Federal Minister of Energy, Mining and Industry Vedran Lakić held a meeting with the Special Envoy of the Department of Energy of the United States of America (USA) Joshua Volz, at which they discussed the expansion of energy cooperation between the USA and Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a special focus on the Southern Interconnection project. During the meeting, it was emphasized that the Federation of BiH is in a key phase – the transition from the legislative framework to the concrete implementation of this strategic project.
They discussed the Draft Law on Amendments to the Law on Southern Interconnection, for which it is proposed to adopt it under an urgent procedure, in order to accelerate the start of implementation. It was emphasized once again that the Southern Interconnection project is one of the most important infrastructure and energy projects, which directly affects the security of gas supply, the stability of the energy system and overall economic development, the Federal Ministry of Energy, Mining and Industry announced.
Minister Lakić emphasized that after the adoption of legal solutions, the implementation phase will follow, which will require some time due to administrative procedures, but also strong institutional stability.
“We are entering a phase where the law needs to be translated into concrete steps. We are aware that we are facing a process that requires time, but also responsibility. It is important to preserve the stability of the adopted solutions and prevent any attempts to undermine them,” said Lakić.
It was also emphasized at the meeting that the presence of representatives of the US administration represents a clear signal of support for this project.
“Your presence here is an important message that the US Government stands by this project. Such support provides additional security and credibility to the process we are implementing,” said Lakić.
The interlocutors also discussed challenges related to issues of state property, as well as cooperation with investors, emphasizing that there are good relations and a realistic basis for the successful implementation of the project.
Special Envoy of the US Department of Energy Joshua Volz emphasized the readiness of the United States to continue to provide support to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the development of the energy sector.
“The United States wants to be a partner of Bosnia and Herzegovina in this process. We are open to support and investment, and the successful implementation of projects such as the Southern Interconnection will further strengthen the interest of American investors in investing in BiH,” said Volz.
The meeting concluded that in order to attract investment, it is crucial to ensure a stable and predictable legislative framework, which will provide security for investors and accelerate the implementation of strategic projects. The interlocutors expressed their expectation that the next steps will further accelerate the implementation of the project, including the signing of an international agreement between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republic of Croatia, which is expected at the end of the month in Dubrovnik, the statement said.
