Plenkovic: South Interconnection "certain" following landmark agreement

The remarks followed the signing of a formal construction agreement between Plenkovic and the Chair of the BiH Council of Ministers, Borjana Kristo. The ceremony was bolstered by a joint statement of support from the United States, a partnership the Prime Minister described as instrumental. He noted that the involvement of American investors, facilitated by recent legislative amendments in the Federation of BiH, had been a decisive factor in moving the project forward.

Strategic energy linkage

The pipeline is designed to connect Bosnia to Croatia’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal on the island of Krk, a move intended to bolster energy security across the region. Plenkovic explained that the Croatian section of the infrastructure, stretching approximately 72 kilometres from Dugopolje via Imotski to the border, is estimated to cost in the region of €170 million. He confirmed that the Croatian national operator, Plinacro, has completed all necessary preparatory works.

Addressing past scrutiny from Brussels, the Prime Minister stated that EU institutions had been fully briefed on the accord. While he acknowledged that the project might have secured European funding had it been approved earlier, he maintained there was now no reason for the European Commission to question its validity, given its vital role in regional energy diversification.

Economic sustainability

Croatia has made its continued support contingent on the project’s long-term economic viability. Plenkovic emphasised the necessity of safeguards, including minimum contracted transport capacities and a confirmed roster of gas buyers, to ensure the investment remains sustainable. He framed these requirements as essential measures to ensure the venture serves as a beneficial asset for both nations.

The Prime Minister concluded that the signing in Dubrovnik was intentionally timed to grant the agreement maximum international visibility, marking a significant step toward integrating Bosnia into the broader European energy network.