A key cross-border energy agreement has been formally signed, as Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and President of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina Borjana Krišto concluded a treaty in Dubrovnik to construct the Southern Gas Interconnection pipeline linking the two countries.
The project is expected to significantly improve supply diversification for Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) by enabling access to alternative gas sources, including liquefied natural gas (LNG) delivered via the Krk terminal in Croatia. Officials emphasized that the initiative will strengthen energy security at a time of continued global uncertainty.
Prior to the signing ceremony, the agreement had already passed key institutional approvals, first from the Council of Ministers and subsequently from the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, paving the way for formal adoption in the presence of international representatives.
Government officials from both sides described the pipeline as a strategic regional infrastructure project with long-term importance. According to statements from the Bosnian side, the initiative represents a turning point in efforts to diversify energy supply routes and reduce dependence on limited sources.
Bosnian energy sector representatives also highlighted the broader economic and industrial impact of the project. Federal Energy Minister Vedran Lakić pointed to years of preparatory work leading to this stage, while Energoinvest CEO Mirza Ustamujić emphasized its importance for strengthening energy independence and integrating domestic companies into major regional developments.
Despite earlier concerns about potential disagreements among international stakeholders, both European and US officials confirmed that the project will fully comply with EU energy market regulations. These rules require open access to infrastructure and prohibit preferential treatment for individual companies, ensuring equal access for all potential gas suppliers.
Initial proposals from external investors have been aligned with European regulatory frameworks, particularly the EU Third Energy Package, which mandates the separation of infrastructure operators from gas suppliers in order to ensure fair competition.
Once completed, the Southern Gas Interconnection is expected to become a key pillar of regional energy cooperation, contributing to a more resilient and diversified gas supply system across Southeastern Europe.
