CorD Magazine, March 2019 issue, no. 173

H.E. ALONA FISHER KAMM

TIBOR NAVRACSICS

DUŠAN IVKOVIĆ

Use Education To Combat Anti-Semitism

We Support Serbian Reforms

It’s A Privilege To Live With What You Love

One of the world’s most successful basketball coaches

MARCH 2019/ ISSUE NO. 173

www.cordmagazine.com

Ambassador of Israel to Serbia

European Commissioner for Education, Culture, Youth and Sport

interviews opinions news comments events FOCUS

Where Do We Stand In The EU Accession Process?

EUROPEAN TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORK OPERATORS’ ASSOCIATION

The State Of Digital Communications in 2019

Exclusive

BORUT PAHOR

783002 771451 9

Mutual Interests Stronger Than Differences

ISSN1451-7833

PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SLOVENIA

CHAMPIONS OF HUMANITARIANISM Sunday 14th April 2019

The 32nd Belgrade Marathon

Become A Master Of Charity!

For 13 consecutive years, CorD magazine has organised its humanitarian run CorD Charity Masters, under the auspices of the Belgrade Marathon, member of “ World Marathon Majors“in which it is more important to be a humanitarian than a winner!

This year’s CorD Charity Masters run will be held alongside the 32nd Belgrade Marathon, on 14 April 2019.

We invite you to join us and run (or walk, if you prefer!) at least five kilometres to raise money for a charitable organisation of your choice.

During the past 13 years, participants in the CorD Charity Masters run have collected in excess of €148,000, which was donated to more than 57 different institutions and individuals who badly needed these funds

FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS: • Where do I register to participate in the CorD CHARITY MASTERS run?

Sign up via the email charitymasters@cordmagazine.com.

The deadline for registrations expires on 8th April.

• How do I raise money?

Every participant should secure a sponsor who will donate at least 400 dinars for every kilometre run during the race. The

most common sponsors are the companies whose employees participate by running, walking or strolling to raise money that they will donate to the cause of their choosing, either via CorD or by themselves.

• Will participants in the CorD Charity Masters run together with other participants of the Belgrade Marathon?

Yes, members of the CorD CHARITY MASTERS will start the race at the same time as other participants in the Belgrade Marathon.

• Where does the CorD Charity Masters run start?

As usually, we will gather from 8.30 to 9.30 latest on 14th April, on the outskirt of the Pioneer Park (corner of Kneza Miloša Street and Kralja Aleksandra Boulevard).

MORE INFO» cordmagazine.com

CONTENTS

COMMENT

CRAIG TURP

NORTH MACEDONIA HAS A NAME. WHAT’S NEXT? Now that one of the silliest international disputes of recent decades has been resolved, Greece will no longer veto Macedonia’s (now officially North Macedonia) membership of international organisations. But while NATO membership could happen relatively quickly, nobody should expect EU membership anytime soon

10 MUTUAL INTERESTS STRONGER THAN DIFFERENCES

BORUT PAHOR President of the Republic of Slovenia

28 WHERE DO WE STAND IN THE EU ACCESSION PROCESS? SERBIA AND THE UE Focus

33 MIKTA: COOPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT JULIÁN VENTURA Deputy Secretary of Foreign Affairs of Mexico

TO BE HAPPY?

MARIJA DESIVOJEVIĆ CVETKOVIĆ Senior Vice-President of Delta Holding

52 LIGHT ART: THE BEAUTY OF ILLUMINATION ART/EXHIBITIONS

56 FACES & PLACES 59 IT’S A PRIVILEGE TO LIVE WITH WHAT YOU LOVE DUŠAN IVKOVIĆ One of the World’s Most Successful Basketball Coaches

16 USE EDUCATION TO COMBAT ANTI-SEMITISM H.E. ALONA FISHER KAMM Ambassador of Israel to Serbia

34 HOW SOCIAL MEDIA CHANGED DIPLOMACY FEATURE

20 GLOBAL DIARY @CORD_MAGAZINE

@CORDMAGAZINE

CORD MAGAZINE

EDITOR IN CHIEF: Miroslava Nešić-Bikić m.bikic@aim.rs DESIGNER: Jasmina Laković j.lakovic@aim.rs CONTRIBUTORS: Rob Dugdale, Maja Vukadinović,

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22 A PATENT AS A LIFE’S WORK

ALEKSANDAR KAVČIĆ, PH.D. Scientist and Professor at Carnegie Mellon University

Mirjana Jovanović, Miša Brkić, Ljubica Gojgić Radmila Stanković, Steve MacKenzie, Zorica Todorović Mirković, Sonja Ćirić, Miloš Belčević EDITORIAL MANAGER: Neda Lukić n.lukic@aim.rs PHOTOS: Zoran Petrović COPY EDITOR: Mark Pullen

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35 BUSINESS DIALOGUE

64 CHILL OUT

48 TURNING WEAKNESSINTO STRENGTH

66 SCARVES - THE NEW POWER ACCESSORY

MICHAEL JORDAN Enterpreneur

51 WHAT DOES IT MEAN OFFICE MANAGER: Svetlana Petrović s.petrovic@aim.rs

DIRECTOR: Ana Novčić a.novcic@aim.rs a.novcic@cordmagazine.com

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68 CULTURE CALENDAR 70 AFTER WORK Phone: +(381 11) 2450 508 Fax: +(381 11) 2450 122 E-mail: office@aim.rs office@cordmagazine.com www.cordmagazine.com www.aim.rs ISSN no: 1451-7833 All rights reserved alliance international media 2019

The views expressed in this publication are those of the presenter; they do not necessary reflect the view of publications published by alliance international media

Comment

By Craig Turp

North Macedonia Has A Name. What’s Next?

Now that one of the silliest international disputes of recent decades has been resolved, Greece will no longer veto Macedonia’s (now officially North Macedonia) membership of international organisations. But while NATO membership could happen relatively quickly, nobody should expect EU membership anytime soon

N

ATO, when it wants to, can act very quickly. Less than a week after the Greek parliament voted to sign off on the deal that will see the Republic of Macedonia officially become the Republic of North Macedonia, NATO approved the newly-renamed country’s accession protocol. Once the protocol is signed by NATO’s existing 29 members, North Macedonia will be able to take part in the organisation’s activities as an invitee. Full membership should be possible by the end of 2020.

The markets have reacted positively. North Macedonia’s 2025 sovereign bond hit a one-year high as NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed the final confirmation of the so-called Prespa Agreement as “an important contribution to the stability and prosperity of the whole region.”

The name Republic of Macedonia was adopted immediately after the country declared independence from the former Yugoslavia in 1991. It had been recognised as such by more than 130 countries, but not by the United Nations, NATO or the European Union, in all three cases because of the objections of Greece, which claimed that the term ‘Macedonia’ usurped its own ancient heritage and implied territorial ambitions on its northern province of the same name, the birthplace of Alexander the Great.

The 27-year-long dispute was finally resolved in June 2018 when, after months of often delicate negotiations, Macedonian Prime Minister Zoran Zaev and his Greek counterpart Alexis Tsipras signed an agreement in the town of Prespa, which sits on the border between the two countries.

While there was broad popular support in Macedonia for the Prespa deal, not everyone was happy.The opponents of the agreement were led by the country’s president, Gjorge Ivanov, who went so far as to call for

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a boycott of a referendum on the deal from the pulpit of the UN General Assembly in New York, claiming that it was “a flagrant violation of sovereignty.”

Mr Ivanov’s calls for a boycott and Russia’s interference in the referendum did not, ultimately, matter. While turnout was low – below the threshold that would have made its result binding – Mr Zaev was over the following months able to push the name change through a fractured parliament despite the opposition of nationalist parties and the president.

The biggest question now, however, is at what cost did he do so? Mr Zaev was forced to make a number

The 27-year-long dispute was finally resolved in June 2018 when, after months of often delicate negotiations, Macedonian Prime Minister Zoran Zaev and his Greek counterpart Alexis Tsipras signed an agreement in the town of Prespa of concessions to opposition MPs, some of which could place new obstacles on North Macedonia’s path towards the EU, freshly cleared of a Greek veto.

“North Macedonia’s EU accession will take far longer than NATO membership,” Maximilien Lamberston, a leading analyst at the Economist Intelligence Unit, told Emerging Europe. “While Greece will remove its veto on opening accession talks, there is still a risk that the European Commission does not recommend opening talks with North Macedonia in June this year. This could either be due to anti-enlargement sentiment deepened by eurosceptic parties performing well

in the May European parliamentary elections or due to concerns that North Macedonia has made insufficient progress on improving the rule of law.

Paradoxically, the political bargaining involved in passing the constitutional amendments to change Macedonia’s name (which it did to unlock EU accession), included granting amnesty to opposition MPs facing trial, which critics say undermined the rule of law and judicial independence, key requirements for EU membership. However, it would be a blow to Zoran Zaev if the EU were to demand more reforms before even opening negotiations, given the political capital Mr Zaev spent in changing his country’s name.”

There are also concerns that Russia, whose opposition to Macedonia’s NATO membership remains, may make one final attempt to throw North Macedonia’s plans off course by using its UN Security Council veto to torpedo the new name.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov implied that it would do just that shortly after the referendum last year, when he stated that the new name would have to be reviewed by the Security Council under Resolution 845. It has yet to comment on the Greek vote, but as the American analyst Janusz Bugajski has noted, “Moscow sees its stronghold in Macedonia in [the context of ] its fight against the EU and NATO” and wants to turn it into “another Republika Srpska entity” – the autonomous, pro-Russian region of Bosnia-Herzegovina.

For all Russia’s anger at the deal – indeed, perhaps because of Russia’s anger – Prespa needs to be viewed as a major win for the West. Not that it will not have time to congratulate itself. North Macedonia needs more than just vague promises from its allies over the next few months.

The author is the editor-in-chief of Emerging Europe.

Interview Exclusive BORUT PAHOR

PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SLOVENIA

In this exclusive interview for CorD magazine, Slovenian President Borut Pahor mentions a mini anniversary for him as a statesman – the tenth anniversary of his first visit to Serbia, which he made as the then prime minister of Slovenia. The decade since then has been marked by the strengthening of bilateral relations, says Pahor, who is convinced that friendship between Serbia and Slovenia can again be mentioned, despite conflicting views on some issues, primarily the status of Kosovo. Despite having stated openly in his address to MPs of the National Assembly of Serbia that the upcoming challenges facing the EU serve to remove enlargement from the list of priorities, the Slovenian President reiterates that EU enlargement is in the interests of both Serbia and the EU itself. Mr President, how would you assess the success of your recent visit to Belgrade?

Ten years ago, in 2009, I was the first Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia to of-

Mutual Interests

Stronger Than Differences Slovenia and Serbia are committed to regulating all bilateral and multilateral issues of the countries of Southeast Europe. Our views of certain issues are different, but they are not so irreconcilable that they would hinder the development of excellent political and economic relations 10

March

By Ljubica Gojgić

SECURITY

The security policies of our two countries differ, but we respect our difference and make every effort to ensure that doesn’t hinder the utilising of all other flexible opportunities

ficially visit Serbia, following years of poor relations between the two countries. I was received by then Prime Minister Mirko Cvetković and President Boris Tadić. The visit and discussions opened a new chapter in relations between our two countries. These relations used to be, and are still, marked by different views on the issue of Kosovo. However, since then, all challenges have been confronted in favour of mutual interests and benefits.

Five years ago, in 2014, I was the first President of the Republic of Slovenia to officially visit Serbia. My host that time was then President Tomislav Nikolić, while I was also received by the then Prime Minister and now President of the Republic of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić.

Wide-ranging cooperation between the two nations and countries was in full swing. At that time, Slovenia was also selflessly helping Serbia in the face of severe floods. This was an illustration of the sincere friendship between the two nations, i.e. between Slovenians and Serbs, and between the two countries, i.e. between the Republic of Slovenia and the Republic of Serbia.

During the last ten years there have, of course, been many visits by prime ministers and presidents to Slovenia. However, a particularly fond memory of mine is of the visit of President Nikolić, with whom I unveiled a bench of friendship between Serbia and Slovenia in Tivoli Park and a statue of Mihajlo Pupin in Bled.

President Vučić and I were last month honorary patrons of a ceremonial evening prayer in the Orthodox Church in Maribor and a ceremony at the Slovene National Theatre on the occasion of the 800th anniversary of the independence of the Serbian Orthodox Church and the 600th anniversary of the birth of Katarina Branković, Countess of Celje and the first Orthodox believer in Slovenia.

AGREEMENTS

Slovenia supports the efforts of Belgrade and Priština to conclude agreements governing their relations. The concluded agreements must be respected by both parties

Slovenia and Serbia have not only settled open bilateral issues during this period, but also enhanced economic cooperation and cultural exchanges, as well as intensifying friendliness and warmth at the personal level. President Vučić and I agreed that this recent visit would

SUPERPOWERS

Slovenia wishes to have good and orderly relations with the Russian Federation and China, as two important superpowers that are not its direct political or military allies

also provide a new impetus to strengthening relations in all areas. Slovenians and Serbs respect and are fond of one another. Slovenia and Serbia are friendly countries. They have been developing in-depth versatile relations and they also mutually help and support each other.

PAHOR AND SERBIAN PRESIDENT VUČIĆ

Slovenians and Serbs respect and are fond of one another. Slovenia and Serbia are friendly countries. They have been developing in-depth versatile relations and they also mutually help and support each other

Whilst addressing the MPs of the Serbian National Assembly, you stated that “the Slovenian-Serbian friendship” is alive.

Today, almost three decades after the collapse of the country we shared, in what is that friendship reflected?

During this time, trust and friendship have developed to the point at which we are cooperating at the level of presidents, within the Brdo–Brijuni Process, and at the level of prime ministers within the Berlin Process, which represents the economic framework of the Brdo–Brijuni Process and includes some of Europe’s most important countries.

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Interview Exclusive The Brdo–Brijuni Process is informal but regular, and it has established a dialogue at the highest level between representatives of the region’s countries. It has progressed over the course of almost a decade through various stages and proved to be a powerful lever for maintaining and regulating our relations.

I would like to thank Serbia and its President for participating in this process.

Do you share the opinion that the rule of law, democracy and respect for the rights of citizens are equally important criteria for Serbia’s accession to the EU as the resolving of the dispute with Priština?

The rule of law is, of course, one of the most important issues in EU accession negotiations. At the same time, it is also extremely important for the country that ’s set to

certainty and, last but not least, no progress.

Slovenia supports the efforts of Belgrade and Priština to conclude agreements governing their relations. The concluded agreements must be respected by both parties.

Regarding certain ideas to resolve the most sensitive bilateral issues, I would like to point out the basic prerequisite: negotiations should be conducted peacefully, with no threats or use of force, and should result in a peaceful enforcement of the agreement, with no collateral security implications for the region. Speaking in Priština last year, you promised to engage in convincing the five remaining EU member states to recognise the independence of Kosovo, provided that Priština fulfils the conditions of the Brussels Agreement. Today, when import duties are being applied to goods coming from Serbia, would you give up such an offer to Priština?

Our countries see the European Union as an area of reconciliation, peace, safety and prosperity. The security policies of our two countries differ, but we respect our difference and make every effort to ensure that doesn’t hinder the utilising of all other flexible opportunities.

Slovenia and Serbia are both committed to regulating all bilateral and multilateral issues of the countries of Southeast Europe.

Our views differ on certain issues, but they are not so irreconcilable that they would hinder the development of excellent political and economic relations. Opposition MPs weren’t present for your address, but they informed you of the reasons for their boycott of the session prior to its start. Did you understand their issues and how did you interpret that act?

I respect and accept their decision.

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The rule of law is, of course, one of the most important issues in EU accession negotiations. At the same time, it is also extremely important for the country that’s set to become a new member state. Without the rule of law there can be no justice, no legal certainty and, last but not least, no progress become a new member state. Without the rule of law there can be no justice, no legal

Slovenia supports efforts to normalise relations between Belgrade and Priština, and understands that this is a highly sensitive and challenging internal political issue in Serbia.

The issue of recognising Kosovo’s independence is also one of the few issues where Slovenia and Serbia’s views diverge. I would like to add at this point that friendly relations between the two countries allow us to discuss issues on which our views differ openly, including the issue of recognising Kosovo’s independence.

Let me reiterate our support for the Belgrade–Priština dialogue and stress the importance of implementing arrangements made to date and finding a comprehensive solution. Slovenia supports peaceful negotiations, without threats or the use of force, that must result in the peaceful implementation of agreements without any collateral security implications for the region. Mr President, do you not find it somewhat unusual for Slovenia to call for Belgrade and Priština to resolve their dispute as soon as possible given that Slovenia led a decades-long dispute with Croatia over the Gulf of Piran? Slovenia then demonstrated the great importance of national territorial claims, did it not?

With a view to a peaceful resolution of the border dispute, the Republic of Slovenia and the

By Ljubica Gojgić

Republic of Croatia concluded the Arbitration Agreement and mandated the Arbitral Tribunal to determine the course of the boundary.

The dispute on this issue was resolved by the Final Award of the Arbitral Tribunal, which determined the boundary between Slovenia and Croatia.

Croatia rejected the Award, but this does not alter the fact that the dispute has been resolved.

Due to the Croatian rejection of the Award, the only outstanding issue is its enforcement.

I am convinced that, sooner or later, the border between the two neighbouring countries will be established in line with the award of the Arbitral Tribunal.

The Arbitral Tribunal decided on the basis of the bilateral agreement concluded by the two governments, facilitated by the EU and ratified by the two parliaments; in Slovenia it was also decided on by the people, in a referendum.

Thus, as neighbouring countries, Slovenia and Croatia have finally settled their border dispute in a peaceful and binding manner. It is now their task to enforce it peacefully.

Slovenia supports Serbia on its path to the European Union. Regardless of my assessment that enlargement dynamics will slow down, Slovenia will always actively highlight their significance. I wish Serbia the greatest success on this path. I know from the experiences of Slovenia that much depends on national social consensus when it comes to how quickly and successfully

Have you responded to the Socialist Party of Slovenia, which invited yourself and then PM Cerar to consider overturning the country’s recognition of Kosovo’s independence, reminding you of the continuing validity of UN Security Council Resolution 1244?

Slovenia has recognised Kosovo. Kosovo has also been recognised by most countries, both EU and UN member states. Resolving relations with Priština is one of the key conditions for the continuation of Serbia’s EU integration. Addressing the MPs of the Serbian National Assembly, you didn’t seem overly optimistic regarding the speed of Serbia’s continuing European integration – not due to Kosovo, but rather as a result of the internal situation within the EU?

Ever since the two countries started settling bilateral relations, Slovenia has actively advocated and promoted Serbia’s alignment with, and accession to, the European Union. It has always been our opinion that Serbia’s accession to the European Union is in the mutual interests of Brussels and Belgrade, and that it would contribute significantly to political and economic stability in this part of Europe.

public that this must be done, although this is not immediately reflected in the speed of negotiations. Will Slovenia this year commemorate the anniversary of 15 years since acceding to the EU?

Slovenia will definitely mark the 15th anniversary of its accession to the EU, in May this year.

PAHOR AND FORMER SERBIAN PRESIDENT NIKOLIĆ

The recent signing of the Treaty of Aachen by Germany and France, which I understand as a follow-up to the famous Élysée Treaty, fills me with great hope and confidence.

The signing of this treaty is one of the few bright signs of the revival of the European idea for future needs national legislation adapts to the Community Acquis and how difficult it is to convince the

Considering all the changes experienced within the EU since Slovenia became a member, and even more the current challenges – from Brexit to the strengthening of anti-EU sentiment in some member states – do you still believe that the community will survive?

In the current less predictable global situation, which has also become more complex in terms of security, Slovenia would certainly like to see a European Union that works more closely together and has more influence on the global stage.

Slovenia considers such a European Union to be of crucial importance. I therefore reiterate our commitment to all ideas that would give fresh impetus to European integration. This integration is presently at a standstill, which raises concerns. However, we wish to remain active in this regard. We have been taking initiatives, at governmental and non-governmental levels, to

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Interview Exclusive breathe new life into the European idea.

The recent signing of the Treaty of Aachen

by Germany and France, which I understand as a follow-up to the famous Élysée Treaty, fills me with great hope and confidence. The signing of this treaty is one of the few bright signs of the revival of the European idea for future needs.

I am hopeful that, following the orderly withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union, EU member states will have more time and political will to focus on securing a more successful and efficient common future.

I personally believe that, provided European politicians listen to reason and summon the courage to commit themselves to new ideas regarding closer cooperation, most Europeans will embrace the future with gratitude.

In recent years, trade in goods has slightly exceeded a value of a billion euros and has been increasing. In 2017, the value of the goods exchange reached its highest in the last 11 years, amounting to 1.34 billion euros.

And, notwithstanding the growth trend, ample business opportunities remain to boost economic cooperation, notably in the areas of environmental protection, digitalisation, transport and energy infrastructure, energy efficiency and renewable energy.

You advocate within the European Union for better relations with Russia. What specifically did you want to say to Serbian MPs when you spoke about relations between Serbia and Russia and drew attention to the necessity of “well organised relations with Brussels”?

In my opinion, Slovenia is now better prepared for a possible financial or economic crisis than it was ten years ago.

The effects of unfettered privatisation, a high share of state ownership, poor corporate governance, a weak legal framework for action against the abuse of all types of power, and similar structural problems are addressed more favourably today than they were ten years ago.

However, Slovenia has not emerged as strongly as it could have from the crisis.

In this regard, I would like to draw attention to another position that I often repeated shortly after the beginning of the end of the recession five or six years ago, which was that there was a “danger of being too easily satisfied with too little”. I think we are now witnessing this. Slovenia is indeed in better shape structurally than it was before the crisis, but it did not make use of the crisis, and especially of the time afterwards, to carry out a more thorough overhaul.

This is partly due to the harsh economic and social experiences of 2009, which was also seen as both a cultural and political shock. When Slovenia eventually overcame the crisis, politicians and the public quickly felt relieved and did not proceed with the adoption of measures that would further build up our resilience to a recurring crisis. I believe that, given domestic and international circumstances, 2019 offers the current government the final opportunity to make certain strategic structural adjustment moves.

As regards relations with the Russian Federation, but also with the U.S. and China, I have always pointed out that the orientation of Slovenia’s foreign and security policy is governed by its membership in the European Union and NATO. In this sense, the U.S. is our ally and partner.

It is our wish to further deepen our relations with this ally, regardless of certain differences of opinion regarding the importance of, and respect for, the Paris Agreement and the Iran nuclear deal.

Slovenia also wishes to have good and orderly relations with the Russian Federation and China, as two important superpowers that are not its direct political or military allies. For the EU, orderly relations – particularly with Russia – provide a guarantee of stability, which is why efforts should be made to address open issues with tolerance and dialogue.

Slovenia will pursue a foreign policy aimed at making as many friends around the world as possible, and no enemies. According to the statistics of chambers of commerce, Slovenia has to date invested

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Individual reputed world economists, including your countryman Jože Mencinger, are warning about the possibility of a new world economic crisis. Are there indicators of such difficulties in the Slovenian economy?

I believe that, given domestic and international circumstances, 2019 offers the current government the final opportunity to make certain strategic structural adjustment moves around 20 billion euros in Serbia. Do you see room for strengthening bilateral economic relations?

Economic cooperation has a special place in bilateral relations. It is very positive, intensive and diverse. There are more than 1,500 Slovenian companies registered in Serbia (approx. 800 of which are active), employing approximately 25,000 people.

Slovenia, which ranks sixth to eighth among foreign investors in Serbia, is the second most important employer among foreign investors in Serbia. Among the countries of the Western Balkans, Serbia is the most important investment destination for Slovenian companies.

Serbia also remains Slovenia’s most important trade partner in Southeast Europe.

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Interview H.E. ALONA FISHER KAMM

AMBASSADOR OF ISRAEL TO SERBIA Speaking at a recent ceremony marking International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Israeli Ambassador to Serbia, H.E. Alona Fisher Kamm, expressed concern over the intensification of antiSemitism among young people, which is particularly noticeable on popular social networks. Ambassador Fisher Kamm pointed out that Serbia is the first country in Europe, under its law on restitution, to envisage the restitution of property for those Jews killed during World War II who had no heirs. In this interview for CorD magazine, she adds that the complex of Belgrade’s old fairground, Staro Sajmiste, should be converted into a place of remembrance for the Jews, Serbs and Roma who perished there. The same, according to Ambassador Fisher Kamm, should apply to Belgrade’s Topovske šupe site. You recently attended a formal ceremony to mark international Holocaust Remembrance Day. Speaking on the occasion of that day, you said that anti-Semitism and revisionism are strengthening in the European Union. In which processes do you recognise this trend the most?

In recent years, we have been witnessing an alarming rise of anti-Semitism all around the globe, as well as dangerous tendencies of revisionism and the rewriting

Use Education To

Combat Anti-Semitism The preservation of Topovske šupe, as part of the Staro Sajmiste Complex, is of great importance. The buildings in their original location are the only evidence of the atrocities carried out there – Alona Fisher Kamm 16

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By Ljubica Gojgić

REWRITING OF HISTORY

In recent years, we have been witnessing an alarming rise of anti-Semitism all around the globe, as well as dangerous tendencies of revisionism and the rewriting of history of history. Besides physical attacks, there is a growing trend of online anti-Semitism, especially through social media, with a lack of knowledge about the Holocaust among young people and even Holocaust denial among intellectuals.This demands an adequate response from governments and political leaders. It is of great importance that all democratic countries adopt the definition of anti-Semitism, promoted by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), in the field of law enforcement. Besides legal measures, education should be included in efforts to combat anti-Semitism.

PRESERVATION

Preservation of Topovske šupe, as part of the Staro Sajmiste Complex, is of great importance.

The buildings in their original location are the only evidence of the atrocities carried out there Are you satisfied with the way Serbia has handled the restitution of property belonging to the Jewish community?

Serbia is the first and only country in Europe to adopt the Law on restitution of heirless Jewish property. Israel highly appreciates such a resolution and its implementation, which renders justice to the victims. The success of the Law is in the interest of all, as Serbia can serve as a best practise model to be followed by others. Last year saw you commemorate the

JERUSALEM

Jerusalem has always been the capital of Israel, and 3,000-year-long connection of the Jewish people to the city cannot be denied

70th anniversary of the establishing of the modern Jewish State of Israel. How would you comment on the fact that no solution to relations between Israelis and Palestinians has been found after seven decades, with the region remaining in a constant state of conflict?

Israel has signed two peace agreements, with Egypt and with Jordan. Relations with the Palestinians are still an important challenge. Over the last few decades we’ve tried to resolve the conflict with the Palestinians and in some cases

Here in Serbia, you are heavily engaged on the initiative for Belgrade’s ‘Old Fairground’ – the site of a WWII concentration camp – to be converted into a memorial centre. This has been much discussed to date, but so far without result. What do you expect on this front?

Staro Sajmište is, both by its name and as a site, a symbol of the tragic past for the Jews, Serbs and Roma. Hence, every community has the right to commemorate its own victims in its own way. We believe that the law should be adopted as soon as possible and its content agreed by all relevant stakeholders. As a place of remembrance, it would serve as a history lesson for future generations. There are other known locations in Belgrade, such as the Topovske Šupe WWII concentration camp, where a shopping centre is now scheduled to be constructed. The Jewish community in Serbia is divided on this issue, with some considering that the remains of the buildings that housed the camp should be preserved, while others are of the opinion that a memorial plaque to the Jews who died there should be displayed on the buildings to be constructed. How do you view this development?

Preservation of Topovske šupe, as part of the Staro Sajmiste Complex, is of great importance. The buildings in their original location are the only evidence of the atrocities carried out there.

We think that any solution should be agreed upon by the two sides. Our sincere wish is to see the Balkan region enjoying lasting peace and prosperity in the near future, so that focus would be on economy and well-being

we were even very close to an agreement, based on compromises that Israel was ready to make.

Unfortunately, the Palestinians not only rejected those proposals, but in some cases even reacted violently, leading to mistrust between the two sides. We still believe in a peaceful solution today, but the Palestinians refuse to recognise Israel as the Jewish state, which is our raison d’être.

They continue to incite violence against Israel, glorify terrorist attacks and provide financial support to terrorists’ families. If their message changes, they will always find a reliable partner for peace in Israel.

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Interview How serious is the Iranian threat for Israel?

During the celebration of the 40th anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Iranian leaders have been celebrating the successful test of a new missile, while crowds chanted “death to Israel”. The Iranian regime repeats on a daily basis that its wish is to annihilate Israel, while it arms and funds terrorist groups seeking Israel’s destruction. Forty years after the Islamic Revolution, Iran is led by the same radical regime whose aggressive and hegemonic policy

in Israel to Jerusalem. How would you comment on the lack of support for the U.S. Initiative to relocate diplomatic missions from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem?

Jerusalem has always been the capital of Israel, and 3,000-year-long connection of the Jewish people to the city cannot be denied. The U.S. Embassy moving to Jerusalem represents a recognition of reality.TO date, a few other countries have already moved their embassies, while others are taking

countries will understand that recognising reality is not an obstacle for peace, but the opposite. As a country with a huge cultural and religious heritage, why has Israel chosen – along with the U.S. - to withdraw from UNESCO, which is an organisation dedicated precisely to the preservation of that heritage?

We see UNESCO as a professional body that should preserve the cultural and religious heritage of the world. Unfortunately, it has become a politicised organisation, not only by accepting Palestinians as a member state due to political reasons, but also by allowing them and the Arab world to hijack the work of UNESCO for their own cause. A flagrant example would be the resolution adopted

by UNESCO in 2016 that denies the connection of the Jewish people to Jerusalem. Could you explain the background to Prime Minister Netanyahu’s decision not to extend permission for the continuation of the international observer mission in the city of Hebron, which has been present since the end of the 1990s?

represents a major threat, not only to the stability of the Middle East, but to peace and security as a whole. Iran also poses a potential threat to Europe.

The international community has to find ways to protect its citizens and formulate an effective programme to counter the Iranian threat. In Serbia, when it comes to relations with Kosovo, there has been promotion of the thesis that a “frozen conflict” is not a good solution.

From your perspective as the ambassador of a country that does not recognise Kosovo’s independence, how do you view the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina?

We think that any solution should be agreed upon by the two sides. Our sincere wish is to see the Balkan region enjoying lasting peace and prosperity in the near future, so that focus would be on economy and well-being. Speaking in one interview, you expressed hope that Serbia would relocate its embassy

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There is growing interest among Israeli IT companies in AI and others are searching for new locations for development centres. In line with Serbia’s EU accession, we see opportunities for Israeli technology in the sector of clean tech and water treatment and management some concrete steps in that direction or declaring their intention to follow the same path. It is a long process, and I am of the opinion that, in the end,

The Temporary International Presence in Hebron (TIPH) was established as a provisional mission more than 20 years ago, and the circumstances have since changed. Our position is that, during its mandate, the TIPH undermined the legitimacy of the Jewish presence in Hebron, instead of acting as a neutral observer. You stated recently that you consider economic cooperation between Serbia and Israel as an important factor of relations between the two countries. Apart from Israeli investments in real estate developments and increasing numbers of tourists visiting Serbia, where else do you see room to strengthen bilateral cooperation?

Our Embassy places a focus on economic relations between our two countries. In this regard, bilateral trade shows a stable growth trend. Real estate investments still represent the flagship of Israeli investments in Serbia. Additionally, our companies are also present in the areas of retail, agro-technology, transportation, pharma, system integration, cyber security and IT. There is growing interest among Israeli IT companies in AI and others are searching for new locations for development centres. In line with Serbia’s EU accession, we see opportunities

By Ljubica Gojgić

for Israeli technology in the sector of clean tech and water treatment and management. It is important to mention the renewable energy sector, where we had a huge investment of Israeli company Enlight in a Kovačica wind park last year. Last year’s visit of Israeli President Reuven Rivlin to Serbia included discussion of the activating of the existing joint committee for cooperation between the two countries.

How does that committee function today?

The Serbian government appointed Nenad Popović, Minister without portfolio in charge of innovations and technological development, as the Co-chair of the Mixed Committee. We are still waiting for the Israeli nomination and, afterwards, for the first session to be set in Belgrade or Jerusalem. Could you say something about the effects of the agreement on the avoidance of double taxation and preventing tax evasion, which you co-signed with the Serbian Finance Minister at the end of last year?

The Serbian government appointed Nenad Popović, Minister without portfolio in charge of innovations and technological development, as the Co-chair of the Mixed Committee. We are still waiting for the Israeli nomination and, afterwards, for the first session to be set in Belgrade or Jerusalem We finally signed that specific agreement in November last year. It needs to be ratified by both parliaments during this year, and will enter

into force as of the next fiscal year.

The Agreement will ease investments and business operations of residents and businesses originating from both countries and their subsidiaries. Late last year saw the announcing of the staging of an agri-business forum between Israel and Serbia that should serve to connect the two countries’ largest producers of food.

Are any other details available regarding this gathering?

Israeli companies specialising in irrigation, agriculture chemicals and equipment for green houses are already present in Serbia and doing very well. Our Embassy traditionally takes part in the Agriculture fair in Novi Sad. We hope to this year have new companies on board that are interested in doing business in Serbia.

Last year we were busy with lots of activity in the agriculture domain, with the visits of Minister Nedimović in October and Vojvodina’s Provincial Secretary for Agriculture in May. We are negotiating the upgrading and expansion of the existing agreement on cooperation in agriculture, which was signed in 2009.

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GLOBAL DIARY

Semantics

“You know, lately Western colleagues use less and less the expression ‘international law,’ ... they say ‘rules-based order’ — my reading of this is they don’t want international law.” – SERGEY LAVROV, RUSSIAN FOREIGN MINISTER

SLIM CHANCES FOR AN AGREEMENT IN THE NEAR FUTURE

WORLD’S BIGGEST INTELLIGENCE HEADQUARTERS OPENS IN BERLIN

During the panel on the Munich Security Conference Presidents Aleksandar Vučić and Hashim Thaçi agreed that the relations between these two countries are much more difficult to normalize. The panel was moderated by Wolfgang Ischinger, while the third participant was Johannes Hahn.

Vučić assessed that the “Belgrade-Pristina dialogue is currently in a stalemate. Serbia is doing its best to reach a compromise. We have fulfilled all of our obligations arising from the achieved agreements, “ said Vučić. Even though Pristina imposed tariffs on Serbian goods more than 100 days ago, there has been no retaliation. Thaçi said that the tariffs are a result of what happened in Interpol (Kosovo failed to become a member after intensive lobbying of Serbia).

Vučić asked why Kosovo still needs a dialogue if it is already a completely sovereign country.

More than €1bn and 12 years after construction began, Germany’s Federal Intelligence Service (BND) has officially opened its new Berlin home the world’s biggest intelligence headquarters with a footprint the size of 36 football pitches.

The building, close to the route of the former Berlin Wall, is one of Germany’s most secretive spaces, with strict security rules governing what employees there can and cannot do.

“In an often very confusing world,” chancellor Angela Merkel said, “now, more urgently than ever, Germany needs a strong and efficient foreign intelligence service.”

Approximately 3,200 of an expected 4,000 employees have already arrived and are working at the new building The agency employs about 6,500 people in Germany and around the world.

NEW EU RULES ON RUSSIA’S NORD STREAM 2 The European Union reached a provisional deal on new rules governing import gas pipelines including Russia’s planned Nord Stream 2, in a move that cast doubts over the project’s current operating structure.

The draft law calls for all import pipelines to meet EU energy market rules by not being directly owned by gas suppliers, applying non-discriminatory tariffs and transparent reporting and allowing at least 10 percent of capacity to be made available to third parties.

The draft law could slow but not stop the project, led by Russian state energy firm Gazprom in partnership with five Western.

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ALEKSANDAR VUČIĆ, JOHANNES HAHN AND HASHIM THACI

Values

“We represent interests that are guided by values, which distinguishes us from other states in the world that are autocratically governed. For us, there is a difference between the strength of law and the law of the strong.” – DAVID MCALLISTER, CHAIRMAN OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT’S FOREIGN AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

OSCAR - 91ST ACADEMY AWARD PRESENTED The 91st Academy Awards – Oscar - presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), honored the best films of 2018. The ceremony was held on February 24 at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, presented Oscar, the biggest award show and the 91st Academy Awards lived up to the show’s legacy.

“Green Book” surprises as best picture winner; Alfonso Cuarón wins best director for “Roma”; Olivia Colman (“The Favourite”) beats out Glenn Close (“The Wife”) for best actress; Rami Malek wins best actor for “Bohemian Rhapsody.

The famous Oscars red carpet arrivals are often more surprising than the Academy Awards ceremony itself. The red carpet fashions again was as bold, glittery, glamorous — and even political — as they always were.

NOVAK WINS WORLD SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD

BILLY PORTER (LEFT) OF “POSE” AND HUSBAND ADAM SMITH ARRIVE ON THE RED CARPET

The trophies keep coming for Novak Djokovic in 2019. The World No. 1 won the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award evening at the 2019 Laureus World Sports Awards in Monte-Carlo. This marks the fourth time that Djokovic has been selected for the award, having previously won it in 2012, 2015 and 2016. Other nominees this year included American basketball star LeBron James, Kenyan long-distance runner Eliud Kipchoge and French football player Kylian Mbappe.

“Being among so many sporting greats here tonight… gives this award a special meaning for me,” said Djokovic. “Last year was an incredible season for me. Returning from injury to win Wimbledon and the US Open is something I’ll remember forever.”

Monika Seles, also born in Serbia although now a naturalised American citizen, presented the award to Djokovic, who admitted it had been a long hard road back mentally as well as physically.

BELGRADE MARATHON JOINS “WORLD MARATHON MAJORS” The Belgrade Marathon and the Abbott World Marathon Majors competition have signed a contract that will see the Belgrade Marathon become part of the famous World Marathon Majors Series as of 2020 – representing the only such event in the region. A newly established ranking system for participants in categories aged over 40 who have earned the right – on the basis of results achieved in a certain number of selected marathons around the world – to participate in the World Championships for Veterans in 2021 (Abbot World Marathon Majors Wanda Age Group World Championships) in selected marathons of the World Marathon Majors series. The marathon to host the 2021 World Championships will be announced soon.

CHINA CLOSES ITS EVEREST BASE CAMP TO TOURISTS China has closed the base camp on its side of Mount Everest to visitors who don’t have climbing permits. The ban means tourists can only go as far as a monastery slightly below the 5,200m base camp level. The Chinese base camp, located in Tibet, is popular as it is accessible by car - whereas the Nepalese camp can only be reached by a hike of almost two weeks. The world’s highest peak has been struggling with escalating levels of rubbish for years, as the number of visitors rises.

Ordinary tourists will only be banned from areas above Rongbuk monastery, which is around 5,000m above sea level, according to China’s state news agency Xinhua.

Authorities announced that they would limit the number of climbing permits each year to 300.

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Feature

A Patent As A Life’s Work ALEKSANDAR KAVČIĆ, PH.D.

SCIENTIST AND PROFESSOR AT CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY

The most prestigious law firms and the most prominent names in the world of science and technology have been trying for years to challenge intellectual rights to the magnetic disk reader, which is under the patent of Aleksandar Kavčić, a former student of the Mathematics High School in Belgrade, and Carnegie Mellon University’s professor Jose Moura. According to the final judgement of the U.S. Appellate Court, in 2016, Marvell Technology paid $750 million in damages

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This compensation was, and remains, the highest infringement reward for a patent in the electronic/computer industry. The trial itself lasted seven years and generated a jury verdict of over $1 billion, yet it largely remained obscure to the general public, even though the scenario unfolded as if it were a top Hollywood movie.

So, who is Aleksandar Kavčić?

Aleksandar Kavčić (born 1968) is a former pupil of Belgrade’s Mathematical High School. He completed four years of studies at the University of Belgrade’s Faculty of Electrical Engineering, only to move abroad – due to the war in this region and other circumstances – to earn his degree in electrical engineering in Bochum (Germany), and then to defend his doctorate in the U.S. It was actually this benchmark doctorate that represented a turning point in Kavčić’s entire life.

“Upon graduation, back in the 1990s, I immediately wanted to do my doctorate at some university and I made a beginner’s mistake. I sent CVs and accompanying application letters in which I stated that I was interested in almost anything. Back then I really didn’t know that this was inappropriate in the academic world, because everyone’s seeking students who are highly focused towards one specific scientific area,” says Kavčić. He applied to 12 American universities – and was accepted by 10. Carnegie Mellon University, or rather Professor José Moura, recognised “his man” in that CV; someone who would combine research in somewhat unrelated areas – signal processing and magnetics.

“My mentor, Professor Maura encouraged

By Miroslava Nešić - Bikić

me to try to solve a problem that I previously had not heard of, although it was known in the literature from the early ‘80s when serial production of magnetic disks, so-called disk drives, began.”

When a very thin magnetic layer is applied to a glass, metal or plastic disk, and when closely spaced electrical impulses are written on it, the process closely resembles writing on greasy paper in that the ink percolates towards the adjacent letters. While it was known how to write data on disks, it was unknown how to optimally read densely written data. Without optimal readers, densities had to be scaled back, or else readback error rates would have been unacceptably high.

me to become a professor at Harvard in 1998.

It was not until 2009 that Carnegie Mellon University filed a lawsuit for the unauthorised use of its intellectual property - because the intellectual property of students and professors belongs primarily to the university. That wasn’t an easy decision, given that until then no one, not even the CIA, could “open” a chip and determine what’s inside. Carnegie Mellon University needed many years to decide in favour

of a complicated and very expensive lawsuit.

The best lawyers were engaged from the offices of K&L Gates, a law firm that was started by Bill Gates Sr., the father of Microsoft’s founder.

Their experts performed a preliminary analysis – which cost around half a million dollars – that was convincing enough to launch a lawsuit to protect the patent rights. Naturally, the defendant, Marvell Technology, also had excellent lawyers, exactly because compensation approaching $1

Your doctorate, which you earned more than 20 years ago, simultaneously represented a solution to this problem and an electromagnetic revolution. You discovered a method of reading from magnetic drives that has remained unsurpassed to date. How did you resolve that and how long did your research last?

The proper mathematical analysis of magnetic recording hadn’t previously been carried out, but that was precisely where the solution was: to apply proper magnetic recording models to so-called dynamic programming, which implied relatively complicated mathematics. That’s why roughly three years passed until the “eureka moment”.

Professor Maura requested that we summarise the solution such that nothing could be further eliminated or added to it. When that was done, I was impatient to publish the result in a professional journal, and then to turn to something else. “We won’t publish it anywhere,” said the professor, surprising me with his answer, before explaining that we should first patent the solution. The patent was accepted and approved three years later, which is the usual time-frame for such a procedure. The first indications of the unauthorised use of your patented magnetic reader began arriving only in 2003. How did you ultimately discover that your invention was being used without authorisation by Marvell Technology, which is the absolute market leader in chip production?

From the moment we found the solution, I knew how valuable it was and that it would be used.

Amongst other things, my doctorate enabled

Carnegie Mellon University needed many years to decide in favour of a complicated and very expensive lawsuit.

The best lawyers were engaged from the offices of K&L Gates, a law firm that was started by Bill Gates Sr., the father of Microsoft’s founder

billion had been sought. A similar law suit had previously occurred only once – in the dispute between Apple and Samsung, but it did not last as long, and the jury verdict did not withstand the scrutiny of the appeal which eroded the award significantly. This event nevertheless marked your life. As the trial unfolded, as you uncovered court evidence, it was as though you caused an electronic revolution.

The most delicate factor in our case was that the defendants tried to invalidate our patent on four separate occasions, which was pretty stressful, given that the reason for invalidation could be some minor issue in the procedure, which has

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Feature It is rare for such a disputed invention to eventually emerge from obscurity and overwhelm the planet.

It’s very difficult in the U.S. to win a patent lawsuit as a plaintiff. Marvell paid the most eminent names in that field to provide their professional expertise. It is very troubling when scientists who are your colleagues challenge you and try to undermine the value of your patent.

That was especially true for me, because I had an emotional relationship towards all of that.

The importance and benefit of the patent were kept in secret for a long time. We had done something that didn’t need anything to be added. And when you close a field in such a way, then other scientists aren’t interested in that, because they have nothing to add. Our invention is incredibly beneficial and has been included in billions of products and is used as many times per second daily. Your patent brought Marvell tremendous profits. How can that even be measured, given that there’s nothing left in existence to which your reader isn’t applied?

JOSÉ MOURA, ALEK KAVČIĆ AND SUBRA SURESH

nothing to do with the technical essence. I was interrogated most brutally, literally like in a movie.

I felt bad that everything boiled down to money, which is incomparably less important than the general value and the importance of the patent. This patent is used multiple trillion times per second around the globe as a method of reading all bits we ever fetch from disk drives.

While I was dealing with this law suit, I neglected everything else. And I’m sorry about that. I didn’t get into science to appear in the NY Times or some of the other magazines for such a reason. I was even bothered by that kind of publicity. I failed to get tenured as a professor at Harvard, precisely because the importance of the invention was kept a secret from the public for years, and it was ultimately disputed by the defendants in court. A scientist can only be acknowledged if he is recognised by other scientists, but if a large corporation like Marvell, prior and during a trial (by engaging top names in science and law) disputes the validity and utility of the invention, it is nearly impossible.

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Our solution became the de facto industry standard that enabled continuous increases in the capacity of disk drives, which is today measured in terabytes.

I’m convinced that our solution will be used as long magnetic memories exist. First and foremost, that’s because we’ve proven mathematically that better detectors are impossible to build

At the time of the trial, around three billion chips had been made. Now that number is incomparably higher, by billions...

Marvell holds 60% of the market, while Broadcom holds the remaining 40%. We believe that Broadcom also uses the patent without authorization and a lawsuit was launched last year, in July 2018. The trial against Broadcom has yet to unfold, because lawyers wouldn’t be lawyers if they were to tell their clients to accept a settlement and sign...

It’s hard to enter this market segment, especially if you consider that those two companies, Marvell and Broadcom, are the only ones in the world to have mastered these chips. All others that have tried, ultimately failed. So, all the chips that enter the market are products of these two companies, Marvell and Broadcom.

That was a defining moment in data storage – who would be the first to incorporate this detector, the reader, into a disk drive, because it significantly lowers the price per bit. The detector is the core of a memory device – it’s like the microprocessor in a computer.

“Our solution became the de facto industry standard that enabled continuous increases in the capacity of disk drives, which is today

By Miroslava Nešić - Bikić

measured in terabytes. I’m convinced that our solution will be used as long magnetic memories exist. First and foremost, that’s because we’ve proven mathematically that better detectors are impossible to build. Amongst other factors, to date, around six billion chips containing our patented invention have been sold.” Today, as he recalls the very beginning, Kavčić doesn’t hide his emotions.

At that time, when he had no suspicion of what he’d discovered, Kavčić says that he only felt a huge relief and that his first thought was that he would finally earn his doctorate!

The path to the solution took years to complete.

At that time my feelings were mixed; those were the ‘90s... And when I earned my doctorate, I just thought – my life has begun!

I was tormented by the problem for years, 24 hours a day. That’s something you think about even while you’re sleeping. At one point

That was a defining moment in data storage – who would be the first to incorporate this detector, the reader, into a disk drive, because it significantly lowers the price per bit.

The detector is the core – it’s like the microprocessor in a computer you become asocial. And that’s characteristic of anyone who’s focused on something. The moment of invention was a huge relief for the brain.

Strange things happen when one is focused. I

even wrote equations on napkins in nightclubs and restaurants ... the entire problem simply possesses you and that’s the way it is.

Carnegie Mellon University honoured Kavčić with a privilege rarely awarded to scientist, by naming a research fund after the inventors: the Kavčić-Moura Endowment Fund. Kavčić and Maura, along with their wives, have personally supported the fund with several million dollars. You have seven registered patents and vast experience in the U.S., and it could be said experience of all kinds. You were both a student and a professor at several universities. What makes America more challenging than any other country?

Embedded at the heart of the American education system is individuality, initiative and inventiveness. In such an enormous country, of 300 million inhabitants, the average American may not be highly educated, but isolate the top 0.1%, the intellectual elite, and you get an army

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Feature What would you recommend to talented students – to follow in your footsteps and improve their knowledge abroad, or to stay in Serbia?

One should always go abroad, gather knowledge there, but consider returning.The electrical engineering faculties in Belgrade or Novi Sad do not have monopolies on knowledge. It’s rare in America for an individual to complete his doctoral studies at the same college where he earned an undergraduate degree. There are only a few professors working at universities where they earned their doctorates, because it is only with the flow of people that ideas spread and are enriched. Thus, it is necessary to travel and exchange ideas, especially until Serbia changes its education system which has long been overdue for a revamp. You decided that, until your children grow up, you’ll spend part of the year in Belgrade and part in the Texan capital of Austin, which is rapidly becoming a new hub of the high-tech industry. Everyone is trying to find a solution to bring back the young people who have left...

of 300 thousand phenomenal individuals who set themselves apart with the quality of their minds.

That’s a huge human capital. When you take such a corpus of 300 thousand people and allow them to thrive in a system that rewards inventiveness, it is no surprise that they create wonders. How do you see education in Serbia today; what do you recognise as the biggest problem?

The emergence of dubious private universities, I call them kiosk-universities. I don’t want to be one of those who only criticise. These days, Serbian people hold weekly walks in protest to criticise the system with very good reason.

However, I don’t see too many solutions offered.

The Serbian society has been deteriorating for the last 40 years and it’s impossible to right the ship overnight. Serbia needs to create a system in which the people (not political parties) truly govern themselves and give it a chance to evolve on its own. For example, Serbian citizens still do not have the right to vote for their representatives by name into legislative positions of all levels of government. It is a serious deficiency. I think there’s a misconception in Serbia that the country

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Serbia needs to create a system in which the people (not political parties) truly govern themselves and give it a chance to evolve on its own… I think there’s a misconception in Serbia that the country lacks investments/money. We in Serbia lack intelligence; clever people in key positions and a good system of governance lacks investments/money. We in Serbia lack intelligence; clever people and a good system of governance. Elect intelligent and honest people to offices, and prosperity will follow.

They will come back when this country becomes a nice place to live, free of corruption, nepotism and hidden agendas. Fix the country and they will return. It is as simple as that. Have you ever received an invitation to lecture at some college in Serbia?

I haven’t.

Aleksandar Kavčić served as a faculty member (assistant professor, associate professor and professor) in electrical engineering at Harvard University and the University of Hawaii. While on leaves from Harvard and U. of Hawaii, he served as a visiting scholar/professor at the City University of Hong Kong and the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

Kavčić received his dipl.ing. degree in electrical engineering from the RuhrUniversity in Bochum, Germany, before earning his doctoral degree in electrical and computer engineering at Carnegie Mellon University.

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Focus

Serbia And The EU

Where Do We Stand

In The EU Accession Process?

There is no doubt that Brexit, European Parliament elections, discussion of the Multi-annual Financial Framework 2021-2027 and the EU’s internal future are placing discussions of EU enlargement on the back burner. However, Serbia is also falling short when it comes to pushing sincerely for its EU future

T

here are multiple reasons for Serbia’s slow progress on the European path, but many of them can be explained by the pace of change in Serbia itself, determined by the need to deal with judicial reform, combat organised crime and corruption, respect fundamental rights and continue the dialogue with Kosovo.

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JADANKA JOKSIMOVIĆ

SERBIAN MINISTER OF EUROPEAN INTEGRATION

OUR COMMITMENT IS UNQUESTIONABLE WE UNDERSTAND THAT ENLARGEMENT IS NOT THE TOP PRIORITY FOR EU MEMBERS AND CITIZENS. HOWEVER, FOR US, THE POSITIONING OF ENLARGEMENT WITHIN THE NEW EUROPEAN STRUCTURES WOULD BE ONE OF THE KEY ISSUES The overall dynamics of Serbia’s accession negotiation process has maintained a stable and relatively solid pace since the opening of accession negotiations. Being among the front-runners in the accession process, as acknowledged by the European Commission in its Credible Enlargement Strategy for the Western Balkans, published in February 2018, Serbia has been opening new negotiation chapters every European semester, while at the same time we’ve continued internal work on preparing for the opening of new chapters. A total of 16 of 35 chapters have been opened, two of which have been provisionally closed, which is generally satisfactory, considering the overall political context in Europe, but also the regional and global challenges that have been confronting the entire continent.

The Serbian government has remained fully committed to implementing reforms in all areas, with an emphasis on the rule of law and the economy. In the area of the economy, reforms have resulted in overall macroeconomic and fiscal stabilisation and increased growth, which was acknowledged by the European Commission and all relevant international financial institutions. When it comes to the rule of law, which includes systemic and long-term orientated reforms, 2018 was a year of concrete results, with an emphasis on judicial reform via the process of constitutional amendments, the adoption of important systemic laws, further guarantees for minority rights and a legislative framework in the area of asylum and migration. We will maintain our focus in 2019 on areas that also require substantial reform activities, primarily the prevention of corruption and development of the media strategy.

Furthermore, the European Commission’s Country report for Serbia will be published in the spring of 2019 and will assess progress throughout all reform areas. As was the case in previous years, we expect an

objective and balanced report that will acknowledge progress achieved in all relevant areas, but also Serbia’s decisive, responsible and substantial contribution to regional stability, given that the region referred to as the Western Balkans is geo-strategically and geopolitically important to the EU, but is also of interest to other non-EU players. As such, we expect a good country progress report that will subsequently lead to the opening of new negotiation chapters with Serbia before the end of June.

However, we consider that reforms driven by the accession process should WE WILL bring us membership, as we could also deliver on MAINTAIN OUR reforms without entering the FOCUS IN 2019 ON EU accession process. We AREAS REQUIRING understand that the EU is not in perfect shape these SUBSTANTIAL days, and that enlargement REFORM is not the top priority for ACTIVITIES, EU members and citizens, PRIMARILY THE but if we want to retain and enhance the credibility of PREVENTION OF the EU and its enlargement CORRUPTION AND policy, we hope and expect MEDIA STRATEGY that the enlargement policy will remain on the EU agenda DEVELOPMENT throughout 2019. With the support of the current Romanian Presidency of the EU, we believe that the dynamics of our accession process will be maintained, thus sending a positive political message to Serbian citizens confirming the continuation of the enlargement process. We also monitor developments on the European political scene closely and look forward to seeing the new composition of European institutions. So, to conclude, one of the key issues for Serbia will be the positioning of enlargement within new European structures.

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Focus

Serbia And The EU

NATAŠA DRAGOJLOVIĆ Photo: TANJUG

COORDINATOR OF THE NATIONAL CONVENTION ON THE EUROPEAN UNION

WE OBSTRUCT OURSELVES THE BIGGEST OBSTACLES ON SERBIA’S PATH TO EUROPEAN INTEGRATION ARE IN THE AREAS OF THE RULE OF LAW AND POLITICAL CRITERIA, A SHORTAGE OF ADMINISTRATIVE CAPACITIES AND A LACK OF POLITICAL WILL TO CONSISTENTLY APPLY MEASURES THAT THE COUNTRY HAS COMMITTED ITSELF TO DURING THE COURSE OF EU MEMBERSHIP NEGOTIATIONS Since the publishing in early 2018 of the EU Enlargement Strategy for the Western Balkans until 2025, politicians, journalists, peacekeepers and laymen have been pondering and responding to the question: is it realistic for Serbia to become an EU member within that time frame? We in the National Convention aren’t happy with the dynamics of the opening of chapters, nor do we hope that Serbia will manage at this pace to fulfil membership criteria by 2025, as is envisaged by the new EU Enlargement Strategy for the Western Balkans.

In most open chapters and prepared negotiating positions of the Serbian government, there is an emphasis on the high degree of harmonisation of Serbia’s regulations with the EU Acquis. Viewed formally, on paper, everything looks like we’re progressing towards the EU. However, despite the declarative political will and measures envisaged and well-planned, the results of implementation are unsatisfactory, and that is so in areas that are key to democratisation and the development of society. Such claims are additionally corroborated by the European Commission’s report and numerous other analyses.

We are opening two chapters during each six-month presidency of the Council of the EU. The support of citizens for the EU integration process remains above 50%. We also have a declarative political will in key strategic documents, the statements of government representatives, the disclosures of the prime minister etc., at every turn. Viewed formally, Serbia is progressing towards EU membership; viewed realistically, Serbia is ever further away from fulfilling membership criteria.

The principle of the separation of powers and the rule of law should be ensured by amendments to the Constitution. However, the proposed Constitutional amendments submitted by the Government of Serbia to the Venice Commission for its opinion represent a step backwards and allow a significantly larger and more direct influence of the government and political parties on the work of courts and prosecutors. This in no way contributes to the affirmation and consistent implementation of the rule of law, without which no reform can be implemented in any area or policy.

When it comes to resolving the issue of Kosovo and the normalisation of relations, the year passed in regression.

Members of the National Convention, within the framework of the Internal Dialogue, used the opportunity to highlight to the President of the Republic that the priority in the process of resolving the Kosovo issue must be the preservation of peace and security in the region, and that building lasting peace implies

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the establishment of the rule of law.

VIEWED Serbia only receives positive assessments from FORMALLY, the European Commission when it comes to SERBIA IS economic criteria. Recording improvements on the World Bank’s Doing Business Index and PROGRESSING macroeconomic indicators are positive. Serbia has TOWARDS EU a better rank than some EU members. However, a MEMBERSHIP; survey on income and conditions for life in Serbia conducted in 2017 shows that the country has VIEWED had the greatest inequality in the distribution REALISTICALLY, of income in Europe over the last three years, SERBIA IS EVER measured according to the so-called Gini coefFURTHER AWAY ficient, while half a million Serbian citizens don’t have enough to cover their basic needs. When FROM we add to this the fact that every third student in FULFILLING Serbia wants to leave the country, then the speed MEMBERSHIP of implementing planned reforms and the pace of approaching the European Union could represent CRITERIA a way to stop such trends. We will continue during the course of 2019 to insist on the securing of the freedom of the media and freedom of speech, a strategic and legal framework that’s harmonised with European principles and practises, the protection of journalists and timely informing of the public, because that – along with the rule of law – represents the foundation of democracy.

NATAŠA VUČKOVIĆ

DEMOCRATIC PARTY (DS) MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY AND CHAIR OF THE DS MINISTERIAL COMMITTEE FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND EUROPEAN INTEGRATION

WE HAVE NO EXCUSE FOR LETHARGY THE ARGUMENT THAT SERBIA IS PROGRESSING SLOWLY ON EURO-INTEGRATION DUE TO A LACK OF INTEREST WITHIN EUROPE FAILS TO HOLD WATER WHEN ONE LOOKS AT THE PACE AT WHICH MONTENEGRO IS PROGRESSING, MARKEDLY FASTER AND MORE SUCCESSFULLY, IN THIS WORK Slowdown is the word that best describes the dynamics of the process.

And this slowdown is very troubling. It is visible at several levels, both in the advancement of accession negotiations and the dynamics of the opening of chapters, the contents of reforms and their implementation, as well as in the general situation in Serbia.

The small number of chapters opened since the beginning of accession negotiations in 2014 testifies to the slow pace in the government’s completion of homework tasks. The argument that the reason for this is a lack of interest in further enlargement within the EU is invalid. That’s because Montenegro launched accession negotiations in June 2012 and

SRĐAN MAJSTOROVIĆ CHAIRMAN OF THE GOVERNING BOARD OF THE EUROPEAN POLICY CENTRE – CEP

SERBIA COULD, AND CAN, DO MUCH BETTER! THE CURRENT EFFORTS OF THE SERBIAN GOVERNMENT IN PURSUING THE ACCESSION PROCESS YIELD AN AMBIGUOUS PICTURE. THERE IS A LACK OF A CLEAR DETERMINATION AND SENSE OF ORIENTATION. IT LOOKS LIKE THE AIM IS TO JOIN THE EU, BUT THERE IS STILL NO APPETITE FOR CHANGE. opened 30 chapters in a five-year period. Serbia, meanwhile, opened 16 chapters from 2014 to 2019! The government is late in implementing measures required for the opening of some chapters – for example, an inexplicably long time has been taken in preparing the Action Plan for Chapter 19 - Employment and Social Policy. For Chapter 31 (External Policy), the EU has not yet sent us a screening report, which represents a kind of message.

The past few months have seen EU criticisms sharpening with regard to the unsatisfactory situation in the areas of the rule of law, fundamental rights etc. The executive’s influence over the judiciary remains high.

In work undertaken on preparing amendments to the Constitution that would ensure adherence to the principles of judicial independence, the Government has proposed solutions that have been heavily criticised by the expert public and civil society. The fight against corruption is toothless and invisible. The functioning of institutions has been seriously diminished, starting from the national assembly– where the rights of the opposition are constantly violated, while good practises established in independent institutions have been diluted. The situation in the media is far from respecting the European values of freedom of expression, political pluralism etc.

The general flow of reforms in Serbia is unsatisfactory – without a good administration and strong institutions, it is all but impossible even to implement reforms already launched. The state administration has been hit by the ban on hiring new staff, with the larges cale involvement of employment along party lines, but also the widespread practise of employing temporary or contractual employees. Under such conditions, there is no enthusiasm and dedication to work on reforms.

The accession process should also ensure the embedding of European values. In order for this goal to be realised, there is a need for the government’s great commitment, persistence and true conviction in European integration. Built upon this should be a serious communication strategy that wouldn’t move towards spreading doubt in the correctness of Serbia’s European path, but rather towards creating and nurturing broader support for Serbia’s European path. I think that would provide a strong argument that the EU wouldn’t be able to ignore when it comes to providing even greater support to Serbia.

On 21st January 2019 Serbia marked the fifth anniversary of the launch of EU accession negotiations. In the previous five years of negotiations, Serbia has finalised the Screening Process, as the initial phase of negotiations (although Screening report for chapter 31 on Common Foreign and Security Policy is still pending, due to a lack of consensus among EU member states); 16 negotiation chapters have been opened, with two provisionally closed, and an additional five negotiation positions have been officially submitted to the EU for consideration. When compared with the previous wave of enlargement (with 4-6 years from the start of accession negotiations, the opening and closing of all Chapters, the signing of the Accession Treaty and national referenda, to actual EU accession) the dynamics of the accession process are obviously considerably slower.

EU accession has been portrayed in the public as a box ticking exercise of simply opening and closing negotiation Chapters, while substantial transformation in the process is based on the gradual harmonisation of national legislation with the EU Acquis and its implementation. Even from the official THE EU’S “we are doing this because of ourselves” perspective, it is difficult not to be cynical INTERNAL and to conclude that, at this moment, we AGENDA are not doing that much for ourselves, since WILL BE official harmonisation programmes and EXTREMELY action plans are far from being respected and properly implemented. It is thus easy DIFFICULT to conclude that Serbia could, and can, do THIS YEAR, much better!

WITH BREXIT, The dynamics of Serbia’s EU accession EUROPEAN process in 2019 depend on its readiness to prove its credibility and implement all PARLIAMENT required changes – the most important of ELECTIONS AND which are those related to judicial reform, DISCUSSIONS the fight against organised crime and corOF THE FUTURE ruption, respect of fundamental rights and the dialogue with Kosovo. Success, or a lack OF THE EU. thereof, in chapters related to the rule of UNDER THESE law will continue to shape the decisions of UNFAVOURABLE EU member states on how many chapters CONDITIONS, will be opened. The EU’s internal agenda will be extremely difficult, with Brexit, European SERBIA WILL Parliament elections, discussion of the HAVE TO Multi-annual Financial Framework 2021REDISCOVER ITS 2027 and the future of the EU. This will, DRIVE FOR unfortunately, push the topic of enlargement TRANSFORMATION to the margins of policy discussion.

Under these unfavourable conditions, Serbia will have to rediscover the drive for transformation. Current efforts provide an ambiguous picture. There is a lack of a clear determination and sense of orientation. It looks like the aim is to join the EU, but that Serbia lacks the appetite for change. Maintaining the process just for the sake of EU membership and missing the opportunity to modernise the country is a sign of a lack of understanding and vision. This is causing distrust in some EU member states, who are confused by messages from Serbia and pressured by their own sceptical public. These are all reasons why Serbia needs to show its determination and prove its credibility by speeding up real reforms that should persuade the staunchest sceptics of its readiness to become EU member.

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Focus

Serbia And The EU

SUZANA GRUBJEŠIĆ SECRETARY GENERAL OF THE EUROPEAN MOVEMENT IN SERBIA

KOSOVO REMAINS KEY TO ACCESSION PROCESS SERBIA HAS SOME DIFFICULTIES IN FULFILLING ALL CRITERIA FOR EU MEMBERSHIP, BUT MOSTLY WITH RESOLUTION OF THE KOSOVO ISSUE. HOWEVER, IT APPEARS THAT CONSTITUENCIES, BOTH IN SERBIA AND IN KOSOVO, ARE PREPARED FOR SOME KIND OF DEAL FACILITATED BY THE EUROPEAN UNION

Serbia opened its EU accession negotiations on 21st January 2014, and since then 16 of a total of 35 negotiation chapters have been opened, with two chapters since provisionally closed. For a country that has been praised by the European Commission as a “frontrunner” in the accession process, this pace of opening two chapters per accession conference can be labelled as slow-motion. Only Turkey has had the same dynamics when it comes to opening chapters.

There are multiple reasons for Serbia’s path to the EU being so bumpy, and not all of them are necessarily in Serbia’s court. The criteria for EU membership are well established and the reform priorities are highlighted: the rule or law, a functioning market economy, and the adoption of definitive binding solutions to all bilateral disputes prior to accession. Serbia has some difficulties with all of them, but mostly with resolving the Kosovo issue. To say that the specifics of an arrangement are tricky is an understatement, but it appears that constituencies, both in Serbia and in Kosovo, are prepared for some kind of deal facilitated by the European Union.

When it comes to the rule of law, the EU needs to reassert its role as a normative and transformative actor, by strengthening its credibility on this core issue and focusing on the process of political transformation and democratic consolidation. Meanwhile, the European Union itself is facing an internal crisis in the rule of law, with several countries seriously threaten-

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ing the judiciary, the media and civil sector, bringing into question fundamental European values like freedom and solidarity, and becoming susceptible to authoritarian temptations.

This democratic decline reduces the EU’s ability to serve as a model for accession countries.

In addition to all of the aforementioned, the enlargement toolbox needs a serious overhaul, and the political enTHE gagement of the EU is ENLARGEMENT needed more than ever if it wants to remain TOOLBOX NEEDS competitive against A SERIOUS other external actors.

OVERHAUL, AND The prospect of a complete renewal of THE POLITICAL the EU’s leadership folENGAGEMENT OF lowing elections to the THE EU IS NEEDED European Parliament MORE THAN could be both complicated and encouragEVER IF IT WANTS ing. The newly elected TO REMAIN European Parliament COMPETITIVE and the new European Commission are AGAINST OTHER expected to do enough EXTERNAL to shift the dynamics ACTORS of Serbia’s accession process. If Serbia succeeds, in the very best case, in becoming a member of the European Union in 2025, it will be exactly a quarter of a century after the fall of Slobodan Milošević and the launch of democratic change.

By Julián Ventura, Deputy Secretary of Foreign Affairs of Mexico

Feature

MIKTA: Cooperation And Development Mexico is convinced of the irreplaceable value of diplomacy, with its outstanding multilateral tradition and demonstrated capacity to engage in dialogue and build consensus. It is in this spirit that we participate in MIKTA – an informal consultation space that also includes Australia, Indonesia, the Republic of Korea and Turkey

A

s these five countries, we have a significant presence on the international stage. We decided to come together, as friends and partners, to promote common priorities and explore innovative strategies to take on global challenges.

Located in different regions and possessing unique historical identities and cultural wealth, we also have shared interests that motivate us to come closer together, enhance our mutual understanding and expand our economic and social ties.

At the Vice-Ministerial meeting, held on 7th February 2019 in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, we took over the coordination of MIKTA and Mexico’s proposed agenda was adopted, which seeks to address the needs and aspirations of our peoples directly.

With the theme “Social development, global governance and a sustainable future”, we are seeking to increase MIKTA’s collaboration in three main areas.

First is economic cooperation for social development. Here we will promote trade and investment, both among ourselves and in other key markets, fostering the greater integration of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises into global supply chains. We will also boost tourism cooperation, sharing best practises and technical expertise to generate greater benefits for recipient communities.

The second area is strengthening multilateralism and collaboration in international

organisations. MIKTA will join efforts to increase efficiency, transparency and equality in international organisations, and to mainstream the gender perspective. We will uphold a strong, open and rules-based international system that contributes to economic and social development, human rights protection, international peace and security, and cooperation.

We will promote trade and investment, both among ourselves and in other key markets, fostering the greater integration of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises into global supply chains

Thirdly, we will promote sustainable development with an emphasis on achieving the 2030 Agenda. Our societies demand greater actions to address climate change and other major global challenges, as well as greater cooperation to reduce the risks of natural disasters, to which we are all exposed. Furthermore, as maritime

countries, we share an interest in protecting the oceans and their biodiversity. Social inclusion is also a common goal, and to this end we will continue work in the fields of education and internet access.

An additional innovation in Mexico’s MIKTA coordination will be the convening of the first meeting of our national development cooperation agencies. In this context, during the Yogyakarta meeting we shared the ongoing activities on implement of the Comprehensive Development Plan launched jointly by El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico, as an example of human-centred cooperation.

MIKTA’s work is expanding worldwide. Our embassies and consulates communicate constantly.

This year they will undertake public and cultural diplomacy activities in order to disseminate our historical richness and our cultural customs and traditions. We have a MIKTA Academic Network that has organised a number of seminars and scholarly publications. We will also incorporate other civil society actors into our joint efforts and actions, working together with them to boost economic and tourism promotion.

No country can effectively address international challenges on its own. MIKTA continues to evolve as a multilateral space that aims to play a constructive role in a complex international scenario. Mexico will strengthen collaboration among the five MIKTA countries during 2019, with the end goal of increasing the inclusiveness and prosperity of our societies.

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Feature

By Miloš Belčević

How Social Media Changed Diplomacy With the first “real” social media website launched in 1997, and early forms of social media dating back to the 1980s, there’s probably nobody who would have imagined how far things have gone, with social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter connecting billions of people across the globe and changing the world

A

s the importance and role of social media grew, so did the challenges. We moved from the age of innocence, where social media was seen only as a democratising and empowering force connecting people, with social media entrepreneurs and founders seen as modern-day heroes or charismatic Sherwood outlaws of a sort, to a time where they are scrutinised and challenged. One could argue rightfully so, given the data breaches and scandals like Facebook–Cambridge Analytica affecting hundreds of millions of people, and often shady social media campaigns influencing elections and governments.

On the other hand, missing out on social media means missing out on a lot of opportunities to connect with, and engage one’s audience, and the leaders, diplomats and most influential people, both internationally and in Serbia alike, are to be found on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or even Snapchat.

TWITTER: A PLACE FOR DIPLOMACY? This year sees Facebook turn 15. From its beginnings in a Harvard dorm room, it has grown to become one of today’s most influential companies. It has over 2.27 billion monthly active users and around 1.5 billion daily active users – without even mentioning its flagship acquisitions, like Instagram or WhatsApp, which also have billions of users.

Launched in 2006, Twitter has over 320 million active monthly users, which is a small number compared to the giant that is Facebook,

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but it’s very important because of the type of the community it gathers. Twitter is profiled as the number one place for debates – known for its short format for updates - so-called ‘tweets’ of up to 240 characters.

Burson Cohn & Wolfe’s 2018 Twiplomacy study identified 951 Twitter accounts of heads of state and government and foreign ministers of 187 countries: 372 personal and 579 institutional.

By far the most popular world leader on Twitter today is U.S. President Donald Trump (54 million followers), followed by His Holiness Pope Francis (around 47 million followers across multiple accounts) and Indian Prime Minister Narenda Modi (45 million followers). When it comes to Serbia, the most profiled accounts on Twitter are the official accounts of Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić (64,000 followers) and Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabić (41,000 followers), as well as their private accounts, with Vučić having 281,000 followers and Brnabić 16.3 thousand. @realDonaldTrump vs @POTUS and @ avucic vs @predsednikrs The most followed world leader on Twitter is unprecedented in terms of the way he interacts on the platform, through both his official and personal accounts, changing the ways diplomacy is done on Twitter.

The official account of the President of the United States is @POTUS, and it is followed by around 250 world leaders’ accounts and around 25 million users in total. Trump’s personal Twitter

account is @realDonaldTrump and is followed by 57.3 million users in total and around 185 world leaders’ accounts.

Many times, @realDonaldTrump tweets have been direct, provocative or even problematic.

For instance, he called Meryl Streep “the most over-rated actresses in Hollywood” and “Hillary [Clinton] a flunky who lost big”, or he berated Theresa May by tweeting “don’t focus on me, focus on the destructive Radical Islamic Terrorism that is taking place within the United Kingdom”.

The diplomatic community seems to keep silent and not reply directly to Donald Trump’s tweets, usually using @POTUS account instead.

Twitter is also a venue for lively, and at times edgy, discussion in Serbia. For example, Prime Minister Brnabić came under fire for calling political opponents from Savez za Srbiju “Talibans” in a tweet on her private account, or a large section of the public is polarised and refers to any and every supporter of the Government as an “SNS bot”...

On the other hand, there are public services available, like ‘Report a problem’ – through which citizens can use Twitter to report communal problems in Belgrade. Many embassies are also present and there are lots of interactions overall, so Twitter is here to stay when it comes to public life and diplomacy in Serbia.

Ultimately, the internet, like most things in this world, is what we make of it. Ironically, the most liked Instagram photo in the world recently became a picture of an egg, with over 44.8 million likes. Maybe that’s an “eggcellent” sign that we shouldn’t take everything so seriously.

Leaders’

MEETING POINT DEJAN VUKOTIĆ Director of the Serbian Export Credit and Insurance Agency

European Telecommunications Network Operators’ Association

Best Support For Exporters

The State Of Digital Communications in 2019

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Integration

“Serbia is committed to participation with other Western Balkan partners in preparations for European integration, and reduction of roaming charges is one of the significant steps”. – TATJANA MATIĆ, STATE SECRETARY AT THE SERBIAN MINISTRY OF TRADE, TOURISM AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS

LOCAL NEWS

GERMANY’S ZF GROUP

NEW FACTORY IN PANČEVO

BOYSEN

INVESTMENT WORTH €65 MILLION IN SUBOTICA Boysen, a German producer of exhaust systems for the car industry, is planning an investment of €65 million in the construction of a plant in Subotica, where it will employ over 500 workers over a period of five years.

The investment will be realized within the Mali Bajmok Industrial Zone, on a parcel of 10 hectares, which will be given to the investor for use free of charge. The plan is to build a production facility of 35,000 m2.

To that end, a study was prepared on the justifiability of alienating the land without a fee, which shows that the income for the City of Subotica, as the owner of the parcel, over the next five years will exceed its estimated value.

The final word on the study will be given by the City Assembly of Subotica and the Government of the Republic of Serbia.

Germany’s ZF Friedrichshafen, or ZF Group, plans to open a factory for electric vehicle (EV) parts in Pančevo, in northern Serbia.

In April, the Pancevo city government said ZF Friedrichshafen plans to invest a total of €85 million in the construction of the factory. The company started the construction works on the project in June 2018.

In June, ZF Friedrichshafen also plans to open a research and development (R&D) centre with 100 employees in Serbia, an investment project worth €160 million.

In the first phase of the development of the factory, the German company plans to produce electric shafts for premium original equipment manufacturers, E-Mobility electric motors, electronic and mechatronic gearboxes, microswitches and printed circuit boards.

TAKES OVER THE OPERATION OF AERODROM NIKOLA TESLA

Vinci Airports, the airport division of construction and concession company Vinci, has assumed the management of Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport.

In January 2018, Vinci Airports was selected as the preferred bidder for the Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport concession by Serbia and Airport Nikola Tesla (ANT).

The company was awarded a 25-year concession to run Belgrade airport in lieu of a one-time concession fee of €501m.

The French airport operator also agreed to invest another €732m in new infrastructure that includes financing, operation, maintenance, extension and upgrade of the existing airport terminal and runways.

Vinci will look to use its partnership with over 200 airlines to boost the airport’s traffic and connectivity.

Vinci Airports awarded a €262m contract to Greek construction company GEK Terna in January this year for the construction and refurbishment of Belgrade’s Nikola Tesla airport. Coca-Cola HBC

March

BEGINS PROCESS OF ACQUISITION OF BAMBI Coca-Cola HBC AG has begun the process of acquisition of the leading confectionery company Bambi from Mid Europa Partners, worth €260 million.

The final agreement will be defined later on, and the acquisition is subject to regular conditions and authorizations by the competent bodies, which is why the process is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2019. The strategic intention of the company is for this acquisition to provide it with new opportunities for development in Serbia and the region and the possibility of expansion to complementary product categories.

NEC VINCI

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COCA- COLA

TMS FOR TELEKOM SRBIJA NEC, a Japanese multinational provider of information technology services and products, has announced the provision of an advanced Traffic Management Solution (TMS) for Telekom Srbija, Serbia’s largest mobile operator. The system, which enables a high-level of data communications traffic control and improves the quality of experience (QoE) for users, is scheduled to begin operating in May and will be supplied through Mobycore, a Serbia-based system integrator.

TMS systems include the ability to apply optimum communication parametres depending on network characteristics and traffic conditions, as well as the ability to control re-transmissions due to packet loss.

NEC will also contribute to strengthening Telekom Srbija’s competitiveness by offering solutions that enhance network security using TMS.

Compromise

“Our official offer is to solve this (Kosovo) problem in the realistic way is to reach a compromise - but the idea has not been elaborated during the (Belgrade-Pristina) dialogue.” – IVICA DAČIĆ, SERBIAN FIRST DEPUTY PM AND FOREIGN MINISTER

Placements postings

&

appointments@aim.rs

CHEN BO, NEW AMBASSADOR OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA TO SERBIA

THE NEW MERCEDES-BENZ GLE

ALL KINDS OF STRENGTH The new Mercedes-Benz GLE has a wealth of innovations. The active suspension system E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL on a 48-volt basis is a world first.

The interior is even more spacious and comfortable, with a third seat row available on request. The infotainment system has larger screens, a fullcolour head-up display with a resolution of 720 x 240 pixels and the MBUX Interior Assistant. The new 4MATIC ensures great agility on the road and superior performance off the beaten track. The GLE will receive a completely new range of engines.

In 1997 Mercedes-Benz founded the premium SUV segment with the launch of the M-Class. Since autumn 2015 the model family has borne the name GLE, emphasising its positioning as an SUV in the E Class model family. At present Mercedes-Benz is highly successfully represented with seven models in the SUV segment (GLA, GLC, GLC Coupé, GLE, GLE Coupé, GLS, G-Class).

The new Mercedes-Benz GLE will be presented to the public in Serbia for the first time at the 54th Begrade International Motor Show (20 to 31 March 2019). It will be in the dealerships in shotly after fair.

H.E. Chen Bo was born in January 1970 in the city of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, where she completed her university studies. From 1992-96 she worked at the Directorate for Europe and Central Asia at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, before serving – from 1996-99 – as attaché and third secretary at the Embassy of China to the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. From 1999 to 2004 she returned to the Directorate for Europe and Central Asia at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, before serving as head of the Directorate for Europe at China’s MFA. She worked as an advisor-counsellor at the Embassy of China to the Republic of Serbia from 2006-08, before taking on the position of advisor and deputy general director of the Directorate for Europe at China’s MFA. From 2014-15 she was deputy to the Mayor of the City of Tangshan, Hebei Province, and from 2015-19 served as ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Bosnia-Herzegovina.

ADOLFO ORIVE, NEW PRESIDENT & CEO OF TETRA PAK

The Board of Directors of the Tetra Laval Group has appointed Adolfo Orive as President and CEO of Tetra Pak as of 1st April 2019.

Orive, who arrives in Serbia from the position of vice president for the Cluster of North, Central and South America, joined Tetra Pak in 1993. He has previously held several management positions within the group, including serving as CEO of the cluster for Colombia and Spain, and vice president of the cluster for Northern and Central Europe. Orive joined Tetra Pak’s global leadership team in 2014. Orive (55) graduated in industrial engineering at Mexico’s Ibero-American University, before earning his master’s degree in business administration at the Institute of Technological Autonomy of Mexico (ITAM).

INFRASTRUCTURE

SERBIA TO INVEST €530 MLN IN NEW ROADS Serbia’s government plans to invest €530 million in the construction of a high-speed road linking Zrenjanin to Novi Sad and a Zrenjanin-Belgrade motorway.

Investment in the construction of the 56 km-long Belgrade-Zrenjanin motorway will total 280 million euro, while a further €250 million will be invested in the 50 km-long Zrenjanin-Novi Sad expressway.

The government is already in talks with Chinese partners for the construction of the Belgrade-Zrenjanin motorway.

Earlier this month, the Serbian government said it approved a project for the construction of a motorway rather than an expressway to link Belgrade to Zrenjanin, given the economic development of the Banat District. Chinese company ZORANA MIHAJLOVIĆ Shandong Linglong said in August it plans to invest $994.4 million in the construction of a tyre factory in Zrenjanin.

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DEJAN VUKOTIĆ, DIRECTOR OF THE SERBIAN EXPORT CREDIT AND INSURANCE AGENCY

Best Support For Exporters The Serbian Export Credit and Insurance Agency (AOFI) is the oldest, largest and most secure domestic insurer of exports. In its first year of operations, back in 2005, it approved the first six loans for Serbian exporters, while today there it has 288 clients and covers 188 countries with credit insurance

T

he AOFI isn’t a bank, though we provide similar products and use similar tools and techniques.

One of our services is “ino-factoring”, which helps exporters resolve liquidity issues and enables them to achieve the best possible position on a foreign market.

The AOFI is the Republic of Serbia’s only official export credit agency. What can of position do yo have in international frameworks?

Official export credit institutions (ECAs), like the AOFI, have a role in helping their national economies to grow in the country, on the one hand, and in helping domestic companies to succeed on the international front.

Moreover, by working together as a global network, export creditors worldwide share knowledge and help in the maintaining of international trade, which is also one of the goals that the AOFI needs to realise in its mission.

AOFI, as an active member of the Berne Union - the International Union of Credit & Investment Insurers, strengthens its position, and consequently the position of the Republic of Serbia, by following the direction and guidelines of the Government of the Republic of Serbia.

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As a result of our work, we achieved our appointment as the chair of the Prague Club, one of the committees of the Berne Union. We signed and implemented several agreements with world-renowned state insurers during 2018, such as China’s Sinosure and Austria’s OeKB and OeEB, and we want to continue this growth trend during this

We signed and implemented several agreements with world-renowned state insurers last year, such as China’s Sinosure and Austria’s OeKB and OeEB, and we want to continue this growth trend

year by strictly respecting the interests of the Government of the Republic of Serbia.

You also directed operations several years ago towards international factoring, while this year you’ve further improved that service. Has that eased or solved the problem of liquidity that our exporters often face?

Reducing the foreign trade deficit is one of the economic goals of the Government of the Republic of Serbia. And the AOFI, as the official export credit agency of the Republic of Serbia, is tasked with using its products and services to contribute to achieving this end. One of the services is also secure ino-factoring, which should help our exporters resolve their liquidity issues, on the one hand, and enable the achieving of the best possible competitive position on our market by extending payment deadlines for our customers, on the other. We improved results in this field during the course of 2018 and certainly contributed to the growth of Serbia’s exports.

Wherein lies the advantage of the AOFI compared to banking services?

The AOFI, as an export credit agency that’s owned by the Republic of Serbia, is not a bank, though we offer similar products and use similar tools and techniques. We strive to be competitive on the market, but that isn’t our goal in and of by itself – rather our goal is to increase the competitiveness of our clients on foreign markets. That’s precisely why our approach to clients encompasses the broader picture, and thus increases the space for support, which I consider as being one of our greatest advantages compared to banks.

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Mandatory things

“Bulgarians hate mandatory things. There are so many things that have to be solved that when I hear about Parliament I go around this. The word “mandatory” in particular is one I dislike.” – BOYKO BORISOV, BULGARIAN PRIME MINISTER

REGIONAL NEWS ROMANIA

MLEKOPRODUKT

KONUX, a Munich-based AI startup that provides smart sensor systems and AI-based analytics to railway companies, has raised a further $13 million in an extension of its Series B financing round, announced in April 2018, bringing the total amount raised in this financing round since last year to $33 million. The Series B round includes lead investor New Enterprise Associates (NEA), Upbeat Ventures, MIG AG and new investor Alibaba Group, the company announced.

KONUX was co-founded in 2014 by Germans Andreas Kunze and Dennis Humhal, and Romanian Vlad Lata, who is also the chief technical officer (CTO). The company combines smart sensors and AI-based analytics to enable higher train punctuality and network capacity through predictive maintenance planning and optimized utilization of railroads.

The company has engineering centers in Munich and Cluj-Napoca (Romania). The Romanian engineering team takes care of backend, DevOps and QA, according to a presentation on the company’s website.

Nine individuals from public, business and political life have been awarded with the medal of the “Brotherhood of St. Uguzon” in recognition of their extraordinary contributions to the promotion of cheese and cheese production. The first assembly of the International Cheese Guild in Serbia, and the 559th assembly generally, has been organised at the Embassy of France in Belgrade, according to the initiative of company Mlekoprodukt, a member of the Savencia Fromage & Dairy group. This occasion saw Belgrade visited by famous cheese expert and president of the guild Roland Barthelemy.

GERMAN STARTUP CO-FOUNDED

BY ROMANIAN RAISES $33 MLN

TEMENUZHKA PETKOVA

BULGARIA

REACHING ENERGY ENDEPENDENCE Local gas extraction in the Black Sea is among the most realistic types of diversification of energy sources towards which the Bulgarian government is striving.

According to Bulgarian Energy Minister Temenuzhka Petkova, this will help Bulgaria achieve energy independence. A drillship will begin deepwater exploration in the Khan Kubrat section, 120 kilometres off the Burgas coast, in a bid to reveal oil and gas deposits.

Minister Petkova noted that Bulgaria has developed, together with the European Commission, a strategy for the construction of a gas distribution centre in Bulgaria and local extraction is among the possible sources of gas for the future Balkan gas hub.

ANDREAS KUNZE (LEFT), DENNIS HUMHAL, AND ROMANIAN VLAD LATA

HUNGARY

BOSCH TO INVEST €44 MLN AT HUNGARY BASE German engineering giant Robert Bosch will invest 14.1 billion forints (€43.8mlm) at its automotive unit in the northeast Hungarian city of Miskolc.

Hungary’s government is supporting the investment with €8.3mln, Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó told the press conference.

Robert Bosch Energy and Body Systems makes vehicle parts, relays and electric drives. Among the parts it makes are next-generation products such as brake servomotors and ESP systems used in hybrid and electric cars. The current investment will add production lines for next-generation products as well as testing systems by 2021.

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March

INTERNATIONAL CHEESE GUILD NAMES SERBIAN MEMBERS FOR THE FIRST TIME

The brotherhood, which is part of the International Cheese Guild, accepted into its ranks French Ambassador to Serbia H.E. Frederic Mondolini, Serbian Economy Minister Goran Knežević, Guillaume Iskandar, head chef of Belgrade’s Langouste restaurant, Quentin Royer, president of company Delhaize, Goran Kovačević, general director of supermarket chain Gomex, Sreten Radović, director of publishing at Ringier Axel Springer, Igor Luković, editor of magazine Vino & Fino and member of the board of the Serbian Association of Sommeliers, and Thierry Leforestier, commercial director of the Savencia group. Mlekoprodukt CEO Andrej Beslać was awarded earlier that same day.

The newly named members are tasked with continuing to spread the tradition of cheese production and consumption in the community, thereby ensuring greater visibility for domestic products from this industry. According to Mlekoprodukt’s CEO Beslać, “Mlekoprodukt produces 7,000 tonnes of dairy products annually, a considerable portion of which is cheese, and this amount is rising constantly.

It is for this reason that the presence of this renowned Guild in Serbia, through its members from the local community, is very important.” He also emphasised that the establishing of an official Serbian chapter of the guild is planned, with the aim of developing the full potential of cheese production in Serbia.

The International Guild of Cheese has existed for more than half a century and has 7,000 members in 45 countries. During the event declaring new guild members from Serbia, guests had the opportunity to enjoy selected French and Serbian wines alongside Mlekoprodkt’s cheeses, including Biser Selekta, Ile de France, Caprice des Dieux and Le Rustique.

People

“Governments must operate of the people, by the people, for the people, therefore to create a framework in the migration issue one year before the elections is unfair, undemocratic. I urge Europe’s leaders to exercise restraint.” – VIKTOR ORBAN, PRIME MINISTER OF HUNGARY MONTENEGRO

INVESTMENT OF €4 MLN IN FIORTRESS OF MAMULA All the preparatory work on the territory of the ancient fortress of Mamula, which is located on Lastavica Island at the entrance to the Bay of Kotor, will be completed by the end of March, and also a showroom will be created on the island for the presentation of all the possibilities and the 3D model of the future hotel-museum Mamula.

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

SARAJEVO CANTON JOINS EBRD GREEN CITIES With the launch of a dedicated action plan Sarajevo Canton has joined EBRD Green Cities, a framework helping cities to articulate a sustainable development vision and their strategic objectives as well as defining actions and investments necessary to address priority environmental issues.

As a first step the plan will identify the Sarajevo Canton’s environmental priorities using indicators developed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), an economic organisation, and the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI), a global network of cities.

The aim is to develop long-term visions (10 years), mid-term targets (5-10 years) and short-term actions (1-5 years) together with local stakeholders, including civil society organisations. The action plan will be developed over the course of approximately 14 months before being considered for adoption by the Sarajevo Canton.

ALBANIA

YURA TO OPEN PLANT South Korean cable manufacturer Yura has been offered state-owned land to build a factory in return for investment of around €13 million and creating an initial 600 jobs, in the first Albania investment of a company that is already present in the region. Yura Corporation has been offered a 4.9 hectare area just outside Fier, the country’s third largest city, to build its first Albania plant, in an initial €6.5 million investment which the company plans to double to €13 million in order to increase jobs to 1,100, says the Albanian finance ministry.

“After also studying other regional countries, we picked Albania to invest because of its qualified labor force, competitive costs, geographical position, incentives and support by the Albanian Investment Development Agency,” said Yura representative Lukas Nam. The Albanian government says Yura plans to open two new plants in Albania and create a total of 4,000 jobs. Albania offers one of the region’s lowest labor costs with minimum wage at €210.

According to the information provided by the investor, the company Orascom Hotels Management Mamula Montenegro, this year €4 million will be invested in the reconstruction of the Mamula fortress and the construction of the five-star hotelmuseum Mamula. This year, it is planned to invest €160,000 for the reconstruction and expansion of the pier in the village of Miriste, as well as to ensure constant power supply, an electric network will be built to the Mamula fortress from the neighboring Cape Arza, for which another €500,000 will be allocated. The tenant paid the state an annual rent of €47,772 and invested €869,932. In total, at the moment, €2,103mln were spent on the project of the five-star hotel-museum of Mamula.

NORTH MACEDONIA

MEMORANDUM ON COOPERATION IN ENERGY SECTOR WITH KOSOVO Skopje and Pristina will realize joint energy projects. This was said in a meeting held between North Macedonia’s economy minister, Kreshnik Bekteshi and Kosovo’s economy KRESHNIK BEKTESHI AND VALDRIN LLUKA minister, Valdrin Lluka, who signed a memorandum of cooperation in the energy sector.

The first project to be implemented is the upgrade of the 220 kV transmission line between North Macedonia and Kosovo. Invitation of bids to build solar power plants backed by feed-in premiums will be issued very soon.

In December last year, the Steering Committee of the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) has decided to grant a €1 million for the feasibility study and the environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) study for HPP Čebren.

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43

EUROPEAN TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORK OPERATORS’ ASSOCIATION

The State Of Digital Communications in 2019

Digital is everything and everything is digital. As our societies and economies experience unprecedented tech-driven change, this Report provides you with the latest on one of the most important enablers of progress and growth: digital communications

E

uropeans enjoy a dynamic telecoms sector, which has delivered, over the years, on a series of key economic and societal enablers.

In terms of direct impact, we note that broadband coverage is high (almost 97%), speeds are higher than he global average (70.5 MB for fixed, 34.9 MB for mobile) and infrastructure competition is vibrant. In terms

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of indirect impact, ETNO members created a yearly €139.4bn value added (including salaries, interest, …) and paid over €42bn of taxes.

When looking at telecoms investment and spend, however, the European sector appears less healthy than global peers. CapEx per capita in Europe is €83.2, which is less than half than in Japan (€188.5) and lower than in the USA

(€135.3). In addition, Europeans use less (and hence spend less on) telecom services, with the average European telecoms spend per capita at €30.1, as opposed to over €70 in the US, €52 in Japan and €57.4 in Australia. This ultimately means that the investment capacity of the industry is being put under pressure, with the CapEx/revenue ratio at 18%. Our ability to deliver faster and more roll-out for

Europeans is hampered by these dynamics.

European users’ needs are being met by a fast evolution of the telecoms offer. In terms of technology, the total number of 4G connections keeps on rising steadily also in 2018, connections to faster fixed technologies continue growing (fibre, cable, VDSL) and so does data usage for both mobile and fixed.

In terms of commercial offers, fixed-mobile convergence is strong, with a growing take-up of converged services, as consumers seek to reduce complexity and get a better value.

Despite strong competitive pressure from OTT video offers, the operators’ video offer is expected to continue growing in the coming years and it has grown over €1bn for the first time in 2019 (Western Europe).

When looking at businesses, the IT services offer has significantly expanded over the past years, with a diverse portfolio that includes cloud, security, unified communications, enterprise services and others. Similarly, the growth of IoT is continuing with IoT revenues expected to reach €5.2bn by 2025.

Automotive, smart buildings and utilities are expected to be among the top contributors to this growth. 5G technology is happening, it will empower a wealth of consumer and business activities, and become a central infrastructure for growth and economic progress.

The work to make fixed and mobile networks come together into 1 smart 5G network is well underway. Network virtualisation, edge computing and further mobile and fixed network investment will enable both superior retail broadband services and a new, central role in the industrial value chains.

Along with further fixed investment, spectrum is the lifeblood of 5G deployment. Unfortunately, the auctioning process is not always as timely. Only a few European countries have already concluded the relevant spectrum auctions: only 6 European countries for the 700MHz, only 4 for the mmWave and only 3 for all the 3.4, 3.5, 3.6 and 3.7GHz bands.

The price tag for acquiring spectrum rights remains high, especially if we consider that the real network investment can only come after spectrum has been awarded. Since 2000, European telcos have spent €110bn on 3G bands, €37.6bn on 4G bands and – while at the very beginning of the process – they have

already spent €12.4bn in 5G bands. From this viewpoint, both the conditions attached to the licenses and the design of the auctions remain crucial to ensure that investment incentives are not hampered.

Telecom operators are transforming into fully digital agents, with a realignment of the

When looking at businesses, the IT services offer has significantly expanded over the past years, with a diverse portfolio that includes cloud, security, unified communications, enterprise services and others

relationship between the infrastructures and the broader digital ecosystem.

This transformation builds on three main enablers: superior networks, network-enabled services beyond just commodity, and service-based collaboration with the digital ecosystem.

Ultimately, networks will become platforms

and they will be characterized by a higher degree of openness, which will in turn enable an intense collaboration with verticals and with the broader ecosystem.

However, a challenging competitive environment awaits, and it has not been fully recognised by regulators and policymakers

yet. Networks, in Europe, are highly regulated.

At the same time, competition in the telecom sector now happens on 3 levels: on the top, with tech companies absorbing further value and potentially disintermediating some telecom functions. On the side, with alternative operators who rely on regulated access, but also on consolidation, which brings stronger competitors to the table. Below, with increasing investment in entities deploying pure fibre and adding to the infrastructure competition game.

Policymakers hold some of the key levers in the game: for example, market structure, spectrum auctions, licence conditions, barriers to deployment, proportionate fixed regulation, service regulation. A factual recognition of the competitive environment will help determine whether the outcome of the current market trends is a stronger or a weaker sector. With 5G and the digital transformation of society in the making, this is going to be a key strategic challenge in defining Europe’s place on global stage.

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Progress

“In Europe there is no progress if nations are fighting against each other.

There is no progress if there is hatred in the world. We had this in Europe.

Enough is enough.” – JEAN-CLAUDE JUNCKER, PRESIDENT OF THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION

WORLD NEWS JAPAN

AUTO UNIONS SUBMIT HIGHER WAGES DEMAND

ITALY

TALKS WITH DELTA & EASYJET FOR ALITALIA STAKE CONFIRMED Italy’s state railway has confirmed it is in talks with Delta Air Lines and EasyJet as possible industrial partners in relaunching the troubled Alitalia airline.

The state railway was given a lead role in taking over Alitalia, which struggled amid competition from low-cost carriers and has failed to come up with a sustainable plan to establish Italy’s flagship airline as a long-haul player.

Italian Premier Giuseppe Conte’s office said that it is ready to participate in establishing a new company to run Alitalia as long as the new business plan is sustainable and follows European guidelines.

Italy’s government has been shopping around Alitalia’s assets since the airline declared its latest bankruptcy two years ago.

The labour unions of major Japanese automakers submitted pay increase requests to their employers for annual “shunto” spring wage talks.

All unions except that of Toyota Motor Corp. called for a pay-scale hike of ¥3,000 (€24) a month, unchanged from the previous year’s requests. They requested a pay-scale increase for the sixth straight year.

The request was submitted by the unions of Toyota, Nissan Motor Co. and Honda Motor Co. The Toyota union did not specify any amount of pay-scale increase that it wants. Instead, it demanded a total monthly wage increase, also including a regular rise, of ¥12,000 (€96) on average among unionised workers. It is unusual for a major labour union to demand a wage hike without specifying any requested amount of pay-scale increase.

Toyota and four other major Japanese automakers are struggling with increasing uncertainties over U.S.-China trade tensions and Britain’s exit from the EU.

GERMANY

RUSSIAN-GERMAN TRADE TURNOVER’S RAPID GROWTH Trade turnover between Russia and its second largest trade partner, Germany, increased 8.4 per cent and reached nearly €62 billion in 2018 compared to the previous year, according to the German trade lobby.

Year-on-year imports from Russia to Germany expanded 14.7 per cent, amounting to €36 billion ($40 billion). Exports to Russia rose 0.6 per cent to €25.9 billion, reported the German-Russian Chamber of Commerce, which represents over 800 German firms.

“German business has successfully increased exports to Russia despite the market difficulties, sanctions and countersanctions. This has also improved our expectations for 2019,” said the chairman of the German-Russian Chamber of Commerce, Matthias Schepp, in a statement. The trade turnover between Beijing and Moscow also surged by 24.5 per cent last year to €95.8billion, with €49.7 billion of it amounting to Russian exports to China. This is the first time since 2006 that Russia has had a trade surplus with its Eastern partner.

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10 TIPS

TO IMPROVE BUSINESS EFFICIENCY Your company is running smoothly enough, but you know things could be better.

Here are 10 tips on how you can keep your businesses running efficiently.

1. Automate whatever tasks you can 2. Encourage your employees to chat face-to-face 3. Limit interruptions 4. Hold a daily, 10-minute company meeting 5. “Single-task” to get more done 6. Discourage “Got a minute?” meetings 7. Stick with the established process 8. Use a task management software 9. Promote a culture of open communication 10. Know when to stop

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Enterpreneur MICHAEL JORDAN

Turning Weakness

Into Strength

Michael Jordan was not always destined to become an NBA player, let alone an NBA superstar. Growing up, Michael was the ‘goofy’ kid who liked basketball. He wasn’t very tall and didn’t come from an athletic family. He was determined, he had many setbacks and failures, but his hard work eventually paid off. For every weakness, Michael found a way to turn it into a strength and he never gave up. Today, we know him as the greatest basketball player of all time and one of the world’s richest athletes 48

March

“I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. But I can’t accept not trying, said” - Michael Jordan When Michael first entered the league, his jump shot was not good enough. So, he spent his off-season practicing hundreds of jump shots every day until they were perfect. In high school, Michael was even rejected from the basketball team.

For every weakness, Michael found a way to turn it into a strength and he never gave up.

Today, we know him as the greatest basketball player of all time. Michael Jordan was born on 17th February 1963, in Brooklyn, New York, one of James and Deloris Jordan’s five children. His father taught him to work hard and not to be tempted by street life. His mother taught him to sew, clean, and do laundry.

Jordan loved sports but failed to make his high school basketball team as a sophomore. He continued to practice and made the team the next year. After high school he accepted a basketball scholarship to the University of North Carolina, where he played under head coach Dean Smith.

In Jordan’s first season at North Carolina he was named Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Rookie of the Year for 1982. The team won the ACC championship, and Jordan made the clutch jump shot that beat Georgetown University for the championship of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

Jordan left North Carolina a year early to enter the 1984 NBA draft, where he was selected third overall by the Chicago Bulls. Two years later, he would return to North Carolina and complete his degree in geography.

At that time Chicago Bulls were a losing team, but Jordan quickly turned that around. His incredible leaping ability and hang time thrilled fans in arenas around the league. In his first season he was named to the All-Star team and was later honored as the league’s Rookie of the Year.

In 1993, after a tough playoff series with the New York Knicks, the Bulls met the Phoenix Suns for the NBA championship. When it was over, Jordan was again playoff MVP, and Chicago had won a third straight title. That summer Jordan’s father, James, was murdered by two men during a robbery attempt. Jordan was grief stricken, and his father’s death led him to announce his retirement from professional basketball in October.

Jordan had won three straight NBA titles, three regular season MVP awards, three playoff MVP

titles, seven consecutive scoring titles, and he was a member of the All-Star team every year that he was in the league.

By the time Jordan left the NBA in 2003, he had made just over $94 million for his time on the court for the Chicago Bulls, and later the Washington Wizards.

Although he hasn’t played professional basketball since 2003, his fortune is growing at an even faster clip than during his playing days.

One reason for that is that his reputation and his brand as a basketball superstar continues to sell products. In 2014 alone, Jordan made more than $100 million from the use of his likeness by a variety of products.

His earnings in the endorsement arena

stretches back more than 30 years to the beginning of his basketball career, in 1984. Just out of school and in the NBA for his rookie season, the 21-year-old Jordan signed a five-year, $2.5-million deal with Nike Inc. (NKE), which created the now-iconic Air Jordan basketball shoe. In 1996, he starred in the feature film “Space Jam,” which earned over $230 million worldwide at the box office.

By 2013, Nike had made the wildly successful Air Jordan shoe and apparel business into a separate entity, called the Jordan Brand. In 2013, Jordan made a reported $90 million from his relationship with Nike.

Between 2000 and 2012, Jordan made $480 million from his affiliation with Nike. But he also

MICHAEL JORDAN AT A COUNTRY CLUB IN CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA

Although he hasn’t played professional basketball since 2003, his fortune is growing at an even faster clip than during his playing days

took home $18 million for endorsing Gatorade, $14 million from trading-card brand Upper Deck, and another $14 million from underwear giant Hanes (HBI), along with $10.6 million from XEL, a kind of cologne (which reportedly sold 1.5 million bottles in its first two months).

Before 2000, however, Jordan had been the nearly omnipresent face of a host of major American brands, endorsing Coca-Cola Co. (KO), Chevrolet (GM), Gatorade (PEP), McDonald’s (MCD), Ball Park Franks (TSN), Rayovac (SPB) and Wheaties (GIS). And he

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Enterpreneur is very protective of his brand. In recent years, Jordan sued Dominick’s Finer Foods, a bankrupt Illinois supermarket chain, for using his name and picture on a 2009 steak coupon.

With the fortune he’d made from endorsements and playing in the NBA, Jordan purchased

yacht. He splits time between a custom-built $12.8-million mansion on a golf course and a $2.8-million lakefront house in Charlotte, after selling his 56,000-square-foot mansion in Highland Park, Illinois, for $29 million.

While Jordan’s fortune has grown steadily

TIME OF GLORY AT CHICAGO BULLS

a stake in the Charlotte Hornets basketball franchise in 2006. Four years later, Jordan bought out the majority shareholder to become the first former NBA player to become the majority owner of a franchise, at the right time, as the values of NBA franchises have since skyrocketed, driving Jordan’s net worth past the $1 billion mark in 2015. In 2010, when he became the majority owner of the Hornets, the average value of an NBA franchise was $367 million.

By 2015, thanks largely to a much richer television contract with ESPN (DIS) and Turner Broadcasting (TWC), the average value of a team has grown to $1.1 billion.

The Hornets are no exception, with the new TV deal set to pour an extra $57 million into its coffers annually. The completion of the deal increased the value of the team from $410 million in 2014 to $725 million in 2015 Jordan enjoys a host of luxuries in his daily life, including his own private jet, which he had painted Carolina blue, and a 47-metre-long mega-

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A fierce competitor with a carefully honed persona, and despite his gambling habits, Michael Jordan owes much of his endorsement career to his relatively clean public image since 1984, there was one notable exception: the year 2007. That’s when he divorced his wife of 18 years, Juanita. She walked away with a record-setting divorce settlement of $168 million.

A fierce competitor with a carefully honed persona, and despite his gambling habits, Michael Jordan owes much of his endorsement career to his relatively clean public image. That

image, however, has taken a few hits over the years due to Jordan’s taste for gambling.

In 1992, when Jordan was on the Olympic Basketball team playing in Barcelona, he would join Magic Johnson, Scottie Pippen and Charles Barkley in all-night poker games. One of these high-stakes games went until 6 am, after which the three NBA legends slept for an hour and defeated the Croatian team for the gold medal by a score of 117 to 85.

According to observers, Jordan was playing craps almost nonstop at a Las Vegas casino during the 2007 NBA All-Star weekend. Jordan, who wouldn’t allow anyone else to roll the dice, reportedly lost over $5 million in a single night.

In 1993, after a tough playoff series with the New York Knicks, the Bulls met the Phoenix Suns for the NBA championship. When it was over, Jordan was again playoff MVP, and Chicago had won a third straight title. That summer Jordan’s father, James, was murdered by two men during a robbery attempt. Jordan was grief stricken, and his father’s death, combined with media reports about his gambling, led him to announce his retirement from professional basketball in October.

Jordan had won three straight NBA titles, three regular season MVP awards, three playoff MVP titles, seven consecutive scoring titles, and he was a member of the All-Star team every year that he was in the league. In just nine seasons he had become the Bulls all-time leading scorer.

Earlier last year, Michael Jordan joined one of the world’s most exclusive clubs. Thanks to the skyrocketing value of NBA franchises over the last few years, MJ’s 90 percent ownership stake in the Charlotte Hornets earned him a spot on Forbes Magazine’s list of the world’s billionaires. Jordan is now a part of the gallery that also includes the President, Jeff Bezos, Warren Buffet, Bill Gates, various members of the Walton family, Oprah, Elon Musk, the Koch brothers and other achievers, inheritors, miscreants and scoundrels. According to Forbes, with an estimated net worth of $1.6 billion, Jordan is the 455th-richest person in the U.S. That ranks him as only the world’s 18th-richest person named Michael, behind Bloomberg, Dell and 15 others.

Next up for Michael Jordan is converting his longtime obsession with golf into reality in the form of a golf course. The course will be built in Hobe Sound, Florida, which is just north of West Palm Beach, and it will reportedly open in 2019.

PROFILE

What Does It Mean To Be Happy?

Photo credit Nebojša Babić

I want to integrate everything that fulfils me and is important to me in order to create a whole in which I enjoy and which works

MARIJA DESIVOJEVIĆ CVETKOVIĆ, SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT OF DELTA HOLDING

I

follow with interest the trends of businessliterature over recent decades.

From the Six Sigma programme and “benchmarking”, through the Balanced Scorecard, at the beginning of the 21st century we got to the subject of leadership, and today, apart from digitalisation, the most common term encountered at conferences and lectures, and in books and magazines, is happiness.

What is it that business gurus are trying to tell us? In chasing success, have we forgotten about that which makes us alive and that which we’ll regret when there’s no more time? What does being happy mean to each of us? Can a woman who combines, on a daily basis, nurturing her family and raising her children, a responsible job, socialising with friends, travelling and other activities that she enjoys, be happy? Am I happy?

I don’t view my life as a see-saw that needs to be titled to one side or the other: obligations or satisfaction (among other things,

on which side of this are children?), work or holidays, travel or friends. I think that what we’ve long since referred to as the worklife balance is a false and outdated notion.

I don’t want to balance between being a good mother and a good manager, or a leader at Delta Holding. I don’t want to balance between creating good people out of my children and shaping young people in the company into good personnel who will very soon lead the company. I don’t think there’s a need to strike a balance between business trips and climbing the Himalayas or the Andes. I don’t think there’s a juxtaposition

I don’t view my life as a see-saw that needs to be titled to one side or the other: obligations or satisfaction (among other things, on which side of this are children?), work or holidays, travel or friends. I think that what we’ve long since referred to as the work-life balance is a false and outdated notion

between my business training at Harvard Business School and my swimming, running and cycling training.

All of these things comprise my life, and I believe the lives of many businesswomen look similar. Those are the pieces of a giant jigsaw puzzle that wouldn’t be complete without those pieces.

That’s why I don’t want to balance and measure days on the basis of which side of the see-saw is prevailing. I want to integrate everything that fulfils me and is important to me in order to create a whole in which I enjoy and which works.

I don’t consider happiness as a fleeting feeling; as a set of moments that are actually just having fun or satisfying current desires.

Happiness is a state of being, something that exists in us and represents internal peace with ourselves, and with all the choices that we make every day. Happiness is being self realised in your work, continuously learning, advancing, researching and creating new values. Happiness is giving back to the community in which we live and work.

Happiness is creating deep, high-quality and enduring emotional relationships with friends and family. Happiness is living in harmony with nature, engaging in sports and passing the finish line of a marathon. At the end of the day, the greatest happiness is when you arrive home after a day spent at work and are awaited there with the question “Mum, what are we going to do today?”

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Art/Exhibitions

STUDIO DRIFT,TREE OF TENERE

Light Art:

The Beauty Of Illumination

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By Maja Vukadinović

Light Art is a relatively new but increasingly independent form of art. Quite diverse and imaginative, it sees artists create installations and experiment with light, sound, space and motion. Many light art festivals now illuminate cities and towns across the globe, with these spectacular events often promoting energy efficiency or being connected to a city’s heritage

T

hanks to technology, paintbrushes or chisels are no longer required to create an incredible artwork.

Historically, light has been used to supplement and enhance more “genuine” art forms, like architecture or stained glass.

But, as modern technology increased, so did the ways in which light could be used in artistic pursuits. This led, soon enough, to artists beginning to transition light from its more traditional supporting role and to an innovative medium for artistic expression unto itself.

According to Wikipedia, light art, or luminism, is an applied art form in which light is the main medium of expression. It is an art form in which either a sculpture produces light or light is used to produce a

“sculpture” through the manipulation of light, colours and shadows. Light Art defines an artistic movement, but also an idea, a project that interacts with architecture, the urban landscape and the natural environment to create a new experience in visual perception through new methods of using indoor and outdoor spaces to transmit cultural messages.

The perception of a spatial environment is the main characteristic of this kind of art, which uses “light” as the preferred medium to communicate an inner state of mind or to design a location to engage the public directly.

The phenomenon of Light Art has also recently spread in the fields of design and architecture, becoming a design language in the definition of volume, space, shapes, colours of objects, buildings, monuments and interiors. Light

JENNY HOLZER, BLUE PURPLE TILT

Light is a visual, physical, psychological, symbolic and perceptual factor that’s linked to the feelings and moods of each of us is a visual, physical, psychological, symbolic and perceptual factor tied to the feelings and moods of each of us. It therefore acts as an element of identity that helps artists, designers and architects during the creation of a project and in its representation.

BRUCE MUNRO, FIELD OF LIGHT

LIGHT SCULPTURES In contemporary art, the phenomenon of Light Art emerged in the second half of the 20th century, developing from the work of two artists: Dan Flavin and James Turrell.

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Art/Exhibitions

AMSTERDAM LIGHT FESTIVAL, HEART

Regardless of the technique applied, lighting is today perceived as one of the most potent tools to shape people’s experience, with many multimedia artists incorporating light into their projects Originally trained in fine art, Dan Flavin ultimately became a light art pioneer. His illuminated sculptures offer a rigorous formal and conceptual investigation of space and light, which saw the artist arrange commercial fluorescent bulbs into differing geometric compositions. Other early titans of light art have also helped this medium break new ground. James Turrell in particular has used his background in perceptual psychology to explore light as an object that has volume, as well as perception as an artistic medium in its own right. Light and Space Movement has been initiated by Robert Irwin, who envisaged light-based art that acclimated to its location, existing to heighten the viewer’s understanding of the environment in which it was displayed.

While the movement only really took off in the 1960s, new media artists have managed to take the work to the next level using the latest technology. Current light art is quite diverse and imaginative. Many artists, art

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YAYOI KUSAMA, FLOWER OBSESSION

STUDIO DRIFT, FRAGILE FUTURE

groups and collectives around the world create immersive art installations or light sculptures, while others experiment with light, sound and motion, and some conduct spatial interventions, light projections and spectacles. Regardless of the technique applied, lighting is today perceived as one of the most potent tools to shape people’s experience, with many multimedia artists incorporating light into their projects.

Playing with light could be very inspirational. Various artists find inspiration in natural environments, cultural sites or

architecture. For instance, renowned British light artist Bruce Munro has produced some of the world’s most dazzling and attention-grabbing light installations in public gardens and on museum lawns. Some use light to explore environmental space and perception. Others, like Yayoi Kusama and Jenny Holzer, create light-based works that engage contemporary issues deeply and carve a space for diverse artistic viewpoints.

There are also artists like Maja Petrić, who create bodies of work that illuminate our notion of personal identity and community.

By author

Whether fragile sculptures shaped like flowers or an artistic swarm of birds made of illuminated drones - the observer can discover art that presents the world from a different perspective On the other hand, the fascinating light art of the duo that comprises Studio Drift blurs the borders between technology and nature. Whether fragile sculptures shaped like flowers or an artistic swarm of birds made of illuminated drones - the observer can discover art that presents the world from a different perspective. Even the spectacular aurora borealis is inspiring artists to create light installations.

Lighting sensations are largely incorporated into the entertainment industry, events and tourist attractions. Designers and specialised agencies implement all sorts of light and sound installations to create mood, atmosphere and visual stimulation at corporate events or concerts. The most sensational, however, are the light art festivals that today illuminate cities and towns across the globe.

DAVID ZWIRNER, FESTIVAL OF LIFE

YAYOI KUSAMA, INFINITY MIRROR ROOMS

AMSTERDAM LIGHT FESTIVAL

BRUCE MUNRO, LIGHT SHOWER

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&FACES PLACES 28/1/2019

Serbia And Slovenia To Increase Investments And New Partnerships

More than 600 businesspeople from both countries gathered in Belgrade during the Serbia-Slovenia Business Forum, confirming there is a mutual interest in the expansion of existing investments.

The presidents of the two countries, Aleksandar Vučić and Borut Pahor respectively, empathised strong support for the strengthening of economic ties between Serbia and Slovenia.

Marko Čadež and Boštjan Gorjup, presidents of both countries Chambers of Commerce, said that two economies have the potential of becoming generators of development and progress based on innovations and modern PRESIDENT OF SLOVENIA BOŠTJAN GORJUP technologies.

28/2/2019

Data Privacy Day

Commissioner for Information of Public Importance and Personal Data Protection hosted a meeting marking Data Privacy Day, held annually on 28th January to create awareness about the importance of respecting privacy, safeguarding data and enabling trust.

Attendees were addressed by Stanojla Mandić, Deputy Commissioner for Information of Public Importance and Personal Data Protection, H.E. Sem Fabrizi, Head of Delegation of the European Union in Serbia, H.E. Andrea Orizio, Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia and Tobias Flessenkemper, Head of the Council of Europe Office in Belgrade.

The EU Ambassador Sem Fabrizi noted that the right to protection of privacy is a part of chapter 23 on basic rights, while in chapter 24 it is a prerequisite for judicial cooperation and with Eurojust.

1/2/2019

NALED’s 11th Grey Book Presented

The 11th annual conference on economic reforms presented the new edition of Grey Book of regulations, with 100 business recommendations for simplifying administrative procedures and improving the business conditions.

Grey Book 11 includes 31 new recommendations, and along with business recommendations, an important part also refers to initiatives nominated by citizens within the campaign Ask WHEN which was implemented during 2018.

The Top Reformer award was presented to Borko Drašković for the successfully implemented reform of registering property rights in the Real Estate Cadaster and the establishment of electronic one-stop shop procedure - eCounter.

TRADITIONAL CUTTING OF VASILOPITA CAKE

29/1/2019

HBA Annual Celebration Vasilopita Cutting

The Hellenic Business Association of Serbia - HBA organised the annual event in honour of traditional Vasilopita Pie Cutting at Hyatt Regency Belgrade. The event was attended by HBA’s members and friends, but also by representatives of the Greek Embassy.

Zafiris Lampadaridis, HBA president of Management Board and Selena Djordjević, HBA executive officer addressed the guests stressing that the Association celebrates this year 15 years of operation in Serbia, emphasized the importance of the strong presence of Greek companies in Serbia as well as the important role of the HBA in presenting Greek business community.

At this year’s event, the HBA awarded companies Isomat, TGI Group International and Junior KM Cards for their 10th anniversary of membership in the Association.

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PRIME MINISTER ANA BRNABIĆ

SEE MORE: WWW.CORDMAGAZINE.COM

6/2/2019

Sweden’s Support For Serbia In 2019 Worth 11.7 Million Euros

The agreement co-signed in early February by Ambassador of Sweden H.E. Jan Lundin and Borko Drašković, Director of the Republic Geodetic Authority, represents Swedish support to Serbia’s establishment of the National Register of Investment Maps. The aim is to digitalise locations and potentials in Serbia, providing easy access to investors.

Speaking following the signing procedures, Ambassador Lundin said: “I think that this will be good for the development of the Serbian economy. Investors will find locations easier and faster and have insight into the potential for investments. This is a good example of partner cooperation between Swedish and Serbian institutions,” before adding that digitisation aimed at ensuring transparency and easing insight will also reduce the possibility of corruption.

AMBASSADOR OF CHINA CHEN BO

4/2/2019

Festival Of Light Marks The Start Of The Chinese New Year

The Chinese New Year has been marked with the opening of the exhibition “Chinese Festival of Light” and fireworks at Kalemegdan, in the presence of Prime Minister of the Republic of Serbia Ana Brnabić, Minister of Culture and the Media Vladan Vukosavljević, Minister of Labour, Employment, Veteran and Social Affairs Zoran Djordjević, Mayor of Belgrade Zoran Radojičić and newly appointed Ambassador of China to Serbia H.E. Chen Bo. Ambassador Chen Bo pointed out that New Year’s Eve is the most important day for the Chinese, the time of joy and family reunion, and noted that the installation at Kalemegdan welcomes the new spring.

AMBASSADOR JAN LUNDIN AND BORKO DRAŠKOVIĆ

7/2/2019

Norway Remains Serbia’s Reliable Partner

During the event held today at the Center for Culture and Arts in Aleksinac, marking the long-term cooperation between Norway and Serbia within the project Norway for you, the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić and the Ambassador of Norway H.E. Arne Sanes Bjornstad confirmed the importance of the friendship between the two countries and expressed the belief that the future cooperation would bring multiple benefits for the citizens of Serbia.

On this occasion, Minister of Labor, Employment, Veterans and Social Affairs Zoran Djordjević, Minister of State Administration and Local Government Branko Ružić, as well as numerous mayors and presidents of the municipalities that are part of the project, exchanged ideas on further areas of assistance and cooperation and recalled the relevant projects which the Kingdom of Norway financed in Serbia with over 250 million euros during two decades.

MINISTER BRANKO RUŽIĆ, AMBASSADOR ARNE SANES BJORNSTAD, PRESIDENT ALEKSANDAR VUČIĆ

8/2/2019

Russian Diplomats Day Marked In Serbia

On 10 February 1802 Russian Ministry of the Foreign Affairs was established, and each year on this day Russian Diplomats Day is marked around the world.

A traditional wreath-laying ceremony on the tomb of Nikolai Henrihovic Hartwig on the occasion of the Russian Diplomats Day was held in Belgrade on February 8th.

The ceremony was attended by the Ambassador of Russia to Serbia H.E. Aleksandar Chepurin, other members of the Russian Embassy in Belgrade, as well as the Russian Center for Science and Culture “Russian House” in Belgrade.

During his term in the Kingdom of Serbia (1909-1914), Hartwig, a distinguished Russian diplomat contributed greatly to the development of Russian-Serbian cooperation.

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SEE MORE: WWW.CORDMAGAZINE.COM

&FACES PLACES 11/2/2019

Iranian Embassy Marks 40th Anniversary Of Islamic Revolution

Embassy of Iran in Belgrade, headed by Ambassador H.E. Hossein Molla Abdollahi hosted a reception marking the 40th anniversary of the Victory of Iran’s Islamic Revolution at the Metropol Palace hotel.

Present at the event as the representative of the Serbian Government was Zoran Đorđević, Minister Of Labour, Employment, Veteran And Social Affairs.

In his speech, Ambassador Hossein Molla Abdollahi expressed the hope that cooperation between the two friendly countries would further strengthen in times to come. The ambassador also highlighted the importance of the Islamic Revolution in the history of Iran.

The reception at Belgrade’s Metropol Palace Hotel was attended by a large number of guests, including numerous representatives of the diplomatic corps in Serbia.

AMBASSADOR MONDOLONI WITH TIJANA PALKOVLJEVIĆ BUGARSKI AND MILOŠ KONSTANTINOVIĆ

12/2/2019

Ambassador Mondoloni Presents The Ordre Des Arts Et Des Lettres

Ambassador of France to Serbia H.E. Frédéric Mondoloni awarded the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres in the ranks of the Knight to Tijana Palkovljević Bugarski, the director of the Gallery Matica srpska, and Miloš Konstantinović, literary translator. At the event held at the Embassy of France in Belgrade, the French Ambassador Frédéric Mondoloni recalledTijana Palkovljević Bugarski and Miloš Konstantinović to the enrich the contribution of the ment of the French cultural inheritance in Serbia. The Order is awarded by the French Ministry of Culture to persons who have emphasised creativity in the field of art or literature and thus contributed to the French and world artistic and cultural heritage.

21/2/2019

AMBASSADOR H.E. HOSSEIN MOLLA ABDOLLAHI

Russian Embassy Celebrates Defender Of The Fatherland Day

The Russian Embassy in Belgrade marked Defender of the Fatherland Day in the presence of Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, Serbian Patriarch Irinej and BiH Presidency Chairman Milorad Dodik.

The celebration of the Days of the Fatherland, organised by Ambassador Chepurin and Defense Envoy Colonel Andrej Sobakin, began with the intonation of the Russian and Serbian anthems.

The Ambassador of Russia to Serbia H.E. Aleksandar Chepurin reiterated in his speech that Russia supports the neutral status of Serbia, but also supports its good relations with other countries if it suits its interests.

The reception was attended by ministers, Aleksandar Vulin, Zoran Djordjević, head of the Office for Kosovo and Metohija Marko Djurić, as well as numerous members of the diplomatic corps and representatives of the cultural and political life of Serbia.

PRIME MINISTER BRNABIĆ AND RS PRESIDENT CVIJANOVIĆ DURING WREATH LAYING CEREMONY

15/2/2019

Statehood Day Of Serbia Marked

Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabić led the central state ceremony on the occasion of the Statehood Day, in memory of 15th February 1804, when the First Serbian Uprising began and when the first Serbian Constitution was proclaimed in 1835. The central state ceremony was held in Orašac, where the uprising was mounted under the leadership of Karađorđe Petrović.

Prime Minister Brnabić and Republika Srpska President Željka Cvijanović laid a wreath at the monument to Karađorđe at the Orašac Memorial.

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AMBASSADOR CHEPURIN WITH PRESIDENT VUČIĆ AND MILORAD DODIK

My life

Dušan Ivković, one of the world’s most successful basketball coaches

By Aleksandar Miletić

IT’S A PRIVILEGE TO LIVE WITH WHAT YOU LOVE DUŠAN IVKOVIĆ AT GENEVA’S HOUSE OF BASKETBALL, FIBA HEADQUARTERS, IN 2017 (PHOTO A. MILETIĆ)

This basketball coach and FIBA Hall of Famer talks about his journey of many decades in basketball, from the moment when, as a boy, he first threw a ball into a basket, via 26 trophies as a coach, to today, when he has been engaged by the FIBA Technical Commission March

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My life

Dušan Ivković, one of the world’s most successful basketball coaches

D

ušan Ivkovic (75) has called time on his coaching career, but he hasn’t said goodbye to obligations in basketball. As a member of the Technical Commission of the World Basketball Federation (FIBA), where they seek the best solutions for the future of basketball, he tries to draw attention to the problems faced by this sport. He says that his duty is to always be a “basketball soldier”, considering what the sport has provided for him over the past six decades. In all the interviews he’s given at various meridians, his first role in basketball has somehow remained in the shadows, and that was the role of a player.

“I entered the world of basketball in the mid-1950s, when it was the subject of ridicule in Yugoslavia. They said back then that basketball was a girls’ sport, that it’s played with the hands rather than the feet, like football, and that there’s no fisticuffs and similar things befitting to men.

Basketball attracted me at first glance. Perhaps that was also due to the fact – as pointed our by long-serving FIBA secretary general FIBA Bora Stanković – that basketball is the only sport that has a horizontal goal. And that requires a special skill. As a boy, I had the opportunity to watch our first basketball aces, like Aleksandar Gec and Srđan Kalember from Red Star, then Partizan’s famous centre Mirko Marjanović, a great gentleman with whom I later collaborated well as a young coach at Partizan. During those days when I started playing basketball, in 1955, was the first time someone over two metres tall appeared on our basketball scene, Konjević, who was brought to Red Star by the famous Nebojša Popović.”

As a child, what other sports, apart from basketball, interested you?

The Red Cross neighbourhood and the Workers (Radnički) Club are, so to say, my life. As we didn’t have a television as kids, we went to watch all the sports. I was about the height of the ring when I first started sneaking around and watching boxer greats, from Ljubinka Veselinović in the flyweight category, to heavyweight Boško Nikolić. I met all the boxing legends and admired them, as well as the footballing “masters from the Danube” who trained on our clay field, led by Škoba Filipović. That unbelievably charismatic coach created a team

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DUŠAN IVKOVIĆ WITH HIS YOUNGER SON, PAVLE (PHOTO: IVKOVIĆ FAMILY ARCHIVE)

My behaviour during matches isn’t acting, as many consider. There’s no time for acting. I’ve never used chill pills, although I look as cool as a spritzer.

That’s because my nerves are spent long before the match, in the exhausting days of preparation. Leading a match is the nicest part of the job that earned the prefix “atomic”. I remember that in one training match they beat the Bulgarian national team 4:0. Testifying to what a master of his craft Škoba was are the words of the then president of the Workers Club Čile Kovačević, who said: “Put him in jail and give him a football, and he’ll teach the inmates to

play the best football”. And what can one say about handball maestro Bogdan Cvjetić, or David Kalinić and Vinko Kandija, who created a women’s handball team that took Europe by storm... All the great boxing champions were moulded by the legendary Siki Gaković, who fired up the fighters in an unbelievable way.

Then came Toma Hladni and Dule Sertić. Like every boy, I tried my hand at many sports, and my first love was boxing. However, my father forbade me from training boxing, and so at the age of 12, in 1955, I switched to basketball. My first instructor was Bora Cenić. Why are all you “crossers” so proud of the Red Cross neighbourhood?

The Red Cross gave us everything, including some kind of upbringing, besides that of the family. It had a playground, Mile Bric, in whose shop I met, as a boy, all sporting legends, the Juhor tavern, Avala cinema and the Belgrade Drama Theatre. That’s why it’s no surprise that we have so many high-quality and distinguished people, from scientists and

By Aleksandar Miletić

“I’m the only coach who didn’t accept to become a professional. That’s because if, in 1987, I’d accepted that and cancelled my contract with Vojvodina, I would have had a salary of 70 million then dinars from the Basketball Federation of Yugoslavia, which would have meant that I wouldn’t have been able to scrape together money to take the family on holiday.”

DUŠAN IVKOVIĆ WITH HIS WIFE NENA (PHOTO: IVKOVIĆ FAMILY ARCHIVE)

artists, to top actors and athletes. As a kid I hung out with older company, who had some of their own regular rituals. It was known that we would first go with girls to Juhor, and then - when Juhor was demolished – to “Mlava”, and from their each went their own way. In the late hours just us men would meet, and then stories emerged that would later turn into legends recounted by the whole of Belgrade.

We didn’t like “Madera” restaurant and those football circles, and we weren’t even interested in them. I remember who we barged into the theatre, admired Bats Živojinović, Oliver and Rade Marković, Cigi Jerinić, Cici Perović and the others who were led masterfully to the peak from one play to the next by director Bata Putnik. When it comes to sport, Red Cross was a kind of academy, because it yielded champions in several sports. For example, at the University Games in Zagreb in 1987, the greatest successes were brought by coaches from Red Cross: Milan Ciga Vasojević, Lazar Grozdanović and me. Our homes were within a hundred metres of one another.

Considering that you were born (as the fourth and youngest child) in a home located virtually across the road from the basketball court in the Red Cross neighbourhood, it seems that you were fated to play basketball. However, you couldn’t have inherited such a gene from your father (a doctor of law) and your mother (a poet).

We had a very difficult childhood. We barely survived. My father, a pre-war doctor of law, the head of a typical urban family, was completely degraded in the new communist system. He retired to an invalid’s pension very early and devoted himself to beekeeping and honey making. In fact, bees fed us. That’s why the three symbols of our family are bees, pigeons and basketball. I fell in love with pigeons and basketball alongside my brother, Piva (Slobodan), who wasn’t only the greatest coach I knew, but also an expression of universal talent: he painted, sang, played music... He could have been whatever he wanted. I’ve transposed our entire family story into a family crest that was

made according to my concept: two pigeons – that’s Piva and myself – then a basketball net in the form of a honeycomb and a bee, which gave us life. My mother wouldn’t mind that she isn’t there at first sight, because there’s enough poetics in all of it, so it seems like one of mother’s verses. When it comes to family, you are also proud of being related to Nikola Tesla?

My great-grandfather, Trivun, and Tesla’s mother, Georgina, were brother and sister.

Tesla sent a gold coin from America to every child born in the family. I was the only one in our family not to get a ducat, because Tesla died on 7th January 1943, and I wasn’t born until November that year. During those difficult years, those gold coins fed us. I wish that at least some of them remained, but my mother sold them out of necessity. How much credit does your brother Piva deserve for your concept of basketball?

It was with Piva that I started playing basketball, which our father didn’t support. Our father, who had raised us in the Spartan spirit, said to our mother, “I don’t understand why those two jump around like monkeys and throw the ball into the basket.” Piva persisted in basketball and became the best and most original coach, because he could make an ace out of an average player. Nevertheless, he didn’t

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My life

Dušan Ivković, one of the world’s most successful basketball coaches

DUŠAN IVKOVIĆ ON HOLY MOUNT ATHOS (PHOTO: IVKOVIĆ FAMILY ARCHIVE)

DUŠAN IVKOVIĆ AS THE COACH OF YUGOSLAVIA (PHOTO: BASKETBALL FEDERATION OF SERBIA)

have that much of an impact on me becoming a coach, because as soon as he returned from the Army in 1964, Bora Stanković took him to OKK Belgrade. We later worked together, when he led the Workers first team, and I led the younger categories. I learned a lot from him, though we are essentially opposites. He is a romanticist, while I’m a realist. Why didn’t you work in the area you were educated for?

When I enrolled in the Faculty of Mining and Geology, we founded the University Club, whose players included, amongst others, Branislav Novčić [CorD founder and aim president]. Our coach was Bora Cenić. We travelled to London, the Middle East etc. When I completed my geology studies, I was offered an engineering post in Sarajevo. However, I didn’t spend a single day doing what I’d been trained to do.

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The best fivesome comprising players coached

by Ivković is as follows: Dragan Kićanović, Dražen Petrović, Dražen Dalipagić, Krešimir Ćosić and Vlade Divac. All five of them, like Ivković himself, are members of the FIBA Hall of Fame, while Dalipagić, Ćosić and Petrović are also members of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

I opted for basketball and the coach’s calling which is in some ways a mining job. I started as a coach in 1968, when I signed the first scholarship contract. Four years later, upon returning from the army, I independently led the Radnički juniors and won the Championship of Yugoslavia with them. My first contact with the national team was in 1976, when I was an assistant to Luka Stančić at the European Youth Championships in Spain. The breakthrough moment for my coaching career was my move to Partizan in 1977, when I was invited to be the assistant of Ranko Žeravica. Already by the 1978/79 season I’d independently won the triple crown – championship, cup and Korać Cup – without Dražen Dalipagić, who was serving in the army. Like Serbian (Yugoslav) basketball, you traversed the path from an outsider

By Aleksandar Miletić

we could give youngsters a chance to progress. In today’s circumstances it’s not possible to create the kinds of aces that I was fortunate enough to lead over several generations, such as Dalipagić and Kićanović at the beginning of my coaching career, then Petrović, Paspalj, Divac and other top players of the ‘80s and ‘90s, or Teodosić and Bogdanović toward the end of my career. You have amassed 20 club trophies and six medals with the national team, four of which are gold. What fills you with the most pride?

DURING HIS PERIOD COACHING CSKA: DUŠAN IVKOVIĆ AND DEJAN BODIROGA (BARCELONA)

to a world power. What did that look like in your case?

Nobody even dreamt that we’d be a world power in basketball. We played during summer, but it wasn’t possible in winter because there was no infrastructure. Our league moved into halls in 1967 and soon became the best in Europe.

Phenomenal basketball, without foreigners and with only domestic players who, according to the regulations of the time, weren’t allowed to go abroad until they turned 28... From 1979 to 1992, the champions of Europe were Bosnia, Cibona twice, Jugoplastic three times and Partizan. In the clubs they worked at extremely high quality, and a model of basketball was created that is still present today – that which we call the Yugoslav school of basketball. However, it worries me that ever fewer players are being produced. This is a consequence of the lack of high-quality leagues and competitions in which

It’s difficult to set something apart from all of that. As I said already – I never worked in the area I was schooled for. From a great love for basketball I began my work as a coach and did that job until I was 73, which is a huge privilege.

It’s difficult to say how lucky I am, considering that I coached entire generations of the world’s greatest stars. That’s why it wouldn’t be fair to reduce an entire career down to one or two things. There are things that can’t be measured in medals and trophies, such as the friendships that basketball brought me. Likewise, my heart is filled when I now see performing in the NBA players who I gave a chance during their teenage days. For instance, Korkmaz was playing for me at Efes in the EuroLeague at the age of 17. Mihalis Romanidis at one point, while I was coaching Aris, was the youngest debutant in the Greek league, at the age of 15. If you ask me about the greatest impression of my career, that’s probably the fact that basketball and God gave me an entire life in which I was surrounded by young, talented people who had a positive impact on me, but who I – as they themselves say – helped to become wonderful people and great basketball players. Today, as a member of FIBA’s Technical Commission, you work to ensure basketball is heading towards the future in the right direction.

A few of us who have specific experience, whom basketball has given us a lot, have a chance today, when we’re not in the focus of interest, to give something back to our great, lifelong love. Basketball is in a huge crisis, primarily a crisis of relations. I support FIBA’s idea of “windows” in qualifying for the World Cup, I support windows as a chance for the local public

to be presented to national teams, which haven’t had a chance to play at home for 20-30 years.

However, a huge gap has emerged, primarily when it comes to scheduling matches. There is no unity whatsoever between FIBA and the EuroLeague. Under such circumstances, some teams will qualify for the World Cup, while some will have paid the price for such a schedule. An injustice has been perpetrated against players who came to the aid of the national team and secured qualification for the World Cup, while others will play in the tournament.

As a member of the Technical Commission, I participate with great interest to advance this

Don Nelson called me in 2002 to be the coach of the Dallas Mavericks, but I turned him down. I have excellent cooperation with my American colleagues, while San Antonio Spurs president Gregg Popovich is my close friend sport, but I see a lot of people who don’t have the capacity for great things. There are still a lot of retired referees in those forums, people who have a very poor understanding of basketball.

To be fair, they have a good understanding of the rules, but they managed to declare rolling as taking steps and thus destroyed one of the best moves in basketball... I’m very keen to give some suggestions, because I think I know and understand this sport well. A lucky circumstance is that the slogan “basketball for basketball players” is again to the fore, as this will lead to better understanding, in which the only goal is of interest to basketball. And that can only be done by basketball players. Top aces. People with a lot of authority, such as those leading national alliances across Europe today: Kirilenko (Russia) Danilović (Serbia), Türkoğlu (Turkey), Garbajosa (Spain), De Vincenzi (Italy) etc. I hope that these people will very quickly find a common language...

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CHILL OUT

USA

Super Bowl 2019

GERMANY

German Whisky A Hamburg court ruled last month against a Swabian distillery calling its whisky “Glen Buchenbach”, saying it is misleading to customers. It means that the Waldhorn Distillery, in Bergen near Stuttgart will have to change the name of its “Glen Buchenbach” whisky – unless the decision is appealed.

The inclusion of the word “glen” – which means valley in Gaelic – in the branding, the regional court ruled, could make consumers believe it was produced in Scotland. Scotch Whisky, one of Scotland’s biggest exporters, which accounts for 20% of UK food and drink exports, can only be sold in the EU if it is actually made in Scotland. The term “Scotch” is a ‘designation of origin’ title protected by the EU, similar to “Champagne” or “Prosecco” for sparkling wines from certain regions of France and Italy. “Glen” is not mentioned in the regulations.

Super Bowl 2019 is one of the most anticipated sport event in America. This year, the three-time defending American Football Conference (AFC) champion New England Patriots defeated National Football Conference (NFC) champion Los Angeles Rams by the score of 13-3.

Super Bowl is far and away the most-watched event on television each year and it is an opportune time to spread the word about the largest companies and businesses, if you have at least $5 million to invest in a Super Bowl ad.

CBS was selling 30-second Super Bowl 2019 commercial spots to the tune of $5.1 to $5.3 million, as Bloomberg first reported. The final game drew almost 54 million viewers.

Each and every member of 53 man squad of winning team (Patriots) will pocket $107,000 regardless of them playing or not playing the game itself. Runners-up Player Bonuses: Every member of Rams roster will get $53,000.

CHINA

Secret Of Longevity Zhang Xueli, 117, is a native of Jiaxian county, Central China’s Henan province. He was born in late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), the last imperial dynasty of China. Zhang Xueli leads a regular life -- he gets up around 7 am and during the day he takes a short nap in the morning and one in the afternoon. Tea is his favorite GERMANY

SPAIN

Madrid’s Most Exciting Art Space A former tobacco factory from 18th century, which ended production and abandoned in 2000 has become one of the capital’s most exciting art spaces in Madrid, Spain, called La Tabacalera .

Three years later, Spain’s Ministry of Culture took it over and opened it up as a cultural space for community art projects in the heart of Lavapies, one of Madrid’s most multicultural and diverse neighbourhoods.

The building now contains a maze of art studios and cultural work spaces where exhibitions, workshops and concerts showcasing local talent are put on each week. The place is home to a vibrant artistic community as well as being open to the public.

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drink and he never consumes alcohol or smokes cigarettes. He has three daughters, the oldest being 89, and the youngest 73.

Zhang Yuan said her father is always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need and never quarrels with anyone in the village.

“My father is good-tempered and open-minded,” said his youngest daughter Zhang Yuan. Jiaxian county is known as the “home of longevity” of China. At present, there are 62 centenarians living in the county.

March

Police Seized ‘Fake’ Hitler Watercolours German police seized three watercolours presented as works of Adolf Hitler before they were due for auction last month in Berlin, claiming they could be fakes.

The Alpine and Rhenish landscapes, which depict a mountain scene, a river and a distant figure sitting beneath a tree, were dated 1910 and 1911 were offered by the Kloss auction house. The starting price was €4,000 per painting, and each carried a seal of approval by an expert attesting their authenticity.

The Nazi dictator tried to enrol in the Vienna Academy of Arts twice as a young man but was rejected for lack of talent. He continued painting, however, and copied landscapes from post cards which he sold to tourists.

A 2015 auction of Hitler watercolours and drawings in Nuremberg fetched nearly €400,000. A painting of Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria fetched the highest price in the lot, A WATERCOLOUR LANDSCAPE ATTRIBUTED TO ADOLF HITLER selling for €100,000.

INDIA

World’s Biggest Religious Festival

THE SCANDINAVIAN MEDALLISTS

DENMARK, SWEDEN AND NORWAY

Scandinavian Chefs Triumph At French Bocuse D’Or Denmark, Sweden and Norway took the top spots in France’s prestigious culinary competition Bocuse d’Or. Kenneth Toft-Hansen, who owns the Svinklov Badehotel establishment at Fjerritslevin in the far north of Denmark’s Jutland peninsula, saw off allcomers to take the prize in the French gastronomic hub of Lyon.

Toft-Hansen was the latest Nordic chef to add to an extraordinary level of success in the event which has seen five Norwegian triumphs, two Danish wins and another for Sweden to date.

“I think in general we [Scandinavian countries] have a big history of competing. So those flavours, the freshness, it was the right time now. We just had a good day,” said Toft-Hansen.

The five-day meeting for hotelry and catering professionals drew more than 200,000 visitors and some 25,000 chefs.

At the world’s biggest religious festival, the Hindu Kumbh Mela in northern India’s Uttar Pradesh state, the spiritual message for the faithful is deep and profound.

As many as 150 million people are expected to come to the festival city of Prayagraj, to bathe at the confluence of three rivers considered holy in Hinduism - the Ganges, the Yamuna, and a mythological third one, the Saraswati. Hindus believe bathing in the Ganges at the time of the Kumbh, this year from Jan. 15 to March 31, absolves people of sins.

The federal and Uttar Pradesh state governments are spending nearly $600 million on the giant event. This year the festival will be spread over an area of 45 km from the earlier 20 km radius. Pilgrims visiting the holy city will also get a glimpse of Akshay Vat, a Banyan Tree held sacred

by Hindus, and Saraswati Koop, a well believed to be the source of the mythical Saraswati River.

USA

Lottery Ticket Worth Millions Nearly Ended Up In Trash A Tennessee Lottery scratch-off ticket worth $4 million nearly ended up in the trash when a confused player thought it was worthless.

Sean Winn of Greenville, Kentucky, said he often plays the Tennessee Lottery and he recently tossed a Gigantic Jumbo Bucks scratch-off ticket in the back of his truck to be thrown out because he thought it was worthless.

He decided to enter the ticket in an online second-chance game before scrapping it and he realized his $4 million mistake when the system told him it wasn’t a non-winning ticket and therefore not eligible for the Play It Again game.

Winn hasn’t yet decided what to do with his prize money.

CHINA

Nasty Hot Pot Springs Guests staying at the First World Hotel in Hangzhou can have a dip in one of the hotel’s hot springs that’s been made to look like a human-sized hot pot.

The human hot pot is split up into nine different squares, each filled with a different ingredient.

The guests are then invited to strip down and hop into the broth. They are then treated to some lame skewers to nibble on and drinks. Seems like a whole lot of work to just eat some skewers.

Apparently, the hotel thinks human hot pots somehow promote a healthy lifestyle.

What better way to promote a healthy lifestyle then by wasting food people won’t eat by bathing in it in a country that has 1.3 billion people—genius.

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Scarves -

The New Power Accessory

PIERRE-LOUIS MASCIA Alowond scarf

Pink cashmere and silk blend Alowond scarf. €265

Most people use fashion accessories to best emphasis elements of an outfit, and in recent times scarves have become the best friend of both women and men when it comes to making a fashion statement on a daily basis.

Scarves are perfect when you want to add colour to your outfit. They are actually perfect for both formal and casual wear, and the best advice is very simple: try to experiment with scarves for any outfit and add style to your attire.

In theory, silk scarves have everything going for them. They’re an uplifting hit of colour and patterns, evoking breezy glamour scarves that can be a wearable work of art. In reality, the silk square has been upstaged in recent years by the cosier cashmere stole — possibly fringed, quite often in a rock ’n’ roll leopard print or paisley.

Wear them as a bandanna, because they can instantly upgrade any white t-shirt.

Can men wear scarves? Of course! The super-skinny scarves are a great louche alternative to a tie, as they are less stiff, and a scarf could prove both functional and fashionable.

ERMANNO SCERVINO polka dotted scarf

Grey black silk polka dotted scarf. €180

PRADA Fox fur scarf

Timeless items with traditional Milanese construction such as this fox fur scarf. €825

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LISKA Embellished fur scarf

Brown mink fur embellished fur scarf featuring a mix of stone embellishments. €4,047

DOLCE & GABBANA Royal print scarf This green scarf features the brand’s signature medallion print €345

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN painted skull print scarf

Multicolour wool painted skull print scarf from Alexander McQueen featuring frayed edges. €286

BURBERRY Vintage Check Colour Block Wool Silk Scarf

Light mint green and beige Vintage Check Colour Block Wool Silk Scarf from Burberry €320

GUCCI Striped symbol scarf

Featuring a wildcat intarsia motif, GG Wallpaper emblems, a Saturn detail knit and multi-striped detailing is a wonderfully eccentric piece. €945

PAUL SMITH Artist Stripe Cashmere Scarf

A super-soft addition to new-season accessory rotations, the label looks to its quirky side with a signature Artist stripe pattern, infusing warm outerwear pieces with colour. €206

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Culture

66th Martovski Festival

calendar

27-30 - Belgrade Youth Center

FEST 2019

until 3 March – various locations

From February 22 to March 3, 2019, the 47th FEST will be held, which opens the award-winning film “The Favor” of Greek director Yorgos Lantimos.

This black-eyed historical drama depicts events in the British court at the beginning of the 18th century, when little-known Queen Anne ruled, and behind the scenes, two court ladies fought for her favour and power from the shadow.

One of the most original voices of contemporary author’s film, George Lantimos, is now the world-renowned director who has popularised the so-called “strange wave” of Greek cinema.

Programme is available at www.fest.rs

Martovski Festival in 2016 became a national competitive selection of feature-length and short documentary films, animated film, experimental and feature films, becoming the place where only domestic films created in the last year compete. Local filmmakers had the opportunity to meet significant foreign producers, festival selectors and television editors, leading to the first deals for screening our films on European televisions. The Martovski Festival continues in the same direction this year – towards being a platform for the promotion of domestic short, documentary, animated and experimental film – promoting works among other European film industries, as well as popularising the featured works among the domestic film audience.

The festival will be held from 27-30 March 2019, in the Belgrade Youth Center. Programme is available at www.martovski.rs

7th Belgrade Irish Festival

9-17 – various locations

The seventh Belgrade Irish Fest will be held from 9-17 March under the slogan “Springtime in Belgrade!” at several locations in Belgrade, presenting some of the most exciting segments of Irish culture.

During the nine days of the festival, the audience will have the opportunity to enjoy the most significant and latest film achievements from Ireland, attractive exhibitions, literary evenings, workshops and other engaging cultural events.

Programme is available at www.irishfest.rs

Concerts In The Gallery

11 – Belgrade Cultural Center- 20.00 Following the great interest in concerts held during the previous years at the Italian Institute for Culture in Belgrade, organised in collaboration with the Cultural Center of Belgrade and Radio 202 in collaboration, will be held again.

Monday 11 March: 20.00 - Borko Milojković, piano 21.00 - Belgrade Trio Igor Dražević (piano), Dušan Panajotović (violin), Ivan Jarić (violoncello) More: www.iicbelgrado.esteri.it/iic_belgrado

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Guitar Art Festival

12-17-Kombank Hall The 20th Guitar Art Festival will be held from 12 to 17 March 2019 in Belgrade under the slogan #Applause! In its two decades of existence, the festival has managed not only to maintain continuity and to expand into several directions, but this year also made a spectacular guest list.

During 6 festival days, 9 big concerts will be held, and Belgrade will visit over 120 most prominent guitar names from 35 countries.

For the first time, this year all festival concerts will be held in the Kombank Hall.

The concert of Vicente Amiga, the world’s best flamenco guitarist and authentic successor Paco de Lucia on 12 March will open the jubilee Guitar Art Festival.

SEE MORE: WWW.CORDMAGAZINE.COM

RECOMMENDS

WHY THE FACE? Jean Jullien

STEVE MCCURRY: UNTOLD – THE STORIES BEHIND THE PHOTOGRAPHS Steve McCurry, William Kerry Purcell 3979rsd

German Contemporary Art Exhibition

until 25 March, Museum of Contemporary Art in Belgrade The Museum of Contemporary Art in Belgrade (MSUB) hosts a major exhibition of contemporary German art, which includes works from the second half of the 20th century to the present.

The exhibition “Travelling the World. Art from Germany”, which will be open from 24 January to 25 March, includes about 300 works by about a hundred artists from the collection of the Institute for International Relations in Culture (IFA) from 1949 until today, which is also a co-organizer, with the Goethe Institute in Belgrade.

Now in paperback and resized for easy reading, Steve McCurry Untold is the only book to tell the fascinating stories behind McCurry’s most iconic photographs. It explores the travels, methods, and magic that gave birth to his evocative images, delving deep into the true stories behind McCurry’s most important assignments for National Geographic and beyond - including his reunion with the now-legendary ‘Afghan Girl’. Each story includes McCurry’s first-hand account alongside specially commissioned essays, ephemera, and personal photographs from his private archive.

Featuring beautiful reproductions of McCurry’s photographs spanning a broad range of themes and subjects and ephemera such as snapshots, journal extracts, maps, and newspaper clippings, Steve McCurry Untold is a living biography of one of the most imaginative documentary photographers working today.

1589rsd

Jean Jullien tickles the funnybone once again with a book of facial overreactions. Faces are presented first, allowing the reader to wager predictions of what may have prompted such an expression, before the dramatic answer is revealed. Why the face? reads the text alongside an agitated boy with eyes and nose scrunched up. Pick up the fullpage flap to reveal a whole mess of smelly items, from stinky socks to an oozing trash can, and the text, Whoa, that stinks. Jullien masterfully provides enough clues for the reader to piece together the narrative, including both predictable and surprising scenarios. Based on young children’s natural fascination with faces, this book encourages readers to practice empathy and build emotional intelligence, with cleverly simplified and humorously satisfying vignettes. A brilliant addition to Phaidon’s growing Jean Jullien board book library.

HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS J. K. Rowling 1066rsd

Harry can’t wait for his holidays with the dire Dursleys to end. But a small, self-punishing house-elf warns Harry of mortal danger awaiting him at Hogwarts School. Returning to the castle nevertheless, Harry hears a rumour about a chamber of secrets, holding unknown horrors to magicians of Muggle parentage. Now someone is casting spells that turn people to stone, and a terrible warning is found painted on the wall. The chief suspect - who’s always in the wrong place - is Harry. But something much darker has yet to be unleashed.

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AFTER WORK 21 SWISS CHEESE FONDUE JAN EVENING IN THE SWISS RESIDENCE The Swiss Cheese Fondue Evening was held on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, in the Swiss Residence in Belgrade.

The host of this event was H.E. Philippe Guex, Ambassador of Switzerland to the Republic of Serbia and Montenegro.

While enjoying original Swiss cheese and wine, SSCC members had the opportunity to discover the art of making the cheese Fondue and network with representatives of the business community and the Swiss Embassy in Belgrade.

PREDRAG KORAKSIĆ CORAX AND DUŠAN PETRIČIĆ

31 EXHIBITION OF PETRIČIĆ JAN AND CORAX CARICATURES

AMBASSADOR GUEX

An exhibition of caricatures authored by Predrag Koraksić Corax and Dušan Petričić, under the title “See, Think and Speak Freely”, ran from 31st January to 7th February at the Belgrade University Faculty of Philosophy. Speaking at the exhibition’s opening were professors Goran Marković and Miodrag Zec. The exhibition was organised by the Belgrade University Faculty of Philosophy, in cooperation with association Novi optimizam.

Late last year saw an exhibition of caricatures by Corax and Petričić removed from Lazarevac.

29 JBAS & CANSEE JAN SEMINAR ON DATA PROTECTION

In cooperation with the Japanese Business Alliance Serbia JBAS member NST Law office and Canadian-Serbian Business Association CANSEE, JBAS has organised a Data Protection Seminar.

Having in mind that the new Serbian Law on Personal Data Protection has been adopted in the last quarter of 2018, and it is to be implemented in 2019, this seminar was an excellent opportunity to raise awareness about this important topic as well as to provide more information about what the new Law brings.

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MIRJANA BEATON, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF CANSEE AND DANIJELA ČABARKAPA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF JBAS

SEE MORE: WWW.CORDMAGAZINE.COM

05 BILATERAL BUSINESS ASSOCIATIONS FEB STRENGTHENING COOPERATION Over 50 German, French, Italian and Swiss companies participated in the speed business meeting.

The concept of “1 on 1” meetings gaining more popularity among the Serbian business community.

The Speed Business Meeting was held in the Belgrade hotel Crowne Plaza on February 05, 2019, with the participation of over 50 companies, members of SSCC, AHK Serbia, CCIFS and Confindustria Serbia.

All company representatives obtained the opportunity to present their corporate activities to potential business partners, exchange information and establish contact for future cooperation. After a series of 10-minute meetings, a networking cocktail took place to extend business dialogue in a relaxed atmosphere.

NEWLY-APPOINTED MEMBERS OF THE GUILDE INTERNATIONALE DES FROMAGERS

31 GUILDE INTERNATIONALE DES JAN FROMAGERS WELCOMES MEMBERS FROM SERBIA For the first time, the Guilde Internationale des Fromagers have welcomed members from Serbia.

Due to the exceptional contribution to the promotion of cheese, the medal of the Brotherhood of Saint Ignace was decorated to the Minister of the Republic of Serbia, Mr Goran Knežević, French Ambassador to Serbia H.E. Frédéric Mondoloni and many other distinguished people. Newly-appointed members will play a role in continuing to expand the tradition of producing and consuming cheese at the local market, thus ensuring greater visibility of domestic products from this industry.

The first session of the International Cheese Association in Serbia held in the premises of the French Embassy in Belgrade, at the initiative of Mlekoprodukt, a member of the Savencia Fromage & Dairy Group.

06 INTERNATIONAL FEB WOMEN’S CLUB MEETING The International Women’s Club met on the 6thof February for their first coffee morning this year in a conference room at the Student Cultural Center of Belgrade (SKC). Approximately thirty IWC members enjoyed the hospitality of one of the most beloved youth culture institutions in the city.

IWC president Milica Lundin gave a word of welcome and a short briefing about the recent activities of the board and plans for the future. This was followed by a fascinating guided tour of the building, organized by the direction of the center.

Refreshments were prepared this time by joint efforts of the Center’s cafeteria and IWC’s members, baking enthusiasts.

MILICA LUNDIN, IWC PRESIDENT

MEMBERS OF THE IWC

March

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AFTER WORK 06 DUTCH-SERBIAN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION FEB HELD ITS FIRST GENERAL ASSEMBLY The Dutch-Serbian Business Association (DSBA) held it’s first General Assembly at the Hilton Hotel in Belgrade.

Since its establishment in November 2018, which was marked with the reception at the residence of the Dutch ambassador H.E. Henk Van Den Dool, DSBA since then accepted around 30 members.

In the introductory part of the Assembly, Ambassador Van Den Dool addressed the participants and reminded of the importance of the presence of Dutch companies in Serbia. Đorđe Petrović, the owner of Companies Connected, was elected Executive Director of the Dutch-Serbian Business Association. For the full report on the board members please visit www.cordmagazine.com

AMBASSADOR HENK VAN DEN DOOL, ĐORĐE PETROVIĆ

ITALIAN AMBASSADOR CARLO LO CASCIO AND DIRECTOR OF THE ITALIAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE DAVIDE SCALMANI

07 CULTURAL AND ECONOMIC PROGRAM FEB ITALY IN SERBIA PRESENTED Marking 140 years of diplomatic relations and 10 years of strategic partnership between Italy and Serbia, Italian Ambassador H.E. Carlo Lo Cascio and Director of the Italian Cultural Institute Davide Scalmani presented cultural and economic program Italy will promote in Serbia throughout 2019.

The program is inspired by the concept of “Living the Italian way”, a rich cultural heritage that Italy boasts - through concerts, film, art exhibitions, design and gastronomic events.

Works of the great Italian talents will be on display in Belgrade and throughout Serbia, as evidence of excellent cultural connectivity between the two countries.

CorD Magazine in collaboration with the Italian Embassy in Belgrade produced special publication dedicated to the historic milestones. Full programme of the events is available in this publication.

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ANA TOZZI, YANA MIKHAILOVA AND VLADISLAV LALIĆ

20 FIC NETWORKING FEB COCKTAILS REINTRODUCED The cocktail attracted around 90 persons, who were greeted by the FIC President Yana Mikhailova and Ikea by its Regional Property and Expansion Manager for SEE Vladislav Lalić, who is also FIC Vice President.

Speaking about the developments in FIC, Yana Mikhailova welcomed new members, as well as potential members present at the cocktail. “I think it is a luxury to be united in independent community, uniting all the foreign investors together, working together on the agenda which is very important for all of us”, she said, adding that the reputation of FIC is high thanks to members investing expertise and time. She informed about the priorities decided on this year’s BoD Strategic Session, namely to continue to provide expert solutions and assist in the accession to the EU, and to work on the WB Task Force to accelerate progress.

Vladislav Lalić shared key info on Ikea global and outlined that Belgrade is the main office for a wide area of nearly 90 million people including Ukraine.

SEE MORE: WWW.CORDMAGAZINE.COM

AMBASSADOR OF BELGIUM KOENRAAD ADAM NEWLY ELECTED JBAS BOARD OF DIRECTORS WITH AMBASSADOR JUNICHI MARUYAMA

20 NEW MEMBERS OF FEB THE JBAS BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTED Seven new members of the Japanese Business Alliance (JBAS) Board of Directors were elected at the 5th regular General Assembly session.

JBAS General Assembly held at the premises of JBAS founding member JTI, in Belgrade was attended by H.E. Junichi Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan in the Republic of Serbia and Embassy’s representatives.

The General Assembly reelected Mr Dirk Bantel, Director of Panasonic Lighting Devices Serbia d.o.o., Mr. Igor Brankov, Sales Manager for SEE, Mazda Austria GmbH, Mr. Goran Pekez, Corporate Affairs and Communications Director JTI Western Balkan and Mr. Naoki Tsukada, General Manager of Mitsubishi Corporation Belgrade Liaison Office, while the newly elected members of JBAS Board of Directors are Mrs Ljubica Hadžistević, Sales Director of NES Communications doo Beograd, Mr Robert Lukić, Director of Toyota Serbia doo and Mrs Suzana Radović, Director of Fujitsu Technology Solutions.

21 PRESENTATION OF THE FEB BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES FOR BELGIAN COMPANIES IN SERBIA Presentation on “Business Opportunities for Belgian Companies in Serbia” jointly organised by the Development Agency of Serbia-RAS, Economic and Trade Office - Embassy of Belgium, Belgian-Serbian Business Association-BSBA and The Embassy of Belgium in Serbia was held in Belgrade, on February 21st.

The event that gathered around 60 representatives of Belgian and Serbian companies, aimed to provide information about subsidies and support programs for the Belgian companies that are doing business in Serbia as well as to Belgian companies interested in setting up or expanding their presence in Serbia.

Attendees were addressed by H.E. Koenraad Adam, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium, acting director of Development Agency of Serbia (RAS) Radoš Gazdić and Aleksandar Jovanovic from the Belgian company “Metech”.

20 AMBASSADOR FISHER KAMM ANNOUNCES FEB PROPERTY & INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE Ambassador of Israel to Serbia H.E. Alona Fisher Kamm hosted a cocktail reception announcing the 4th Property & Infrastructure Development conference.

The conference organised by the TGI Group was held on 21st February 2019 under the auspices of the Embassy of Israel, hosted speakers such as Minister of Construction, Transportation and Infrastructure Zorana Mihajlović, CEO of AFI Europe Serbia Adil El Al, Belgrade Deputy Mayor Goran Vesić.

RADOŠ GAZDIĆ

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AFTER WORK

SEE MORE: WWW.CORDMAGAZINE.COM

21 AMBASSADOR IKONEN OPENS FEB EXHIBITION “INNOVATIVE FINNISH DESIGN” The Exhibition “Innovative Design Finland”, organized by the Embassy of Finland and the Belgrade City Library was opened last night at the Gallery Atrium.

Ambassador of Finland H.E. Pertti Ikonen, who opened the Exhibition, pointed out that innovations and design are of key importance for Finns, shaping their way of thinking. Likewise, all the European Union member countries are very competitive in the fields of design and innovations. Ambassador Ikonen hoped that the Exhibition would serve as a source of inspiration to the Serbian audience.

The creator of the Exhibition is Jarno Peltonen, former director of the Design Museum in Helsinki.

The Belgrade audience will be able to visit the Exhibition until 7 March, 2019 at the Atrium Gallery in the Belgrade City Library.

AMBASSADOR OF FINLAND PERTTI IKONEN

21 41ST INTERNATIONAL FEB TOURISM FAIR HELD IN BELGRADE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Trade, Tourism and Telecommunications Rasim Ljajić pointed out at the opening of the 41st International Tourism Fair that Serbia made a foreign exchange inflow of $1.5 billion from tourism in 2018.

Minister emphasised that the results achieved in tourism in Serbia are RASIM LJAJIĆ not a coincidence and that for the first time we had an equal number of MOROCCO foreign and domestic tourists last year.

Tourism Minister of Bulgaria Nikolina Angelkova, whose country is a partner of the Tourism Fair this year, said that tourism is an excellent opportunity for business cooperation between the countries and the development of the economies.

H.E. Minister Ahmed Abdallah, Governor of the Red Sea, Head of Egyptian Tourism Delegation and Hon. Dr Karim Darweesh, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Head of Egyptian Parliamentary Delegation also attended the opening.

The international character of the event, which attracts more exhibitors every year from all parts of the world, has been confirmed this year by RUSSIA CUBA more than 250 foreign participants from 43 countries.

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EGYPT

INDIA

SLOVENIA

GREECE

INDONESIA

TUNISIA

Partner March 2019

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ISSUE No.# 13

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ISSN broj 2560-4465

ITALY & SERBIA

ALWAYS TOGETHER

AFTER 140 YEARS, LET’S GO FORWARD! H.E. Carlo Lo Cascio, Italian Ambassador to Serbia ● Davide Scalmani, Director of the Italian Cultural Institute in Belgrade ● Marina Scognamiglio, Director of the Italian Trade Agency – Ita ● Giorgio Marchegiani, President of the Italian-Serbian Chamber of Commerce ● Erich Cossutta, President of Confindustria Serbia ● Romano Rossi, Director of Progetti ● Paolo Di Bella, Director of Engineering Software Lab d.o.o. (Ltd.) ● Ivan Stojanović, Director of Modital doo ● Vlatko Sekulović, Lawyer and Owner of the Sekulović Law Office ● Dubravka Kosić, Lawyer at Law Office Kosić

ITALY & SERBIA

08

LET’S GO FORWARD!

H.E. CARLO LO CASCIO, ITALIAN AMBASSADOR TO SERBIA

20

32 PARTNERSHIP FOR GROWTH

MARINA SCOGNAMIGLIO, DIRECTOR OF THE ITALIAN TRADE AGENCY – ITA

ITALIAN SMES HELP BOOST PRODUCTION IN SERBIA

ERICH COSSUTTA, PRESIDENT OF CONFINDUSTRIA SERBIA

39

STRONG SUPPORT FOR SERBIAN RESEARCHERS

40

THE RIGHT PATH OF RENEWABLE ENERGY

ITALIAN DAY OF RESEARCH IN THE WORLD

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ITALY AS A FAVOURITE DESTINATION

47 48

ITALIAN VISUAL ARTS IN 2019

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ITALIAN CULTURAL SEASON WORTH REMEMBERING

50 54

“GIRO D’ITALIA”

TOURISM

RESOURCES

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2019: SHINING YEAR FOR ITALIAN CULTURE IN SERBIA

DAVIDE SCALMANI, DIRECTOR OF THE ITALIAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE IN BELGRADE

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ITALIAN INVESTMENT FLOWS CONTINUING

ECONOMIC OVERVIEW: ITALY AND SERBIA IN FIGURES

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ROMANO ROSSI, DIRECTOR, PROGETTI

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CELEBRATIONS MARKING 140 YEARS OF DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS & 10 YEARS OF STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN ITALY AND SERBIA

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SUCCESS MUSTN’T LULL US TO SLEEP

QUARTER OF A CENTURY SERVING THE YOUNGEST

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PROMOTING SERBIA’S ECONOMIC GROWTH

GIORGIO MARCHEGIANI, PRESIDENT OF THE ITALIAN-SERBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

COMPANY KEPROM

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COMPANY THAT KEEPS YOUNGSTERS IN SERBIA

PAOLO DI BELLA, DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING SOFTWARE LAB D.O.O. (LTD.)

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A BRAND THAT NEEDS NO SPECIAL ADVERTISING

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LOCAL OFFICE – GLOBALLY NETWORKED

41 42

LAWYERS WITHOUT BORDERS LAW OFFICE KOSIĆ

DOOR TO BETTER UNDERSTANDING

THE ITALIAN LANGUAGE

ART

THE ART OF MAKING ITALIAN MOVIES CINEMA

IVAN STOJANOVIĆ, DIRECTOR OF MODITAL DOO

VLATKO SEKULOVIĆ, LAWYER AND OWNER OF THE SEKULOVIC LAW OFFICE

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THE PRODUCTION OF BEAUTY!

ITALIAN DESIGN DAY IN THE WORLD

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CONFERENCE: EXCHANGES & COMMON HISTORY

140 YEARS OF BILATERAL RELATIONS

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EXCELLENCE IN QUALITY & INNOVATION

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MATERA, EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE

ITALIAN CUISINE

TOURISM - WHERE TO GO?

PERFORMING ARTS COLLABORATION

GIRO D’ITALIA: 11 MAY - 2 JUNE 2019

INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED ITALIAN STREET ARTISTS ITALIAN CONTEMPORARY STREET ART

EDITOR IN CHIEF: Miroslava Nešić-Bikić m.bikic@aim.rs DESIGNER: Jasmina Laković j.lakovic@aim.rs EDITORIAL MANAGER: Neda Lukić n.lukic@aim.rs PHOTOS: Zoran Petrović

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COPY EDITOR: Mark Pullen TRANSLATION & EDITING MRP EDITORIAL Halifax Translation Services SPECIAL THANKS TO THE EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF ITALY IN BELGRADE SALES MANAGERS: Biljana Dević, b.devic@aim.rs Nataša Trifunović,

n.trifunovic@aim.rs Vesna Vukajlović, v.vukajlovic@aim.rs

PUBLISHER: Ivan Novčić i.novcic@aim.rs

OFFICE MANAGER: Svetlana Petrović s.petrovic@aim.rs

DIRECTOR: Ana Novčić a.novcic@aim.rs a.novcic@cordmagazine.com

FINANCE: Milena Vuković Buha finance@aim.rs GENERAL MANAGER: Maja Vidaković m.vidakovic@aim.rs

BUSINESS PARTNER ITALY Published by: alliance international media Makenzijeva 67, 11111 Belgrade 17,

PAK 126909, Serbia Phone: +(381 11) 2450 508 Fascimile:+(381 11) 2450 122 E-mail: office@aim.rs; office@cordmagazine.com www.aim.rs; www.cordmagazine.com No 13; ISSN: 2560-4465 All rights reserved alliance international media 2019 THIS PUBLICATION IS FREE OF CHARGE

The views expressed in this publication are those of the presenter; they do not necessary reflect the view of publications published by alliance international media

ITALY & SERBIA

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ITALY & SERBIA

“We are now called upon to make a joint effort that must be nourished by a great sense of responsibility: the task of relaunching the European project to make it regain credibility and cohesion, and to increase its sustainability, effectiveness, and plausibility”.

Italy’s Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, “Debate on the future of Europe”, European Parliament, 13/02/2019

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ITALY & SERBIA

INTERVIEWS

H.E. CARLO LO CASCIO, ITALIAN AMBASSADOR TO SERBIA

During a period when Italy and Serbia are celebrating 140 years of bilateral relations and 10 years since the signing of the Strategic Partnership Agreement, the two countries have many reasons to be proud of their friendship and to be both enthusiastic and ambitious in setting goals for the years ahead. One of them is the much-awaited completion of Serbia's EU integration, which Italy supports wholeheartedly

Let’s Go Forward!

T

his year will be remembered as a time for celebrating the excellent bilateral relations between Italy and Serbia, a record in economic exchange and a magnificent selection of Italian cultural events that Serbian citizens will enjoy in 2019. However, it will first and foremost be remembered as a year in which both countries discuss how to make cooperation between them even better.

Your Excellency, Serbia and Italy have celebrated 140 years of bilateral relations and you’ve said that the two countries are connected by strong links and a historical friendship. Could you elaborate?

- The occasion is indeed a very special one, because this year we are celebrating not only 140 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, but also 10 years since

8

the signing of the Strategic Partnership Agreement, which officially marked our commitment to intensify a renewed cooperation under the basis of the common intention to see Serbia moving faster towards the European integration.

We are pleased with the “special relationship” between Rome and Belgrade with which we have promoted the relaunching of existing connections in all fields.

What do you see as priorities for the years ahead?

- Italy and Serbia enjoy an excellent level of bilateral relations and we are here to continue strengthening this cooperation. We hope that Serbia will continue to progress rapidly on the reform path as it relates to the economy, but also the rule of law and public administration, primarily in the interests of its citizens, but also in the purpose of further accelerating the pace of EU

ITALY & SERBIA

COOPERATION

REFORMS

UNDERSTANDING

Italy and Serbia enjoy an excellent level of bilateral relations and we are here to continue to strengthen this cooperation

We hope that Serbia will continue rapidly on the path of reforms, in the economy, but also in the rule of law and public administration, because that is the primary interest of its citizens

Italy and Serbia, together in culture, innovation and progress, and along the European path - this is the meaning of the special anniversaries that Italy and Serbia are celebrating in 2019

accession negotiations. I see the focus on scientific and technological research, as a very promising sector that is proving to be an innovative field with great potential.

a “unique” list of choices, given the potential vastness of the Italian cultural offer to the Serbian public! For this reason Italy is a “cultural superpower”!

You recently presented the start of a cultural and economic year of Italy in Serbia. What is the selection criteria for the various events?

- There are so many initiatives! Just scroll through the list of events to get an idea of the incredible work done by Italy in promoting cultural exchanges. “Vivere all’Italiana” - “Living the Italian Way” is the concept behind our programme of initiatives. This refers to the whole cultural heritage that Italy can proudly offer – including concerts, film festivals, art and design exhibitions and culinary events. There is a great variety within our cultural offer.

You have correctly mentioned a “selection”: I would say,

What is the common ground tying the different events together?

- It is all held together by the common denominator of the way in which Italians “live life”, which here in Serbia finds a particularly corresponding answer: passion, love for beauty and taste are transmitted not only through art, music and performances, but also through historical, scientific and literary events. We have been working in all of this with many Serbian partners and are pleased with their very good cooperation. For this reason, one can find in our programme the March exhibition of the “Bernini and the Roman Baroque School”, in cooperation with the National 9

ITALY & SERBIA

Museum, or the October exhibition “Inspired by Italy”, in collaboration with Matica Srpska Gallery or the Cinema Film Festival, organised in cooperation with the Yugoslav Film Archives Cinematheque. But we also shouldn’t forget the arrival in Serbia of great Italian artists like Eros Ramazzotti or Isabella Rossellini.

as a means of bringing different people together, and such an approach is particularly successful here in Serbia.

Reflecting on the programme, specific for this year of special celebrations, we have given particular consideration to our Serbian friends, a public always attentive to the quality of the Italian cultural and artistic offer. The message is certainly the following: Italy and Serbia, together in culture, innovation and progress, and along the European path. This is the meaning of these special anniversaries.

Italy is one of Serbia’s top foreign trade partners. Do you see space for the further development of this cooperation and, if so, in which areas?

- The economic partnership is a fundamental pillar our bilateral relations with Serbia. In this regard, I would like to stress that last year, according to data of the Serbian Statistical Office, trade between Italy and Serbia exceeded a value of four billion euros.

I am very proud to say that this is a record total for our two markets and a very significant result that was achieved for the first time. This shows that our economic partnership is not only mature, but also ready for further development, thanks also to It’s not only about culture. What I cannot predict what could the growing exchange that Serbia is building with the European single else? happen to the EU in 2019, but market. I believe that the future of - There is much more: the programme also consists of meetings, seminars Serbia will continue to count our bilateral cooperation lies in the of our value chains – a and events in which we talk about on Italy’s encouragement and integration very important step that is already innovation and research. I am very support until the completion becoming a reality through the work proud of this point, because “Living the Italian Way” is also creativity. of this EU integration process of many Italian and Serbian SMEs. As for specific economic sectors, I think This means that Italy and Serbia go that energy, new technologies, and, more generally, scientogether in the same direction, not only in appreciating tific and technological cooperation, are very promising. We art but also in scientific progress. Some of our economic have to continue to partner up and invest in innovation to or commercial events are traditionally held on an annual stimulate shared growth. The companies interested in this basis, such as the Week of Italian Cuisine around the market can count on the full support of the Embassy and World. There are also some peculiarities connected the entire “Italian System”, which also includes the Italian with the “double anniversary”, which certainly go along Trade Agency, the Italian-Serbian Chamber of Commerce with the rest: to better explain this point, this year Italy and Confindustria Serbia. is the “Partner Country” of the Novi Sad Agriculture Fair in May, and this event will, significantly, be accompanied Are there further instruments of cooperation in the by a concert directed by Maestro Marcianò. economic or administrative fields?

- Italy has traditionally granted administrative support to What is the link between this programme and the speSerbian Authorities, especially through “twinning projects”, cial anniversaries of 2019? an EU-financed instrument intended to assist candidate - In this calendar of events, everything underlies culture 10

ITALY & SERBIA

- Not only is a comprehensive, legally-binding agreement countries, like Serbia, in their reform path towards EU between Belgrade and Pristina on the normalisation accession. We recently concluded a twinning project on of relations a prerequisite for the ultimate goal of EU anti-corruption, and another important initiative for the accession; it would also represent a “game changer” for “further development of the protection of competition in the stability and development of the Serbia” has now been launched thanks entire region. Certainly, the imposition to the collaboration between the Italian Trade between Italy and of excise duties on the Pristina side Competition Authority (AGCM) and its Serbia last year exceeded does not help at all efforts in this Serbian counterpart, with the aim of increasing the level of competitiveness four billion euros, which is direction. We have consistently urged Pristina to revoke such measures, on the Serbian market and strengthena record figure for our two allowing the EU-facilitated dialogue ing the impact of the private sector on to be resumed. the national economy. Italian experts markets, and a very also work closely with the Serbian Minsignificant result that was Do you believe in the continuation of istry of Agriculture, which has, over the years, developed a solid relationship achieved for the first time the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue under the mediation of the EU? with its counterparts in Italy, and we - The EU-facilitated Dialogue has been conceived to are now promoting a forward-looking cooperation with the promote cooperation between Belgrade and Pristina, to recently established Serbian Ministry of the Environment. help them achieve progress on their paths to the EU and to improve people’s lives. So, it can be effective if both You recently stated that Pristina should abolish exparties involved are seriously committed to achieving cise duties on goods from Serbia. How would you asa viable, sustainable and lasting solution. We are aware sess that move?

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policies and facilitate economic cooperation between Italian and Serbian companies. The bilateral exchange between our two countries grew constantly over the last three years and I’m sure that it will also continue to grow next year. Italy has a solid background in terms European and world economists warn of the possibility of economic and financial stability, while Serbia grew of a new economic crisis emerging. Many analyses menby more than four per cent in 2018. tion the problems of the Italian economy as a new and major risk for the We are aware that Serbia’s I’m therefore cautiously optimistic about the future. eurozone. Do you share that concern? leadership does not see - During my first year as Ambassador of Italy to Serbia, I met – I believe – any alternative to the EU- What awaits the EU after the May more than a hundred Italian compafacilitated dialogue between elections?

- I see a global trend, and certainly nies, many of which have been working Belgrade and Pristina, and also a European one, which sees in this country for years, while many asking for more attention others are still interested in coming. we value its engagement, as electorates in politics to be channelled towards Entrepreneurs are very often less concerned about growth prospects proof of Belgrade’s readiness the people and “real life”. I recognise that as a legitimate aspiration for than economists. It is their job to to take further steps every citizen to ask for a less “distant” create profit, and they don’t just stop system, more tangible answers to needs, and the most doing that because of some negative forecast in the effective solutions to problems. I cannot predict what newspapers. Of course, global recovery has been quite the results of the next EU elections will be, but I assume unstable since the last financial crisis. Unfortunately, many we should all be ready to consider the growing dimension factors, like aggregated demand from major economies of this request of responsibility and responsiveness in or the cost of energy, are beyond the reach of single the next EU context. governments. That is why we have to retain proactive that Serbia’s leadership does not see any alternative to this process and we value its engagement, as a proof of Belgrade’s readiness to take further steps.

FOCUS:

10 Years Of Strategic Partnership: Achievements And Next Steps This year marks the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Strategic Partnership Agreement between Italy and Serbia. How would you evaluate the effects of this agreement and what do you see as priorities in the perspective to continue along this path?

Our strategic partnership is aimed at reinforcing bilateral relations between Rome and Belgrade, towards Serbia’s EU accession.

Within last decade, a lot of goals have been accomplished. As for recent improvements, let me mention some agreements that were concluded in order to establish and deepen exchanges in many sectors: from the fight against corruption and organised crime, to cooperation in science and technology, to mention just a couple of examples. With respect to the economic sector, this strengthening of relations has been achieved in Serbia primarily through the greater integration of the economies of our two countries. An historical record of four billion euros worth of commercial exchanges between Italy and Serbia was achieved in 2018. Furthermore, one of the most modern main tools, through which our country assists Serbia in the process of reforms aimed at easing EU accession, is that of administrative twinning projects, funded by the EU itself.

On the occasion of the signing ceremony for the Strategic Partnership Agreement ten years ago, then Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi said that Serbia should enter the EU by 2012 or 2014 at the latest. What is the fate of Serbia’s EU integration in 2019? Will internal happenings within the EU lead to a further slowing of this process?

The pace of Serbia’s EU accession path depends on many factors. The negotiation process probably represents the most compelling commitment, but here it is once again important to highlight that, from our perspective, Serbia already took some important steps. The number of chapters opened is not the only evaluation criteria to look at. Some further developments are needed, like reforms in the area of the rule of law, the agreement with Pristina, and consolidation of positive changes in the economic sector. I cannot predict what could happen to the EU in 2019, but Serbia will continue to count on Italy’s encouragement and support in the concluding of this process.

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DAVIDE SCALMANI, DIRECTOR OF THE ITALIAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE IN BELGRADE

INTERVIEWS

At the National Museum in Belgrade, the Serbian public will have an extraordinary opportunity to see more than 50 masterpieces that define Baroque as the first truly European modern art movement

2019: Shining Year For Italian Culture In Serbia

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he aim is to bring to Serbia a unique selection of Italian art and culture, a wide representation of that which characterises the Italian scene and embodies our cultural heritage. It represents an artistic revolution that was born out of the appreciation of the blooming of the Italian Renaissance, but which had to come to terms with a new image of the universe and the place of human beings within it.

How will Italy, as a country with one of the greatest culture and arts scenes in the world, present itself to the Serbian public in 2019?

- When we designed the 2019 cultural programme, we constantly kept in mind the fact that the Serbian public is very knowledgeable and has high expectations when it comes to the cultural domain. Serbs love Italian art and the Italian way of life, which is why we wanted to provide the audience with the quality they deserve. We endeavoured to be part of the enduring relationships that have contributed to creating a solid background of friendship and mutual understanding.

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The 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Italy and Serbia gives the Italian Cultural Institute in Belgrade the opportunity to build on this affinity.

Is there any cultural event focusing on bilateral relations?

- Yes. Together with the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Art, we’ve planned a conference to which we’re inviting historians from Italy and Serbia to discuss diplomatic relations and social/cultural exchanges between our two countries. Actually, the whole programme has been devised in collaboration with Serbian institutions.

Are there any specific areas that the 2019 programme will focus on?

- We aim to bring to Serbia a unique selection of our art and culture, a wide representation of that which characterises the Italian scene and embodies our cultural heritage. An example of the spirit of the programme is the exhibition “Bernini’s School and the Roman Baroque” at the National Museum in Belgrade.

ITALY & SERBIA

INFLUENCE

INNOVATION

IDENTITY

There is a mass of Italian protagonists renowned worldwide for their talent in such diverse field as fashion, architecture, design and culinary art

Art and cultural heritage are at the centre of creative innovation, representing a growth engine that is badly needed in our economy of knowledge

Italian artists have never ceased to work and create, representing part of the major currents that form our collective cultural landscape

The Serbian public will have an extraordinary opportunity to see more than 50 masterpieces that define Baroque as the first truly European modern art movement. It represents an artistic revolution that was born out of the appreciation of the blooming of the Italian Renaissance, but which had to come to terms with a new image of the universe and the place of the human being within it.

Italy has a fascinating cultural heritage, but excessive funds are required to preserve and maintain everything.

How much does Italy, as a state, receive assistance in maintaining its cultural heritage, which belongs to human civilisation in its entirety?

- It is often mentioned in the public discourse that Italy is a sort of cultural superpower, owning a large portion of universal artistic heritage. Some data could help: 54 cultural and natural treasures inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List (more than any other country), over 3,400 museums, 2,100 archaeological sites, 24 national parks and 23 marine protected areas.

and historically relevant properties are in private hands and their condition is monitored by a network of public entities.

However, let me say that it would be wrong to consider this only as a cost. The truth is that cultural heritage has huge

Italy has 54 cultural and natural treasures inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List (more than any other country), over 3,400 museums, 2,100 archaeological sites, 24 national parks and 23 Marine protected areas

Does it cost a lot to maintain all those treasures?

- Yes, definitely. Italy has financial responsibility for more World Heritage sites than any other country in the world.

A large share of the budget of the Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities is dedicated to the task of preservation: some 200 million euros just for regular maintenance over the next three years. The Ministry of Education is also investing in research and training in the field of heritage preservation, as well as local authorities all over the peninsula. EU support has also been crucial in some of the most relevant projects, like the recent Grande Progetto Pompei. The investment for the restoration of Pompei amounted to 105 million euros, 78 million of which came from EU funds. Private companies and individuals are also part of our system, given that some art

strategic value, not only in terms of soft-power, but also when one considers our social and economic well-being.

Is this a commonly held view?

- The contribution of cultural industries and creative enterprises to the national product has been acknowledged only recently. The evidence is that culture creates many good jobs, adds value and can have a strong and positive impact, although not an easily visible one, on the development of any country. I would rather reframe the question of the costs in this way: art and cultural heritage are at the centre of creative innovation, representing a growth engine that is badly needed in our economy of knowledge.

What are all the modern artistic expressions that make Italy part of today’s world culture scene?

- Culture is a word that is often used to describe the past that 15

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marks national identity. Italian culture is mostly associated with the Roman civilisation, the emergence of urban life during the Middle Ages in Florence or Venice, or the great artistic achievements of the masters of the Renaissance, such as Leonardo, Michelangelo and Raffaello. However, Italian artists have never ceased working and creating, representing part of the major currents that form our collective cultural landscape.

Italy was the cradle of 20th century avant-garde, with the likes of Marinetti’s Futurismo and then Spazialismo, Arte povera and Transavanguardia emerging in Italy. After the celebrated Neorealismo film movement, Italian directors contributed to a plethora of genres: commedia all’italiana, Spaghetti Westerns, socially engaged films, and mostly to the cinematic language describing emotions. It is no wonder that Italy is, after America, the country that has won the most Academy awards. In any number of cultural and art scenes, an educated eye can find the distinctive contribution of Italy’s cultural influence, not to mention the crowd of Italian protagonists who are renowned worldwide for their talent in such diverse fields as fashion, architecture, design and culinary art.

What would you define as the most important areas in the

21st century in which Italy and its artists present themselves to the European and world cultural scenes?

- We find ourselves at the end of the second decade of this century with very few commonly accepted criteria, in Italy or anywhere else. However, after the deconstruction of the artistic and cultural values operating at the waning of the last century, some insights point to a renewed need for authenticity. Some artists tend to perceive the necessity of a new definition of reality as the sphere in which we are immersed. In literature, for example, “autofiction” seems to define the current situation – think of Elena Ferrante or Roberto Saviano, for example.

What is real, or appears reliable, is felt as being desired by both the audience and artists. However, it looks more like a goal that we need to point to than a primary foundation of aesthetic research. After the detection of the primary importance of narratives and the emphasis on the semiotic dimension of our lives -- the late Umberto Eco comes to mind – artists are pointing to something that goes beyond that. In that direction, the work of Alfredo Pirri – whose “Passi” installation will be exhibited in Serbia in 2019 – can be mentioned as an example of that struggle towards what is called performativity, which is the extra-symbolic effect of a well-crafted artwork.

FOCUS:

“Bernini’s School And The Roman Baroque” The exhibition “Bernini’s School and the Roman Baroque”, which will open at the National Museum in Belgrade on 7th March, is the result of fruitful collaboration between the Italian Cultural Institute in Belgrade, the National Museum in Belgrade, Palazzo Chigi in Ariccia and organiser Glocal Project Consulting.

Bernini (born Naples, 7th December 1598, died Rome, 28th November 1680), was an Italian sculptor, architect, painter, city planner and man of the theatre, both as a set designer and playwright. A multifaceted artist, he is considered the greatest protagonist of Baroque. His work dominated the European scene for more than a century after his death, and his influence on contemporaries and posterity was of enormous importance.

The exhibition presents the lesser-known Bernini, focusing on his figure as a painter and designer, and gathering the works of artists who converged in Rome following the creative drive of this eclectic and polyhedral artist. Many genres are presented, from portraits and self-portraits to landscape painting, allegories of classicist flavour, preparatory sketches for large decorative frescoes, as well as the “the triumphant Baroque”, with its religious representations. Visitors will have the opportunity to admire 58 artworks related to prominent figures of the Roman Baroque and the School of Bernini, including Baciccio, Borgognone, Pietro da Cortona, Cavalier d’Arpino and Mattia Preti, to name just a few. The exhibition itinerary guides the visitor on a journey through the figurative imagery of 17th century Italy, to discover its intense and overwhelming language through the masterpieces of great artists, an extraordinary gallery of artworks, objects and inventions that comprise this unique collection.

The exhibited works include creations from artists with various Italian origins (including Mantuan Domenico Fetti, Francesco Trevisani or Carlo Maratti from Marche) and also those from other European countries (Frenchman Guillaume Courtois, called “Il Borgognone”, Flemish artists Jan Miel, Ferdinand Voet and Jos de Momper, and Dutchman Poelenburgh), fully reflecting the cultural and urban renewal that transformed Rome during the 17th century into a modern cosmopolitan capital, a privileged destination for artists, pilgrims and travellers.

The exhibition, which runs until 28th April, is sponsored by Banca Intesa.

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CELEBRATIONS MARKING 140 YEARS OF DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS &

10 Years of Strategic Partnership Between Italy And Serbia MAIN EVENTS • Dario Fo at the National Theatre, exhibition and play (13th February) • Concert of pianist Alessandra Celletti at Kolarac Endowment Hall (25th February) • Inauguration of the exhibition La Scuola del Bernini e il Barocco Romano, National Museum in Belgrade (7th March – 26th May) • Guitar Art Festival: Concert of Giampaolo Bandini and Cesare Chiacchiaretta (13th March), as well as the participation of Michele Libraro and Giovanni Seneca in the event finale (17th March) • Symposium Club of Rome, history and perspectives, with the Club of Rome –Serbia and the University of Belgrade (18th March) • Italian Design Day (20th March at the Museum of Science and Technology, Belgrade) • Belgrade Dance Festival (organiser: Aja Jung), dance performance of Italian company Spellbound (25th – 28th March) • Italian Research Day in the World (April) • 140 Springs, films, exhibition and lecture in Niš (April) • Artistic encounters, exhibition of Anita Cerpelloni and Gordana Kaljalović at the Italian Cultural Institute (10th April – 3rd May) • Dance performance directed by Sabrina Bosco (organiser: Aja Jung) La vie Parisienne (27th – 29th April) • Celebrations of 40 years of the lectorate of the Italian language, University of Novi Sad (May) • Agriculture Fair in Novi Sad (Italy is the 2019 “Partner Country”, 11th – 17th May), in collaboration with the Italian Trade Agency (ICE) • Agriculture Fair in Novi Sad: concert directed by Maestro Gianluca Marciano (May) • Fare Cinema, exhibition of artist Alfredo Pirri at the Yugoslav Film Archives Cinematheque (14th May) • Fare Cinema, Italian Film Festival, in collaboration with the Yugoslav Film Archives Cinematheque (21st – 26th May) • Fare Cinema, Concert of Mauro Maur and Francoise de Clossey at the Yugoslav Film Archives Cinematheque (26th May) • Piazza Italia-Subotica. Concert in collaboration with the mandolin orchestra from Busto Arsizio at the Franciscan Church of Subotica 18

(26th May), and at St. Stephan’s Church in Sombor (Carmelite Convent) (27th May) • Round-table event on the history of international relations between Italy and Serbia, with the Institut des Etudes Balcaniques and SANU (31st May – 1st June) • Italians in Serbia, Italian films screened at the Yugoslav Film Archives Cinematheque (July/August) • Eros Ramazzotti in concert at Štark Arena (24th September) • International Day of Italian Contemporary Art (October) • Exhibition of historical documents related to Serbian-Italian relations, curated by the National Archive of Serbia, Belgrade (October) • Conference related to collaboration between Matica Srpska and Italian restorers from Opificio delle Pietre Dure of Florence (October) • “L’italiano sul palcoscenico”, 19th Week of the Italian Language in the World (21st – 27th October) • Inspired by Italy, exhibition with Matica Srpska, exhibition of paintings of Serbian artists from 19th and 20th centuries who were inspired by Italy (Italian Cultural Institute, 30th October – 29th November) • 4th Week of Italian Cuisine in the World (November) • 25th anniversary of the Rome-Belgrade flight (November) • Symposium “Italy and Serbia - literary, linguistic and cultural paths”, with the University of Belgrade (November) • Isabella Rossellini in Belgrade with the show “Link Link Circus” (November) • Manon Lescaut, in collaboration with the Livorno Theatre, at the Serbian National Theatre in Belgrade (December) • Events in collaboration with the Archives of Vojvodina: presentation of books on relations between Italy and Serbia auhored

by Milovan Pisarri and Jovana Ivetić • Collaboration with the Serbian National Theatre in Novi Sad (Artists in residence, Opera festival in June, and Chamber music festival from 9th to 15th September)

ITALY & SERBIA

COMPANY KEPROM

BUSINESS

Quarter Of A Century SERVING THE YOUNGEST

K

eprom is among the leading distribution companies in Serbia and represents part of the Keprom Group, which includes the Aksa Kids Mega Store – a retail chain offering equipment for babies and todlers – and K-Pharma, in which eight “Velika apoteka” operate.

Among the brands imported and distributed on the Serbian market by Keprom are renowned Italian brands like Chicco, Inglesina, PiC solution, Lycia, Bellelli, Plebani and Primi Sogni.

Keprom’s anniversary of 25 years of successful operations coincides with celebrations commemorating the 60th birthday of the Chicco brand. Chicco is specific in that it is the world’s only brand with a production portfolio that includes all categories of products intended for the youngest, from birth up to the age of three.

Chicco’s international story began in 1967, when its first shop beyond the territory of Italy was opened. This marked the first

step in a great journey that has led, 60 years later, to Chicco being present in 120 countries worldwide. And Keprom is precisely the company that is credited with the fact that this renowned Italian brand’s products are also available to parents in Serbia.

Keprom is a participant in, and the driving force behind, numerous social responsibility activities. One of the best known is the campaign “Safety is never on vacation ”, which aims to educate parents about the necessity of using children’s car seats to protect the youngest vehicle passengers. The Chicco brand provided a great contribution to this campaign by investing part of the proceeds generated from the sale of Chicco car seats in the purchase of special brackets for the safe transportation of children in emergency vehicles. Keprom has to date purchased and donated a total of 19 such Fixo Kid, pediatric restraint system for ambulance car to ambulance services throughout Serbia.

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INTERVIEWS

MARINA SCOGNAMIGLIO, DIRECTOR OF THE ITALIAN TRADE AGENCY – ITA

The food industry, with a strong emphasis on organic products, digital technology and digital innovation, renewable energy and the energy efficiency industry are sectors in which we have optimal preconditions to do an excellent job together, to the mutual benefit of our two economies

PARTNERSHIP

T

For Growth

he strong strategic partnership between Italy and Serbia stimulates economic cooperation and an Italian presence in the Serbian economy. The Italian Trade Agency – ITA contributes strongly to that cause itself, says ITA Director Marina Scognamiglio.

What do the figures for 2018 say about economic cooperation between our two countries?

- For decades, Italy and Serbia have been the most important economic partners. Not surprisingly, Italy, along with Germany, has been a pillar of Serbia’s foreign trade exchange, given the intrinsic predisposition towards cooperation between the two countries, such as the proximity of their territories, the compatibility of their economies, their long-term historical and cultural relations, as well as the similarity in the mentalities of their peoples. Going back to figures, bilateral trade between Italy and Serbia in 2018 exceeded the level of four billion euros (4.03 billion euros) for the first time. Italian exports to Serbia in 2018 increased by 4.7%, reaching 2.05 billion euros, while Serbian exports to Italy remained mostly unchanged compared to the previous year, at 1.98 billion euros. Italian exports to Serbia mostly represent vehicles, textiles,

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general purpose machinery, leather and specialised manufacturing machinery, whereas on the Serbian side the first item on the list of exports to Italy to also vehicles, followed by clothing, steel and ferrous metals, footwear and non-ferrous metals. In line with the growth prospects of our countries, especially Serbia’s, which saw GDP growth rates reaching a level of 4.4% in 2018, this trend of increasing foreign trade volumes between our countries is expected to continue its growth trajectory in 2019.

How many Italian companies operate in Serbia today and what trends are you observing in the numbers of new companies and new sectors represented?

- According to official data, there are around 600 Italian companies operating in Serbia, employing more than 25,000 workers. Italian companies have so far invested mostly in the financial sector and the textiles, automotive, furniture and wood processing industries. However, as the Italian economy transforms in Italy, its investments abroad follow this trend. For example, Italian investors have expanded their focus on sectors that show the greatest potential in the medium term. Here I’m primarily referring to the food industry, with a strong emphasis on organic products,

ITALY & SERBIA

RECORD

SUPPORT

STRATEGY

Bilateral trade between Italy and Serbia exceeded the level of four billion euros for the first time in 2018

The Italian Trade Agency is instrumental in providing information, assistance, consulting, promotion and training to Italian and foreign SMEs operating in Serbia

An investment in Serbia, as the leader in the Western Balkans, is an investment in Europe, and our strategic partnership relies on that premise

digital technology and digital innovation, renewable energy and the energy efficiency industry. These are also sectors that the current Serbian government is paying particular attention to, so I believe that we have optimal preconditions to do an excellent job together, to the mutual benefit of our two economies.

How important is the strategic partnership between the two countries as an accelerator of economic links?

- A strategic partnership usually refers to the building of a longterm relationship by deepening ties and promoting congruence on issues of mutual interest to two countries. Considering that our historical, cultural, political and trade relations are already deeply rooted, we need only proceed in the same direction. Apart from being the top foreign investor in Serbia, the number two commercial partner and the first country of import for Serbian products, Italy has never failed to give its full support to the European integration of Serbia. We are well aware of the fact that Serbia is a reference country for the entire Balkans, and our strategic platform towards Eastern Europe and Russia. We are convinced that the prosperity of the Serbian economy contributes to the prosperity of the Italian economy.

How is the Italian Trade Agency in Belgrade contributing to this cooperation?

- The Italian Trade Agency is a governmental agency that supports the development of Italian companies abroad. With a widespread network of about 80 overseas offices, the ITA provides information, assistance, consulting, promotion and training to Italian and foreign SMEs. When it comes to our office in Belgrade, a large part of the economic cooperation begins during our tailored meetings between businesspeople from Italy and Serbia. These meetings are sometimes organised at trade

NICMA Balkan d.o.o.

Ulica Miloja Pavlovića 9/1/3 34000 Kragujevac (SRB) Tel. +381 (0) 60 40 40 163 info@nicmaepartners.com

Industrial technical and civil cleaning

fairs, in both Italy and Serbia, but also on the occasion of specific sector-based workshops, product and territorial presentations and, most importantly, business matchmaking. Over the last ten years, the number of these cooperation initiatives has increased significantly, and there is no major Italian fair of importance to the development of economic cooperation between Italian and Serbian companies that hasn’tbeen attended by delegations of Serbian businesspeople, thanks to the combined efforts of our office in Belgrade and our headquarters in Rome. This is one of the ways in which the “Made in Italy” quality is promoted, and certainly one of the most effective ways of increasing trade links between our two countries.

ABACAAR DOO

Product & Process Engineering Miloja Pavlovića 9, Kragujevac Maurizio.panizzo@abacaar.rs

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How do reforms in Serbia, as well as the EU accession process, impact on interest among Italian companies and their presence in Serbia?

- An investment in Serbia, as the leader in the Western Balkans, is an investment in Europe. Investments will increase further if economic governance is strengthened and structural reforms pursued to increase competitiveness. The Italian Trade Agency, together with other Italian institutions and organisations in Serbia, gathered under the common name “Sistema Italia”, are strongly committed to supporting this goal and enhancing growth and job creation, particularly for the youth.

We are together striving to bring to the attention of decision makers the fact that, in order to be more efficient on the gradual integration of our economies within the framework of the European Single Market, we need to rely on increased funding in the fields of transport and energy, the social sector, the environment and private sector development, including the digital economy.

What is the current level of Italian FDI and which sectors are covered?

- Since the opening of the Serbian market in the early 2000s, Italy was among the first and largest investors in the country. According to the official statistics of the National Bank of Serbia, Italy invested 144.1 million euros in Serbia during the first nine months of last year, and we were the fourth largest investor country in 2018, after the Netherlands, Luxembourg and Germany. Italy has always believed strongly in the potential of this country, even when companies were unable to operate profitably. This has allowed Italian companies to expand their presence in many areas, including major investment sectors like the automotive industry and financial and insurance companies, which have attracted and supported further investments. The arrival of numerous SMEs, which have always been the real driving force behind the Italian production system, has consolidated the position of Italians as leaders among foreign investors. Italy is proud to have excellence in Serbia’s textiles, footwear, metalworking, agribusiness and construction sectors.

FOCUS:

Italian Food Industry Expertise In Novi Sad The food sector is among Italy’s most important industrial branches. How much do Italian Companies export to Serbia and how many of them attend the Novi Sad Agriculture Fair?

Italy occupies the number one spot as country of origin when it comes to imports of olive oil and pasta, and is the first among EU countries for wine imported to Serbia. In the milk and dairy products sector, Italy is the second largest supplier in Serbia, after the Netherlands.

Among the Italian food products consumed in Serbia we should also mention the meat processing industry’s products, as well as the bakery and confectionery industry.

Italy’s excellence in the agricultural and food sector brings together more than 6,000 active companies, with a total annual income of 180 billion euros, and they are always interested in sharing their experience in Serbia, which has significant potential in the agribusiness sector.

Here we need to mention one of our most successful business matchmaking events – the Italian collective exhibition at the International Agricultural Fair in Novi Sad. Specifically, as has been the case over the last seven years, the Italian Trade Agency – Office in Belgrade will organise and provide institutional support to the collective participation of Italian companies dealing in the agribusiness and agricultural machinery sectors at the 86th edition of the International Agricultural Fair in Novi Sad, to be held from 11th to 17th May 2019.

Our collective stand will this year gather together 30 Italian exhibitors who will provide a review of the market of agricultural machinery, equipment and breakthrough food technology solutions. As in previous editions of this fair, our stand will also be a place for business meetings between Italian manufacturers from the agri-food industry and local and international partners. This idea is facilitated by B2B sessions with more than 50 sector-based professionals, importers and distributors from neighbouring countries, selected by our offices in the region.

Particular interesting is the specific seminar on innovation in agriculture, which will be organised in cooperation between Serbian government institutions and their Italian counterparts.

Italian expertise is based on a wide range of certified products and high quality, as well as direct links to production territories and cultural heritage, high food safety standards, and the ability to combine tradition with process and product innovations. This is very important for Serbian businesses, which could take advantage of Italian experience NOVI SAD AGRICULTURE FAIR, 2018 in order to gain the knowhow necessary for growth.

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ECONOMIC OVERVIEW: ITALY AND SERBIA IN FIGURES

ITALIAN INVESTMENT

Flows Continuing Italian business in Serbia is today represented by more than 600 companies operating in the country, employing over 25,000 workers

I

Italy’s position as a leader among foreign investors. taly has always been among Serbia’s top economic partThe most significant sectors with a strong Italian presners. This is also reflected in the activity of a number of ence include automotive, textiles, footwear, metalworking, Italian economic institutions and associations present agri-food, energy and construction. The automotive sector has in the Country. The Italian business community can count traditionally been very important to Italian-Serbian economic on the support of the Italian Foreign Trade Agency (ICE), the relations, as evidenced by the investment made by FCA in Italian-Serbian Chamber of Commerce and Confindustria Kragujevac. FCA remains one of the main foreign investors in Serbia. All three entities are based in Belgrade and actively the country today (1.2 billion euros invested). Following FCA, promote bilateral economic relations and the interests of many companies from Italy’s automotive sector came to SerItalian and Serbian companies operating in Serbia. bia to establish production operations. In the banking sector, When it comes to bilateral trade, in 2018 Italy was Serbia’s the top crediting institution in Serbia is Italy’s Banca Intesa number two trade partner. Overall bilateral exchange amounted (Intesa SanPaolo Group), while UniCredit is ranked second. to 4.03 billions euros, 2.05 billion of which represented Italian Together, they hold 27.7% of the Serbian market, with shares export (an increase of +4.7% compared to 2017) and 1.98 billion of 15.8% and 11.9% respectively. In the of Italian import (basically the same as in 2017). Italy is still the number one desThe arrival of numerous SMEs, insurance sector, Generali holds 26.1% of the market and DDOR (Unipol-SAI tination country for Serbian goods and which have always been Goup) 8.0%, representing a combined the second exporter country to Serbia.

According to the Development Agency of the real driving force behind the 34.1% of the Serbian insurance market.

Serbia, Italy was the top investor country Italian production system, has In the textiles and footwear industry, the Group, Calzedonia, Pompea, in Serbia between 2007 and 2018, both consolidated Italy’s position Benetton Golden Lady and Geox have been present in terms of the number of investments as a leader among foreign in Serbia for many years. Italy is now and their total value. expanding its traditional presence in Two characteristics of Italian investinvestors many other sectors, such as agriculture ments in Serbia are that they were among (Ferrero), energy (Fintel) and ICT (Engineering). The flow of the very first foreign investments in the country, immediately Italian investment continues, as demonstrated by the decisions after the opening of the market in the 2000s, and that they are of several Italian companies to expand their business in Serbia, diversified into several sectors. It can be stated unequivocally like Thermowatt (Ariston Group) in electrical appliances, La that economic links between Italy and Serbia have historical Linea Verde in the agri-food sector and the GLM Group in the significance. This is due to strong institutional support, but automotive sector. also the far-sightedness of Italian entrepreneurs. At a time As mentioned, the agriculture sector is also gaining growwhen other partners were showing a certain reluctance to ing importance for Italian companies; for this reason, Italy has invest, Italy believed strongly in the potential of this country, been selected to be the 2019 “Partner Country” of the Novi launching major operations. In more recent years, the arrival Sad Agricultural Fair, which is attended each year by around of numerous SMEs, which have always been the real driving 30 Italian companies. force behind the Italian production system, has consolidated

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BUSINESS

ROMANO ROSSI, DIRECTOR, PROGETTI

Success Mustn't LULL US TO SLEEP With two million pairs of footwear manufactured annually, and that work carried out – directly or indirectly – by almost 2,000 employees, Progetti is currently Serbia's largest exporter of uppers and ready-made footwear in Serbia

ROMANO ROSSI AND ENRICO ROSSI

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rogetti d.o.o. (Ltd.) is perhaps better known on the Champs-Élysées than in Serbia, despite these most exclusive and beautiful shoes on the planet arriving in Paris and Rome straight from Vladimirci, Vršac or Sombor. This company established operations in Serbia in 2001 and one of the key questions posed by journalists over the last two decades is how that happened; how Serbia was selected for production operations, and how that production not only survived, but has also expanded and improved. Another new plant was recently established in Knjaževac, with an additional 120 employees. In this interview for CorD,

Director and Founder of the company (together with his brother Enrico), Romano Rossi, says that it is a little known fact that Progetti has been present in this area since 1990, i.e. since the time of the former Yugoslavia.

“A long tradition of shoe production, highly skilled workers and geographical proximity to Italy were the basic elements for making this strategic choice. Another important element was the competitive level of labour costs and the extreme (and surprising) open-mindedness of workers to learn new manufacturing processes,” explains Rossi.

We are proud of the achievements of the entire organisation, where everybody – from top management to the cleaning staff – develop such an impressive synergy that has enabled unimaginable results

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Shoes from your production facilities in Serbia can be found on the shelves of the most exclusive retail outlets in Paris or Rome. Are you satisfied with the level of quality of Serbian workers who must adhere to stringent production criteria?

- We are not only satisfied, but proud of the achievements of the entire organisation, where everybody – from top management to the cleaning staff

ITALY & SERBIA

– develop such an impressive synergy that has enabled unimaginable results.

We invest heavily in people and apply an internal salary system based on individual and line performance. We award the best performer, maintaining a highly motivational climate. People can also count on extra annual benefits, as long as balance sheet results allow them.

You have production facilities in Vladimirci, Sombor, and Vršac. Which criteria form the basis of your decision about where something is to be produced?

- We recently also opened a facility in Knjaževac (employing an additional 120 people). At one point we divided production in accordance with territory: Vojvodina was better for making elegant shoes, South Serbia for sports shoes and so on… Through consistent investment in education and “on field” formation, our factories can perform all kinds of production processes equally, regardless of their location. This is another important achievement that ensures the necessary production elasticity and the achievement of seasonal targets.

ing plants, you also collaborate closely with 22 independent companies, is the disbursed nature of your production process an advantage or an aggravating circumstance?

- Outsourcing some of the production when you have to manage large quantities means being able to count on additional capacities and make your customers happy. To be able to count on reliable production partners, who accept your business philosophy completely and with whom you can make strong agreements, is a huge plus. We’re also investing financially in these independent structures, making them grow together with us and become part of our big family. That can be easily considered a win-win situation.

We’re also investing financially in these independent structures, making them grow together with us and become part of our big family. That can be easily considered a win-win situation

Where do you procure the materials required for the production of your footwear? Do you provide workers with education and training?

- So far about 90% of materials have been coming from Italy: we have now launched cooperation with domestic suppliers and our hope is that we can increase our purchases of raw materials domestically in the near future. Concerning education and training, they are considered a fix asset of our balance sheet: I purposely said ‘asset’ and not ‘cost’, as we treat them as a basic investment in the regular activities of the company.

During 2019 we have budgeted for the opening of an internal school in Sombor, to give an opportunity to whoever might be interested in working with us to become part of the team.

Considering that, in addition to your three manufactur-

Your goal seven years ago was to produce 1.5 million pairs of shoes. What goals do you now set for yourself and your workers?

- Goals are important in business, but if business is reduced to raw goals then you miss out on other things, because goals are set by people and achieved by employees. Perhaps that’s why we are so successful, because – alongside ambitious tasks – we also take care of their sustainability. I will mention two basic principles of business: the first is that - if there is no growth, there is death! And I have to underline that under ‘growth’ we actually mean sustainable development.

And the second is that a man who is building something can never be satisfied. Our two principles are followed by our goal: we wish to continue to grow to try to be satisfied, which will never happen!

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GIORGIO MARCHEGIANI, PRESIDENT OF THE ITALIAN-SERBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

INTERVIEWS

PROMOTING SERBIA'S Economic Growth Our expectation for 2019 is for Italy and Serbia to exceed four billion euros in commercial exchange.

I am very positive that this goal can be reached thanks to the promising GDP growth and the pace of trade that Serbia has with all countries of the European Union

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talian companies support the Serbian economic sector and Italian-Serbian relations, says Giorgio Marchegiani, President of the Italian-Serbian Chamber of Commerce.

How much do Italian companies contribute to the growth of Serbia’s GDP and export levels?

- The number of foreign investments in Serbia increases each year, and Italy is one of the country’s most important economic partners. Italy is one of the most important investors in Serbia, with Italian companies having invested about three billion euros since the year 2000.

According to the level of investments in Serbia, Italian companies have invested mostly in the financial and insurance sectors, as well as the textiles, automotive, furniture and wood processing industries. There are currently around 600 companies with Italian majority ownership in Serbia, and around 1,300 with some Italian capital. They have collectively created more than 25,000 jobs. Italy has confirmed its position as Serbia’s most important commercial partner. Official statistics show that in 2018, trade between the two countries exceeded 4.0 billion euros.The trend is very positive, with continuous growth in both imports and exports. During the same period, exports to Italy represented 12.1% of

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the total trade volume, while imports of goods to Serbia from Italy amounted 9.5%. Furthermore, all of the most important products in foreign trade between Italy and Serbia are the same for both countries, due to significant Italian investments in Serbia. The most important goods in the foreign trade exchange between Serbia and Italy are vehicles and spare parts, machinery, food products and textiles products. Fiat is still the biggest exporter from Serbia, with the value of its exports in the first ten months of 2018 totalling 699.7 million euros. Apart from FIAT (FCA Serbia d.o.o), there are Valy d.o.o (Golden Lady), Technic Development d.o.o (Geox), Fiorano d.o.o (Calzedonia) and Olimpias SRB d.o.o (Benetton) that are also on the list of the biggest exporters from Serbia, according to the Customs office report. Our expectation for 2019 is to continue improving current pace above 4 billion euros in commercial exchange.

Which Italian-supported industries are among the leaders in that respect?

- It is reasonable to consider that trade in vehicles, fashion goods, footwear and machinery will continue to grow. However, I think it is more interesting to focus on the sectors that show the most potential in the medium

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DIGITALISATION

TREND

SYNERGY

Italy and its companies will support Serbia in introducing digitalisation and new technologies, and will work jointly to accomplish this effort

I expect major developments in agri-food, technological innovations and materials and services connected with renewable energy and the energy efficiency industry

All parts of “Sistema Italia� are working to improve the economic exchange between Serbia and Italy

Among its members are numerous Italian and Serbian term. I expect major developments in agri-food and its companies, as well as companies with mixed capital. subcategory of organic products, in technological innoOver the last 16 years, through vation and in materials and services connected with renewable energy Our Chamber has contributed numerous projects, services offered, cooperation implemented with and the energy efficiency industry. to the creation of a favourable and local and national institutions, the business climate for Italian Chamber has contributed to the The Italian-Serbian Chamber of Commerce is the biggest and the investors in Serbia, and to local creation of a favourable business climate for Italian investors in Serbia most influential association of Italian businesspeople in Serbia. What companies finding appropriate and local companies finding appropriate business partners in Italy. The trends are you observing among the business partners in Italy Chamber has nearly 200 members membership? – companies, professionals and individuals operating in - The Italian-Serbian Chamber of Commerce, which is different areas, from the automotive industry, via the recognised by the Italian Government, is part of a network banking and insurance sectors, the wood and textiles of 79 Italian Chambers of Commerce around the world.

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industries, the ICT sector, prestigious law and consulting offices, hotels and restaurants, transport and logistics, travel and other different services.

Our member base is very diverse, covering from the “cornerstone” of Fiat, to small restaurants: this reflects the wide spectrum of excellence among Italian companies around the world.

overall Italian-Serbian relations?

- Clearly, economic cooperation stimulates mutual understanding and reinforces all other elements of bilateral cooperation: agreements supporting the mobility of labour and capital in the perspective of EU accession, cultural and language-based relations, support in reinforcing the institutional system – e.g. in combatting organised crime and encouraging the development of tourism. All parts of “Sistema Italia” – the Embassy of Italy, the Italian–Serbian Chamber of commerce, the Italian Trade Agency and the Italian Cultural Institute – are working to improve economic exchanges between Serbia and Italy. Even better results are expected during this year.

To what extent do Italian companies support the digital transformation of Serbian society and in the country’s business sector?

- As the Italian economy transforms in Italy, following the “Industry 4.0 model” and going digital, its investments abroad also follow this trend. This can be observed in different industries: in manufacturing the first wave of investment was often based on low labour costs, but As the Italian economy role do Italian companies and expert investors know that, as the transforms in Italy, following What institutions play in contributing to country grows, more automation and digitalisation of processes is intro- the “Industry 4.0 model” and art and culture in Serbia? duced. This is a “digitalisation path” going digital, its investments - Italy is one of Serbia’s priority partners when it comes to cooperathat will continue for a long time. An abroad also follow this trend tion in the field of culture and arts. example is the case of textiles comCulture and art are among the hubs panies. Another example is financial of excellent relations between our two countries, and services: banks and insurance companies, being part of activities in this area has been very intense in recent larger groups that are undertaking a transformational years. A good example of institution-building and the effort and are also gradually going digital in Serbia. In exchange of good practises is the cooperation between certain areas, like mobile payments, digitalisation is Matica Srpska Gallery and the Institute for Conservasupported by the regulation – and Serbia here is very tion and Restoration from Florence. Over recent years, well developed, while in other areas, like insurance disinsurance company DDOR – part of the Unipol Group tribution, it is more limited. Moreover, among traditional – along with the Embassy of Italy and other sponsors, industries, there is a solid presence of Italian capital in has supported the Belgrade Dance Festival, which is ICT companies in Serbia. These companies are not only one of the most renowned modern dance initiatives looking for the skilled labour for which Serbia is famous, in Europe. Last but not least, the Italian “Slow Food” but are also developing locally innovative technologies. association is also present in Serbia, representing an attempt to develop the heritage of local Serbian food To what extent can links forged between the two counas has been done successfully in Italy. ties via commercial relations contribute to improving 30

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INTERVIEWS

ERICH COSSUTTA, PRESIDENT OF CONFINDUSTRIA SERBIA

As Confindustria Serbia, we are proud to recognise that Italian companies are bringing technological renewal to Serbia. The plants of our member companies implement the latest technological applications, which are also the most efficient way to keep them in global production chains

Italian SMEs HELP BOOST PRODUCTION IN SERBIA

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taly could easily be dubbed a contributor to Serbia’s industrialisation, not only its re-industrialisation,” says Erich Cossutta, President of Confindustria Serbia. Indeed, Italy has always been a friend and particularly enduring trade and economic partner for Serbia, as demonstrated by the historical collaboration FIAT established with Zastava in the 1960s.

Moving to more recent years, Italy was among the first countries to open up to Serbia, its politics and economy after the tragic ‘90s. As a matter of fact, Italy has been sharing first place with Germany when it comes to FDI volumes, and to some extent it’s statistically impossible to say that Italy, with its 600 companies present in Serbia, hasn’t contributed to the re-industrialisation of the country.

What kind of experience can Serbia acquire in this way, 32

particularly when it comes to the process of transitioning to a knowledge-based economy?

- What I consider as being most important here is that a knowledge-based economy offers an opportunity to Serbia’s youngest generation. The most challenging aspect that both economic and social actors will have to face in the future is the brain drain that Serbia has been experiencing over the last few years. The transfer of technology and knowhow is one way to keep young, educated people close to home. They represent the added value that permits growth from an economic, social and political point of view. Confindustria has the mission to establish strong bonds between entrepreneurs and educational institutions. Through different projects, we are striving to foster the idea that production in 2019 is something attractive, a process that sees responsibility at every step and is globally interconnected.

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PROGRESS

CHALLENGE

BONDS

Conditions for the arrival of Italian and other foreign companies are improving annually

The most challenging aspect that both economic and social actors will have to face in the future is the brain drain that Serbia has been experiencing over the last few years

The fact that the Italian language is taught in three universities in Serbia and that Italian culture is well known among the local population makes it easier for Italian entrepreneurs to create bonds with local communities

customs and the one-stop business register, have helped How would you rate conditions today for the arrival of the daily work of our companies. A higher predictability Italian companies, primarily the smaller ones that form of juridical processes and the incenthe backbone of Italian industry? tives that the Serbian state has been - From our point of view, the conditions As Confindustria Serbia, for SMEs have also helped in for the arrival of Italian and other we are proud to recognise that providing keeping even the smallest companies foreign companies are improving annually. There are several reasons Italian companies are bringing here. However, more informal aspects to explain this: on the one side, the technological renewal to this have also helped in improving the social environment: the Italian language work carried out by local institutions country, primarily for the is taught in three universities in Serbia, and, on the other, the improvement of whereas Italian culture is valued and the overall social environment. As far benefit of its workers well-known among the local populaas the political aspect is concerned, tion, making it much easier for Italian entrepreneurs to reforms have eased business operations in Serbia and create bonds with local communities, which is a guarantee made them more predictable. We think that the digitisation of their future in Serbia. of procedures, such as those involving the tax authority,

VOJVODINA DEVELOPMENT AGENCY

Why do Italian companies love Vojvodina?

Italian companies are achieving enviable results in Vojvodina. In terms of numbers of companies (70) they are ranked first, while they are second in terms of employment (13,343) and in third place when it comes to investments (878 million euros). They arrive in this northern Serbian province from Italy and Romania, and in both cases, location is among the main reasons: proximity to parent plants, a single border crossing, and cost-effective transport to the EU. Investors also agree that Vojvodina has a good workforce, that Serbia’s tax regime favours business, as do production costs. Furthermore, thanks to frequent meetings organised in cooperation with the Italian-Serbian Chamber of Commerce (ISCC), the Association of Italian Industrialists in Serbia (Confindustria Serbia) and the Italian Trade Promotion Agency (ICE), Italian businesspeople are already well aware that the Vojvodina Development Agency (RAV) is a reliable partner of all companies seeking to invest or already operating in Vojvodina.

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Around 80% of Italian companies are family businesses. What would you recommend to young, emerging Serbian companies as a recipe for success?

- Family business is a trademark of the Italian economy, and is something of which Serbian institutions and authorities are aware: Confindustria’s origins also rely on that, and supporting this economic model is part of our mission. Learning on the basis of the experiences of others and exchanges of knowhow are of great importance, but I also think that more training programmes should be planned.

you assess the opportunities for Italian investments available in this sector?

- The Italy-Serbia Forum devoted to the circular economy was a pioneering event on this topic in Serbia. I think that the support we received from the Serbian ministries of agriculture and the environment is of utmost importance: Italian companies interested in investing in this sector should interpret this as a strong positive sign from the Serbian state. The expertise and technological solutions developed by Italian companies in this sector have been recognised, and we feel that it is a Confindustria Serbia goal to keep the issue high on the political agenda of the government and to defend the excellence of Italian companies in this field. Environmental awareness only recently reached the top position in both social and political dialogue in Serbia, whereas the situation on the ground has more than a couple of critical situations: from water protection to soil quality.

This leaves plenty of space for Italian companies and entrepreneurs interested in identifying business opportunities, not only in Serbia but also in the wider region.

Confindustria member companies invest heavily in education. From Which technologies do Italian comEnvironmental awareness that perspective, what would you panies bring and in which industries is that particularly evident? only recently reached the top recommend to Serbia when it comes adapting education to meet the - Technological advancements are position in both social and to needs of the economy? more visible in the textile industry political dialogue in Serbia... - Confindustria Serbia has developed and its applications. This economic branch has always been mostly seen This leaves plenty of room close collaboration with the Ministry of Education of Serbia, especially in as a highly work-intensive area, in for Italian companies and introducing ad hoc programmes to order to maintain high quality. But secondary schools in three different what most people don’t actually see entrepreneurs interested cities aimed at meeting the needs is how local companies are connected in finding business of our member companies. Given to global supply and value chains: to acquire technological improvements, opportunities in these sectors the success we had, the Ministry asked our association to contribute globalisation imposes standards to the creation of a school curriculum aimed at serving and quality control from companies that exert unprecthe needs of the automotive sector. I believe that the edented pressure on them to be flexible and able to Serbian Government and institutions will continue in this follow the latest trends. For this reason, it is inevitable direction: to include economic actors in dialogue about that companies must invest in new machines and skills formal education, in order to provide children, on the for their workers. one side, with the latest educational programmes, and, on the other, representing a potential opportunity for The Association of Italian Industrialists - Confindustria them to remain in Serbia and contribute to the economy’s - recently organised the first Italian-Serbian forum for further growth. a sustainable, green and circular economy. How would 34

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PAOLO DI BELLA, DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING SOFTWARE LAB D.O.O. (LTD.)

BUSINESS

Company That Keeps

YOUNGSTERS IN SERBIA

“Our company contributes to efforts aimed at keeping young people in their own country, while at the same time giving them an opportunity to develop and work with colleagues from around the world”

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ngineering Group is among the world’s leaders in digital transformation processes. However, when we posed this question to its director, Paolo Di Bella, he responded in a modest way, explaining that his company is “a global player in the digital transformation sector’.

Engineering Group (EG) was established by parent company Engineering Ingegneria Informatica S.p.A, which was itself founded in the Italian city of Padua in 1980. According to Director Di Bella, “Today, after almost 40 years of IT evolution, the Group is present in 50 cities and eight world countries, while around 10,500 software engineers work every day on the design, development and implementation of software systems for the needs of our clients.”

“Engineering Software Lab d.o.o. (Ltd.), one of the EG companies, currently employs 200 software engineers in Serbia. Since its establishment in 2012, this company has maintained a planned growth trend that is actively continuing today. The launch of our operations on the Serbian market was driven by the idea of establishing close cooperation with universities in the country, due to an awareness that there was then a lack of IT developers in specific technologies on the labour market. This shortage was a result of the absence of large companies on the domestic market prior to 2012.”

undergoing two months of training with external professors from Belgrade universities, after which they continue to grow professionally with help of a bespoke mentoring programme. During this six-year period, we’ve had an opportunity to see the enthusiasm of young Serbian people and their great desire to keep pace with world trends. They are extremely energetic and creative, eager for knowledge and have great ambitions for professional growth. Of course, good knowledge of foreign languages represents a great advantage for them on the global market.

What are your company’s specific plans for the Serbian market, which is relatively small compared to the Italian market or some other European market?

- Our main markets are Italy, the rest of Europe and other continents, but that doesn’t mean that we don’t pay much attention to the Serbian market. Serbia is interesting given the Serbian Government’s policy in the digitisation process and modernisation in the sectors of administration, industry, public enterprises etc.

In the end, I would like to express my great satisfaction for the fact that our company contributes – albeit to a small extent – to efforts aimed at keeping young people in their own country, while at the same time giving them an opportunity to develop and work with colleagues from around the world. This reality and such working conditions serve to change their attitude towards their country and local environment, as well as improving the possibilities for them to create a family and increase their future living standards. At our company they can gain solid foundations for the future of their professional careers.

I have to add that I came to Belgrade for the first time a year and a half ago and have since fallen in love with this city and the people who live here, but that’s another story.

We are in the phase of strengthening our Development Centre, and our aim is to increase the number of our employees over the next two years from the current 200 to 500, through both traditional methods and acquisitions

What is your company’s employment policy and how do young Serbian people keep pace with modern trends in the IT industry globally?

- In accordance with Engineering Group’s business values, and the planned objective of establishing a development centre on the territory of Serbia, Engineering Software Lab d.o.o. Has worked systematically to identify talented youngsters and support their continuous professional development (both in the country and abroad). After more than six years of operations, we have retained the same employment policies, with all of our new employees

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BUSINESS

IVAN STOJANOVIĆ, DIRECTOR OF MODITAL DOO

A Brand That Needs

NO SPECIAL ADVERTISING "Italian investors have greatly contributed to the progress of the textile industry, but we should not forget the domestic manufacturers with a long tradition that have survived on the market and improved their operations."

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n Zrenjanin, the largest city of the Banat, there is not a single woman whose wardrobe does not contain at least one product of the brand manufactured at Modital Pompea. That is not surprising: as part of the Italian Pompea Group, Modital has been operating in Serbia for more than 15 years, with production in Zrenjanin and Brus.

This famous Italian brand of socks, underwear and textile knitwear has been continuously expanding and improving its production for a decade and a half. Without hiding his pride, Ivan Stojanovic, director of Modital doo, points out that Serbia is the thirdlargest exporter of socks in the world, and that his company has become one of the leaders.

“As the backbone of the Pompea group’s production, Modital monitors the development of the group and seeks to add a competitive value to it by constant optimization. Work on adopting new technical knowledge and improving production never ceases. These improvements enable us to increase production capacity and respond to customer demands in existing markets and the demands of an increasing number of new clients.

The Group’s investment strategy is aimed at consolidating its current market position while conquering new markets by placing new products. With this strategy we are not planning to build new production facilities in another town in Serbia in the near future. Besides, in these two factories we have enough space to build new production capacity. As expansion plans at existing plants go, we are constantly doing this by purchasing new machines or replacing existing ones with newer models.”

Thanks to Modital, Serbia is the third largest exporter of socks in the world. What is needed to take first place?

- “We can say that the main exporters of socks are exactly these Italian brands. There are already some conditions in place like improvement of the business climate, but at the moment it is important to approach new markets. One example of approaching new markets is an agreement with the Russian Federation on duty-free trade. This agreement has greatly contributed to the development of the textile industry in Serbia. Since the USA tops the list of pantyhose importers, any new agreement between our country and the US would significantly improve exports and surely in the future our country would find itself in global first or second place as socks exporter.”

Modital, or Pompea S.p.a, is among the first well known Italian brands that have recognized the potential of operating in Serbia, and who have shifted a large part of their production here

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Your ambition is to become regional leader in the textile industry. Do you think that this industry in Serbia, thanks both to investors from Italy and domestic experience, has regained its “old glory”?

- “In parallel with improving the production of pantyhose, we are working developing intimate and sports programmes. Our ideology is that with new, unique products, we can become a regional leader. I think that at the moment there are a number of conditions for the Serbian textile industry to regain its “old glory”. We have foreign and domestic knowhow, but the state needs to link this into a whole and define the strategy. Because to fully reach the “old glory”, it has to appear on a global market where competition comes from China, Bangladesh, and fighting in such a market is a huge challenge. Only related manufacturers with serious state help and accompaniment can win in the world’s market battles.”

ITALY & SERBIA

VLATKO SEKULOVIĆ, LAWYER AND OWNER OF THE SEKULOVIĆ LAW OFFICE

BUSINESS

Local Office –

GLOBALLY NETWORKED

The globalisation process has also encompassed the legal industry, but it will never be able to completely replace the local approach, familiarity with specific laws, the presence of legal practitioners on the ground and integral inclusion in the legal life of the state

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he Sekulović Law Office has earned the trust of the Italian Embassy in Belgrade and the Italian Chamber of Commerce. Its owner, renowned lawyer Vlatko Sekulovć, stresses at the very beginning of this interview that the legal profession is “a profession that has its status guaranteed by the highest legal act, the Constitution of the Republic of Serbia and Article 67, which regulates legal aid, guaranteeing one of the basic human rights, that to defence, and advocacy, in the broader sense, is defined as an instrument to protect that right.”

“Legal services, however, are not limited only to providing services related to personal rights, i.e. the rights of private individuals, but rather are related in great measure to legal services provided to legal entities. In relations between the lawyer and the client, it must be considered that it is subsequently regulated by special laws, the most important of which is the Law on Advocacy. This relationship is considered confidential and sui generis, and enjoys special legal protection with a rationale derived from the basic right to defence in criminal matters, but then also relates to other issues that may arise in practise. In addition to the law, there is also the Code of Professional Ethics for Lawyers in Serbia, which is fully harmonised with the Code of Conduct for Lawyers in the European Union. It can thus be said that the Serbian legal sector, according to its standards and rules, is part of the European legal space. Of course, these acts represent the framework within which each lawyer must move, but the quality of relations between attorneys and clients depends on the extent to which the individual attorney adheres to these rules.”

around the world for decades, and has also emerged in our country in recent years. The causes are numerous, but we can conclude that the development of economics and technological solutions – if we’re referring to “economic law” in the broadest possible sense – has led to an increase in the number of codified rules. Thus, for example, areas that didn’t exist just a few decades ago, such as so-called “rights in electronic commerce”, have developed due to the development of the internet, and that has happened in many other areas that didn’t previously need regulating. The proliferation of norms leads to the impossibility of a lawyer being sufficiently familiar with all areas of law, such that, besides the classical division between civil and criminal law, in terms of professionalisation, specialisation has also emerged for certain branches of civil law, including economic law. Thus, it’s not so much about specific problems faced by individual investors, rather the complexity of contemporary law, which requires a lawyer’s specialisation, knowledge and experience.

Foreign investors in Serbia require a complex approach to contemporary law, which simultaneously also requires narrow specialisation, knowledge and experience

Which specific problems requiring specialised legal teams do Italian investors in Serbia face?

- The trend of specialisation in legal practise has been present

What is your view on the linking of local law offices with those from other countries?

- There are law offices in Serbia today that are linked with partners abroad in various ways, from full integration into their system to business cooperation in terms of client referrals. And in this case it’s about a general consolidation trend on the domestic market, but also globally. The process of globalisation has somehow also encompassed the legal industry, but it will never be able to completely replace the local approach, familiarity with specific laws, the presence of legal practitioners on the ground and integral inclusion in the legal life of individual countries.

So, according to my understanding, the future of the legal profession is in networking, but also in integration, though this profession – due to its specificity, especially in criminal law – will have its autochthonousness at the national level.

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ITALIAN DESIGN DAY IN THE WORLD

INNOVATION

The Production OF BEAUTY!

Italian Design Day in the World is one of the most popular initiatives that enables professionals, scholars and enthusiasts of Italian design to examine a unique aspect of Italian genius: the production of beauty!

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to its ability to absorb new technologies, new materials his year will see the Embassy of Italy in Belgrade and new concepts – is recognised worldwide as a leader and the Italian Cultural Institute organise the 3rd in fashion, architecture, urban planning, interiors, graphics Italian Design Day in the World. One of Italy’s most and all other forms of design. popular initiatives, it enables Industrial development during professionals, scholars and enthuWhile furniture design is by far the period of World War I made it siasts of Italian design to examine a unique aspect of Italian genius: the the major sector in which Italian possible the rise of the principle production of beauty! The unspoindustrial design is recognised of industrial design: design could become serial! While furniture deken ability to espouse functionality as a leader worldwide, Italy sign is by far the major sector in and beauty, which today characteris certainly also a major player which Italian industrial design is ises Italian designers, has its roots back in the Renaissance “botteghe”, in lighting design, automotive recognised as a leader worldwide, Italy is certainly also a major player where craftsmanship and art were design, and graphic in lighting design, automotive design, inseparable ingredients of the creaand graphic and web design. tive process. Italian design – thanks and web design

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ITALIAN DAY OF RESEARCH IN THE WORLD

Strong Support For SERBIAN RESEARCHERS

INNOVATION

2018 ITALIAN RESEARCH DAY IN THE WORLD EVENT IN BELGRADE

An important element in the promotion of Italian research is represented by the “Italian Research Day in the World”, which will this year see the CNR illustrate its activities in the field of information and communications technologies

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publications) become a point of reference for the two ilateral scientific and technological cooperation countries’ research communities. Last December saw has experienced steady and significant expanthe signing of the III Executive Programme for Sciension in recent years. A total of 96 inter-university tific and Technological Cooperation, cooperation agreements have which provides funding for 12 projects been signed to date between the To date a total of 96 aimed at promoting the mobility of two countries, to which are added inter-university cooperation researchers and seven projects of the important agreements that the University of Belgrade has in place agreements have been signed to “Grande Rilevanza”, to be carried out with the CNR and the INFN. date between the two countries in the three years from 2019 to 2021.

An important element in the proIt was in 2012 that the Embassy motion of Italian research is represented by the “Italian of Italy in Belgrade and the University of Belgrade Research Day in the World”, which will this year see the established the Association of Italian and Serbian SciCNR illustrate its activities in the field of information and entists and Scholars - AIS3, which has over recent years communications technologies. (through the organisation of numerous events and book 39

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RESOURCES

INNOVATION

Italy is among the EU's most successful countries in terms of energy efficiency and is also a pioneer in new forms of renewable energy sources, such as the nextgeneration of cellulosic biofuels

The Right Path Of RENEWABLE ENERGY

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he use of renewable energy sources, RES (mainly photovoltaic, wind and biomass and hydroelectric sources are considered historically consolidated), has been increasingly important in Italy over the last ten years, and its further development is on the right path. Overall, installed renewable power in Italy has a total capacity of almost 53 GW, i.e. more than 40% of the total Italian power generation mix (equal to about 117 GW). In 2017, RES contributed to 36.2% of total energy production in Italy, equating to 32.4% coverage of national demand for electricity.

According to the “Renewables 2018 Global Status Report” of REN21 (Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century), Enel – Italian main provider of electricity – advanced from 25% renewable energy capacity in 2010 to 43% at the end of 2016, and reached agreement – along with 25 of the EU’s 28 electricity utility enterprises – not to build any more coal-fired power plants from 2020 onwards, and to decarbonise Europe’s electricity supply by 2050. According to the International Energy Efficiency Scoreboard 2018, Italy is ranked first, together with Germany, in terms of overall energy efficiency, while it is among the top 25 energy consumer countries worldwide. In 2017, seven European states (Austria, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Romania, Sweden and Serbia) were ranked among the world’s top 10 countries for additions to solar water heating capacities. Italy is ranked fifth worldwide for installed solar power, behind China, the United States, Japan and Germany. Rated in terms of capacity per

capita, Italy occupies 4th place in the world ranking. At the national level, 2017 saw Italian photo-voltaic produce 8.7% of the national electricity. When it comes to the use of next-generation cellulosic biofuels, Italy is among the few Countries to have already adopted the EU “Renewable Energy Directive for 2030”, which was proposed by the European Commission in 2017 and includes a target of 3% for advanced biofuels and a cap of 7% on first-generation biofuels.

Italy is among the pioneering countries at the forefront of the use of bio-heat in buildings. Most of the heating pellets consumed in 2017 (14 million tonnes) were utilised in Europe (11.1 million tonnes) – with the leading markets represented by Italy, Germany and France – followed by North America (2.9 million tonnes). Our country is also ranked 7th among producers of geothermal power (after the U.S., the Philippines, Indonesia, Turkey, New Zealand and Mexico). A success story in Serbia is represented by Italian company Fintel (Fintel Energija a.d.), which has already invested over 150 million euros in wind farms. In a joint venture with a Serbian company, Fintel is also working to increase the total energy generation capacity in Serbia. At the end of 2015, Fintel opened a 9.9 MW wind farm in Kula – the first in Serbia – and in October 2016 another one, the 6.6 MW “La Piccolina” wind park, was opened in Zagajica, near Vršac. This Italian-Serbian joint venture is now working on new projects. Fintel Energija was also the first company in Serbia to conduct an initial public offer (IPO) on the Belgrade Stock Exchange.

Italian company Fintel Energija a.d. has already invested over 150 million euros in wind farms in Serbia and is now working with its Serbian partner to increase Serbia’s total energy generation capacity

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BUSINESS

Lawyers WITHOUT BORDERS

Photo: Milica Rašković

LAW OFFICE KOSIĆ

“After over 25 years of cooperation, working with Italian companies has become a daily practice of Law Office Kosić”

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good service to their clients and not just enable realisation aw Office Kosić is an amalgam of the traditional and contracting but also prevent any negative effects that values of the legal profession and the requirements might arise from acquired rights and obligations. Bearing of modern business. The proof of the expertise and this in mind, our scope of work is not necessarily broad professionalism of this law firm lies in its lasting but specialised, and this is essential in the normal work cooperation with domestic and many foreign companies. of corporate lawyers.

What makes it stand out is its large team of experienced experts who adapt to their clients’ requirements and work In what fields do you usually work with your partners and as a team whenever necessary. Dubravka Kosić, a lawyer associates from abroad? Does this cooperation also mean at Law Office Kosić, explains: “Italian companies are indirepresenting Serbian clients abroad? vidually the greatest investors in Serbia. Our law office - Our law office cooperates with a represents many of them, including of law firms abroad, especially the biggest ones, mostly in the area Law Office Kosić has teams number in Italy. We participate with them in of project development”. of lawyers and interns that seminars, training and development - I would particularly like to mention the Fiat Group, Calzeodnia, Dan- specialise in a number of fields in the legal fields of importance to our clients. Our cooperation is particularly ieli, Ferrero, and many medium-sized but join forces and work important when it comes to advisenterprises. After over 25 years of cooperation with Italian companies, ing on other national laws, especially together to help realise the internationalisation of Italian Italian law, or referring clients to the projects, contracts and companies is a daily practice of Law law firms abroad with which we have other legal tasks Office Kosić. We also cooperate with established good cooperation. Our the Italian and Serbian institutions that office represents clients in Serbia take part in the realisation of these projects. exclusively, but it provides support and prepares documents for our colleagues abroad when they are involved in cases in their territorial jurisdiction. We also regularly take part in The range of fields you deal with is incredibly broad: from conferences organised by the Italian Foreign Trade Agency, corporate and labour laws, energy, media and communiConfindustria Serbia and the Italian-Serbian Chamber of cations, all the way to arbitration. Is such a broad legal Commerce. Law Office Kosić was the only Serbian law firm scope an advantage or a disadvantage? that took part in the first ever CONNEXT this year, where it - Companies seek assistance in all aspects of corporate presented the legal framework, investment opportunities law and in any other business domain where they may and business incentives and benefits in Serbia and in the encounter problems. Law firms specialising in commercial countries with which Serbia has bilateral relations. law should cover all these areas if they want to provide a 41

ITALY & SERBIA

THE ITALIAN LANGUAGE

CULTURE & SOCIETY

Door To Better UNDERSTANDING

This year’s edition of the Week of the Italian Language in the World focuses on the theme “Italian language on stage”, with the aim of introducing the Serbian public to language's link with music and theatre

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institute offers Italian language courses and the possibility of talian is a language of culture, work and study. Speaking acquiring official certificates of linguistic competence that Italian means having access to an extremely valuable arare useful for the continuation of studies in Italy. tistic and literary heritage that’s essential to the history of Since 2001, the third week of October has been dediEurope, and it can turn a visit to Italy into an even greater cated to the Week of the Italian Language in the World, pleasure. It is the key to developing a better understanding of, an event that’s promoted by Italy’s and appreciation for, the Italian lifestyle. diplomatic network with numerous Italian is among the main foreign The Italian Cultural Institute activities organised worldwide with languages studied in Serbia, with more in Belgrade offers Italian the aim of promoting the Italian lanthan 35,000 students studying it as guage. This year’s 19th edition of the a second foreign language in primary language courses and the of the Italian Language in the and secondary schools, and more than possibility of acquiring official Week World focuses on the theme “Italian 2,000 young people studying it at unicertificates of linguistic language on stage”, which will provide versity level. the leitmotif of the vast programme inOne of the main objectives of the competence that are useful tended to be presented to the Serbian Italian Cultural Institute in Belgrade is to for the continuation of public and to highlight the language’s promote and diffuse the Italian language link to music and theatre. in Serbia. It is with this in mind that this studies in Italy

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140 YEARS OF BILATERAL RELATIONS

Conference: EXCHANGES & COMMON HISTORY An international conference organised by the Italian Cultural Institute and the Institute of Balkan Studies aims to shed light on the two countries' cultural relations and social development

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CULTURE & SOCIETY

YOUNG STUDENTS AT ITALIAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE

focus on the conditions and events that shaped our actual n the occasion of the 140th anniversary of the bilateral relations, as territories that have been in contact establishing of bilateral relations between Belsince ancient times, due to geographic proximity and grade and Rome, historians from Italy, Serbia, common roots, and which have developed a rich network and other countries will meet in Belgrade this of exchanges. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, May to discuss their most recent research on the subject individual and family ties, social and of bilateral relations. economic developments, ideological A long time has passed since Historians from Italy, Serbia struggles and cultural exchanges the first appointment of an Italian and other countries will meet have contributed to creating a strong representative to Belgrade in 1879, following the geopolitical results in Belgrade this May to discuss and rich fabric of deeply intertwined Tracing that evolution of 1878 Berlin Congress. With that their most recent research on the developments. and explaining its importance as part diplomatic history as the starting subject of bilateral relations of the common history of Europe point, the International Conference is an academic undertaking which jointly organised by the Italian Culyields results intended to benefit common projects tural Institute and the Institute of Balkan Studies aims and provide a solid basis for the further strengthening to shed light on the two countries’ cultural relations and of our cultural relations. social development. It will provide the right setting to 43

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CULTURE & SOCIETY

ITALIAN CUISINE

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OPENING EVENT OF THE III WEEK OF THE ITALIAN CUISINE IN THE WORLD IN SERBIA, 2018

Excellence In QUALITY & INNOVATION

The 4th edition of the Week of the Italian Cuisine in the World will be held in November 2019, and Serbia has been a special place for this event since its inception

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The Italian agri-food sector represents excellence he event “The Week of the Italian Cuisine in the World” that distinguishes itself in terms of quality, food safety, will take place for the 4th time in November 2019. cutting-edge technological innovation, sustainability and Last year’s Week saw more than a thousand events biodiversity. Italy is indeed a country characterised by organised in more than a hundred cities worldwide major territorial and climatic differences that are reflected by the network of Italian diplomatic and consular missions, in exceptionally varied and unique cultures, histories and with the aim of presenting Italy’s culinary tradition and the traditions. These characteristics have led to the formation Mediterranean diet that make Italy one of the world’s healthiest of a large number of very specialised countries. Serbia has been a special place SMEs, often family-owned, which have for this happening since the first edition.

The Italian agri-food sector found their place on the international In the cities of Belgrade, Novi Sad, represents excellence that market thanks to their products’ quality Niš and Subotica, presentations of Italian distinguishes itself in terms of and uniqueness. food and wine, workshops for students Among the winning factors of and meetings with famous Italian Chefs quality, food safety, cutting-edge the Italian agri-food industry are a have been organised by the Italian Emtechnological innovation, wide range of high quality products, bassy, in cooperation with the Italiansustainability and biodiversity certified products at the top of inSerbian Chamber of Commerce, the ternational markets, close links with Italian Foreign Trade Agency (ICE), the the territory and with Italian cultural heritage, high safety Association of Italian Industrialists in Serbia, “Confindustria standards, an ability to combine tradition and constant Serbia”, the Italian Cultural Institute, the Honorary Consulate progress and product innovation. The Italian agri-food of Italy in Subotica and Subotica’s Piazza Italia Culture Centre, sector was valued at 61 billion euros in 2017, with exports and with the support of Serbian and Italian companies. totalling 41 billion euros. The sector’s share of total ItalThe fair “Made in Italy in Serbia” has presented Italian ian GDP stood at 13.5%, while it is important to note that food and beverage manufacturers who are not yet present Italy is the number one country in terms of the number on the Serbian market, while lectures on food in the Italian of PDO/PGI/TSG agri-food products recognised by the literature and seminars on healthy and properly grown food European Union, with 295 of them recognised as of 31st have been presented by Italian experts, who shared their December 2017. knowledge and experience.

ITALY & SERBIA

TOURISM - WHERE TO GO?

Matera, European CAPITAL OF CULTURE For those wanting to discover something new this year, we suggest a visit to Matera, which – together with the Bulgarian city of Plovdiv – shares the title of 2019 European Capital of Culture, which Novi Sad will hold in 2021

CULTURE & SOCIETY

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cultural citizenship as catalysts of a new model for Europe, s a tourist destination, Italy offers an endless abunconnecting it to a very long human past. Matera’s two cave dance of possible places, activities and experiences. districts, Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso, have been More than 60 million foreign tourists visit the country used as human dwellings for thousands of years. Carved in annually, with projected numbers growing. Florence, the fossil-rich stone layers and built one on top of another, Venice, Rome and Milan are the top destinations. However, those prehistoric apartments are the first attraction to the country has so much to offer away from the beaten track. shock visitors. Now that the former cavemen’s cells have Southern Italy in particular is home to some rare jewels, making been elegantly transformed into hotels and restaurants, it an ideal destination for an enriching experience and relaxing they resemble a marvellous stone beehive. Past the Sassi, journeys. For those wanting to discover something new this walking through the labyrinthine pathways of the town, year, we suggest a visit to Matera, Basilicata’s ancient town, Matera reveals itself as a cultural journey through history which – together with the Bulgarian city of Plovdiv – shares and art. A baroque Palazzo here, Roman ruins there, seven the title of 2019 European Capital of Culture, which Novi Sad centuries old frescos in front of a medieval monastery will hold in 2021. in the back: a playground for culture Recognised by UNESCO as a World Matera as a cultural capital embedded in calcareous walls.

Heritage Site, Matera is famous for its Tired of walking and exploring the pale gold limestone and has been inoffers a profusion of events, cultural scene? Have a rest and try habited since the Neolithic period. The touching on nature and the freshly baked focaccia and local cheeses programme conceived for Matera as landscape, history and utopia, made with the Cardoncello mushroom, the capital of culture is simply brilliant. or try the classic orecchiette with fennel It offers a profusion of events over six art, science, and cultural sausage, served with local Aglianico wine. different themes, touching relationcitizenship as catalysts of a For more information visit: https:// ships with nature and the landscape, www.matera-basilicata2019.it/en/ history and utopia, art, science, and new model for Europe

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TOURISM

CULTURE & SOCIETY

Italy As A Favourite DESTINATION

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According to the Statistical Office of the Republic of Serbia, 36,977 Serbian tourists visited Italy in 2017.

Serbs' favourite destinations are Florence, Venice, Rome and Milan

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archives and libraries, 20,000 historical cities and towns, taly is one of the most popular holiday destinations for and 5,600 museums and archaeological sites.

Serbian tourists. According to the Statistical Office of SEA: with its 7,500 km of coastline, Italy is the ideal place the Republic of Serbia, 36,977 Serbian tourists visited for sea lovers. A wide variety of beaches makes it perfect Italy in 2017. Italy offers an endless abundance of posfor every type of tourist in search of nature and fun. sible places, activities and experiences. Indeed, the main INLAND ITALY: in all its territorial diversity, Italy boasts a attractions are mountains, sea and art heritage cities. The large number of beautiful and evocative mountain areas that richest artistic heritage in the world, the warmth of the can be visited at any time of the year. From north to south, Mediterranean, breathtaking landscapes, an extraordinary the Italian mountains offer tourists magnificent landscapes: variety of flavours and great events: this is Italy, a land of art high altitude lakes, incredible forests, enchanting villages and history. Italy has been a centre of history, culture and art rich in history, traditions and, of course, since antiquity. Numerous museums, collections and archaeological sites Alitalia and Air Serbia offer direct gastronomic pleasures.

FOOD: Italy has always been synreveal countless tokens of the past flights from Belgrade to Rome, onymous with “good food”, offering an and the many civilisations that have prospered in this country, evidence of Milan and Venice, but the relative unmistakable explosion of flavours, which is still inextricably woven into proximity prompts many tourists textures and aromas. Aside from having one of the world’s most famous cuisines, the present day landscape.

CULTURE: Italy has more cultural to chose other ways to reach their it also offers an immense variety of difUNESCO World Heritage Sites than favourite Italian destinations! ferent regional dishes and recipes, and great wines that ensure Italy is among any other country. The Italian art cities the world’s main wine exporters. are some of the most visited destinations in international The most common destinations for visitors from Sercultural tourism. Rome, Florence, Assisi, Venice, Siena, Pisa bia are Florence, Venice, Rome and Milan. Alitalia and Air and Naples are its most renowned cities of art, but the whole Serbia connect our two countries with direct flights from country can boast towns of breathtaking beauty. Italy has Belgrade to Rome, Milan and Venice, but it is so close that 95,000 monumental churches, 40,000 forts and castles, you can also take a drive!

30,000 historical residences with 4,000 gardens, 36,000

ITALY & SERBIA

ART

Apart from the exhibition 'The School of Bernini and the Roman Baroque', which will be presented at the National Museum in Belgrade on 7th March, the Italian Cultural Institute will offer other exhibitions of diversified genres throughout the year ALFREDO PIRRI - PASSI

which will be presented at the National Museum in Belgrade t is well known that the Italian Peninsula is home to much on 7th March, the Institute will offer other exhibitions of of the world’s great historic art and architecture, and that diversified genres throughout the year. In April, the Institute Italy was at the forefront of artistic development during the will host Artistic encounters-dialogic in visual, where Italy’s Renaissance and the flourishing of the Baroque style, but Anita Cerpelloni and Serbia’s Gordana Kaljalović will present also that modern art thrived in the country. At the beginning their interpretation of the book. In May, to celebrate the of the 20th century, Italian artistic movements flourished Italian Film Festival, Alfredo Pirri will inaugurate his Serbian amid the European artistic scene, like Futurism, led by the version of the surprising installation Passi at the Yugoslav poet Filippo Marinetti and painters Umberto Boccioni and Film Archives Cinematheque, after having presented it at Giacomo Balla, followed by the metaphysical paintings many major venues throughout Italy, a of Giorgio de Chirico and then many other movements that characterised “Inspired by Italy”, an exhibition work consisting of large pieces of mirrored flooring meant to be broken by the the artistic life of the last century, like presenting artworks from the walking visitors, to represent ‘steps’ in Novecento Italiano, surrealism, classical modernism of the 20th century, collection of the Gallery of Matica constant dialogue with the surrounding Arte Povera, Transavantgarde, to name Srpska in Novi Sad, will feature architecture. In October the Institute will host a tribute to Luigi Di Sarro, an artist just a few. The country’s contemporary art scene is also vibrant and features works of 18th- and 19th-century who was active in Italy in the 1960s and exhibitions and permanent collections artists who were inspired by Italy ‘70s, known for his strong experimental vocation in a period that is recognised housed in architecturally avant garde today as fundamental to the innovative challenges brought spaces. Venice led the way by hosting one of the most importo contemporary art. Finally, in November, the Institute will tant contemporary art events in the world every other year, host Inspired by Italy, an exhibition presenting artworks from the Art Biennale, and other cities have developed their own the collection of the Gallery of Matica Srpska in Novi Sad, contemporary art scenes, like Rome for example, with its two featuring works of 18th- and 19th-century artists who were dedicated museums, MAXXI and MACRO. inspired by Italy in various ways.

Apart from The School of Bernini and the Roman Baroque,

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Italian VISUAL ARTS IN 2019

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CINEMA

EVENTS

The huge and fascinating heritage of Italian filmmaking is to be promoted in Serbia through the Italian Film Festival, to be held in May 2019, in cooperation with the Yugoslav Film Archives Cinematheque

The Art Of Making ITALIAN MOVIES

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Rosi, Petri and Pontecorvo, while popular comedy and genre talian cinematography relates to history and society in so films flourished in many directions. Artists like Tornatore, many ways that it has become part of the country’s modern Salvatores and Moretti came later to bring stories to the cultural heritage. Cinema has helped shape the country’s screen that questioned the consensual way of narrating modern image abroad in a very rich and diverse way. The emotions and defining identities. blossoming of Italian cinema after World War II captivated Nowadays it is Sorrentino, Garrone, audiences worldwide. Dissolving the Guadagnino and Virzi who are leadboundaries between documentary and A selection of new films will be ing the recent wave of Italian cinema fiction, films created by Rossellini, De presented, while contemporary towards new shores.

Sica, Germi and De Santis aimed to Italian filmmakers will come This is the huge and fascinating present the essential humanity of the heritage that will be promoted in Serbia Italian people. to Serbia to help us better through May 2019’s Italian Film Festival, Following Neorealism, the likes of Visconti, Fellini, Antonioni, Bertolucci understand the magic of making organised in cooperation with the Yuand many others developed a new lanmovies with the Italian touch goslav Film Archives Cinematheque. A selection of new films will be presented, guage through which artistic awareness while contemporary Italian filmmakers will come to Serbia could speak to an increasingly affluent and existentially to help us better understand the magic of making movies distressed modern audience. with the Italian touch.

Socio-political themes were the focus of the films of

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PERFORMING ARTS COLLABORATION

Italian Cultural Season WORTH REMEMBERING

EVENTS

MAURO MAUR, TRUMPET AND FRAN+ŽOISE DE CLOSSEY, PIANO

Excellent Italian musicians and artists will bring the magic of chamber music, opera, jazz, pop and contemporary dance to Serbia

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year to perform several shows. Musician exchanges and opera usic will provide a special contribution to this co-productions that are in the making are aimed at fostering year’s celebrations of the double bilateral annithe development of new audiences. To this end, the Italian versary in many forms. Music is an integral part Cultural Institute supports the presence of Italian artists in of national life and identity, and there’s no need the staging of operas at the national theatres in both Belgrade for us to refer to musical history and the influence of Italian and Novi Sad. musicians on its development. Such a rich Italian jazz musicians will also form heritage encourages shared projects and The Italian Cultural Institute part of the Serbian Jazz Festival circuit. bilateral cooperation, which represent the very basis of our 2019 programme, supports the presence of Italian Pop star Eros Ramazzotti will come along with promotions of the diversity artists in the staging of operas to Belgrade in September to perform the joy of his fans, while dance and of Italy’s musical civilisation. at the national theatres in both for theatre shows will complete the season There will be concerts dedicated Belgrade and Novi Sad of Italian culture. The Italian contempoto 20th century avant-garde music, like rary dance scene will be represented in those of Alessandra Celletti or trumpet the splendid Belgrade Dance Festival, masterfully directed virtuoso Mauro Maur, a dedicated interpreter of Morricone’s

by Aja Jung, by Rome-based dance company “Spellbound”, music. A number of interesting projects related to opera will with a show dedicated to the life of 19th century composer also be brought to a greater degree of development. Maestro Gioachino Rossini. Other surprises related to performing Veronesi, the conductor and main driver of the present revival arts from Italy will be revealed in the second half of the year. of Puccini’s art around the world, is coming to Belgrade this 49

ITALY & SERBIA

GIRO D’ITALIA: 11TH MAY - 2ND JUNE 2019

“Giro D’ITALIA” Milan, 1908. Sports daily La Gazzetta dello Sport is in dire financial straits. The boss is looking for ideas, and quick. Enter one Armando Cougnet, who, in 1898, aged 18, had cycled from Reggio Emilia to Milan to take up a position with the pink-papered publication

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rmando had twice followed the Tour de France in his role and witnessed how effective a marketing tool it had proved to be for the Parisian newspaper L’Auto. La Gazzetta’s competition, Il Corriere della Sera, had, along with Bianchi bicycles and the Italian Touring Club, already been mooting a similar venture to L’Auto.

With Milano-San Remo and the Giro di Lombardia already furnishing its bike race patronage stable, la Gazzetta made sure it struck first and announced the inaugural Giro d’Italia would be held in May – to avoid a clash with the French race - of 1909. It would be another 22 years, however, until the race leader’s iconic ‘Maglia Rosa’ [Pink Jersey] would make an appearance, coloured to match the newspaper’s printed sheets, just as the Tour de France’s ‘Maillot Jaune’ had taken its hue from the yellow pages of L’Auto.

ITALY & SERBIA

And so it was that 127 adventurers, labourers, racers and chancers took to the start-line in Milan for the 8-stage, 2448km race on 13th May 1909; the first stage alone covered nigh on 400km – but was followed by two rest days. 18 days later, with the usual de rigueur cycle-race shenanigans and chaos of the time (not least surreptitious train journeys for the tired-limbed yet creative-minded, an in-race chicken leg snack putting paid to one poor chap’s chances), 49 exhausted souls, only five of whom were non-Italians, returned to Milan in the wake of Luigi Ganna, the Giro d’Italia’s first winner. Ganna’s victory was sealed by the then-used points system, rather than by time, a system which, if it had been used, would have seen him finish third. A bricklayer by trade, Ganna was asked by Cougnet how he felt in his great moment of triumph: “My arse is killing me!” exclaimed the brutish, newly-crowned Campione.

Italy had fallen hopelessly in love with both the bicycle and the race that drew the fledgling nation together - at least in a sporting and geographic manner, while socially and politically there was still much work to be done The 2019 Giro d’Italia route has been unveiled in Milan, with the 102nd edition of the Corsa Rosa offering a finely balanced but testing route that includes three individual time trials and five mountain finishes. The winner of the maglia rosa will be crowned in the Verona amphitheatre after a decisive 15.6km time trial.

After the Israel Grand Partenza of 2018, the 2019 Giro d’Italia will stay in Italy, apart from a brief visit to the enclave republic of San Marino for the uphill finish of the stage 9 time trial. The 21 stages cover a total distance of 3,518km, with the start in Bologna, on Saturday 11th May, and the finish in Verona, on Sunday 2nd June.

The route includes legendary climbs such as the Passo Gavia, the Passo del Mortirolo and the Passo Manghen, and other lesser-known climbs that are equally as tough. Stage 13 ends with the stunning Colle del Nivolet up to Lake Serru’, while stage 14 is short, at just 131km, with four steep climbs, including the Colle San Carlo – a twisting 10.5km climb at 9.8 per cent. Stage 15 to Como is a replica of the Il Lombardia finale with the Ghisallo Colma di Sormano and Civiglio.

The final week offers just one chance for the few sprinters that are expected to be left in the race, with the final mountain stages to Ponte di Legno – which includes the Passo del Mortirolo just 27km from the finish – Anterselva, San Martino di Castrozza in the shadow of the Dolomites and then the Croce d’Aune, the day before the conclusive Verona time trial.

Defending champion Chris Froome (Team Sky) was at the presentation in Milan, where the audience watched a video highlighting his incredible attack over the dirt road Colle delle Finestre and 80km solo ride to Jafferau above Bardonecchia.

Froome was diplomatically coy about returning to defend the Maglia Rosa in 2019, as he eyes a fifth Tour de France victory. Team Sky is expected to send Egan Bernal and Gianni Moscon to the Giro d’Italia, with Geraint Thomas reportedly contemplating a possible Giro-Tour double.

This year could see Vincenzo Nibali as the biggest name on the final start list, along with Fabio Aru (UAE Team Emirates), Simon Yates (Mitchelton-Scott) and Bernal, as Nibali’s expected rivals. The route arguably suits former winner Tom Dumoulin, but he and Team Sunweb seem focused on the Tour de France after his second place finish last year.

2019 GIRO D’ITALIA OFFICIAL ROUTE MAP Race organisers, RCS Sport, have already announced the Grande Partenza in Bologna, the Stage 9 time trial to San Marino and a sprint stage to Modena, as part of an agreement with the central Emilia Romagna region.

Vegni filled in the dots on the map of Italy, confirming the trip into Tuscany and then south via Lazio with Stage 6 to San Giovanni Rotondo, the southernmost point on the calf of the Italian peninsula.

Bologna has been the site of the Grande Partenza on one previous occasion, in 1994, when Endrio Leoni won the morning road stage, before the late Armand De Las Cuevas took possession of the Maglia Rosa in the afternoon time trial. Next year’s opening 8.2-km time trial will immediately test the overall contenders with the climb up to the Santuario della Madonna di San Luca ending with 2km at a 9.7% gradient.

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THE ROUTE OF GIRO D'ITALIA 2019

CHRIS FROOME BECAME THE FIRST BRIT TO WIN THE GIRO D'ITALIA

THE PELOTON ROLLS OUT FOR THE 21ST STAGE OF THE GIRO IN ROME

to Piemonte in Novi Ligure – the birthplace of Italian cycling Stage 2 hops over the Apennines to Fucecchio, with legends Costante Girardengo and Fausto Coppi. stage 3 starting in Vinci, to celebrate the 500th anniversary The real mountains begin in Stage 13, with the 2,247-metreof the death of Leonardo da Vinci. The sprinters get their high finish on the testing roads of the Colle del Nivolet to Lake chances in Orbitello, Frascati and Terracina, on the way Serrù, close to the spectacular Gran south, with three subsequent stages Paradiso. The Colle del Nivolet has rarely to San Giovanni Rotondo, L’Aquila - 10 years after a terrible earthquake hit Italy had fallen hopelessly in love been used in races, but is famous for the the Abruzzo city, and Pesaro on the with both the bicycle and the race final scenes of the movie The Italian Job. Stage 13, from Saint Vincent to Adriatico coast, which is more suited that drew the fledgling nation Courmayeur, is short, at 131km, but is to late attacks and the likes of Peter together - in a sporting and intense, with four steep climbs and Sagan, due to a hilly finale. a final kick to the foot of the Monte The 34.7-km time trial to San Marino geographic manner at least; Skyway. It could be the toughest starts on the coast in Riccione and is socially and politically there was Bianco stage of the 2019 Giro d’Italia, with early the ‘wine stage’ of the 2019 Giro d’Italia, still much work to be done gradients in the double digits on the celebrating the area’s red Sangiovese Colle San Carlo likely to inspire attacks. wines. The road is flat and fast for the Nibali will be happy to see stage 15 cover the same climbs first 22km to Faetano, but then climbs up to San Marino. It will as Il Lombardia, with the descent of the Civiglio likely to be be interesting to see if riders opt to change bikes mid-stage. as important as the climb.

The riders will enjoy the first rest day between San MaThe riders will enjoy the second rest day near Bergamo, rino, with two pan-flat stages, and Modena, and then across 52

ITALY & SERBIA

CYCLING IN ITALY IS NOT JUST A SEPARATE SPORT, BUT PART OF ITS CULTURE

to the Passo Croce d’Aune - covering 193km in a long loop. before climbing high into the Eastern Alps via the legendary It starts with the little-known Cima Campo, which leads to Passo di Gavia, where Andy Hampsten gained time on his rivals the 18.9km Passo Manghen. The Fiemme Valley leads to the in the snow to win the 1988 Giro d’Italia, and the Mortirolo, Passo Rolle and a long descent takes riders to the foot of the where Marco Pantani often showed his style of attacking 13.5km climb up to above Croce d’Aune. out of the saddle to conquer the 12 per cent middle section.

Whoever wears the Maglia Rosa there will then have to At 226km, the stage has rightly been given five stars by RCS defend on the final stage’s 15.6km time Sport, with the Passo Gavia, at 2,618m/ trial around Verona. The stage is far from asl, awarding the Cima Coppi prize for The winner of the 2019 Giro flat, with the Toricelle climb limiting the the highest climb of the race.

The final stages stay in the moun- d’Italia will be crowned inside the time gains of the better time triallists.

The winner of the 2019 Giro d’Italia tains of northern Italy, with Stage 17 Roman amphitheatre, just as in will be crowned inside the Roman amphicrossing the Val di Sole apple orchards 1981, when Giovanni Battaglin theatre, just as in 1981, when Giovanni to Anterselva. Only Stage 18, to Santa defended the maglia rosa Battaglin defended the Maglia Rosa, in Maria di Sala near Venice, suits the 1986, when Francesco Moser used disc sprinters and breakaway attempts, with wheels and his Hour Record preparation to snatch victory Stage 19 heading back into the mountains for a fast climb to from Laurent Fignon, and in 2010, when Ivan Basso won his San Martina di Castrozza, south of the spectacular Dolomites. second Giro d’Italia.

Source: Cycling Stage 20 brings the final mountain stage - from Feltre

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ITALY & SERBIA

ITALIAN CONTEMPORARY STREET ART

MARCO BURRESI, ZED1

Internationally Renowned ITALIAN STREET ARTISTS From Roman times to the present day, Italy has played a large role in the international art market. The Biennale dell’Arte di Venezia, or the Venice Biennale, was the first international art exhibition to promote Contemporary Art. Founded in 1895, the fair takes place every two years

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ITALY & SERBIA

LORIS CECCHINI, INEFFABLE GARDENER

ROBERTO CUOGHI, IMITATION OF CHRIST

generations of artists since ancient times. Famous Italian artists working today retain this iconic skill and innate artistic passion, while utilizing their medium in innovative and unique ways. Additionally, the country has become the home of a thriving group of street artists who have managed to bring their country’s street art scene up to the level of those found in America, Great Britain, and France. Today they are internationally renowned for their work and are painting and exhibiting it all around the world.

VESOD,THREE-DIMESIONAL MURAL

ZED1 - SURREAL AND DETAILED Marco Burresi Zed1 has been active on the Urban Art scene for more than two decades. Widely recognized for his surreal murals of awkwardly looking plump-face figures and mesmerizing bizarre imagery, Zed1 creates artwork which very often conveys humorous and dark messages of social and political commentary. Apart from being strong evidence of his wondrous drawing skills, Buressi’s captivating art, found on walls and canvases all around the world, show artist’s masterful choice of colors.

n addition to the Biennale, various other institutions and foundations focused on Contemporary Art have emerged in Italy over the past few years. From national or regional museums to private collections of famous and well–known personalities, Italy is renewing its image, and focusing more on Contemporary Art. A country with such incredibly rich art history, Italy has boasted prominent names that have influenced

LORIS CECCHINI - A POETIC ARTIST Combining photography, drawing, sculpture, and installation, Loris Cecchini forms a unified poetics, the cardinal element of which is transfiguration. All these different elements in his work interrelate in a constant process of deconstruction and reconstruction. Having a curious nature and intrigued by the correlation between art and life, he explores the results of many different styles and sciences.

I

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ITALY & SERBIA

TEO PIRISI, ALSO KNOWN AS MONEYLESS- FOUNDATION OF NATURE

Dovilio Brero. Born in Turin in 1981, he started developing his interest in the graffiti since the early 1990’s.

Over the years, while pursuing academic education, he developed a personal visual language which drew inspiration from both Renaissance and Futurism. Using nothing more than cans of spray-paint, Vesod produces intense and masterful images of high contrast and staggered motion, which blur the borders between fine and street art.

GIANLUCA TRAINA, PORTRAIT 360

ROBERTO CUOGHI - EXPLORING THE MATAMORPHOSIS Working with video, sculpture, installation, painting and drawing, Roberto Cuoghi explores the diversity of form and appearance. His practice constantly engages the concept of metamorphosis and change of identities.

One of his early works involved his body going through a metamorphic process to become his own father, pushing the physical capacities to the maximum.

VESOD - GEOMETRIC FIGURATIVE WORK The artistic attitude of Vesod has been greatly influenced by his father, the Italian surrealist painter 56

MONEYLESS - GEOMETRY AS THE FOUNDATION OF NATURE Teo Pirisi, also known as Moneyless, got involved in the street art movement during the 1990s as a member of the Tuscany graffiti scene. During his studies at the “Accademia delle Belle Arti” of Carrara he developed his unique signature geometric style which seems to quote a Platonic vision of geometry as the foundation of all nature. Coming from the graffiti background, Moneyless experimented with the letter forms, gradually simplifying them to basic lines and geometrical patterns.

FILIPPO MINELLI - EXPLORING THE AESTHETICS OF PROTEST Filippo Minelli was initially engaged in street art, developing his own unique style based on the aesthetics of protest. He brought politics to a new level bay decontextualizing the use of tear gas, reversing the

ITALY & SERBIA

FILIPPO MINELLI, NOTHING TO SAY

BLU, MURAL ON FASADE OD LISBON

AGOSTINO LACURCI, MURAL IN ATLANTA, US

function of flags, and borrowing from the aesthetics of protest slogans. In 2007, Minelli started his ongoing project entitled Contradictions, a land art project where he wrote the names of social networks and corporations on the walls of slums in developing countries pointing out the gap between the reality we live in and the ephemeral world of technologies. Beginning in 2009, his ongoing photographic series Silence/Shapes portrays smoke bombs in romantic landscapes, juxtaposing the beauty of nature with the violence and chaos in political demonstrations.

hovering sculptures of vertiginous and shiny shapes that seem to twist and wind in front of the wall.

PEETA - SPECTACULAR THREE-DIMENSIONAL GRAFFITI Manuel Di Rita (Peeta) is an Italian graffiti artist, painter and sculptor who is internationally famed for his mind-boggling three-dimensional graffiti which appear to be flowing above the painted surface. Member of several renowned international graffiti crews (FX, RWK and EAD), a true master of shading techniques through the use of gentle gradients of color, Peeta creates spectacular artworks which give the illusion that light is hitting them from different sides at the same time. Using careful perspective, his perfectly shaped, spraypainted graffiti of formidable visual depth appear as sensational

GIANLUCA TRAINA - FUSING ART, FASHION AND DESIGN An Italian contemporary artist and designer, Gianluca Traina is best known for his projects PORTRAIT 360.

Mostly concentrated on sculpture and painting, he employs different media and materials such as paper and PVC. Fusing art, fashion and design, his works strives towards the connection between the artistic object and the viewer. His famous project PORTRAIT 360 is a series of portraits where he incorporated two-dimensional images with three-dimensional elements.

STEN AND LEX - PIONEERS OF URBAN STENCIL ART Sten & Lex is an Italian street art duo, internationally acclaimed for their stencils they have been doing together since 2000. Sten (Rome, 1982) and Lex (Taranto, 1982) are considered to be pioneers of urban stencils in their country, who utilize unique halftone stencil technique combining collage, stencil and optical illusion, style they have developed to perfection. Today they produce gigantic portraits of mainly anonymous people, made from their own photographs and consisting of thousands upon thousands paper strips.

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ITALY & SERBIA

MANUEL DI RITA, THREE DEMENTIONAL GRAFFITI

STEN&LEX, MURAL

BLU - ANONYMOUS GENIUS Blu is an extraordinary muralist from Bologna who has been involved in the Italian street art scene since the late 1990s. All this time he has been very successful in concealing his true identity, which is pretty fascinating given the sheer size of his easily recognizable public artworks. His most famous artwork is a seven-minute silent animated mural called Muto which is composed of hundreds of wall paintings.

AGOSTINO IACURCI - BOLDLY COLORED MURALS Agostino Iacurci is remarkably prolific Italian street artist, recognized for his monumental, multi-layered and brightly colored murals of synthetic forms and flat shapes. Always considering the architecture and context of the environment he works in, Iacurci creates seemingly simple and very accessible artworks. His signature narrative-like style paintings can be found on walls both 58

PIXEL PANCHO

small and large all around the world, including some of the more exotic locations such as the skyscraper in Taiwan, school in Western Sahara and inside the maximum security prison near Rome.

PIXEL PANCHO - LARGE-SCALE FANTASY WORLD Pixel Pancho is a highly talented street artist from Turin and one of the most outstanding protagonists of the Italian urban art scene, who specializes in large-scale murals. He is considered to be one of the most prominent creatives in his field. This graduate of fine art studies has been creating original street art work, reminiscent of Michelangelo’s classic compositions, since 2001, steadily gaining a large following. Pixel Pancho uses a wide variety of mediums to create mesmerizing paintings of a 1950’s futuristic fantasy world.

Source: Widewals

GUIDE TO

PRIVATE & STATE EDUCATION 2019

TIBOR NAVRACSICS, European Commissioner for Education, Culture, Youth and Sport ● MLADEN ŠARČEVIĆ, Serbian Minister of Education, Science & Technological Development ● IVANKA POPOVIĆ PH.D., Rector of the University of Belgrade ● SANDRA DAKULOVIĆ, HR Manager at Messer Tehnogas AD ● RADIVOJE MITROVIĆ PH.D., Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering in Belgrade ● DRAGAN ALEKSENDRIĆ PH.D., D.Engr, University of Belgrade Faculty of Mechanical Engineering ● MILOVAN STANIŠIĆ PH.D., President of Singidunum University ● PROF MIODRAG JEVTIĆ, DSc(Med), Rector of Megatrend University ● DR VESELIN VUKOTIĆ PH.D., Rector of the University of Donja Gorica ● CHRISTOS ALEXOPOULOS PH.D., Director of the College of Applied Health Sciences, Ćuprija ● BRATISLAV FILIPOVIĆ, Founder of Academy Filipović ● KRISTINE GREENLAW, Upper School Principal of the International School of Belgrade ● STEFAN WIEDENHOFER, Director of the German School Belgrade ● CHRISTOPH CZETTL, Chairman of the Board of the German School Belgrade ● GORDANA KNEŽEVIĆ ORLIĆ, Managing Director of Klett Publishing House Ltd. ● JELENA JAKOVLJEVIĆ, Managing Director of Ernst Klett Präsenzlernen Osteuropa Gmbh – Belgrade Branch ● TATJANA RACKOV SINADINOVIĆ, Manager and Owner of Happy Kids Preschool ● MARIJA ŽIVKOVIĆ, Editor of Bigz Školstvo

INTERVIEW TIBOR NAVRACSICS EUROPEAN COMMISSIONER FOR EDUCATION, CULTURE, YOUTH AND SPORT

We Support Serbian Reforms

I If Serbia wants to secure its transition to a knowledge-based economy and catch up with Europe, improving the productivity and well-being of its citizens, the country must invest, among other things, in education. Ensuring a systematic approach to teachers' education, as well as developing and maintaining the current positive trend of enrolment in early childhood education and care, represent steps in that direction

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f Serbia sometimes doubts interest in the accession process of the countries of the Western Balkans within the European Union, Serbia needs to turn to the number of benefits it gets from the EU's education programmes, in which it participates. Tibor Navracsics, European Commissioner for Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, expects that – following the adoption of the EU-Western Balkans Strategy and the Sofia Summit of 2018 – learning and mobility opportunities for Serbia and the rest of the region within the Erasmus+ programme will rise exponentially in the coming years.

It was in this optimistic tone that we commenced this interview with Mr Navracsics, with yet another good news item.

signed on 5th February, will create more room for direct contacts between people, helping to build mutual understanding between Serbia and the EU. It also means that Serbian organisations can now reach out to partners beyond Europe in ways that were not previously possible.

In our increasingly knowledge-based economies, education seems to be one of the key pillars of growth, enhanced productivity and the wellbeing of citizens. In which areas of education should Serbia invest the most?

- Three aspects of reform seem to be particularly important for Serbia: ensuring a systematic approach to teacher education and development, maintaining the current positive trend of enrolThe EU will support Serbia has just become ment in early childhood Serbia with an a full member of the education and care, and additional 28 million Erasmus+ programme. consolidating the wide euros to be used for How we should take adrange of existing quality assurance mechanisms. vantage of this? the improvement of Serbia adopted a - This is indeed wonderful teacher education, forward-looking educanews – and a step-change the development in the way people and ortion strategy in 2015 that of a modernised will run until 2020.

The EU ganisations from Serbia qualifications system decided last year to supcan benefit from the and the education of opportunities offered port these reforms: this minorities

by Erasmus+. Now that means an additional 28 Serbia is a Programme million euros will be availCountry, its young people, academic personnel able to be invested in Serbia's education system, and educational institutions can get involved in in order to improve teacher education, develop a a much wider range of activities. Besides higher modernised qualifications system and support education and activities related to non-formal the education of minorities, including Roma. and informal education, such as volunteering and capacity building for youth organisations, the To what extent has Serbia already been taking other parts of Erasmus+ are now also fully open advantage of the opportunities offered by the to participants from Serbia: sport, vocational Erasmus+ programme? education and training, as well as school and adult - Serbia has been participating in Erasmus+ since education projects. This is how the agreement, 2014, as what we call a Partner Country. This has

INTERVIEW

SUPPORT

Following the adoption of the EU-Western Balkans Strategy and the Sofia Summit of 2018, learning and mobility opportunities for Serbia are expected to rise exponentially

enabled Serbian organisations to gain broad experience in participating in the programme, together with their partners in the Western Balkans. To date, almost 7,000 Serbian students and academic personnel have studied and worked abroad, while around 4,300 Europeans have come to Serbia.

Following the adoption of the EU-Western Balkans Strategy and the Sofia Summit of 2018, learning and mobility opportunities for Serbia and the rest of the region within the programme are expected to rise exponentially in the coming years.

Do the financial means that a country has available and its investment in education have an impact on how successfully it can participate in Erasmus+?

- The vast majority of Erasmus+ funds are distributed through national agencies in Programme Countries. This ensures that countries have access to funding regardless of their overall financial means or the national priority given to education.

Furthermore, Erasmus+ can benefit all participating countries and individuals, regardless of the level of sophistication of their education systems. Indeed, participation in learning exchanges abroad, in strategic cooperation projects, and in policy cooperation, can help education institutions and authorities to learn from their peers and build their own capacities.

What kind of knowledge and skills do we need if we want to face the economic challenges that come with successful digitalisation?

- Digital transformation has an impact not only on labour markets and society, but also on education itself. All students, regardless of their age, need to be equipped with the right skills to use digital technologies in creative, critical and responsible ways. In the future, 90 per cent of jobs will require digital skills, from basic to advanced, and these skills will need to be updated continuously.

GOAL

We want to make the future Erasmus programme (20212027) even bigger, better and more inclusive

EXCHANGE

Within Erasmus+, almost 7,000 Serbian students and academic personnel have studied and worked abroad since 2014, while around 4,300 Europeans have come to Serbia

Schools and higher education institutions have a crucial role to play. However – given the pace and nature of digital change – I also see this as being about lifelong learning. Last year I presented an action plan on digital education to support EU countries in boosting digital skills and helping schools and universities make the most of new technologies in teaching and learning. We are supporting this with, for instance, SELFIE. This is

from one another. We work together very closely and I'm proud of what we've achieved over the past few years – particularly in terms of laying the foundations of the European Education Area that we want to build by 2025. This involves the mutual recognition of degrees, as well as budding initiatives such as European Universities. A lot of cooperation at the EU level is guided by our Strategic Cooperation Framework in Education

a free online tool that we've developed to support schools in making good use of technology and working on how they teach digital skills. Serbia was one of the 14 pilot countries that tested SELFIE, and I am pleased to see that there is continued interest in using this tool in Serbia.

and Training (ET2020), which provides room for member states to share their experiences and work jointly towards agreed objectives. We are currently looking into how to continue this cooperation in the future.

Given that each EU country is responsible for its own education system, how complex is it for the EU to create policies that will enable Europe to continue competing with the world's most advanced regions?

- The role of the European Union is to support reforms in member states. We contribute to the development of high-quality education by encouraging member states to work together and learn

Having said that, the results of the PISA test for EU countries are lagging behind somewhat.

Which policies are available to achieve the target of less than 15% low-achievers by 2020? Do member states care as much as they should?

- This is indeed a serious issue – basic skills are the foundation of all other learning and are critical for people not only securing work, but in them becoming engaged, confident citizens. EU member states have committed to improve on EDUCATION

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INTERVIEW

Taking part in Erasmus+ gives people of all ages a chance to experience what being European actually feels like, to make new friends from different countries and cultures, and to discover that there is more that unites us than divides us. The programme and its predecessors have so far allowed millions of – mainly young – people to have their first independent experiences abroad; to learn about other peoples and cultures; to boost their language skills; and to see for themselves that peers in other countries share many of the same hopes and aspirations.

This is why we want to make the future Erasmus programme (2021-2027) even bigger, better and more inclusive.

the worrying results. Last May they adopted a Council Recommendation on Key Competences for Lifelong Learning, aimed in particular at improving basic skills. Member states want to reach the target and are exerting great efforts to reach this goal. Our flagship publication on education, the Education and Training Monitor, reports on their progress every year. And there are many different ways in which they are tackling the issue: including creating the conditions for the early detection of underachievement, raising the quality of teaching and integrating the teaching of basic skills into other subjects.

Teachers seem to be the most important factor for the success of pupils. However, we have seen a strong erosion of funds allocated to education, which has led to a declining number of teachers and reductions in their earnings. Ten years after the financial crisis of 2008, how much damage have these cuts done to the sector?

- Education expenditure in Europe is recovering, following several years of budget cuts. Most EU member states recently increased their basic salaries for teachers. However, serious challenges – such as teacher shortages and a decline in the profession’s prestige – persist.Too often, teaching loses out to other professions in the competition for the best candidates, as teachers often earn significantly less than the average tertiary-educated workers. And too many teachers abandon the profession after only a few years, as they find 4

EDUCATION

Let's not forget that sport is an equally important part of the Erasmus+ programme.

How can we live healthier lives and who has to take responsibility for bringing sport closer to the school environment every child? too challenging.

- Research shows that beSerbia was one of Our education sysing active makes children the 14 pilot countries healthier and helps them tems must react urgently that tested SELFIE, achieve better results in in order to reverse these a free online tool the classroom. Team trends, and to make bewe've developed to sports also enable them coming a teacher and support schools in to learn important skills remaining in that career making good use and understand values attractive. At the Eurolike team spirit. Access pean level, we have been of technology, and to sporting facilities and working together with I'm pleased to see information about healthy member states to identify that there is ongoing lifestyles is often lacking, and share good practise interest in using this so schools are a great enon issues pertaining to tool in Serbia the training and support vironment to encourage of our future teachers, children to take up physiincluding selection and recruitment, competence cal activities and learn about healthy living. But development, practical school experience and many other players also have an important role teacher educators. to play, from sports clubs and coaches, to youth organisations and governments.

Erasmus+ is not just one of the most successWe support EU member states and civil society in reaching out to children in different ful EU projects in terms of promoting learning, ways. For instance, the European School Sport but is also credited as a programme which, by Day takes place during the annual European Week helping young people forge friendships with of Sport. Last year saw almost 2.5 million children others coming from different countries, builds around Europe take part. Moreover, since 2014, a real European identity. How important is this the Erasmus+ programme has supported fifteen at a time when the the Union is facing major projects targeting schools and helping them, challenges? for instance, to develop innovative curricula for - Indeed, the Union and its member states face a physical education. I can only encourage everyone variety of challenges that pose a serious threat, to take on the challenge and work together to including xenophobia, divisive nationalism and bring sport into the life of every child. the spreading of disinformation.

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BUSINESS MLADEN ŠARČEVIĆ SERBIAN MINISTER OF EDUCATION, SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT

We Are Aiming High

Our aim is to advance with the reform cycles we're conducting to raise the level of Serbian students and education to the level of high ranking countries.

With that we are sending a signal that Serbia is a good place for investment, because it has good human capital and educational potential

S

erbia ranks 27th of 157 countries when it comes to the Human Capital Index, wich has been developed by the World Bank.

Human capital – the knowledge, skills and health that people accumulate throughout their lives – is a key factor in stimulating sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

From the ministry's perspective, how do you interpret this index and the key place for intervention within your department?

- The index looks at human capital in its early stage, or its prospects. The fact that we're ranked 27th in the world is the result of TIMSS testing (Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study –

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Higher Education is also being finalised, in which TIMSS), which covers children up to the age of 11. we are striving to regulate the economy's interest That index is a good indicator and shows that in the most highly-sought professional profiles we start education reform from the earliest age, not through the direct education of candidates for just from the first stage of primary school, rather such positions. we're start from the previous stage. Specifically, When it comes to the digital transformation new preschool plans and curricula encompass a process, Serbia is a leader in broader scales, child from the age of three. We have created a because 18 months ago it introduced compulsory unique curriculum that enables children to express computer programming for children from the age their creativity, knowledge, interests and abilities of 11 and a programme for those gifted in IT and during their time in nursery school. It has been computer studies in high schools. This is a very declared the best such programme in Europe difficult and demanding programme that 1,300 and has a symbolic name: “Years of Ascending”. students already managed to enrol in during the The reform cycles that we're conducting course of the last school year throughout Serbia. encompass all ages of primary and secondary We constantly increase the quotas of those schools, while we pay particular attention to the colleges that provide an education in IT, while quality of teaching. Our goal is to have an outcome exports of software and the number of companies model, i.e. one that prepares children to apply the formed in this area increase by more than 20 per knowledge they've acquired. cent each year. Serbia is a serious leader when it This will raise Serbian school pupils and comes to this process. education to the level of highly ranked countries.

It is also a fact that the whole of education is With this we send a signal that Serbia is a good being digitalised through place to invest, because the introduction of digiit has good human capital Full membership in the and educational potential. tal classrooms (2,000 Erasmus+ programme classrooms have been When it come to the eduequipped, with additional has opened the 8,000 planned), through cation sector, how does doors of the EU's constant training for all Serbia respond to the largest educational levels of digital literacy, desired transition of the programme and a fund both for children and adult Serbian economy from a of 14.7 billion euros to workers, and through the work-intensive to a knowltransferring of the comedge-based economy and Serbia digital transformation? plete school administra- The Ministry of Education to digital form. The plan is for all school populations to be covered by tion, Science and Technological Development is an electronic diary in the next two years. focused on constantly improving the education system, while the transition of the economy is In this context Serbia, what should be introduced conducted in several ways. One of them is by to Serbia by the current reform of vocational introducing dual models and profiles to the system schools and high schools? of secondary school education.

- The reform of vocational schools, or studies, Some 32 profiles have so far been introduced. should bring a more rational network and a higher We cooperate with more than 600 companies and quality form of management, better control of more than 4,500 pupils have been included in this money and higher quality teachers, a more equiprocess in the first year.

We also include professional profiles that tably balanced distribution of the school network, are in short supply. The Law on Dual Education in better connectivity with the economy and external

BUSINESS SANDRA DAKULOVIĆ HR MANAGER AT MESSER TEHNOGAS AD evaluations of the results of work through cooperation with the university.

The reform of gymnasium high schools should increase the number of students who will advance from high school profiles to higher education studies, which will end with the leaving exams process. Reform will also, apart from IT directions, bring many optional programmes.

We Believe In Excellence

What kinds of changes are being introduced to the curriculum and funding method of the Academy of Vocational Studies?

- Important changes are brought in terms of leadership, as we now have emerging the roles of manager and academy president. In this way, the director of a vocational school is no longer the last link in the decisionmaking chain. With this, we are preventing that which has to date created many major problems, or rather we're preventing the mindless spending of state money and unjustified rises in student tuition fees.

Academies will concern themselves more with the needs of the market, because they will have to function in accordance with the new Law on the Financing of Higher Education.

We are pleased to be part of this project and support students in becoming confident and successful professionals and gaining the applicable knowledge from the experts of Messer Tehnogas

We've been struggling for a long time with an disorganised market of qualifications. When do you think we will be able to see the first results of the Qualifications Agency?

- The Qualifications Agency was formed within the legal deadline, with selection carried out for its body, director, management, supervisory board and council. Initial funds have been budgeted and the sectoral council is currently being formed. Space has also been allocated for the work of the Agency and it will start functioning within the next few months.

We often say that we need much more entrepreneurial education at all levels of schooling. In your opinion, does that also need to become a separate subject, like computer programming, or to be part of existing contents?

- Entrepreneurial education was introduced to the reformed fifth grade curriculum through the new subject “Techniques and Technology (with Entrepreneurship)”, with which we changed the existing programme of technical and informatics education. Through this subject, children learn – amongst other things – about management and entrepreneurship through project tasks. They learn how to progress from an idea to the placement of a product on the market.

This has done because the curriculum for any form of education was already overbooked. This subject will also be introduced to the sixth grade as of next year.

Serbia has become a full member of the Erasmus+ programme.

- Full membership in the Erasmus+ programme has opened the doors of the EU's largest educational programme and a fund of 14.7 billion euros to Serbia. We were previously partners, but now we have much greater opportunities, because we can be a full partner in projects in which we were previously unable to participate, our institutions can submit a project application and be project initiators and leaders...

Membership has also increased the possibilities for our people to be trained professionally abroad.

Moreover, now anyone who is in some way engaged in education and work with young people can compete for funding, regardless of whether they are an individual, an educational institution, a non-governmental organisation or an enterprise.

By gaining the status of a full member of the Erasmus+ programme we've also taken one of the envisaged steps towards EU membership, within the scope of Negotiation Chapter 26 (Education and Culture).

"I

n order to improve the education of future engineers, new learning programmes based on the real need of industry will be created" - says Sandra Dakulović.

Could you tell us something about the project “Work Integrated Learning in University Education”?

- Messer Tehnogas is recognised as a reliable partner in the project “Work Integrated Learning in University Education”. In this joint project, which is supported by German development agency “Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit” (GIZ), Messer Tehnogas and GIZ will be partners with the University of Belgrade's Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy.

The basic approach is to narrow the gap between the academic curriculum and practical work and knowhow.

Where will the programme be conducted?

- The programme will be conducted at Messer's plants in Belgrade, Smederevo and Kraljevo, where students will work at the company.

Students from the aforementioned faculties will complete their Master's thesis at Messer's plants, depending on their subjects, and will have a chance to learn from the company's experts and gain applicable practical knowledge in areas connected with the industry.

As a company, we invest in the training and development of our employees and were pleased to join this valuable project, because we believe that people are the most important resource.

This is also our chance to support young students in Serbia in becoming confident and successful professionals, and increasing their chances of finding adequate jobs and remaining in Serbia.

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INTERVIEW IVANKA POPOVIĆ PH.D. RECTOR OF THE UNIVERSITY OF BELGRADE

New Reform Awaits Us

T Despite the modest conditions under which it operates, the University of Belgrade's inclusion on the list of the world's top 500 universities is an incredible success. Now that Serbia has become a programme country within the Erasmus programme, new opportunities to improve the quality of higher education are arising

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he universal acceptance of our diplomas and successful careers of our graduates worldwide prove that our educational programmes are good. With a little flexibility, i.e. Adaptation to the needs of the labour market, they could be even better.

more flexible, or more adapted to the needs of the labour market.

Greater transparency in the work of the University of Belgrade, a review of the Bologna Process and increasing numbers of foreign students are among your plans. Have you The higher education system is changing already launched their implementation? rapidly around the world? Are we succeeding - Yes. Greater transparency in the work of in keeping pace with that change? What kind the University ensures better visibility of the of educational programmes do we need? activities conducted at the University, with - Higher education is indeed changing rapwhich trust is established in the University as an institution of naidly and adapting to the needs of contemporary tional importance. UniThe introduction of society and today's laversities in Serbia are advisory councils entering a new cycle of bour market. At a time of employers at accreditation, so analywhen clear boundaries universities and between disciplines are sis of the results to date disappearing, great efof study programmes colleges can improve harmonised with the forts are being exerted communication and Bologna principles is into develop multidisciplicooperation between nary, trans-disciplinary valuable. Evaluating and higher education and interdisciplinary reviewing those results institutions and study programmes. will highlight possible employers They are being estabimprovements that can be implemented in the lished more slowly in our upcoming accreditation cycle. In cooperation country, because our traditionally established with the Ministry of Education, Science and working environment doesn't recognise such Technological Development, we are working vocations, especially in codified work posito improve conditions for the arrival and resitions, which creates serious problems when it comes to workers with such qualifications dence of foreign students in Serbia. We need securing employment. to exert significant efforts in order to open Our educational programmes are othup our education system to foreign citizens. erwise good, as proven by the universal acIs it possible to reach agreement among the ceptance of our diplomas and the successful members of the University of Belgrade recareers of our graduates worldwide. They would be even better if they were slightly garding the long-term development strategy?

INTERVIEW

- It is certainly possible. And this is especially so in relation to strategies for nurturing high-quality personnel and securing adequate infrastructure in terms of space and equipment.

You've stated that it will not be possible to implement the new reform of the University without serious financial support. Do you expect it to be forthcoming?

- The University community in Serbia implemented the Bologna principles without finanUniversities in Serbia cial support, which had are entering a new a significant impact on cycle of accreditation. the modest effects of Analysis of the reforms. The level of national budget fundresults to date of ing allocated for educastudy programmes tion in the period ahead harmonised with the will show the extent to Bologna principles which we, as a country, will indicate possible really intend to realise improvements improvements.

The University of Belgrade has fallen below a ranking of 300th on the Shanghai list. Is that a cause of concern?

- Considering the modest conditions under which the University of Belgrade operates, the very presence of the University on the list of the world's top 500 universities is an incredible success. I think this fact is insufficiently understood and appreciated.

A position on the top half of that list depends primarily on the presence of top scientists in the institution, such as Nobel Laureates or highly-cited scientists. We don't have enough

such personnel and can expect to drop further on that list in the coming period.

Will the state develop a plan for staffing needs, to ensure that we don't educate young people for surplus occupations or experts for the developed and rich countries of Europe and the world?

- The government has, in recent years, increased the number of budgeted places for professions that are in demand or in short supply, which indicates that it is monitoring the trends of human resources.

A total of 14.7 billion euros has been earmarked for the Erasmus programme for the period from 2014 to 2020. How much has this programme contributed to increasing the quality of higher education in Serbia?

- The Erasmus programme has provided significant support to higher education in Serbia, and has done so in several ways.

Through various Erasmus programmes, structural changes have been implemented related to the improvement of higher education activities, numerous new study programmes have been introduced and a significant number of mobility factors have been provided for students, lecturers and non-teaching staff at higher education institutions. Now that Serbia has become a programme country within the Erasmus programme, I expect new opportunities to improve the quality of higher education in our country to be created.

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BUSINESS RADIVOJE MITROVIĆ PH.D. DEAN OF THE FACULTY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING IN BELGRADE

Industry 4.0

We wouldn't be mistaken in the slightest if we said that we were much earlier in getting to grips with and introducing to teaching and research remote controls, intelligent systems, robotics, automation, and a host of other disciplines, even nano-engineering

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t was five years ago that the University of Belgrade's Faculty of Mechanical Engineering officially organised the first international consulting of this kind in the country and stepped into the world of industry 4.0. Today it's called the new technological revolution, the fourth of its kind, which changes from the root the devising and creating of new products and services, thanks in multiple ways to digitisation and automation based on artificial intelligence (see the article Creators of Futures).

In the decades ahead, information-communication technologies will move into all known machines and plants, and change the industrial scene completely, and with it 10

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having to solve every practical problem, shouthe living landscape of modern man. At the very heart of this major breakthrough, anuld also be creative, innovative, enterprising and have a mind open to acquire new knowlnounced in Germany in 2011 and accepted in the world's most developed countries, is the edge. As a consequence, we've modernised engineer, primarily the mechanical engineer, the content of the curriculum, visualised who designs and constructs all machines theoretical teaching, modernised and enriched and all plants. This is precisely the reason laboratory exercises, improved and expanded for the increasing interest in mechanical professional practises, improved textbooks engineering studies both in our country and and introduced modern studies (I will mention around the world. only the first computer classroom connected For a higher school graduate with a Bachwith the whole world).

The diploma of the Belgrade Faculty of elor's degree from the Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineering has been recognised ing Faculty in Belgrade – the leading higher and accepted worldwide, while the quality of education institution for technical professions studies has been confirmed by international in Southeast Europe – the doors are open to accreditations of the the leading world and German National Agendomestic companies, We've always been institutes and colleges. cy for the Accreditation dedicated to the We note with pride that and Quality Control of educating of top there isn't a single one Mechanical Engineermechanical engineers, who hasn't gained eming Colleges, as well as and in recent years new re-accreditation ployment, which is unfrom the British Royal doubtedly the dream of that has had a special Society of Shipbuilding all final year high school emphasis on four key Engineers. A novelty is pupils, and also their tasks: high-quality the addition that sees parents, regardless of teaching, scientific future shipbuilding enwhich studied they've research, international opted for. Thus, a gradugineers, besides intercooperation and ate mechanical engineer nationally recognised cooperation with the is today considered evediplomas, also receive economy an internationally recrywhere as having the most desirable vocation ognised license for in the first half of the 21st century. design. Many of our former students are successful and respected researchers at We at the Faculty of Mechanical Engileading world universities, or directors and neering have adapted massively to rapid managers in companies across Serbia, Europe technological changes, primarily the emerging and the world. industry 4.0. We've always been dedicated to With such experts, Serbia can and must the educating of top mechanical engineers, launch its new process of industrialisation, in and in recent years that has had a special emindustry 4.0, upon which it is based. Without phasis on four key tasks: high-quality teaching, that, the country has no future. After all, as scientific research, international cooperation our motto insists: Excellence now and in and cooperation with the economy. everything!

A future mechanical engineer, apart from

BUSINESS DRAGAN ALEKSENDRIĆ PH.D., D.ENGR UNIVERSITY OF BELGRADE FACULTY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

Creators Of Futures A

as a whole. It is predicted that, in the next 10 t the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering in to 20 years, there will be no economic sector Belgrade students learn how to improve in which artificial intelligence doesn't play a the functional characteristics of some significant role. The market of products and system over a longer period of time; how to platforms based on artificial intelligence will be incorporate mechanisms to learn, conclude and worth in excess of 70 billion dollars by 2020, and adapt to new working conditions. Artificial intelartificial intelligence will change the structures ligence techniques ensure the most important and profiles of many jobs in the economy. features of future intelligent systems: learning, Artificial intelligence changes the world “creativity”, “thinking”, reasoning, understanding, as we've known it until now. We are entering an autonomous behaviour, adaptability, the ability era of a new type of intelligence, an intelligence to self organise etc. that can be created. Mechanical engineers have Artificial Intelligence techniques certainly already started doing that, are we all aware of represent the basis for the development of this? Intelligent systems are becoming a “tool” future innovative services and products. There's of engineering for creating the future. Does this no doubt that artificial intelligence is bringing mean that we will replace the “actual” reality a revolution in the world, a revolution like the with a new “virtual” reality, or artificial reality? one created by the discovery of electricity, in The answer is no! We must be aware of the all areas of society. fact that the human brain, and therefore every The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering in human being, has its own “reality”, or „sense of Belgrade has long since recognised that innovareality”, that differs from others. This is because tive approaches, based on artificial intelligence techniques, have applications in all aspects of business, and in society as a whole. Companies that massively utilise new solutions based on artificial intelligence have higher revenues, completely new business processes, improved operational quality and customer satisfaction, realising their goals our brain creates (simufaster and with reduced Artificial intelligence risk (intelligent business). lates) its own “reality” in According to some which we believe, because doesn't essentially projections, robotics, we're not aware of any differ from that which machine learning and different “reality”. Yes, is known to us as the control of producthe human brain, whether human intelligence we like it or not, also deals tion processes will en– it's just that we with simulation, and does able the incomparably process data using so by simulating our own faster advancement of different tools “reality” and the future! countries and the world

Who does it already? The University of Belgrade's Faculty of Mechanical Engineering is organised to train future engineers who will be able to respond to the new challenges of Serbia's development

This actually means that we don't know what reality is and how much that reality differs from our “reality”. Our brains are both student and teacher, judge and lawyer, prosecutor and jury, and of course the engineer everything! If that's all so, can we transfer the creation of reality and the future into a new environment – the environment of artificial intelligence? Yes, we can. Artificial intelligence doesn't essentially differ from that which is known to us as human intelligence – it's just that we process data using different tools. Generally speaking, it is considered that intelligence implies an ability to collect, store and search data, and the possibility of processing data with the aim of making decisions in new or unknown circumstances.

So, the output of intelligence, human and/or artificial, is knowledge!

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BUSINESS MILOVAN STANIŠIĆ PH.D. PRESIDENT OF SINGIDUNUM UNIVERSITY

Foreigners Also Choose Singidunum Youngsters With Our Diplomas Stay In Serbia Singidunum University, which commemorates two decades of existence this year, is the first higher education institution in this part of the world to have a significant cooperation agreement with the prestigious Franklin University of Ohio

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ur students have an opportunity, while studying in their own country, to acquire an American diploma and simultaneously a diploma of Singidunum University, both of which are recognised worldwide. Teaching of undergraduate academic studies lasts four years, while MBA studies take about a year and a half.

The motto of your university is “Knowledge 12

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is valuable, join the best”. Are young peoing number of young people who choose Singidunum University, recognising all the ple really cognisant of the importance of opportunities brought by studying with us. knowledge?

The beauty of our calling as professors is - The world now finds itself in the fourth that we can motivate young people to work industrial revolution, and the economies of on improving their knowledge and skills while the most developed countries of the world are simultaneously watching them mature and based precisely on knowledge and innovations. grow into academic citizens and successful We at Singidunum University recognised the businesspeople. This is probably the most importance of acquiring practical knowledge important part of our work, and the greatest that students should learn to apply during responsibility that we have when it comes to the course of the studies. The generations the future of new generations. of young people today emerging in Serbia have many ideas about how to launch their own What can you tell us Professional work businesses and entreabout American studies experience practise in of Franklin University preneurial projects, and a company operating at Singidunum? How it is our obligation to in a domain applicable are lectures organised, help them in that. We how long does the prothereby enable generato the student's tions of young people to gramme last etc.? education represents stay in Serbia and conInternationalisation an obligatory part of is the strategic orientribute to the country's studies accelerated economic tation of Singidunum development. That's University, where more why all professors of Singidunum University than five hundred foreign students from all are very committed to lecture halls being over the world currently study, in accredited places where students will not only acquire study programmes in Serbian and English, at theoretical knowledge, but also practical, all levels of study. Our students will have an personal and business skills, because that's opportunity, while studying undergraduate or precisely what makes them more competitive MBA courses in their own country, under the on the job market. programme of a prestigious American univerWe are very proud of the ever increassity, to simultaneously acquire an American

BUSINESS

diploma and a diploma of Singidunum University, both of which are recognised worldwide.

Franklin University was founded in 1902 and has a tradition dating back nearly 120 years. It today has its own campuses around the world and is accredited by the prominent International Accreditation Council for Business Education and the Higher Learning Commission of the USA. Teaching of undergraduate academic studies lasts four years, while MBA studies take about a year and a half and are harmonised with the best standards worldwide.

Who can enrol in Franklin University and under which conditions?

- Enrolment requirements are identical to those of any other study programme. Students can include anyone who's completed the previous level of education, in Serbia or anywhere else in the world. That's why I'm glad that, from the very beginning, there has been a significant number of future students enquiring on a daily basis about the possibilities of studying at Singidunum University within the scope of the Franklin University programme, which is called the Franklin Pathway.

and professional development, and a more successful position when it comes to securing employment.

After completing the programme, students receive a diploma from Franklin University.

Does it have the same gravitas as one issued Who are the lecturers? in the United States? How highly valued is - The lecturers are eminent professors that, both in our country and abroad? from Franklin University and Singidunum - You are right: students receive a Franklin UniUniversity who have versity degree, which is significant academic verified by the relevant Singidunum has a and scientific referinstitutions in the U.S. long tradition of and recognised worldences in relevant fields. cooperating with some These are professors wide. One of the main of the world's most who have plenty of exindicators used today around the world when it perience working with successful universities, comes to the quality of students and whose apand the partnership higher education is the proach corresponds to with Ohio's Franklin labour market mobility the conditions of conUniversity represents of graduates and their temporary education. an important step in employability. It is interStudents are able, via that direction interactive teaching esting that as many as with renowned profes80 per cent of students who completed the MBA programme secured sors, to solve specific practical problems and employment within a year of graduating, and thereby develop their creativity, skills and managed to find job with an average annual abilities. One significant opportunity is for salary of $81,000 to $127,000. This is among students to spend their final year of study at the reasons why there's already significant Franklin University in Columbus, Ohio, which interest in these study programmes among will contribute markedly to their vocational

future students around the world, and Singidunum University is the first higher education institution in this part of the world to have a significant cooperation agreement with Franklin University.

To what extent are your study programmes adapted to the needs of the business environment?

- Singidunum University, which this year commemorates its 20th anniversary, cooperates successfully with more than 700 business enterprises, state institutions and organisations where our undergraduate and master's studies students carry out professional work experience practise. This means that, upon graduating, every student can already boast of having gained their first practical work experience during the course of their studies. A large number of our students gain employment already during their studies, which makes us particularly proud, while some of our former students now occupy key managerial positions in large domestic and foreign companies, as well as in state institutions and international organisations. With the active learning of two world languages, and the acquiring of competences in the IT field and business skills, they cope much more easily and successfully in dynamic business conditions.

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BUSINESS PROF MIODRAG JEVTIĆ, DSC(MED) RECTOR OF MEGATREND UNIVERSITY

Three Decades At The Very Top

Megatrend University has been the leading private university in Central and south-eastern Europe for three decades, offering students the best learning facilities and infrastructure and 21st century expertise

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he University follows the trend of accrediting the latest study programmes and cooperating with universities worldwide through various programmes and projects. This is our answer to the challenges of globalisation, says the new Rector of Megatrend University.

Congratulations on your appointment. What can you announce as the new Rector of Megatrend University?

- Hard work and extraordinary achievements in strengthening higher education have been the 14

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Is it true that young people today prefer key characteristics of Megatrend University having lucrative jobs to doing what they for decades. Neither subjective nor objective truly love? With this in mind, which of your factors have undermined our mission. Thou12 faculties is the most attractive? sands of students who have completed any - We have resolved firmly to build a society of the three levels of academic studies at our based on knowledge and digitalisation, as university and taken on responsible jobs in our global imperatives, which clearly demoncountry and across the globe know the truth.

I believe that we should respect achievestrates our wish to make expertise and applied knowledge widespread and accesments, events and people, learn from them and move on, rather than constantly start sible. We use a multidisciplinary approach, anew whatever the cost. I believe that success including the Megatrend Forum, to try and requires continuity and constant improvement understand our international position, secuand this is why I have rity, economic and social accepted the challengdevelopment, educaMegatrend University ing office of Rector of tion, the preservation uses all its potential, Megatrend University. of culture, language and national identity experience and because all this conThis year, Megatrend widespread University is celebratcerns our future. I think international that all our 12 faculties ing 30 years since its cooperation to are attractive enough. establishment. How recognise our We understand young much has it contributed country’s greatest generations and their to change in the Serbian challenges orientation towards education system? the rational needs and - Thirty years is not a requirements of modern society. If young short time for a human being, let alone for a people continue to leave the country and big system with significant social responsibilseek fortune abroad, we will see it as our ity. I do not want to glorify our many awards own failure. and accolades but they do motivate us and confirm that we are on the right track, folDoes the labour market recognise the value lowing global trends and giving our maximum of the professionals educated at Megatrend contribution to the academic community. Let University? our achievements, our work in education and - The fact that many of our students find jobs the attention and understanding we get from as early as the 3rd or 4th year of their bachelor our friends and our students’ parents speak for themselves. studies, and that our Alumni Club is comprised In addition, we are an equal participant in of a great number of successful people from the Serbian University Conference, where we all segments of life, speaks of the quality are recognised as an institution that is ready we provide. We are grateful to them for not to incorporate all of its resources in the higher forgetting where the foundations of their education system of our country. careers have been laid.

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BUSINESS DR VESELIN VUKOTIĆ PH.D. RECTOR OF THE UNIVERSITY OF DONJA GORICA

Our Students Are Prepared For Life

Montenegro's University of Donja Gorica (UDG) has around 3,000 students and 350 professors and teaching assistants from all continents, a modern-designed building with facilities for all-day use, consisting of five amphitheatre lecture halls, a library, 800 computers, a creative centre, gallery, gym etc

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DG develops innovative study model that represent an original idea of this university, inspired by American principles. The university is orientated towards the student and their capabilities, aimed at developing students into responsible global citizens.

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The UDG mission is to create study condiand laboratories for food safety, a creative tions that adhere to the highest European centre, gallery, gym and much more... UDG has principles. What does that mean? around 3,000 students and 350 professors and - The UDG mission is reflected in the motto teaching assistants from all continents. Our “The history of the future”, meaning that we platform is one of openness and cooperation are producing the seeds of the future as the with the local and global environments... We have strictest professor students will ever face is rich international cooperation and the majority their Life. So, we don't teach about life (facts), of UDG students are given an opportunity to but rather we make students learn from life. work and study abroad, through exchanges, The classical university model is: capabilities internship programmes, or for seasonal work. = knowledge. However, according to our model Our current focus is on cooperation with China S=Z•i², in which “i” stands for the intensity of and we will soon introduce Chinese studies... the life (experiences) of students during their studies… One only knows things that have been You are known for multidisciplinary studies. experienced and sensed... So, our students How important are they for students? are prepared to react to the fast changes and - The era of deeper specialisation developed uncertainty that are being brought by high techa need for interdisciplinary knowledge. This nology and this almost spiritless world... In orapproach will enable students to transfer der for them to be ready from one occupation to for whatever comes! another, as they are exUDG studies start pected in today’s world (Njegoš) We invest a lot every year on 4th to change occupations in promoting students’ July with the Lovćen five to six times during self-confidence and their Marathon and my their careers. Our vision passion for studying. All is to develop a model principles are presented lecture at top of this within which first two in the UDG Almanac of Mountain, in front of years of the study prostudies.

Njegoš... Students gramme will be the same, must become after which students will What about conditions accustomed to make their “study choice”, and support for the enthinking that it is not vironment? metaphorically, like exeasy to reach the top iting a roundabout in a - We improve conditions vehicle. We have lots of for development continuously, having started from an empty field. Our joint courses and projects at the university level, campus is today dominated by the moderninvolving all students. The greatest advantage designed UDG building (covering a surface to that is the fact that all UDG faculties operate area of 17,000m²) with facilities for all-day use, within a single building. consisting of five amphitheatre lecture halls UDG studies are not “mass studies”. What are (each with a capacity of 300 places), a library the advantages of this approach? (c.350 places), around 800 computers used - We develop an individual dedication to students every day for teaching purposes, 3D printers

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within the scope of mentor work in small groups.

This kind of approach can encourage students to find their natural hidden talents, which is not the case with mass studies. The task of professors should be to “awaken students’ passion for studies”. Today’s young generations develop in a world of big data & modern technologies, which impacts on the structure of their brains. Study programmes must be based on their openness.

UDG charges tuition fees, which is not the case with the state university, where studies are free.

Still, the best youngsters choose to come to study at UDG, which ensures our responsibility is even greater...

You have 17 undergraduate study programmes, more than 20 postgraduate options and three Ph.D. programmes. Which are the most popular? development of students, with fun, sport, art - UDG has a large number of study programmes and travel. Does that increase the quality of that suit, or will suit, the needs of the market. a UDG degree?

UDG faculties are separate entities, though - All of that is part of the “i” in the model S=Z•i². we are still developing the UDG brand and The habit of reading books has been lost. working on an integrated university platform.

Now people read and write short messages Students primarily decide to enrol in UDG, only instead. The quality of studies should be dethen choosing the specific faculty. We are a rare fined more by a student’s system of values, private university in that we offer study programmes for technical sciences (polytechnics, character, and humanity; his “being” rather than electro, geodetics) and programmes in maths, his “knowing”. Art, poetry and literature are fundamental for developing food safety and graphic an understanding of the design, international Around 50 UDG world which we live in. We French franchise Vatel students have had try to fix the failures of (double-degree in tourinternships at Chinese ism), aside from classical earlier phases of educacompanies, while tion in different ways. I social and humanities around the same am running a course in studies. We also invest which I tasked students a lot in IT studies. The number of Chinese with writing an essay on UDG psychology studies students have spent the topic “Macroeconomprogramme is among the time studying at ics in Ivo Andrić’s books”. best in the region, as is its the UDG If you recognise the oriart studies programme. gins of the facts that you We will soon gain accreditation for two more programmes: Virtual know in real life, you can say that you understand communications and Virtual engineering. The them. To know and to understand are not one official language of the UDG is English, while and the same. students are obliged to have knowledge of two What is the level of employability of your foreign languages in order to gain a degree. students, both at home and abroad?

Your university is among the few that are - We aim to ensure that UDG students don't investing in the broader education and cultural need to look for a job after graduation, by

improving conditions for them to “find” work earlier, through employment in foreign or local companies who seek out our students, or by encouraging them to open and run their own firms or family businesses. Demand for UDG students is on the rise. The entrepreneurial spirit is developed within the course Entrepreneurship and innovation, which is part of every UDG faculty’s curriculum, but also through the international IDEALAND competition, which has been organised for a decade at the UDG, along with the School of Entrepreneurship and Talent Camp, intended for primary and secondary school pupils.

Universities should create the market! As such, we've built "Entrepreneurial nest" for the development of start-ups, and cooperation with Tel Aviv University and the “Israeli desert” tech-kibbutz. We are focused on strengthening cooperation with Chinese companies and will soon do the same with institutions from Thailand and Singapore. The UDG has numerous national and European projects; we are part of several Horizon 2020 consortia, with research results presented to students and employees on the annual Day of Research, held every 4 th April. Let me point out the symbolic meaning of the Day of the UDG, which is commemorated each year on 11.11. at 11am, to reflect our mantra that it is most important to be the first, and then the best.

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BUSINESS CHRISTOS ALEXOPOULOS PH.D. DIRECTOR OF THE COLLEGE OF APPLIED HEALTH SCIENCES, ĆUPRIJA

Our Diplomas Are Valued Around The World The College of Applied Health Sciences in Ćuprija is a state accredited institution that has been conducting studies in the most sought-after medical profiles for the past 20 years. With the aim of integrating as much as possible into European flows, it has launched the process of implementing European directives

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e are working continuously on the advancement of expert and research work, while investing in equipment was among our priorities in the previous period, and our plan now includes the process of building capacities and constructing new infrastructure, including a student dormitory, canteen and student clinic,” notes Dr Alexopoulos, director of Ćuprija's College of Applied Health Sciences.

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Interest in enrolling in your college is increasinternational cooperation, which is reflected in exchanges of students and professors, the ing year on year. How would you explain this? education of our students in higher education - The College of Applied Health Sciences Ćuprija institutions in Norway, and projects that have is located in a modern building covering 6,400m2 their results applied in the accreditation of and has an excellent geographical position, undergraduate, specialist and master's studmaking it accessible and popular among young people from all over the country. Our school ies programmes. We also develop scientificexerts great efforts to enable as many young professional, educational and research activities people as possible to study. With the signing as a member of the network of Higher Schools of a contract with the Ministry of Defence, of Europe, ENM. we've secured incenInvestments in equipment were among tives for the children of We've opened a the priorities of our colfallen soldiers and empharmaceutical block ployees in the Army of lege in the previous pewith a pharmaceutical, Serbia in terms of the riod. We can boast newlygalenical and chemical level of tuition fees, while equipped cabinets and laboratory, and I students from families multimedia classrooms, must also mention with four or more chila newly-formed server the construction of a room, and the providing dren are entitled to study of an optical link that enaat our college for free. simulation centre, the Likewise, students with bles students to master first and only one of special needs have the the IZIS programme. its kind in the region, right to free education We've opened a pharwith the latest teaching at our college and have maceutical block with a facilities and equipment been provided with spepharmaceutical, galenical which will be and chemical laboratory, cial parking spaces and ceremoniously opened and I must also mention school access, while we

by Serbian President the construction of a also plan to install a lift.

Aleksandar Vučić simulation centre, the first and only one of its How much do you invest kind in the region, with the latest teaching faciliin the educating of teaching staff and investments in equipment? ties and equipment which will be ceremoniously - The College of Applied Health Sciences Ćuprija opened by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić. works continuously on the advancement of The plan for the period ahead includes expert and research work, encouraging and procapacity building and the construction of new infrastructure. A project has been created for viding conditions, while the results of research a student dormitory with a canteen, a student are implemented in the teaching process. We are clinic, a multifunctional hall and a research cenrecognisable for our extremely well developed

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tre. In the scope of the dormitory there will also be sports fields and a summer amphitheatre.

To what extent are the programmes of your college harmonised with EU standards?

- With the aim of integrating as much as possible into European flows, the College of Applied Health Sciences Ćuprija has launched the process of implementing European directives. With this in mind, a cooperation agreement was signed recently with the Faculty of Health Studies of the University of Rijeka [Croatia], which has study programmes that are harmonised with EU Directive 55/13. In order for us to implement the necessary preparations, we've established communication with an institution that has more experience than ours, and from which we can learn how and in which ways to implement directives in the shortest possible period. We will soon start been accredited, amongst which are Profesteaching new curricula by accreditation and we sional nurse, Professional physiotherapist, want that to be based on these directives.

Professional medical radiologist, Professional Moreover, within the scope of ensuring midwife and Professional pharmacist. Under continuous improvements in the quality of the process of being accredited are two-year work, we are in the process of implementing vocational master's studies that are evaluated quality management system ISO 9001: 2015, with 120 ESPB points, which will be awarded as and I would also add that steps have been a professional master nurse-organiser in the taken to enable the school to obtain an energy health care system, as well as a series of short passport in accordance study programmes lastwith European standing two semesters in the Our students have field of anaesthesia and ards. We consider that available the dummies reanimation, patronage, the “green school” is the “Juno” and “Kloe”, rehabilitation, dermatofuture, while the aim of which are designed to the project is to reduce logical cosmetology and acquaint our students the use of resources reinterventional radiology. with real life situations quired for heating, to replace lighting with more Tell us more about the through a range efficient LED panels and publishing activities of of scenarios in the to improve building inthe College of Applied healthcare sector Health Sciences Ćuprija. sulation.

- On the basis of the Rulebook on textbooks and publishing activities, at You received at the end of last year a certificate the College of Applied Health Sciences Ćuprija of accreditation from the National Body for students are provided with the necessary number the Accreditation and Assurance of Quality in of copies of textbooks necessary to master the Higher Education. How important is this news? material included in each subject. The publishing - Accreditation from the state institution activity of our school, apart from textbooks, also that is the leader of education in the field of includes two professional journals. “Zdravstveni healthcare and nursing is of great importance, radnik” [Health Worker], which was founded and as it educates personnel for very promising is published by the College of Applied Health occupations in the health domain. AccreditaSciences Ćuprija, and which is an professionaltion means quality and confirms that we're on informative journal that aims to contribute the right track. Five study programmes have

to the quality of work in all of our college's study groups, as well as informing students and professors about novelties in professional and scientific achievements within the scope of medical professions.

Since 2018, the school has also been a copublisher of professional medical journal PONS, in cooperation with the Pomoravlje Public Health Institute from Ćuprija. The new organisation of PONS is evaluated as a modern editorial and managerial approach.

Do your students learn foreign languages in conjunction with preparing for their exams?

Do they plan to stay in Serbia or move abroad, and what kind of employment opportunities does a diploma from your college provide in Serbia and abroad?

- In addition to regular teaching of the English language, the college also organises free courses in German, with the aim of enabling the obtaining of TELC certificates. Our school's diplomas are recognised worldwide, as evidenced by the numerous members of our alumni who have secured work in countries like Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Dubai. Our college's alumni Club is a voluntary association that all students who have completed basic and/or specialist studies at the College of Applied Health Sciences Ćuprija can join, free of charge, with the aim of connecting all generations of students in order to exchange knowhow and experience, and establishing mutual cooperation in the country and abroad.

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BUSINESS BRATISLAV FILIPOVIĆ FOUNDER OF ACADEMY FILIPOVIĆ

Knowledge Is More Important Than Diplomas

P Academy Filipović has advanced a long way from being a computer school to occupying the leading position in the field of nonformal education. Over the last 15 years, its courses have been traversed by over 30,000 teachers, while the Academy has prepared 13 new seminars for this academic year

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converted into ordinary entrance tickets for otential employers around the world securing some job. no longer ask for your average grades We at Academy 'Filipović' realised many during your schooling, but rather what years ago that learning is a process that must you know and how well you're able to do the never stop, which is why we today participate job that your degree prepared you for. All of actively in the educating of professionals this imposes a need for non-formal education, employed in education in all scientific fields. so-called life-long learning.

The large number of associates of various When we launched our mission with the education profiles that we have from various organising of English language courses and IT cities in Serbia ensures that our Academy is training, we didn't even dream that we would, a serious institution that's leading the way in in just 15 years, become a leader in non-formal non-formal education. education. At that time, in 2003, when the In cooperation with professional as'Filipović' Education Agency was founded, non-formal education sociation Open Educawas almost a taboo tion Initiative (OPI), and Learning is a process topic. We knew that together with members that must never stop, education is among the of associations that which is why we today most important pillars have accredited their on which every society seminars via other inparticipate actively relies, viewed globally stitutions or associain the educating and based on the whole tions, Academy Filipović of professionals world, and that without gained accreditation employed in education it there can be no social for 13 seminars for the in all scientific fields progress. However, back 2018/19, 2019/20 and then we had no clue how 2020/21 academic years, much our team and our institution would conwhich confirms our leadership position in non-formal education. tribute to improving the literacy of education In previous years, our seminars in various employees, in pre-school institutions, primary fields – such as informatics, inclusion, creaand secondary schools, and colleges in Serbia.

Unlike the developed world, where the tive teaching, work with children, support for importance of non-formal education is unfamily education – have been implemented in several hundred schools throughout Serbia, derstood, many in Serbia still underrate it, with many thousands of education workers not realising that it is, in part, more important having passed through them. We have, in this than formal education. The modern age has way, provided support to schools in long-term imposed on us a need for life-long learning, plans for their professional work and develsuch that university degrees have today been

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opment, all with the goal of shaping modern education as the only measure of success.

In accordance with the latest technical possibilities, and considering the needs of schools, Academy Filipović's highly specialised team created a project through which all schools in the Republic of Serbia are integrated into the website www.nasaskola.rs. The Our School Information System represents a complete solution that encompasses all activities, reports and data required for the proper management of schools, administration and the Ministry. It comprises the following: 1. E-library - a programme that was supported by the Association of School Librarians as the best and most applicable programme for running school libraries. It is used in 95 schools and also received the 2013 Discobolus international award.

• Approximately 80,000 entries (notes 2. Platform for creating school websites on various activities and forms of profes– used by 179 schools.

3. Electronic portfolio for teachers and tusional training) have been recorded through applications. tors – used by 7,938 teachers from 805 schools.

Academy Filipović received the 2015 4. Electronic portfolio for directors of Discobolos award in educational institutions the category of educa– used by 468 directors.

Academy Filipović 5. Electronic pedation for its E-portfolio deals, among of teachers. Transgogical notebook. other things, in the 6. Electronic journal lated into multiple production and for primary, secondary, languages, it is also distribution of portable music, ballet and special used by teachers from interactive boards/ schools – under developcountries around the rement since 2008. gion, while negotiations tablets. The offer's 7. Programme for PP are underway with the stand out models (pedagogy and psycholMinistry of Education are FBIWB2700 and of Montenegro regardogy) services FBIWB4700, which are In the education ing the implementation used in many schools system of Serbian, our of the E-Portfolio in its throughout Serbia and E-portfolio web applicaeducation system. the region Academy Filipović tion has been recognised organised seven profesas a major facilitator and a useful tool in working operations, which is sional conferences, because we intensively confirmed by statistical data: and continuously raise our own IT awareness • It is used in 805 primary, secondary, via regular participation in domestic and intermusic and art schools, and around a dozen national fairs and conferences. We endeavour preschool institutions, where input is tailored to exchange knowledge and experience, to to the needs of educators. nurture good interpersonal relations, to re• A total of 7,938 teachers currently have spect all attendees/participants in seminars their own user accounts and actively use the and events, to support and promote the use of application. interactive teaching resources, in particular

interactive tablets and interactive software.

In accordance with the goal of being recognisable throughout the entire region, we realise exceptional cooperation with educational institutions in Bosnia's Republika Srpska, Macedonia and Montenegro.

Academy Filipović recently also received a certificate of prudential excellence, with a prudential rating of AA+, thereby confirming to its business partners that it has two important business characteristics – reliability and credibility. This good prudential rating further strengthens the academy's reputation in domestic and foreign business circles, but also says a lot about the man who runs the firm, as well as his staff.

Improving the quality of education and the raising of children in Serbia today is one of the main priorities of the state and contemporary society, and is simultaneously the mission of Academy 'Filipović'. This strategy implies a future for Serbia based on the knowledge economy, faster social and economic integration, development based on new technologies and competitiveness, and improved opportunities for all. Sustainable development and improved living standards are unimaginable without additional, non-formal education and a society that constantly learns, to which we will contribute even more in the coming years.

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BUSINESS KRISTINE GREENLAW UPPER SCHOOL PRINCIPAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF BELGRADE

Why Outdoor Education Matters At ISB

The International School of Belgrade this year commemorates 70 years of providing high-quality international education.

Thousands of children, representing diverse cultural and national backgrounds, and sharing a commitment to, and passion for, learning, have passed through the portals of knowledge at ISB

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y facing up successfully to the challenges posed by outdoor activities, youngsters gain the possibility to take major strides in all aspects of their own development, building confidence, overcoming fears and apprehensions etc.

The International School of Belgrade (ISB) currently offers ‘experiential’ or ‘active’ learning opportunities at the Upper School. What is this type of learning and how does it bring added value to your curriculum?

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- Active learning, by definition, requires that students share in the experience of learning.

Outdoor education refines this focus to include authentic learning outside of school, where the environment itself is also part of the inquiry. ISB’s Trip Week excursions take place in a variety of environments: both local and international, rural and urban, familiar and even remote locations.

During all trips, students and adults share in a wide range of learning experiences.These include skills-focused activities, problem solving tasks, team building and self-reliant learning, with the ‘residential’ or overnight experience being of special value to young students.

The Expedition Trips (grades 6-10) purposefully align with the concept of outdoor education, whereby participants follow an itinerary that includes adventurous activities on land and water, and some with an environmental focus.

How does outdoor education support holistic student growth?

- Most parents would automatically recognise that outdoor education provides a major contribution to both physical and environmental education, and can also enhance many other curriculum areas. However, many might not be aware of the fact that it also contributes to personal growth and social awareness, which ultimately helps young people develop the skills needed for life and the world of work. Outdoor education does this by providing valuable alternatives and, most impor-

tantly, non-competitive activities for achieving social-emotional development in the formative years, in which all students can participate.

What are some skills and learning dispositions that outdoor education nurtures in youngsters, in order to prepare them for their later studies and the world of work?

- As a single, value-added package of learning opportunities, experiential learning is unrivalled. To quote the English Outdoor Council, “Challenging outdoor experiences promote the development of communication, problem solving and decision making skills, which have currency across a range of occupations. They encourage a positive “opting in” and “can do” attitude. Young people’s horizons are broadened, new challenges come to be relished rather than shunned, and

Each grade has a scaffold-structured level of challenge, with the knowledge that such challenging outdoor experiences can impact powerfully on a young person’s intellectual, physical, social and moral development

perseverance and determination are reinforced.

Values and attitudes developed in a context of shared endeavour help to form a sound basis for responsible citizenship”.

It is my hope to see Outdoor Education grow at ISB, given that environmental education benefits students, schools and the wider world.

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BUSINESS STEFAN WIEDENHOFER AND CHRISTOPH CZETTL DIRECTOR OF THE GERMAN SCHOOL BELGRADE (SW) , CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF THE GERMAN SCHOOL BELGRADE (CC)

Our Diploma Opens The Doors Of All European Universities STEFAN WIEDENHOFER(LEFT) AND CHRISTOPH CZETTL

The German school was established in Belgrade in 1854 and the very first German-language kindergarten in the Balkans came into being in 1856!

The school has produced architects, engineers and even university professors

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he concept underlying the education system in the German school is applicationspecific and action-oriented. It is based upon the accrual of knowledge and promotes the development of individual capabilities, which are important in our world.

Why not educate our children in Germany?

What is the use of a German school in Belgrade?

- (SW) The concise answer in the form of a counterquestion und paraphrasing Goethe: Why seek far afield when good things could not be any closer by? You do not have to go to Germany to reap the benefits of German schooling and acquire recognised German qualifications, which facilitate third level studies both in Germany and worldwide.

(CC) Parents and children notice the great advantages inherent in the education provided by our school when, having spent time with us, they move on to a school in another country and are in a position to compare. In fact, the mother of one of our former pupils recently told us: “One often 24

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feels that many things can be improved upon but, believe me, you have many reasons to be proud”.

Our teaching is certified and regularly inspected by the German authorities. We follow the demanding school standards of the German Gymnasium. At the same time, we are of course also a Serbian school, as we are officially licensed by the Serbian Ministry of Education and Science.

But the German School Leaving Diploma, the Abitur, qualifies all students to attend universities in all European Union countries.

And what can you be proud of?

- (SW) Primarily there is both the long tradition and the valuable history of the German school in Serbia, in spite of its having repeatedly experienced politically troubled times.

(CC) We are greatly encouraged in our efforts by the many reports of success received from our graduates, who are now studying in Where do your pupils come from?

Berlin, Munich, Vienna or - (SW) It is not only Gerthe USA. As a result of man-speaking families Because of long years of experience from Germany, Austria governmental we are able to say that or Switzerland who have support, school fees the scholastic journey of relocated to Belgrade who each and every child is are interested in sending are 50% lower than individual and the result their children to a Germanthose of comparable of various processes. The speaking school. About international schools German school system is 70% of the students are in Belgrade. This demanding. The School from Serbian families, facility is described on Board generously invests an important part of the our home page in and promotes individual backbone of the school. teacher-to-pupil instrucHow is the school financed? tion, alongside structural investments and efforts - (CC) The German government supports us very to provide optimal technical equipment. generously. But it is of course expensive to run a (SW) And we teachers work daily to convey school that offers international education and so knowledge, which the children learn to apply on a certain part of the cost needs to be financed many levels, but also use to find themselves. by the school itself, meaning by the families, by school fees.

Can you briefly describe the range of your (SW) We have a scholarship system in place educational system? from the fifth class onwards for those families - (SW) The German School of Belgrade offers whose children are amongst the highest performeducation at all levels, from kindergarten to school leavers’ diplomas, with all subjects taught ers but who, due to their income, are unable to in German and all exams subject to German afford the school. So, once again, why seek farther standards.– As I have just explained, it is as if afield? Germany is found, in the form of the the students were attending school in Germany.

German school, right in the middle of Belgrade!

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BUSINESS GORDANA KNEŽEVIĆ ORLIĆ MANAGING DIRECTOR, KLETT PUBLISHING HOUSE LTD.

A Good Textbook Is Innovative

Klett is a leader among publishers of textbooks, both in our country and across the region, because it listens carefully to the needs of users, both school pupils and teachers, with a desire to provide them with ever better support in teaching every school year

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igital textbooks will play an increasingly important role in education, because they extend beyond the frameworks of time and space that limit print editions, so they can be used on computers, tablets or phones, anywhere and at any time.

You represent part of one of the world's biggest publishing groups, and this year you are commemorating 15 years of operartions 26

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in Serbia. In your opinion, what makes a good The digital textbooks also extends betextbook? yond frameworks of time and space that - A good textbook is, first and foremost, one limit print editions. Pupils can use them on that constantly strives towards innovation and a computer, tablet, or telephone, anywhere improvement, monitors new trends and preand at any time. Such availability is very important today, given that time is today's pares today's pupils for the future. At Publishing most important resource.

Company Klett we listen carefully to the needs When it comes to teachers and lecturers, of the users of our textbooks, both pupils and they consider that digital content enriches teachers, with a desire to provide them with every lesson. With their help, pupils better ever better support in teaching every school master new concepts, because they are preyear. We are all aware of the changes taking place in the classroom, which include a shift in sented in a way that is familiar to children. It is the focus of work from an also helpful to teachers “attitude to teaching” to that they can monitor Publishing Company pupils' activities and the the achievements of Klett in Serbia has learning process among their pupils or have an more than 1,000 learners. Our textbooks insight into how sucoutstanding authors and additional matericessfully they've masals have just such a contered the material, how in its team, including quickly the student recept, and the emphasis practitioners from is on the well-formulated solves tasks, what they primary and secondary activation of students found more difficult to schools, as well as through quality assignmaster etc. university professors ments, questions and additional information.

Are children who use digital textbooks more motivated? Do they have better attention spans? Do they What are the advantages of digital textbooks? achieve better results?

Do teachers and lecturers recognise their - Digital textbooks have perhaps brought significance? the most in the area of better motivating - Digital textbooks have numerous advantages. pupils. Children are incomparably more It is firstly important that they are completely motivated than with print editions, they find aligned with the needs of the new generations the contents of textbooks more interestwho are growing up in an era of constant technological advancement.These textbooks are full ing, so while acquiring new knowledge they of multimedia and interactive contents, and they are also entertained in some way. Teachers cover the needs of contemporary generations relate to us how lessons given with the use from the earliest stage of childhood. Apart from of digital textbooks are significantly more that, this kind of textbook enables an individual dynamic and creative, and how the children approach of each pupil – they master the matehave increased levels of concentration. It is thus inevitable that pupils achieve better rial at their own pace and according to their own test results. possibilities and interests.

BUSINESS JELENA JAKOVLJEVIĆ MANAGING DIRECTOR ERNST KLETT PRÄSENZLERNEN OSTEUROPA GMBH – BELGRADE BRANCH

Professional Improvement Is Our Niche

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What drives dual education, apart from the proper combination of theoretical and practical work?

- Our approach is based on active learning and problem solving. The programme is broken down into learning situations in which students construct their own knowledge by drawing What does teaching look like at the Klett conclusions from tangible working activities DUAL School? about what they are doing, thereby personally - Klett DUAL School is a school of vocational abstracting the reality. education for adults. Our target group is aged The approach consists of a work order that over 18 and has completed secondary school. the teacher submits to the student and six steps They can be unemployed, but can also be emthat te student takes themselves in order to ployees who need profesproperly complete the sional training. task. The student first If we want to ensure At our school, two collects information that someone is days are spent at a school about the work order, equipped to work, i.e. where knowledge is aci.e. the problem they've to perform a certain quired through theoretibeen given to resolve, cal lectures, but skills are job, this is the right and sets the goal, then acquired to a greater plans the activities they way, as proven through extent through practiwill implement and evaluGerman tradition, to cal exercises in didactic ates possible alternative acquire professional equipment. The remainsolutions to the problem. competencies ing three days of the After that, with the guid(knowledge, skills and ance of the teacher, they week are for conducting attitudes) decide which activities to practical work in partner carry out. In the fourth companies. Teaching programmes at two locations are harmonised durstep, the student independently undertakes ing the contracting of programme attendance. the work assignment using didactic equipment Agreements are reached with both students or, in short, by working! At the end, the student and companies. conducts controls of the task performed and Our teachers, or lecturers, are experts in then, together with the teacher, evaluates work their fields. However, given that quality is our processes and results. business model, teachers first undergo numerous training courses in the implementation of To what extent are curricula adapted to our dual vocational education programmes. They market and the needs of employers in Serbia? have also acquired professional competencies - Klett DUAL School, prior to approaching the for working in adult education, which is specific development of a programme, determines in many ways compared to work with those the needs of employers. The knowledge and aged under 18. skills lacking among employees in companies rior to approaching the development of a programme, Klett DUAL School first determines the needs of employers.

Lecturers are experts in their fields, with numerous training courses for the implementation of dual vocational education programmes.

Germany's dual education system is considered the best in the world, and in Serbia it is implemented by Ernst Klett Präsenzlernen Osteuropa GmbH, with the support of German partners and the German Ministry of Education and Science

are very precisely determined, as well as the qualifications that are essential for the Serbian economy.

The curriculum is adapted to the market and specific employers, because the content of practical work can't be defined without input information from companies. The company where practical work will be carried out is the only able to say which devices and machines are available, which reflects directly reflected on the outcomes of learning.

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BUSINESS TATJANA RACKOV SINADINOVIĆ MANAGER AND OWNER OF HAPPY KIDS PRESCHOOL

Our Children Grow Up Happy HAPPY KIDS is the largest private preschool in Serbia.

Some 1,000 children attend its ten kindergartens in Belgrade. Because of parents’ great interest, it plans to open facilities throughout Serbia, in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Macedonia...

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o the families of our little ones, we offer all services necessary for healthy and regular growth. Children discover the secrets of the world with us, they acquire good life habits, learn true values and make the most of their individual potential, reveals Tatjana Rackov Sinadinović.

affordable prices. Now we are number one in the preschooling market by the quality of our work, but also the number of facilities and children enrolled. We are a role model to many others and we are extremely proud of that!

Today's parents can’t be with their children as much as they would like, due to When HAPPY KIDS was founded 13 years their busy schedule. What do they find ago, did you imagine that it would become most important when choosing a prethe largest private preschool in Serbia? school? How important is cooperation - I've never thought with the family? about this job as big - Most parents The parents of our business for profit. don't have many delittle ones and we, Even today, when mands when choosthe staff of HAPPY HAPPY KIDS has ing a nursery. It is KIDS, have the same about 130 staff and important for them 1,000 kids, this job is that their child is interest, my great love, persafe, happy and and that is the sonal satisfaction well-nourished. At welfare of the child! and a place where my HAPPY KIDS, chilThe well-being, children are growing dren discover many happiness and up. HAPPY KIDS is my secrets of the world satisfaction of each second home, a reflecthat surrounds them, child is our interest tion of my personality they acquire good and a nursery school life habits, learn true for a modern family. values and make the most of their individual potential. Good cooperation You have raised the bar when it comes between the preschool and the child’s to private preschool education and up- family is crucial for the proper growth bringing. Are others trying to follow you? and development of every child.

- Thanks to the high working standards, over time HAPPY KIDS has become The HAPPY KIDS network has ten presynonymous with excellent quality and school nurseries in Belgrade, attended

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by around 1,000 children. Do you plan to open new facilities?

- In the near future we plan to expand our operations beyond Belgrade, in smaller towns in Serbia and in countries of the former Yugoslav (Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Macedonia ...)

Most preschool nurseries provide similar services, but your way of working and quality stand out. What is your goal?

- HAPPY KIDS is a full service for the families of their little ones. We offer our clients all the services necessary for a healthy and proper upbringing. Our goal is for the child to have the right living habits, work ethics and a good educational basis before attending school. The parents Now we are number of children enrolled one in the preschool in the HAPPY KIDS market in terms preschool institution of quality of work, have a privilege in raisbut also number of ing their child to enjoy facilities and enrolled plenty of joy, love and patience, instead of children. We are a role spending time with the model to many others child learning colours, and are extremely shapes, letters, numproud of that! bers etc.

Special attention is given to children with special needs, as well as to gifted children.

Is their progress in both cases obvious and measurable?

- Every child can be a genius in relation to their own potential.

Our task is to find in each child a hidden

talent or development aspect that can be maximally enhanced and brought out by additional work. The way the children participate in everyday activities is constantly monitored and recorded, and we thus make their progress obvious and measurable.

Since the first day, HAPPY KIDS has been covered by internet video surveillance, which allows parents to monitor their child through a camera while at preschool. Is this how you build trust with your clients?

- Of course, the HAPPY KIDS work model is fully transparent. The parents of our little ones and we staff at HAPPY KIDS have the same interest, and that is the welfare of the child! The well-being, happiness and satisfaction of each child is our interest just as it is that of the child and the parents.

Every parent who watches his child through video surveillance and has the need to send a comment, remark or compliment on the work of the preschool institution HAPPY KIDS participates equally in creating this work just as I do. Together with the families of our little ones, we are a big happy family in which mutual trust is implied, but in which that trust needs to be constantly earned and justified! Our families trust us with their greatest treasure and we are aware of that!

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BUSINESS MARIJA ŽIVKOVIĆ EDITOR OF BIGZ ŠKOLSTVO

We Successfully Create Educational Content printed textbooks? What are their advantages?

- Digitalisation has become part of everyday life, and that includes education. It is vital to use the opportunities it provides in teaching processes. A few years ago, our company was among the first to digitalise all primary school How much can a good textbook stimulate textbooks, even before the Law on Textbooks and motivate children, but also teachers and made that obligatory for publishers. It has lecturers? been shown in practise that the e-textbook - The synergy of good textbooks and quality represents great support to the teacher in teaching staff achieve the best results. It is conducting classes, and gives pupils the opportunity to learn and check their knowledge in therefore important for textbooks to help a fun and interesting way, using ICT. In order to encourage and motivate students to more easily further improve e-textbooks and provide maxilearn material. We achieve this with a specially mum support to pupils designed methodicaland teachers, as of this didactic apparatus, which Richly illustrated, with school year we decided is created individually numerous graphical to work, in cooperation for each textbook. We solutions and icons, with the MozaBook thereby encourage creaour textbooks enable tive activities and mental platform, to create all students to easily processes among pupils. textbooks made accordidentify connections ing to new curricula on Richly illustrated, with a between concepts this platform. This is curhost of graphical soluand practise their tions and icons, our textrently the latest solution functional literacy books allow students to on the market, offering easily see connections numerous animations, between concepts and to practise their func3D models, virtual tours, quizzes and tests, tional literacy. all the while monitoring and evaluating the On the other hand, a good textbook also work of individual pupils and the entire class. represents important support to teachers in Moreover, as has become traditional, we are preparing and implementing classes. It provides again this year organising the contest “Digital the teacher with a logical structure upon which treasure trove of knowledge”, with which we they can further build upon procedures they will reward the most innovative solutions for the use in teaching. Our textbooks are recognised preparation of digital teaching. We are grateful by teachers as being of the highest quality, as that this contest has been recognised and supported by the Ministry of Education, Science and evidence by their presence on the market – Technological Development and the Ministry of particularly prominent here are textbooks for Trade, Tourism and Telecommunications. Digital biology, “the world around us”, informatics and textbooks are certainly excellent additional computer science, history, fine arts etc. content, but numerous studies around the world show that classical textbooks remain a basic Digitalisation is increasingly applied in education. Can e-textbooks completely replace and irreplaceable teaching tool. tal abilities and needs. We improve the quality of textbooks and other teaching materials constantly, monitoring and applying trends in digitisation, striving to raise Serbia's education system to a higher level.

Publisher BIGZ školstvo has spent more than a decade dealing with the publishing of textbooks tailored to suit students, but also teachers, and in this process it monitors all innovations in the education sector both locally and around the world

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eachers recognise BIGZ's textbooks – particularly those covering biology, “the world around us”, informatics and computer science, history and fine arts – as being of the highest quality, which is supported by their market presence.

The education system is constantly advancing. In your opinion, which are the trends to be followed?

- Our goal is to produce textbooks with structural components that support active and meaningful learning, and which respect pupils' developmen30

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