The 3rd meeting of the Hungarian-Serbian Water protection Sub-committee was held between 7 and 9 October 2025, in Hungary, in Szeged. The sampling and analyses necessary for the work of the Hungarian-Serbian Water Quality Protection Sub-committee continue to be carried out by the environmental laboratories of the competent government agencies on the watercourses forming or crossing the Hungarian-Serbian border, in accordance with the operating regulations.
On the sub-committee meeting, the joint studies prepared in 2024 were reviewed, and the experts evaluated the results of these studies. Based on the results, changes in water quality were reviewed and analysed for the monitored watercourses.
The results of the radiological studies of the Danube River were also evaluated at the meeting. The Hungarian Party informed the members of the Serbian delegation about the 2024 operating data of “MVM Paks” Nuclear Power Plant Ltd., and the experts then agreed on and approved the program of the joint meetings and examinations for 2026.
The Parties participated independently from each other in comparative measurements between national and international laboratories. Experts rated the participation of “Qualco Danube” laboratories in international comparative tests as excellent or good. Both Parties' laboratories achieved excellent results in the proficiency test organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Based on the provisions adopted at the first session of the Commission (Hévíz, 29-31 March, 2022), the Sub-committee reviewed the recent legislation of the Parties' countries and found that no regulations appear within the competence of the Sub-committee had been adopted.
Based on the minutes of the first session of the Hungarian-Serbian Water Commission, the Parties reviewed and finalized the Rules of Operational Procedure of the Water Quality Protection Sub-committee. Following substantive consultations, the Parties reached a consensus, on the basis of which the Rules of Procedure can be submitted to the Commission for approval.
The Hungarian Party provided information on the measures taken in relation to the Hungarian-Serbian relationship in connection with the extraordinary event that occurred at the salt mine in Parajd, Romania.
The Parties' experts concluded that there are currently no joint projects in progress that are related to the activities of the Sub-committee.
Seven expert delegates participated in the meeting on behalf of the Hungarian side, while the Serbian delegation consisted of five members. Following successful negotiations, the meeting concluded on October 9, 2025, with the signing of the final protocol by the presidents.
Mr. Jenő Lábdy, Hungarian-Serbian Deputy Government Commissioner, participated in the meeting on behalf of the General Directorate of Water Management of Hungary.
Text: Jenő Lábdy, Head of International Department, OVF
Photo: Lower Danube valley Water Directorate