Djedovic Handanovic: Fifth delay of US sanctions on NIS important news for all

BELGRADE - Serbian Minister of Mining and Energy Dubravka Djedovic Handanovic said on Tuesday a fifth delay of US sanctions on Serbia's Russian majority-owned oil company NIS, achieved in a tough diplomatic battle waged by the Serbian government and the president, was important and useful news for all Serbian citizens.

"But, most importantly, we have succeeded in getting another, fifth delay. This is important and useful news for all Serbian citizens because they will face no consequences whatsoever, just like they have not so far," Djedovic Handanovic said in a comment on the 30-day delay of the US sanctions.

In spite of the complex circumstances it is operating in, NIS continues to supply all types of oil derivatives to the Serbian market regularly and remains committed to maintaining energy stability, Djedovic Handanovic said.

"A longer delay was unattainable at this time. It is a matter of global politics and relations and negotiations between global powers, which are very complex," the minister said, noting that Serbia had succeeded in avoiding becoming collateral damage although the situation remained very uncertain.

"We will continue to defend the interests of our citizens and businesses," an official statement quoted her as saying.