Vucic, EDF chairman discuss cooperation in energy sector, nuclear power

BELGRADE - Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic met with the chairman and CEO of the French energy company EDF Bernard Fontana in Belgrade on Friday to discuss solutions for Serbia's energy future, further development of cooperation and possibilities for introducing nuclear power.

"An important and substantial discussion with the EDF chairman about strategic solutions for Serbia's energy future, strengthening our energy security and possibilities for introducing nuclear power as part of Serbia's long-term plan to diversify supply sources. Amid increasingly notable challenges on the global energy market, we discussed concrete steps towards further development of cooperation, as well as the significance of projects like these for economic stability, security of supplies and better quality of life for citizens," Vucic posted on Instagram after the meeting.

The essence of these plans is not only about Serbia having sufficient energy today, but about building, in a timely manner, capacities that will ensure a secure, stable and predictable energy future in the decades to come, he added.

"We are carefully analysing all key aspects of potential development of a programme of peaceful application of nuclear power, from experts and involvement of the national economy to the impact on the transmission grid, selection of locations and informing the public in an open manner. It is important that the citizens understand that this is a long, responsible and thorough process that is being conducted in line with the highest international standards and with support from experienced partners," Vucic noted.

He added that Serbia remained committed to building the foundations of its energy independence with dependable partners.

"For us, the cooperation with EDF, a leading global actor in the field of nuclear power, is an important step towards ensuring stable and clean energy that is sustainable over the long term, as well as an opportunity to develop domestic know-how, strengthen our industry and prepare the country for a time when energy security will be a key issue in overall development," Vucic concluded.