New Phase of Partnership
Preparations for a Surprise
H.E. Christian Ebner Austrian Ambassador to Serbia
By Ljubica Gojgić
The EXPO offers Austria an attractive stage on which to present itself as an innovative, future-oriented location and to further expand our excellent economic relations with the region and beyond. The Austrian participation in EXPO Belgrade is being organised in cooperation with the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs, Energy and Tourism and the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber. With EXPO Osaka having just closed its doors, our team is returning from Japan and will immediately focus on our participation in Belgrade in 2027. Our pavilion is sure to be something very special ~ Christian Ebner
Despite the year being marked by economic challenges, both globally and on the EU market, key figures for the past year when it comes to economic cooperation between Austria and Serbia (such as the number of employees, order situation, total sales and capacity utilisation) remained stable, and no major changes are expected for the coming year – as we are assured by ambassador Christian Ebner. He speaks optimistically in this interview for CorD Magazine, explaining that “since most of our companies depend on exports, the difficult economic conditions at home are generating even more interest in the Serbian market”. Cooperation between the two countries was also marked by talks at the highest level in 2025, including a visit to Belgrade by Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger and subsequently also by Chancellor Christian Stocker.
Your Excellency, this past summer saw Austria and Serbia sign a Joint Declaration on further deepening their economic relations. At that time, Chancellor Christian Stocker stated that the focus would be on telecommunications, wastewater management, infrastructure and logistics. Can we already speak about concrete projects in these areas?
— The signing of the Joint Declaration during the new Austrian Chancellor’s first visit to Belgrade in August this year was motivated by recognition
of our longstanding economic relations and the conviction that, given Serbia’s economic development and its increasing economic convergence with the European Single Market, we can and should do more. In order to put into practice this mutual desire for an enhanced level of economic cooperation between Serbia and Austria, we are planning to strengthen our institutional cooperation between the responsible ministries, as well as the chambers of commerce, togeth-
er with potential Austrian investors and businesses, in order to identify prospective areas of future cooperation. The Chancellor already mentioned a list of areas where we see new opportunities. And I would add that this list should be understood as being open-ended.
Austria has been one of Serbia’s most important economic partners for decades. Given that your country is also facing the challenges of slower GDP growth in 2025, does this impact the operations of Austrian companies in Serbia, as well as the interest of new investors in entering the market?
— Our trade relations are developing well. We have been the third largest investor in Serbia over recent years and remain so today. Serbia continues to be an important market for Austria. Our more than 800 companies provide thousands of jobs in this country and are important partners in various business sectors, such as banking and insurance, construction, telecommunications, logistics, agrobusiness, energy and many more. According to one survey of Austrian companies, most Austrian subsidiaries rated the economic conditions and climate in Serbia as good and stable. Key figures for the past year, such as the number of employees, order situation, total sales and capacity utilisation, have also remained stable and no major changes are expected over the coming year. Since most of
TRADE
Our trade relations are developing well. We have been the third largest investor in Serbia over recent years and remain so today
ACCESSION
It is not Montenegro or Albania that are standing in Serbia’s way of making faster progress in the accession process
MARKET
Our more than 800 companies provide thousands of jobs in this country and are important partners in various business sectors
our companies depend on exports, the difficult economic conditions at home are generating even more interest in the Serbian market.
Austrian Chancellor Stocker has confirmed Austria’s participation at Expo 2027 Belgrade. How will Austria be represented at this specialised exhibition?
— EXPO 2027 in Belgrade – the first world exhibition to be held in the Western Balkan region – can be a strong signal of the dynamism and potential of the entire region. We see excellent prospects here for further deepening our economic cooperation. The EXPO offers Austria an attractive stage on which to present itself as an innovative, future-oriented location and to further expand our excellent economic relations with the region and beyond. Austria’s participation in EXPO Belgrade is being organised in cooperation with the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs,
Although most Austrians oppose new enlargement today, the majority still believe that admitting Slovakia, Czechia, Hungary and Slovenia 20 years ago was a good decision
Energy and Tourism (BMWET) and the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKÖ). With EXPO Osaka having just closed its doors, our team is returning from Japan and will immediately focus on our participation in Belgrade in 2027. Our pavilion is sure to be something very special. Let yourself be surprised!
As ambassador of a country that supports Serbia’s European integration, what do you see as the main reasons for the slowdown in this process, in which Serbia has ced-
ed its position as front-runner to Montenegro and Albania?
— The duration of accession negotiations is determined by the pace of reform and the progress made by each individual candidate country in aligning itself with the EU, and therefore depends on many different factors and circumstances. There is little point in comparing yourself to others if you cannot draw the right conclusions for yourself. It is not Montenegro or Albania that are standing in Serbia’s way of making faster progress in the accession process. Everyone knows what needs to be done. The challenge is to commit to and maintain an environment that promotes a more efficient and inclusive implementation process. If we can agree to this, the pace will surely accelerate on its own.
The European Eurobarometer recently published the results of a survey on EU citizens’ attitudes towards Serbia’s potential accession. It came as a surprise that Austria is among the countries where opposition to Serbia’s membership exceeds 50%. How do you explain this? — Austrians tend to be very sceptical when it comes to surveys in general. As far as further EU enlargement is concerned, the traditionally cautious opinion in Austria has changed little in recent years. Although the majority would not welcome a potential candidate country as a new EU member if asked, 20 years after the EU enlargement that included Slovakia, Czechia, Hungary and Slovenia, the vast majority of Austrians say that the admission of these countries to the EU was a “good decision”. I am therefore very confident that this will also be the case with the accession of the Western Balkan countries.
sme Academy For business beyond boundaries!
Momentum for Stronger Cooperation
Jürgen SCHREDER
The recent declaration signed between Austria and Serbia will bring more joint initiatives and public–private partnerships, closer cooperation, and a stronger framework for investment in energy, infrastructure and digitalisation – confirming and deepening already excellent ties
Austrian Commercial Counsellor, Austrian Trade Commission – Advantage Austria
COOPERATION
In the coming years, Austrian–Serbian cooperation should deepen, particularly in renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure and digital transformation
This year opened strongly for Serbia–Austria trade, which in the first four months of 2025 already exceeded €600 million. Further growth is expected from the same sectors that drove performance earlier in the year – notably mechanical and electrical engineering, the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, and the paper and packaging sector. “These continue to underpin Austria’s export performance,” says Jürgen SCHREDER, Austrian Com -
TRUST
Trust in institutions remains fragile; Serbia can enhance its standing and investor confidence through tangible rule-of-law progress and transparent enforcement
OPTIMISATION
Austrian firms value Serbia’s dual education system and the skills it provides but seek a stronger role in student selection, more practical hours, and clearer incentives
At the same time, Serbia’s expanding industrial base and growing demand for high-quality machinery, technology and intermediate goods continue to fuel imports from Austria. “Over the past few years, Serbian exports – particularly in agriculture, food processing and metal products – have shown a positive trend overall, despite occasional short-term fluctuations,” adds our interlocutor.
According to the WKO Wirtschaftsbericht Serbien 2025, Austria’s strong
ity and supports deeper economic integration between the two countries.
Austria is currently the third-largest foreign investor in Serbia, with growing interest from Austrian companies. Which sectors are likely to attract the most new investment? — Austria is highly regarded in Serbia and has maintained its position as the third-largest foreign investor for several years. Based on current market developments and major ongoing
Osigurajte svoje zaposlene.
as infrastructure and construction sectors, are expected to attract the most significant new investments.
The ICT sector remains one of Serbia’s most dynamic markets – expanding rapidly and actively supported by government policies focused on digitalisation and tax incentives. This creates strong opportunities for Austrian companies, particularly in software development, IT services and business process outsourcing.
Renewable energy and energy efficiency also represent key areas for future cooperation. Serbia has begun a comprehensive review of its energy policy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and align with EU accession requirements. The country has made notable progress in diversifying its energy mix, but the path towards a fully sustainable energy transition remains long – a process that will offer increasing potential for Austrian investors. Infrastructure and construction projects are another major driver, particularly in the context of preparations for Specialised Expo 2027, with planned investments of around €12 billion. Projects in road and rail development, as well as building technology and engineering services, are expected to create attractive opportunities for Austrian firms (WKO Wirtschaftsbericht Serbien 2025).
Recently, Austria and Serbia signed a declaration to strengthen economic relations. In practical terms, what new forms of cooperation can we expect in the coming years?
— The declaration is designed to strengthen economic ties and promote investment in key areas. In the coming years, cooperation is expected to deepen particularly in renewable energy projects, sustainable infrastructure and digital transformation. In practice, this will include more joint initiatives, public–private partnerships and closer institutional cooperation between Austrian and Serbian stakeholders. The declaration therefore establishes a stronger framework for Austrian investment and for col-
laboration between public and private actors in key sectors such as energy, infrastructure and digitalisation.
Surveys show that Austrian companies in Serbia expect stronger revenues and higher employment, yet continue to voice concerns about the rule of law and regulatory predictability. From your perspective, which specific reforms would most immediately improve investor confidence?
— While the government has announced reforms to align with EU standards,
How do Austrian companies assess the effectiveness of dual education so far, and are current measures sufficient to align the skills supply with employer demand?
— Based on surveys conducted among Austrian companies operating in Serbia, as well as through continuous dialogue with them, several important conclusions have been drawn. Austrian companies are generally familiar with the dual education system and recognise the need for professionals with the specific skills that this model can provide. However, they believe there
ongoing protests and public criticism suggest that trust in institutions remains fragile. The most effective way to strengthen Serbia’s position and investor confidence is to demonstrate visible progress in the rule of law and regulatory transparency.
This includes faster judicial and administrative reforms, better alignment with the EU acquis communautaire, and consistent enforcement of regulations. Building stronger, independent institutions and promoting fair and transparent competition would send a clear signal that Serbia is committed to maintaining a stable and predictable investment environment.
is room for improvement – particularly through greater company involvement in student selection, more hours of practical training within firms, and the introduction of additional incentives for active participants in the system. They also stress the importance of introducing the concept of dual education to children and parents from the early years of primary school. Special attention should be given to informing parents, to break down existing prejudices about certain professions and provide a realistic understanding of the opportunities that dual education offers in terms of professional development and future employment prospects.
Business Dialogue
LEADER`S MEETING POINT
EIGHTEEN YEARS OF TRUST
MELANIJA PAVLOVIĆ General Manager, JAF Serbia 10
GLOBAL THINKING, LOCAL RELEVANCE COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CARE VIENNA LEADING EXPERTISE AND PERSONALISED TREATMENT
MILENA AVRAMOVIĆ BJELICA AND TAMARA BEKČIĆ Directors and Co-Founders of Chapter 4 Agency 11
BUILDING ON A CENTURY OF INNOVATION
13 PREMIQAMED 12
MLADEN SAMARDŽIJA Commercial Director, wienerberger Central Balkan
Eighteen Years of Trust
Melanija Pavlović General Manager, JAF Serbia
For nearly two decades, JAF Serbia has grown from a timber distributor into a partner providing complete, quality-driven solutions. At the same time, the company nurtures a culture of equal opportunity – one third of its employees are women, many of them in leadership roles – proving that true leadership is measured by knowledge, results and responsibility
In conversation with Melanija Pavlović, General Manager of JAF Serbia, we discuss growth built on quality, smart digitalisation and know-how that gives clients confidence while raising market standards. We also explore gender equality as a real competitive advantage – from mixed teams that shape decisions together to a system that fosters meritocracy, trust and long-term partnerships.
What key changes would you highlight in JAF Serbia’s development over nearly two decades?
— Over the past 18 years, JAF Serbia has evolved from a materials distributor into a partner offering comprehensive solutions. What began as sales has become a full-service model – from consultancy and technical support to digital tools for architects and furniture makers. This shift from selling products to providing know-how marks our true transformation.
As the market grew more demanding and projects more complex, speed and precision became crucial. That’s why we developed modern processing centres, digital platforms and support services. Our goal is not just to deliver materials but to create value through expertise, reliability and trust.
JAF stands out for its quality, consistency and long-term partnerships. By combining international experience with local knowledge, we’ve positioned ourselves as a leader that doesn’t follow trends but sets them – through innovation, sustainability and superior service.
JAF is a strong example of gender equality in an industry often seen as male-dominated. What makes this approach work?
The JAF Group operates in 15 countries, with over 60 branches and more than 3,000 employees – a network that keeps innovation flowing across markets
— The key is a culture where everyone advances through knowledge and results, regardless of gender. When this becomes part of company values, equality is not imposed but lived naturally.
At JAF we believe diversity brings strength. The combination of women’s analytical and empathetic approach with men’s technical focus and decisiveness produces balance,
innovation and efficiency. Women lead several departments, proving that authority comes from competence, not stereotypes. When employees see that trust and merit shape success, motivation and loyalty grow – and that’s every company’s greatest asset.
What defines the next stage of JAF Serbia’s development?
— Our growth is sustainable and built on quality. After consolidation, we’re entering a phase of smart expansion – investing in technology, digital processes, logistics and expertise.
Our advanced processing centre shows that quality drives growth, as clients seek reliable partners rather than suppliers. With new digital tools, online sales and product configurators, we’re strengthening cooperation with architects, designers and manufacturers.
Quality and innovation remain our main drivers – growth naturally follows.
How does being part of the global JAF Group support innovation?
— Belonging to the global JAF Group is a major advantage – a network of knowledge and innovation working as one. Present in 15 countries, with over 60 branches and 3,000 employees, it allows us to anticipate global trends and apply them locally.
What’s developed today in Austria or the Czech Republic can be implemented in Serbia tomorrow – from new technologies to sustainable materials. Global experience and local expertise make us unique. Thanks to this synergy, JAF Serbia not only keeps pace with trends but often sets them – through innovation, knowledge and lasting trust.
Global Thinking, Local Relevance
Milena
Avramović Bjelica
and Tamara Bekčić Directors and Co-Founders of Chapter 4 Agency
In an era when communication is becoming both global and deeply personalised, PR agencies are evolving into strategic partners of companies and brands. Chapter 4 PR, with experience across many countries of Central and Southeast Europe, highlights the importance of education, innovation and regional cooperation
e spoke with the agency’s directors and co-founders, Milena Avramović Bjelica and Tamara Bekčić, who reveal how they balance global trends with local relevance, develop professional competences, and open new communication perspectives.
Wlocal teams adapt the content and enhance its value. Such a hybrid approach ensures both brand consistency and high campaign relevance.
Chapter 4 often emphasises the importance of education and knowledge-sharing in communications. How do you strengthen professional competences and foster innovation within the PR industry?
MILENA: Education is essential. Internally, we invest in continuous team development through workshops, training and mentoring, as we believe that the quality of communication directly depends on the expertise and curiosity of the people who create it.
TAMARA: Externally, we actively participate in professional conferences and lectures. We strive to share practical insights and encourage professional exchange. This way, we strengthen competences across the industry while building a network that inspires innovation and creativity among peers.
What are currently your most interesting projects or partnerships that open new communication perspectives?
Tamara: I would highlight campaigns that combine local creativity with global quality standards, particularly in the fields of sustainability and ESG, where we are developing innovative communication approaches.
MILENA: Cooperation with regional Chapter 4 agencies and with our global network leader, Burson, allows us to exchange experience and apply best practices. Partnerships with institutions and corporations not only bring new projects but also set benchmarks for professional excellence in PR.
How is the role of agencies such as Chapter 4 changing at a time when market boundaries are fading and communi -
cation is becoming increasingly global, yet also more personalised?
TAMARA: The role of agencies is increasingly shifting towards that of adviser and strategic partner. Globalisation and digitalisation enable ideas to reach audiences worldwide, yet people expect a personalised and relevant approach within their local context. Our strength lies in translating global trends into local reality while maintaining authenticity and emotional resonance.
MILENA: In the regional context, the most effective models of cooperation are those that combine strategy with local implementation. This means that global or regional narratives can provide the framework, while
Given the regional insights you have through Chapter 4, how do you assess the potential of the regional market for further growth?
MILENA: The region holds enormous potential – the markets are small enough to allow fast innovation, yet diverse enough to stimulate creativity.
TAMARA: Connectivity and knowledge exchange are key. When agencies and clients within the creative industries work in synergy, the result is not only more successful communication but also a stronger reputation for the entire region as a place where innovative and effective campaigns are created.
Comprehensive Cancer Care Vienna Leading Expertise and Personalised Treatment
Austria ranks among the world’s leaders in cancer treatment and research, offering patients access to the latest therapies, top specialists and state-of-the-art medical technology
Cancer Treatment in Austria
Cancer research has long held a prominent place in Austria’s medical tradition. The country is among the global leaders in cancer care – ranking in the world’s top five for survival rates. This success stems from the availability of advanced therapies and modern medications, as well as the excellent hospital infrastructure and high medical standards.
Comprehensive Cancer Care Vienna
The Cancer Centre of the Mavie Med Private Hospitals in Vienna brings together a network of leading specialists and institutes providing cancer treatment at the highest academic level. Most of the experts have international experience and are involved in pioneering scientific studies, enabling new research findings to be rapidly translated into clinical practice.
Our mission is to ensure that patients diagnosed with cancer have fast access to multidisciplinary teams of leading oncologists. We aim to provide each patient with a clear understanding of their condition and the most suitable treatment options.
The term comprehensive reflects a truly multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. The Centre serves as a central hub for all patient needs, offering a full spectrum of services –from screening and prevention to diagnosis, second opinions, treatment and management of related conditions.
Tailor-Made Cancer Treatment
Modern treatment success depends on close cooperation across medical disciplines, in-
cluding oncology, radiology, surgery, pathology and radiation oncology, working together through regular multidisciplinary “tumour board” meetings.
In recent years, medical therapy has expanded significantly: innovative immunotherapies and targeted medicines are now available that act precisely on tumour cell structures responsible for growth. Chemotherapy remains an important treatment method, but modern drugs are now far better tolerated.
Advanced Surgical Techniques
Minimally invasive and function-preserving procedures have become increasingly common, reducing physical stress and recovery time for patients. The Centre also operates the da Vinci Xi surgical robot – the most advanced robotic system currently available.
Second Opinion
The Centre provides patients with the opportunity to have their diagnosis reviewed, including a second histopathological examination and precise tumour classification. All results are assessed and treatment recommendations are made by a recognised multidisciplinary team.
Prevention and Early Detection
When detected early, most cancers can be cured. A healthy lifestyle alone cannot always prevent the development of cancer, which is why preventive screenings are so essential. Early detection of precancerous lesions or initial cancer stages allows for timely and effective treatment.
More and More Patients Can Be Cured
New advances in diagnostics and therapy have dramatically improved recovery prospects for cancer patients compared with a decade ago. A growing number of patients benefit from individually tailored and highly effective treatments.
In many cases where complete remission cannot be achieved, cancer can increasingly be managed as a chronic condition that allows a good quality of life – provided that continuous medical care and follow-up are ensured.
www.premiqamed.com/en/cancer-center
Building on a Century of Innovation
Mladen Samardžija Commercial Director, wienerberger Central Balkan
By uniting its long-established brands under one name, wienerberger is strengthening its position in Serbia and across the region. The company’s focus on innovation, sustainability and responsible growth continues to set new benchmarks for the construction industry
In this interview for CorD Magazine, Mladen Samardžija, Commercial Director of wienerberger Central Balkan, discusses the company’s transformation into a unified global brand, its sustainable business strategy, and the balance between tradition, innovation, and community engagement.
From September 2024, wienerberger became the umbrella brand for all company products. What does this transformation mean for the Serbian and regional markets?
— wienerberger is a global leader in the production of clay-based building materials and one of the most recognised names in the global construction industry. We entered the Serbian market through the acquisition of Tondach, the owner of the Potisje Kanjiža factory with a tradition exceeding 100 years. By integrating brands such as Tondach, Porotherm, Semmelrock, Pipelife, Vargon and Teca under the wienerberger name, we aim to strengthen recognition and clearly communicate the values that define us –trust, respect, creativity and passion.
The Kanjiža factory has been part of Serbia’s industrial tradition for more than a century. How do you combine heritage with innovation, and how important is the local community to wienerberger’s story?
— The Kanjiža factory is one of the most modern facilities in the construction sector, while maintaining a strong link to its heritage. We are strongly committed to the local
community and always ready to offer support. Following last year’s natural disaster, we promptly donated building materials to help restore damaged homes.
Sustainability is one of wienerberger’s strategic pillars. What are your key initiatives in Serbia and the region?
— Sustainability is at the heart of wienerberger’s global strategy. We take responsibility towards both people and the planet through an active contribution to a healthy ecosystem and consistent implementation of ESG principles. Our priorities include decarbonisation, circular economy and biodiversity protection. As the holder of the ECO Vadis Platinum medal, we are among the top one per cent of the world’s most sustainable companies.
wienerberger is also known for innovation. Which new products and trends stand out on the local market?
— Smart solutions, design innovation and energy efficiency are key drivers of the modern construction industry. Our most recent major investment was the acquisition of Terreal, a leading manufacturer of advanced roofing systems that integrate solar panels on pitched roofs.
Working closely with architects and design teams, we’ve launched new products such as large-format roof tiles and darker shades that ensure durability and weather resistance.
How would you assess the development of Southeast Europe’s construction market, and what are wienerberger’s future plans?
— Responding to the strong growth of Serbia’s construction market, wienerberger continuously modernises production and expands its range. Three years ago, we invested over €10 million in a new large-format roof tiles production line. Around 50 per cent of our production is exported to regional markets, confirming both quality and strategic direction.
wienerberger promotes architecture and building culture through the global Brick Award. What message do you wish to send to architects in Serbia?
— The Brick Award is held every two years and celebrates innovative projects using brick and clay materials. Projects do not have to use wienerberger products – our aim is to promote traditional materials that have no real substitute. The next Brick Award cycle is open, and we invite architects from Serbia to participate. The winners will be announced in 2026.
Stone Crown Above the City
Perched high above Salzburg’s baroque skyline, Hohensalzburg Fortress has watched over the city for more than 900 years. Once the stronghold of prince-archbishops and a symbol of political and military power, it remains one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Europe – a landmark where architecture, history and culture intertwine
Hohensalzburg Fortress is not only the city’s most recognisable silhouette, but also one of the largest fully preserved castles in Central Europe. Built in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard of Salzburg dur-
ing a period of conflict between the papacy and the Holy Roman Emperor, it served as a strategic defensive post meant to protect the church’s authority and secure control over vital Alpine trade routes. Over the centu-
ries, it evolved from a simple stone fortress into a monumental military complex, expanding with towers, courtyards, defensive walls, storerooms, a chapel and even lavish residential spaces.
Despite its imposing size and weaponry, the fortress famously never fell to enemy forces. It was besieged only once – during the German Peasants’ War in 1525 – but the rebels failed to take it. The prince-archbishops continued to strengthen and modernise the structure, preparing for battles that ultimately never came. Ironically, its greatest power was psychological: a reminder of Salzburg’s wealth, independence and influence.
One of the fortress’s most unique features is the magnificent Prince’s Chambers, created in the late 15th century under Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach. Richly decorated with carved wood, gilded ornaments and late-Gothic details, these private rooms are considered among the best-preserved secular Gothic interiors in Europe. The Golden Hall, with its decorative ceiling and elegant columns, reflects the sophisticated lifestyle and political prestige of Salzburg’s spiritual rulers.
Today, Hohensalzburg offers a different kind of experience: a journey through history with panoramic views. Visitors can walk through medieval courtyards, climb defensive towers and explore museums that tell the story of the city, its rulers and its strategic role in European history. The Marionette Museum and militaristic exhibitions show Salzburg’s cultural and military heritage from unusual angles, while the fortress’s 360-degree views over the city, the Salzach River and snow-capped Alps remain one of the most memorable images for every traveller.
A favourite moment for many visitors is arriving by the historic funicular, which has been carrying passengers up the hill since 1892. Others prefer to climb on foot through narrow medieval streets and forest paths, just as guards, merchants and archbishops once did. Whether by cable car or cobblestone, every route ends in the same reward – a fortress that feels both ancient and alive.
Hohensalzburg is more than an architectural monument. It is a reminder of how art, power and faith shaped Salzburg. From military bastion to cultural stage – the fortress is
One of Europe’s few fortresses that never fell to an enemy army, Hohensalzburg remains a symbol of Salzburg’s strength and independence
today a venue for concerts, festivals and classical music performances, especially during the world-renowned Salzburg Festival. Music now fills halls once built for defence, turning walls of stone into theatres of harmony.
Surrounded by history and framed by Alpine peaks, Hohensalzburg Fortress continues to define Salzburg’s identity. It stands as a testament to resilience, beauty and the way Europe’s medieval past still breathes within its most enduring monuments.
AUSTRIA–SERBIA BUSINESS TIES
EIB Plans €22 Million Loan to Erste Bank Serbia
“Partnerships thrive where trust and persistence meet”
Alexander Schallenberg
The European Investment Bank is preparing a €22 million loan to Erste Bank Serbia, part of Austria’s Erste Group, to boost SME financing and green transition projects. The facility will expand access to affordable credit for small businesses.
A1 Telekom Austria Invests €300 Million in Serbia
A1 Telekom Austria Group announced plans to invest up to €300 million in its Serbian subsidiary A1 Srbija to accelerate network upgrades and digital-service expansion. The investment reinforces Austria’s role as a long-term telecom player in the region.
Austria Among Serbia’s Key Trade Partners
According to Serbia’s Government Data Office, Austria remains one of the country’s largest foreign trade partners, with robust exchange in energy, manufacturing, and services. The partnership continues to anchor Austria among Serbia’s top five investors.
