serbia’s economic, social, and environmental alignment with the EU.”
This strategic partnership represents a significant step toward sustainable development and integration, promising future growth and innovation for both the EU and Serbia.