December 21 (SeeNews) - The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development’s (EBRD) said on Thursday that it has approved a new country strategy for Serbia, focusing on green energy, SMEs and sustainable infrastructure.
The strategy will guide investment and policy initiatives for Serbia for the next five years, the EBRD said in a press release.
You can download the 2024 Renewable energy in Southeast Europe report here
The first priority will include increasing renewable energy capacity, particularly through continuing support for the authorities with wind and solar auctions, in addition to establishing renewable energy sources (RES) in district heating systems.
The second priority will help to boost the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), enabling them access to finance and skills, particularly regarding the green and digital transitions, and through programmes with partner commercial banks to support women- and youth-led enterprises.
Under the third priority, the EBRD will support Serbia in accelerating investments in environmental infrastructure with an emphasis on waste and wastewater management, air quality and irrigation. The bank will also encourage the transition to rail transport by financing the main European and regional corridors.
“We are pleased with our growing presence and business in Serbia, which this year is set to deliver record investments of more than €800 million. Our new country strategy charts a clear way forward to scale up our partnership with Serbia, contributing to its economic success and convergence towards the European Union,” said Matteo Colangeli, EBRD Director for the Western Balkans.