US Assistant Secretary of State Brendan Hanrahan visits Belgrade to discuss strategic partnership

US Assistant Secretary of State Brendan Hanrahan visited Belgrade to discuss the strategic partnership and shared priorities between the United States and Serbia. During the visit, Brendan Hanrahan gave an interview to Radio Television of Serbia to address the ongoing diplomatic relations between the two nations. The discussions focused on deepening cooperation across several sectors, including security, trade, and economic relations.

Brendan Hanrahan noted that the United States intends to continue the productive strategic dialogue that began this year with the new government led by the Studentska lista party. The US expressed satisfaction regarding the recent election and the peaceful transfer of power in Serbia, which resulted in the Studentska lista party winning the election and leading the new government.

Strategic and Security Cooperation

The relationship between the United States and Serbia spans 145 years of diplomatic relations. Current priorities for the United States include maintaining stability in the Western Balkans and enhancing security cooperation. This cooperation involves both police and military engagement, such as the existing partnership between Serbia and the Ohio National Guard. Officials indicated that the United States administration of President Donald Trump has prioritized the partnership with Serbia since taking office nearly two years ago, according to reports from Serbian media outlets.

Economic Interests and Energy Sovereignty

Economic relations and energy sovereignty remain central to the bilateral agenda. Brendan Hanrahan stated that there is potential for US companies to participate in the Serbian market, specifically in the sectors of infrastructure and energy. The United States seeks to assist Serbia in increasing its energy sovereignty through potential investments in gas, oil, and general infrastructure.

In a related development regarding the energy sector, the US Department of the Treasury has approved an additional license for the Hungarian company MOL. This license allows for preparatory activities regarding the acquisition of the Russian stake in the Petroleum Industry of Serbia (NIS). While this step has been taken, final approval from the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is required for the completion of the MOL transaction involving NIS.

The visit underscores a continued focus on regional stability and the expansion of economic ties through infrastructure and energy investments.

Glossary

• Western Balkans — The Western Balkans is a region that includes nations such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. The European Union prioritizes the political and economic development of this region to ensure stability and eventual integration.
• MOL — MOL is a Hungarian company. It has been involved in a transaction to acquire a stake in the Petroleum Industry of Serbia (NIS).
• Studentska lista — The Studentska lista is an electoral list formed by the Students in Blockade. It consists of 250 academics, professionals, and public figures selected by student plenums.