Energy Disputes: Belgrade's Stand on NIS Stake Sale

Serbia is expressing dissatisfaction with Hungary's MOL regarding its proposal to buy a majority stake in the country's oil company, NIS. Energy Minister Dubravka Djedovic Handanovic specified concerns over NIS's refinery operations and its impact on the local market, leading to stumbling blocks in negotiations.

Current discussions with the Serbian government, which holds a 29.9% stake, are distinct from MOL's negotiations with Russia's Gazprom Neft and Gazprom, which hold 44.9% and 11.3%, respectively. The minister emphasized that Serbia's market security and economic influence remain paramount, seeking a compromise but not at any cost.

The U.S. has imposed sanctions on NIS, necessitating the divestment of Russian interests amid the war in Ukraine. MOL agreed in January to acquire the Russian stakes, with a deadline for transaction completion by May 22. Serbia aims to increase its stake in NIS by 5% as negotiations continue.

(With inputs from agencies.)