Serbia signs MoU with France's AFD to boost energy transition

BELGRADE - Serbian Minister of Mining and Energy Dubravka Djedovic Handanovic signed on Wednesday a MoU with the French development agency AFD on support for Serbia's energy transition process.

Cooperation with French partners envisions development of innovative tools and solutions that will help Serbia accomplish climate objectives and align with EU standards, the Ministry of Mining and Energy said in a statement.

The project will be funded from Programme 2050, whereby AFD supports partners in a transition to a low-carbon development model.

Donations for the project will total 650,000 euros.

Djedovic Handanovic said energy occupied an important place in Serbia-France bilateral relations, as also indicated by agreements signed this year in the field of nuclear energy and critical and strategic mineral raw materials.

"The memorandum represents a new stage in the cooperation between Serbia and AFD and we will utilise this project to advance planning and management of the energy transition process in line with strategic objectives," the minister said.

She added that the goal was to implement the best experiences and know-how from developed countries in Serbia and develop renewable energy sources while boosting energy security, as well as to ensure a just process of energy transition.

AFD Director Remy Rioux noted the significance of the partnership with Serbia.

"This agreement illustrates AFD's commitment to support Serbia in building a sustainable energy future. By ensuring customised tools and by cherishing cooperation, we want to help Serbia to manage the complex challenges of energy transition and grow stronger on its path to the EU," he said.