Lakić and Volz: Southern Interconnection Key to Security and New Investments in BiH

(Patria) - Federal Minister of Energy, Mining and Industry Vedran Lakić held a meeting with the Special Envoy of the U.S. Department of Energy Joshua Volz, where they discussed the expansion of energy cooperation between the U.S. 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 crucial phase – transitioning from a legislative framework to the concrete implementation of this strategic project. The proposed Law on Amendments to the Law on the Southern Interconnection was discussed, for which urgent procedure was proposed to accelerate the start of its realization. It was reiterated that the Southern Interconnection project is one of the most important infrastructural and energy projects, directly impacting gas supply security, energy system stability, and overall economic development.

Minister Lakić pointed out that after the adoption of legal solutions, the implementation phase will follow, which will require a certain amount of 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 a process awaits us that requires time, but also responsibility. It is important that we preserve the stability of the adopted solutions and prevent any attempts to undermine them," Lakić stated.

The meeting also highlighted that the presence of U.S. administration representatives is a clear signal of support for this project.

"Your presence here is an important message that the U.S. Government stands behind this project. Such support provides additional security and credibility to the process we are undertaking," Lakić added.

The interlocutors also discussed challenges related to state property issues, as well as cooperation with investors, emphasizing that there are good relations and a real basis for the successful realization of the project.

U.S. Department of Energy Special Envoy Joshua Volz emphasized the readiness of the United States to continue providing support to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the development of its energy sector.

"The United States wants to be a partner to Bosnia and Herzegovina in this process. We are open to support and investments, and the successful implementation of projects like the Southern Interconnection will further strengthen the interest of American investors in investing in BiH," Volz stated.

It was concluded at the meeting that ensuring a stable and predictable legislative framework is key to attracting investments, which will provide security to investors and accelerate the realization of strategic projects. The interlocutors expressed expectations that the next steps will further accelerate the project's realization, including the signing of an international agreement between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republic of Croatia, expected at the end of the month in Dubrovnik.