German Chancellor Scholz emphasizes lithium’s key role in future mobility
Date
7/21/2024 3:50:43 AM
(MENAFN) On Friday, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the crucial role lithium will play in future mobility, comparing its importance to that of oil in the present. Speaking at the Summit on Critical Raw Materials held in Belgrade, Serbia, Scholz remarked, "We need lithium, and I am convinced that it is essential for future mobility."
At the summit, Serbia and the European Union formalized their strategic partnership through a memorandum of understanding. This agreement focuses on sustainable raw materials, battery production chains, and electric vehicles. The memorandum was signed in the presence of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Chancellor Scholz.
Scholz highlighted the significance of the Jadar lithium extraction project, managed by the Anglo-Australian multinational mining company, Rio Tinto. He stated that this project is expected to generate new production chain opportunities and create jobs, not only in mining but also across various processing stages. He described it as a pivotal moment for the future.
The summit featured the participation of both Scholz and Maros Sefcovic, the vice president of the European Commission responsible for the European Green Deal. Sefcovic signed the memorandum on behalf of the EU, emphasizing the importance of the partnership.
President Vucic expressed optimism about the agreement, stating, "We have already had discussions, and I am pleased with the outcome. For us, Serbia, this represents a significant opportunity, and we are confident that we will seize this chance." He also indicated that the Jadar mining project could propel Serbia into a new era of progress.
However, the Jadar lithium extraction project has faced significant opposition from environmentalists. For years, demonstrators have protested against the project, arguing that it poses risks to both public health and the environment. Rio Tinto first identified lithium mineral reserves in Loznica, Serbia, in 2004, but the project has continued to be a point of contention.
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