German Chancellor Olaf Scholz endorsed the Jadar lithium mining project, emphasizing its benefits for Serbia. Alongside European Commission Vice President Maroš Šefčovič, Scholz assured adherence to the highest environmental standards.
“The European Commission and Serbia have signed an important agreement to strengthen our cooperation in raw material supply,” Scholz stated at a joint press conference. He highlighted the project’s potential to create jobs and meet climate goals, adding, “We need batteries.”

Chancellor Scholz underscored lithium’s importance for future mobility, akin to oil’s role in the past. He confirmed Germany’s support for Serbia in environmental protection control
The signing at the Palace of Serbia was attended by Serbian government ministers, President Aleksandar Vučić, Chancellor Scholz, and ambassadors from Italy, Germany, and the United States.
Additionally, a Letter of Intent for developing the e-mobility value chain in Serbia was signed by Serbian Economy Minister Anđelka Atanasković, EBRD President Odile Renaud-Basso, and KfW Executive Board member Christian Leibhach, among other industry leaders.
This strategic partnership marks a significant step for Serbia, aligning it with European sustainability initiatives and promising economic and environmental benefits.