MOL Group has received a two-week extension to continue negotiations with GazpromNeft regarding the possible acquisition of the Russian ownership stake in NIS. The talks concern the future ownership structure of the Serbian energy company.
Serbian Energy Minister Dubravka Đedovic said authorities were informed that negotiations may continue until 6 June. She noted that Serbian institutions remain actively involved in discussions related to a shareholder agreement connected to the transaction, while the Government is working to secure a solution aligned with national interests and long-term market stability.
The timing of the process is linked to deadlines set by the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), which is associated with measures targeting Russia’s energy sector. Without the new extension, the deadline for completing negotiations would have expired immediately.
GazpromNeft, which currently holds the controlling stake in NIS, submitted a draft agreement to MOL earlier this year. Zsolt Hernadi said negotiations have advanced significantly in recent months and described the discussions as entering a final and highly sensitive phase, with technical details and remaining conditions still requiring resolution before a final deal can be completed.
Company representatives said the discussions have included all major stakeholders connected to the potential transaction. They also stated that an agreement could strengthen regional energy stability, improve supply security, and support Serbia’s long-term strategic energy objectives.
Serbian officials have characterized the process as complex and politically sensitive, while emphasizing that reliable energy supplies and protection of strategic interests remain key priorities for the Government as talks continue.
