EU's principles collide with pragmatism over Bosnian gas pipeline

A US-backed gas pipeline project aimed at reducing Bosnia and Herzegovina’s dependence on Russian energy is raising fresh concerns in European Union circles, potentially complicating the country’s path toward membership.

The Southern Interconnection pipeline will link Bosnia to a liquefied natural gas terminal on Croatia’s Krk island, offering an alternative to Russian gas supplies. The diversification effort aligns with EU priorities, particularly in the wake of efforts to curb reliance on Russian energy resources, as highlighted by Al Jazeera.

Bosnian Prime Minister Borjana Krišto described this week’s agreement on the construction of the project as a “major step forward” that will boost energy security and diversify supply sources.

However, the financing structure behind the project has triggered unease in Brussels.

In March, Bosnian lawmakers approved legislation effectively designating a specific US firm—AAFS Infrastructure and Energy—as the project’s investor. The company was only established in late 2025 and reportedly lacks a track record in pipeline construction.

EU Ambassador Luigi Soreca urged Bosnian authorities to “carefully consider the obligations” under the Energy Community Treaty when shaping energy legislation. He stressed that aligning with European Commission recommendations is “crucial” for maintaining momentum toward EU accession.

While Brussels supports efforts to reduce reliance on Russian energy, it insists such projects adhere to transparent procedures and public procurement rules. The Bosnian case underscores how these interests can sometimes clash in practice, demanding an evaluation of where the bloc's priorities lie.

The controversy highlights broader challenges facing Bosnia’s EU ambitions, which have been slowed by political divisions and reform delays. The country applied for membership in 2016 and was granted candidate status in 2022.

Critics have also raised questions about the US company’s alleged ties to figures linked to Donald Trump, adding a political dimension to the debate.

The pipeline, estimated to cost around $1.5 billion, would be accompanied by new gas-fired power plants intended to reduce the country’s reliance on coal.

By Nazrin Sadigova