Negotiations regarding the future ownership structure of NIS have been granted additional time after MOL Group received a two-week extension to continue discussions with GazpromNeft over the potential acquisition of the Russian ownership stake in the Serbian energy firm.
Dubravka Đedovic announced that Serbian authorities had been informed that negotiations could continue until 6 June, extending the previous deadline that had been close to expiring. According to the Minister, Serbian institutions remain actively involved in discussions concerning a shareholder agreement connected to the transaction, while the Government continues efforts to secure a solution that protects national interests and guarantees long-term market stability.
The ownership issue has become increasingly significant due to deadlines established by the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), linked to measures targeting Russia’s energy sector. Without the latest extension, the deadline for completing negotiations would have expired immediately, increasing pressure on all parties involved.
GazpromNeft, which currently holds the controlling stake in NIS, submitted a draft agreement to MOL earlier this year proposing the sale of its ownership share in the Serbian company. Zsolt Hernadi stated that negotiations had progressed considerably in recent months and described the discussions as entering a final and highly sensitive phase. He noted that although important progress has been achieved, several technical details and remaining conditions still need to be resolved before a final agreement can be completed.
Company representatives emphasized that discussions have included all major stakeholders connected to the potential transaction. They also highlighted that a successful agreement could strengthen regional energy stability, improve supply security and support Serbia’s long-term strategic energy objectives.
Serbian officials have repeatedly stressed that the process remains complex and politically sensitive, but maintaining reliable energy supplies and safeguarding the country’s strategic interests continue to represent the Government’s primary priorities as negotiations move forward.
