Talks between Croatian oil pipeline operator JANAF and Hungarian energy company MOL have officially started, with both sides aiming to reach an agreement on oil deliveries to Hungary and Slovakia through JANAF’s pipeline network. The opening round of negotiations was described as constructive, helping to ease previous tensions over potential disputes. The next meeting is scheduled for late October in Zagreb, where discussions will continue until a mutually acceptable deal is reached.
JANAF emphasized the strategic importance of its pipeline system for regional energy security, warning that disregarding its role would not serve MOL’s interests, as it remains the only realistic alternative supply route. Company officials stated that JANAF has the capacity to fully meet the supply requirements of MOL’s refineries in Hungary and Slovakia. According to test results, the company’s infrastructure can handle the necessary volumes, despite earlier public claims from MOL questioning its capacity.
JANAF’s management reaffirmed its willingness to cooperate not only with MOL but also with Serbia’s NIS, highlighting its long-standing experience in international energy negotiations. Board member Vladislav Veselica noted that JANAF already holds a license to transport oil to the NIS refinery in Pančevo. However, uncertainty remains over whether NIS has received another extension or postponement of US sanctions. Reports from Serbian media suggest that an additional one-week delay has been approved, pending official confirmation from the Serbian government.
Meanwhile, JANAF has secured an extension of its license to supply oil to NIS until October 15. Veselica cautioned that losing Serbia as a transport destination would be extremely difficult to offset, stressing the potential risks to JANAF if sanctions on NIS are not relaxed. He added that the responsibility for resolving the issue ultimately rests with NIS and its majority owner, who must take the necessary steps to comply with US requirements.
