Fresh upgrade for wastewater treatment in Palilula

A €36 million contribution provided by the EU under the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) will support the construction of a sewerage network in the Belgrade municipality of Palilula. 

The project will improve sanitation for around 86,000 residents and protect public health. 

The financing agreement for the investment, which totals over €84 million and includes a loan from the European Investment Bank, was signed on 3 November 2025.

“Clean water, healthy communities, and a greener future - this project brings much-needed infrastructure to a community that currently lacks a sewer network and wastewater treatment. It’s a win for Belgrade and for the Sava and Danube, two of Europe’s most important waterways that flow through Europe’s heart.”, said Plamena Halacheva, Deputy Head of EU Delegation to Serbia.

Minister for European Integration Nemanja Starović stated that the agreement is a significant contribution to the joint efforts of the Government of the Republic of Serbia and the EU in achieving European standards.

“Treated wastewater will be discharged into the Danube, significantly improving environmental conditions and public health for all residents of that part of Belgrade. During the construction of the facility and once it becomes operational, more than 200 jobs will be created,” said Radenović Bojić, State Secretary at the Ministry of European Integration. 

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About WBIF and Global Gateway

The Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) contributes directly to Global Gateway, the EU’s strategy to boost smart, clean and secure connections in digital, energy and transport, while strengthening health, education and research systems worldwide. Global Gateway aims to mobilise up to €300 billion worldwide in investments through a Team Europe approach, bringing together the EU, its Member States and financial institutions to leverage investments for a transformational impact.