German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is set to visit Serbia to discuss a strategic partnership on sustainable raw materials, battery supply chains, and electric vehicles, emphasizing the importance of securing lithium for European carmakers amid reduced dependence on Chinese imports. The visit follows Serbia's approval of a controversial $2.4 billion lithium mining project by Rio Tinto, potentially fulfilling a significant portion of Europe's lithium demand but facing criticism for environmental hazards and protests. The discussions aim to sign a memorandum of understanding between the EU and Serbia on sustainable raw materials, with a focus on high environmental and sustainability standards, highlighting the complexities of balancing resource development with environmental concerns and strategic partnerships.