FACES & PLACES

30/8/2020 Symbols of Belgrade In The Colors Of The Polish Flag

On the occasion of the 40th anniversary of ′′Solidarity” the symbols of Belgrade were, for the first time, lit in the colors of Polish flag. 31 August 2020 marked the 40th anniversary of the founding of the Solidarity movement, which, after a strike that moved from the Lenin shipyard in Gdansk to factories and companies across the country, became the first independent and free trade union in the Soviet bloc. Since 2005, this day has been celebrated in Poland as a national holiday - the Day of Freedom and Solidarity, which serves as a reminder of the Polish struggle for freedom and independence from 1980.

8/9/2020 IWC Belgrade Gathering

The International Women’s Club Belgrade (IWC) held its first Coffee Morning event of their 2020-2021 year on 8 September in the garden at Kuća Kralja Petra. More than 50 people were in attendance, both members and guests. Visitors enjoyed a tour of the art exhibition inside the house, observing appropriate COVID-19 precautions, and also partook of finger food and other delicious dishes prepared by IWC members.

20/9/2020 The Philharmonic Orchestra Hold Concert In The Heart Of Belgrade

The Belgrade Philharmonic Orchestra held a surprise concert in Knez Mihajlova Street on the occasion of the beginning of its concert season. After the limited audience in the Philharmonic Hall listened to Mozart’s music for the previous three evenings, now the orchestra and chief conductor Gabriel Feltz performed it on the street, to the delight of all passers-by. With this surprised performance, philharmonic orchestra sent the message of its new season, “Music Everywhere”! Along with Mozart’s “Little Night Music”, the Philharmonic Orchestra prepared the atmosphere of a real concert. The audience listened to them carefully, there were those who danced, and everyone in the end rewarded the orchestra with a standing ovation.

11/9/2020 US Embassy Marked 11 September With The Voluntary Blood Donation

US Ambassador to Serbia H.E. Anthony Godfrey, doctor Mirsad Djerlek and actress Zinaida Dedakin donated blood, participating in a humanitarian action which has been paying tribute to the victims of the terrorist attack on New York and Washington on 11 September 2001 in the Red Cross for ten years. In the premises of the Red Cross in Belgrade, Godfrey estimated that 11 September 2001 was a tragic day in the history of the United States, but also of the whole world, when about 3,000 people from 90 countries were killed in the attacks on New York and the Pentagon.

FACES PLACES &

26/9/2020 76th Anniversary Of Operation Halyard Marked

In the presence of the representatives of the Government of Serbia, the President of Serbia Aleksandar Vučić and the Ambassador of the United States H.E. Anthony Godfrey, as well as numerous guests, the 76th anniversary of Operation Halyard was marked. US Ambassador Anthony Godfrey said that despite the fact that this mission was the largest rescue mission in the Second World War, not many people know about Operation Halyard because for a long time the story about the operation laid under a veil of secrecy but thanks to the joint efforts of the President of Serbia and the Halyard Foundation contributed to the two nations remembering the joint action from the Second World War. It testifies to the courage of ordinary people, the people of Šumadija, who risked their lives to save allied pilots from the enemy.

26/9/2020 Embassy Of Morocco Honors Former Ambassador Of Serbia To Morocco

Former Ambassador of Serbia to Morocco, Sladjana Prica Tavciovska, was bestowed with the order -Grand Cordon- of the Wissam Alaouite at the end of her term, during a ceremony organized by the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Belgrade. This ceremony was marked by the presence of several Serbian personalities, in particular the Minister of Labour, Employment, Veteran and Social Policy, Director of Africa and Middle East Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, former President of the Parliamentary friendship Group, President of the Chamber of Commerce of Voivodina, Ambassadors accredited in Belgrade and officials from the cultural and academic fields. In a speech delivered on this occasion, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to Serbia, H.E. Mohammed Amine Belhaj, highlighted that this highest Royal decoration represents a recognition of the significant contribution of the Serbian diplomat in the promotion of closer relations between Morocco and Serbia and also a strong symbol of the excellent relations and the exemplary partnership that the two countries are striving to build together.

Always Truly TOGETHER

It is often said that the strongest friendships are forged during tough times. And sometimes, as in the case of Italy and Serbia, they are the result of mutual, long-standing devotion to cooperation at the bilateral level and within the European framework

Serbia sent seven aircraft to Italy this April, carrying tons capacity for reform. Now the same adherence as shown on the of medical donations to help the country confront the financial side of the reforms is needed on the fronts of judicial worst moments of the coronavirus crisis. In August, when reform, media freedom and other structural issues. Serbia suddenly fell into an unexpected second wave of In terms of economics, Italy is one of Serbia’s most impor the pandemic, Italian medical experts paid a visit to Serbia to tant trade partner, with a strong commitment to the Serbian share their invaluable knowledge on how to combat the virus. market. After the sudden collapse of the trade exchange, This is how, in just two sentences, the strength of the Serbiandue to the global upheaval caused by the pandemic, business Italian friendship can be summarised. As Italian Ambassador to leaders from the two countries, supported by their associa Serbia Carlo Lo Cascio spelled out nicely: tions, restored their relations. Although “the history of our relationship is really Italy is among the most circumstances are still challenging, many a meeting of close neighbours who help each other, in both good times and bad”. active promoters of Serbia’s Italian companies are fully back in busi ness to Serbia.

Undeniably, this demonstration of accession to the European Indeed, one of the largest business profound connectedness does not come as a surprise. The history of excellent Union. Italian support to events that was awaited by both sides– the Novi Sad International Agriculture bilateral relationships between the two the country's EU accession Fair 2020 – had to be cancelled due to the countries just commemorated almost a century and a half. The strength of these ties was re process thus remains one of the key aspects of pandemic. Italy was the Partner Country of this fair in 2019, and the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) organised an official collec cently demonstrated with the visits of bilateral relations tive Italian exhibit in which 28 companies Italian Minister for European Integration from the agrarian sector, as well as the Vincenzo Amendola, at the end of 2019, and Italian Minister two centres for promotion from Italy, presented their products of Foreign Affairs Luigi Di Maio, in early 2020. Both of these and services. Finally, the strength of the partnership between high-level visits were focused of Italian support for Serbia’s the two countries could also be evaluated through the lens EU accession process. of previous developments. For example, it was the Italian

In that respect, there are great expectations that the new side that shifted the discussion on digital transformation Serbian government will elevate the negotiation process a in Serbia, and generously shared its own experience, long step up, by advancing – albeit at a faster pace - along the lines before digital forms of working became a must during the of outgoing government, which demonstrated a considerable COVID-19 pandemic.

FRIENDS During Both Good And Bad Times

The Italian medical team said that Serbia was definitely fully prepared to face the COVID-19 crisis. The expertise of local healthcare staff was assessed as being at a high level - Carlo Lo Cascio

The COVID-19 Pandemic and many months of the struggle against the virus have provided new confirmation of the “special relationship” between Italy and Serbia. Despite being confronted by a dangerous virus, our two countries – which last year celebrated 140 years of diplomatic relations – once again found a way to help and support one another, says ambassador Carlo Lo Cascio. The economic crisis that has come as a result of COVID-19 hit the economies of both countries, but the Italian ambassador is con vinced that it won’t have a stronger negative influence on our economic exchange. In this interview for CorD Magazine, ambassador Lo Cascio also says that Italian car manufacturer FCA is staying in Serbia, where it is “very likely developing new project ideas for the immediate future”.

Your Excellency, a team of Italian doctors came to Serbia to help fight against COVID-19. Could you tell us more about this medical mission? - The Italian medical team came to Serbia for two weeks during last August, with much enthusiasm and willingness to support the Serbian people, as well as their Serbian colleagues, sharing the expertise matured during the most difficult months of the pandemic in Italy, last spring. The team consisted of five doctors (a surgeon, an infectologist and two anesthetists) and a nurse, who hail from four different Italian regions: Piemonte, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lazio and Puglia. They visited the Belgrade Clinical Centre, Zemun Hospital, the clinical centres of Niš, Kragujevac and Novi Sad, as well as KBC Bežanijska Kosa.

As they stated during an interview released after the first week of their activity, Serbia was definitely fully prepared to face the crisis, and they assessed the level of expertise of local sanitary as being at a high level. On the Serbian side, in particular, the visit of the Italian medical team was appreciated for their useful advice regarding techniques adopted in Italy for treating some COVID-19 cases in hospitals.

The engagement of Italian doctors in Serbia further demonstrates the solidarity between our two countries. Italy’s struggle against the COVID-19 virus was followed with great sympathy in Serbia. Were you surprised by the humanitarian aid that was sent to Ita ly from Belgrade? - The mission of the Italian medical team was organised in summer, right when Serbia, unfortunately, had a high number of contagions again, especially in Belgrade and other main urban centres. It was important from our side to provide a sign of solidarity and friend

SOLIDARITY In my view, the great solidarity movement coming from the Serbian population once again confirmed that the friendship and feelings between Italy and Serbia are long-standing and sincere EU We aim to ensure a recovery that is fully oriented towards economic growth and sustainable development, in particular though typical tools of the digitalisation era and ecological transition EU ACCESSION Italy is without a doubt the strongest supporter of Serbia’s accession to the European Union

ship to Serbia, after Belgrade sent seven aircraft to Italy last April, cooperation or supranational aid agreements were helpful in this carrying tonnes of medical donations to help us confront the worst context, as happened with the European “Recovery Fund”. moments of the coronavirus crisis in Italy.

Although I know the generosity of the Serbian people well, I EU leaders have agreed to a comprehensive package of €1,824.3 have to say that I was truly moved by all the expressions of affection billion, which includes €750 billion to address challenges posed by towards Italy coming from both ordinary Serbian citizens and the COVID-19. Do you believe that the package will save the EU econo authorities. The generous donations to the Italian people were an my from an economic crisis that, according to some analysts, could extraordinary gesture that was very much appreciated. In my view, be more serious than the one that hit in 2009? the great solidarity movement coming from the Serbian population - I would like to recall the words of our Prime Minister Conte when once again confirmed that the friendship and feelings between Italy he presented the approved package to the Parliament. He explained and Serbia are long-standing and sincere. The history of our relation that, faced with a shock of such proportions, during those dramatic ship is really a meeting of close neighbours who help each other, in months, the European Union was able to respond with courage and both good times and bad ones. vision, right up to the decision to approve, for

You know that last year we celebrated 140 It was important from the first time, an ambitious recovery programme, years of diplomatic relations between Italy and Serbia, which we used to call a “special relation our side to provide a sign of to be financed through the issuance of genuine European government bonds. ship”. In March that same year, when Belgrade solidarity and friendship to In this way, we achieved a radical change of per received the visit of Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, we also did a dedicated special edition with CorD Magazine entitled “Always Serbia, after Belgrade sent seven aircraft spective, going beyond the logic of simple aid. We aim, instead, to ensure a recovery that is fully oriented towards economic growth and together”. In this situation of urgent humanitarian to Italy last April, carrying sustainable development, in particular though need, we can say “always together” once again, and even louder! tonnes of medical donations typical tools of the digitalisation era and eco logical transition. to help us confront the After spring 2020 and the first wave of COV ID-19 took thousands of lives in Italy, do you fear that we could see a new wave of the pandemic? t worst moments of he coronavirus crisis in Italy Italy is Serbia’s top economic partner. Could the economic recession that’s expected as a con sequence of the COVID-19 pandemic impact - Many doctors and experts foresee a difficult on the level of economic exchange? autumn/winter in Europe, if not around the whole world. I personally - Although the crisis had an impact on the economic partnership between cannot make forecasts, though I obviously hope that an increase in Italy and Serbia, this must be seen in light of the more general crisis that contagions in Italy, Serbia or other places will not happen again, and affected economies worldwide. Considering the situation as a whole, I that the current rise in numbers in some countries will stop soon. would say that trade exchanges between our two countries are still safe

Having said that, I think that countries in the meantime gained and sound. Of course, we would like to see everything soon go back to much more experience for fighting the virus and they should now “business as usual”, in order to again reach the four-billion-euro peak be better prepared to face new infection “waves” than in the past, of 2018 in trade exchange as soon as possible. also considering that in many parts of the world processes are well Innovation instruments envisaged in the European Recovery Fund underway to establish international rescue and support mechanisms, should also help in this direction, as well as a strategy of public support like in the case of the EU. for companies that already operate or intend to enter international markets through the extraordinary resources provided by the govern What do you think is the greater danger now: the Coronavirus Pan ment to give a new impetus to the production system. demic or the socio-economic fallout from the COVID-19 crisis? - Both are obviously severe aspects of this crisis. It is fundamental to Do you know what fate awaits the Fiat factory in Kragujevac? preserve the health of the population and therefore continue to put - The FCA [Fiat Chrysler Automobiles] Group is a very solid economic in place appropriate measures, if and when needed. player. FCA is certainly going to continue to invest and be present in

At the same time, economic systems must be kept active and Serbia, as it is also very likely developing new project ideas for the economic relations need to continue and flourish again. International immediate future.

Italy supports Serbia’s European integration, though that process I therefore expect the new Serbian Government to maintain appears to be slowing down. How do you see the fact that Serbia the pace of its European journey and continue the reform process, has not opened a single chapter in the last six months, for the first considering that – with accession to the EU – Belgrade is looking for time since it began EU membership negotiations? something beyond: better living standards and more prosperity for - Italy is without a doubt the strongest supporter of Serbia’s accession the whole country and its population. to the European Union. Italy and Serbia also last year celebrated 10 years since the signing of the strategic partnership agreement, which During the state of emergency this spring, you were very active on officially marked our commitment to intensify renewed cooperation social networks, reminding your followers of the EU’s support for under the basis of the common intention to see Serbia moving even Serbia during the struggle against the coronavirus outbreak. Do you faster towards European integration. Therefore, this certainly remains have the impression that there is a feeling in Serbia, but also in Ita one of the core aspects of our relationship, as ly, that the EU was late in reacting to the panwell as our bilateral support to Serbia. demic, while some other countries, such as

As a demonstration, in Belgrade last De China, quickly organised the sending of aid? cember we welcomed a visit of our European - At the beginning of the outbreak of this coro Integration Minister Vincenzo Amendola, and navirus in Italy, and therefore in Europe, not this year began with the visit of our Foreign Af many people immediately realised what was fairs Minister Luigi Di Maio, who reaffirmed the happening everywhere, and some observers fundamental pillars of our partnership, including commented that the EU did not want to help our common belonging to the European project. Italy. The European Council later responded fully

Serbia also certainly has the clear goal of to its task, as I said before, making its decision completing its European integration path, as more forward looking than ever. of a long time ago, and it has been carrying out The EU also contributed a lot to assist the accession process officially from 2014, ac Serbia during the most difficult months, with cording to an agreed schedule that requires the effective assistance, immediate humanitarian fulfilment of reforms and changes in 35 “sectors” aid and generous donations. (the so-called ‘Chapters’ listed by the Framework In general, I disagree with certain doubting Agreement for Accession Negotiations). In the approaches regarding the EU’s true intentions latest periodical evaluation of the state, there Last year we celebrated 140 towards Serbia. They are deceiving and coun was no agreement among EU member states years of diplomatic relations terproductive. We shouldn’t forget that the on the opening of new Chapters, as the majority thought that there was not enough progress on between Italy and Serbia, implementation mechanism provides Serbia with 300 million euros in grants per year to crucial chapters 23 and 24, on the rule of law which we used to call a support the reform process. In addition to and fundamental rights. That doesn’t mean that EU member states “special relationship”. In March that, we should not forget that the EU, as a whole, is Serbia’s top trade partner, top donor don’t maintain an interest in Serbia becoming that same year, when Belgrade and top investor. part of the EU. Rather, it is a sign that democratic processes, the protection of human rights and cross-party dialogue should all be more central received the visit of Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, What do you expect in the continuation of the dialogue between Belgrade and Priština, and visible aspects, in order to bring the country we also did a dedicated special which has been renewed under the patron ever closer to EU standards. edition with CorD Magazine age of the EU? - We fully support the dialogue under EU facili There were voices from EU institutions raising entitled “Always together”. tation between Belgrade and Priština, and we concern over the state of democracy in Serbia. How would you asses the current situation? In this situation of urgent were pleased with the resumption of talks in Brussels, in July, after a long pause. We are aware - Given that Serbia is in the European integration humanitarian need, we can that discussions are never easy, and that’s why process, a spill-over effect is expected to take say “always together” once we encourage both sides to work with openplace in several sectors of reform, generating a positive transformative trend, specifically again, and even louder! mindedness and a forward-looking approach, in line with their European perspective. We firmly in critical areas. support EU Special Representative Miroslav

Specific improvements should be achieved especially on the rule Lajčak’s facilitation in the search for a sustainable and durable agree of law. Media freedom and freedom of expression, as well as reform ment to ensure peace and stability in the region. Italy supports this in the administration and the judicial system, together with the fight process very much, also by leading the KFOR Mission, which benefits against corruption, are key areas that require further developments. from the presence and support of many actors.

Collegial EXCHANGE

PRECIOUS

Italy and Serbia are today much better prepared when it comes to a possible second wave of the pandemic. While complex equipment is necessary, the most valuable element is the sharing of knowledge and collegial exchanges. This makes the visit of the Italian medical team to Serbia a precious sign of friendship between the two countries

An Italian health team consisting of five doctors and a nurse – Jacopo Pallavicini (surgeon and team leader, Turin), Agostino Roasio (anaesthesiologist, Asti), Andrea Mariano (infectious diseas sepcialist, Lazzaro Spallanzani Hospital, Rome), Andrea Roncarati (anaesthesiologist, Pordenone, Western Friuli), Vito Procacci (emergency medicine physician and head of emergency department, Bari Polyclinic), Alice Pollano (nurse, Turin) – came to Serbia for two weeks from 2 nd to 16 th August, at the initiative of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, in coordination with the Department of Civil Protection. The

team operated thanks to an agreement between the Italian Certainly, during the most severe moments of the crisis, we and Serbian governments. also received the help that we tried to provide to our Serbian

During their mission, these Italian healthcare profescolleagues during our mission to Belgrade. sionals were received by Serbian Health Minister Zlatibor Lončar and visited the Clinical Centre of Serbia, the Clinic for What was your motive for sharing knowledge with your Infectious and Tropical Diseases in Belgrade, Zemun Hospital colleagues in Serbia? In which areas were you able to conand the clinical centres of Bežhanijska Kosa, Niš, Novi Sad tribute the most? and Kragujevac. These meetings allowed them to exchange - The mission in Belgrade is part of the commitment that Italy information and experience regarding the treatment of has put in place in support of the Balkan region regarding the COVID-19 with local doctors and health staff, in order to better COVID-19 emergency since the start of the pandemic, witaddress the management of patients with the virus in these nessed lastly by the sending of a medical team to Albania also. hospitals. We spoke with team leader Dr Jacopo Pallavicini Tangibly, the goal of our visit was to exchange experiences about the mission to Serbia, as well as the current situation and knowledge regarding the treatment of COVID-19 cases in regarding the pandemic. several sanitary structures in Serbia. There is no treatment What condition is the Italian medical system in today, on the approaches and we have given some advice to our colleagues, eve of autumn – when we expect a new wave of COVID-19 to given the experience that we had in Italy during the previous hit? Do you feel more prepared; are you very difficult months. better equipped and more experienced? - The Italian healthcare system is fully operational and, although the overall Enormous work and effort has been undertaken to increase Particular appreciation for the Italian experience included two points: the mechanical ventilation of patients in intensive number of infections was very critical hospital capacities and care; and the technique of assessing the during spring, it has been able to respond adequately to the challenges and overcapabilities across Italy, lungs of the most critical patients with ultrasound devices. come the crisis successfully. particularly in intensive care, Italy was the first European country to be hit by the pandemic, in particular the northern part of our country. The to further prepare the health system for the possible What are your impressions in relation to the equipment of the healthcare institutions in Serbia and the level of knowledge sanitary structures, as well as all mediemergence of a second wave among domestic experts? cal staff and the central government, in cooperation with regional governments, of the pandemic - We had the chance to see that European standards are applied in Serbia. Serbia responded efficiently and exerted all has responded well to the epidemic and possible efforts. Citizens themselves were subjected to very the local doctors have done an outstanding job. They are very restrictive measures. well prepared and absolutely ready to fight the epidemic in

Through this first severe experience, especially in March the case that another major outbreak of the virus hits. and April, Italy gained much more preparedness with respect We have seen very well-organised hospitals, spoken with to the first time, and also thanks to great help and donahospital directors who showed that they have very clear ideas tions, as well as international decisions that intervened in about what actions to take. The protection of health workers the meantime. It is for this reason that I can certainly state in Serbia is at an extremely high level. Hospital personnel have that we are much better prepared and equipped than before. the highest level of protective equipment and know how to

Enormous work and effort has been undertaken to increase use it. Organisation is very successful; they have managed hospital capacities and capabilities across Italy, particularly to keep the positive cases separate from negative and undein intensive care, to further prepare the health system for the tected individuals, which are more problematic in this regard. possible emergence of a second wave. code for this disease, unfortunately, but there are different Do you continue to exchange experiences with your Serbian Were your colleagues in the EU and elsewhere willing to colleagues today? share their knowledge and experiences? Is this type of - We are in contact with them and remain available for further cooperation equally evident today as it was at the onset deepening of information, if needed. We hope that a similar of the crisis? mission can also be implemented in the future by Serbian - We also had contacts with our colleagues within other EU doctors and specialists in Italy. We have created a network countries and I can confirm that there is a general interest of colleagues and friends and are still in touch with them, in sharing information among several sanitary systems. even if we are far away.

In your opinion, to what extent have Serbia has responded well What advice would you give to your national policies towards health sys tems changed today, after the pan to the epidemic and colleagues in Serbia and citizens in the wake of the expected new wave of the demic showed the detrimental effects the local doctors have done pandemic this coming autumn and winter? of the austerity measures applied to healthcare? an outstanding job. They are - In Italy citizens shifted their consciousness deeply and during recent months - The plans that were approved by the very well prepared and have become increasingly aware, wise European Council in July, aimed at supporting individual EU countries after this major crisis, certainly also help healthcare a t bsolutely ready to fight he epidemic in the case and cautious: some noticeable behaviours in everyday life were the increase of the use of masks and avoiding crowds. systems. Among the various tools, the that another major outbreak Awareness and compliance with preven“ReactEU” instrument, with a total budget of 47.5 billion euros, ensures that antiof the virus hits tative measures, such as maintaining basic hygiene and physical distance, COVID-19 interventions can be introduced which is currently the main way to keep in favour of the health system and support workers’ incomes the infection curve down, are now more present in the and corporate liquidity. In more general terms, certainly more mentality and behaviour of the population. This would be awareness was spread among governments in respect to the best advice that I could give to our Serbian friends the importance of assuring sufficient budgets for health for maintaining contagions at a low level, unless a more departments. definitive solution is available.

GOOD TIME To Reshape And Re-organise Business

Engineering Software Lab has more than 200 developers and specialists currently working in the fields of consulting, project management and information systems development

Company Engineering Software Lab is part of the major international Engineering Group, which employs almost 12,000 people worldwide. As a global player in digital transformation, the group has developed its own internal systems that enable it to adapt quickly to a new situation – within 48 hours! The current pandemic crisis has accelerated the adoption of enabling technologies, which have thankfully allowed many organisations, including this one, to utilise them in order to remain fully operational and allow people to stay in touch with the outside world.

“Right from the beginning of this complex crisis, we immediately switched to remote work mode, in order to protect the health of all our employees. For those like us who work in the ICT sector, getting used to smart working is easier. But, regardless of the pandemic event, we already considered the enhancement of talent as the main benefit of smart working. Knowing how to build, organise and manage work groups that can interact mutually regardless of where people are physically located is a way to offer opportunities for growth and participation in projects that can often also represent career opportunities. It is also in this perspective that Engineering Software Lab structures the work by bringing together the best talent to find the best solutions to build the software that our customers need,” says GM Paolo Di Bella.

Given that you mentioned clients and customers, tell us how this crisis has impacted on your business partnerships? - We work with and partner stakeholders across different markets. Some of these industries have been hit harder than others, like manufacturing, transportation, travel & hospitality. When the crisis began, we knew that it was important to do our best to enable our clients to function normally. Our clients appreciate all our efforts and we are proud that we succeeded in this very challenging task.

What we see now, from talking to all our partners, is that digital transformation is no longer just an item on their list of priorities, it is at the top of that list. Increasing or accelerating capabilities for full remote working are essential steps. This goes hand-in-hand with increasing Cybersecurity capabilities. The delivery of services and goods needs to be enhanced through autonomous activities that are less dependent on a human presence (for example - from digitalising offices all the way to virtualising showrooms).

In general, this is a good time to think about how we can reshape the existing organisation of business in the new scenario that’s referred to as ‘the new normal’. We are witnesses and active participants in creating a new normality, so this is a great opportunity to think out of the box.

You don’t believe there will be a return to the old world after the end of the pandemic? What is the new normality for Engineering Software Lab? - If everything went back to the way it was in the period before the epidemic, that would mean we haven’t learned anything new from this crisis. The new normality from our point of view implies the strengthening of all business processes, so that we can adapt to future changes even faster and easier. Adopting a modified smart working model in combination with working from an office is definitely a good way.

Engineering Software Lab learned a lot from this situation. The best indicator of that is the fact that our company has preserved stability and that, even during this crisis, we are further expanding our team in Belgrade and hiring new colleagues.

I am extremely proud of how my colleagues have coped with the new circumstances. We all miss social contact and spending time with our colleagues in the same space, but there is no alternative at this moment when it comes to preserving and protecting health.

STRONG PRESENCE, Stronger Prospects

Italy and Serbia have been historically linked through excellent bilateral political and economic relations. The two Countries celebrated two important anniversaries in 2019: 140 years of diplomatic relations between Rome and Belgrade; and 10 years of their strategic partnership

During the same year, Italy was again Serbia’s second largest trading partner, with a total trade exchange of 3.84 billion euros (2.07 billion in Italian exports to Serbia and 1.77 billion in Italian imports from Serbia). The main sectors of activity include the automotive, banking and insurance sectors, textiles, footwear, agriculture and, as of recently, energy. Several Italian companies are also involved in the construction sector in Serbia.

The database of the Development Agency of Serbia shows that, between 2007-2019, Italy was the leading investor in Serbia, both in terms of the number of projects implemented and absolute value. Italian companies have to date invested over three billion euros in Serbia and, according to a recent study that will be published soon by the Embassy of Italy and the Italian-Serbian Chamber of Commerce, employ a total of 39,000 workers. Considering indirect employment too, Ital

ian companies provide work for more than 50,000 workers in connections among local authorities, thanks to the existence Serbia, with around 1,600 registered companies having Italian of bilateral agreements between regions and provinces. An shares and generating 5.4% of Serbia’s GDP. example of that is the protocol signed in 2018 between Italy’s

Many Italian companies invested in Serbia long before Lombardia Region and Serbia’s Autonomous Province of Vojvo other international partners, developing a special relationship dina, while in 2020 the Veneto Region concluded an agreement with their local counterparts, built on mutual trust and thereby with the Republic of Serbia in the fields of the creative industry, gaining excellent economic results in terms of production and education and research & innovation. employment. Serbia has a lot to offer Italian companies: firstly, Italy has continuously shown its willingness to support Ser the geographic proximity and the country’s connection to the bia’s European integration process at the political and economic entire Balkan region; secondly, the links with other international levels. The visits to Belgrade of Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, markets, both to the west and the east, finally the expertise in 2019, and Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and knowledge of local workers, which helped Italian companies Minister Luigi Di Maio, at the beginning of this year, confirmed develop strong local management structures. At the same the importance that Italy attaches to its relationship with time, the Italian entrepreneurial spirit is highly appreciated in Serbia. During both visits, the Italian and Serbian authorities Serbia, because of the capacity of Italian businesses to bring recognised the importance of the two countries’ economic ties positive change in cultural and social terms all over the country. as being a fundamental component of our excellent bilateral

At the institutional level, Italy is present in Serbia with a very relations. Italy also encourages Belgrade to adopt and imple strong network, within the framework of the so-called “Sistema ment reforms in the interest of Serbian citizens and foreign Italia” (a group of institutions/associations working together investors, in order to further improve the business environment to support Italy’s economic presence in and the stability of the economy. the country). All together, the Embassy Between 2007-2019, Italy was Serbia has already successfully at of Italy, the Italian Foreign Trade Agency, the Italian-Serbian Chamber of Commerce the leading investor in Serbia, tracted Italian FDIs over past years and – with the completion of the privatisation and Confindustria Serbia work tirelessly both in terms of the number process, the advancement of the fiscal sec to promote Italian companies and their investments. “Sistema Italia” and Italian companies in Serbia are also focused of projects implemented and absolute value. Italian tor and the judiciary, and the efficiency of public administration in general – Serbia will become an even more interesting market on fostering collaboration with schools companies have to date for other Italian companies. and universities, through dual education programmes. As of today, many Italian invested over three billion Many Italian companies invested in the Serbian manufacturing sector in 2018 and companies in different Serbian towns and euros in Serbia and, according 2019, opening new factories or expanding cities are already training students. Italian institutions here traditionally en joy very good relations with the Chamber of to a recent study that will be published soon by the Embassy their production. The COVID-19 Pandemic has hit the Serbian economy in an asym metric way during 2020, impacting some Commerce & Industry of Serbia, thanks to of Italy and the Italian-Serbian sectors more than others, but surveys fruitful cooperation in the co-organisation of business events, such as B2B gatherings, Chamber of Commerce, employ show that Italian businesses have not lost their interest in the Serbian market, while country presentations and sector-specific a total of 39,000 workers many indicators prove that the propensity missions to and from Italy. Serbian and Ital to increase their presence again is clear. ian companies can also count on the Office of the Chamber of The Italian companies that already do business in Serbia are Commerce & Industry of Serbia in Trieste, which is constantly satisfied with the way the Government of Serbia responded working to promote bilateral projects. to the epidemiological crisis, which represented a harsh test

Economic ties are enhanced by scientific cooperation be for all the economies of the planet and showed the stability tween the two countries. Over the last 10 years, projects in the and resilience of the Serbian economy. Forecasts for 2021 are field of higher education, science, technology and innovation positive, and Italy will certainly contribute in terms of invest have been experiencing an extraordinary moment: more than ments, goods and technology. 60 cooperation agreements between Italian and Serbian uni There are great prospects for the further development of versities have been conducted during this period. Furthermore, economic collaboration in many sectors – from the more traditional with the 2012 creation of the Association of Italian and Serbian ones, like agriculture and infrastructures, to the emerging ones, Scientists and Scholars (AIS3), which brings together more like new technologies, renewable energies and the sustainable than 400 researchers and academics from the two countries, and smart economy. As for agribusinesses, the recent availability joint projects will continue to thrive in the future. of IPARD funds for rural development will allow more Serbian

Our mutual economic relations are also based on strong companies to purchase Italian agricultural technologies.

GIORGIO MARCHEGIANI, PRESIDENT OF THE ITALIAN-SERBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND CEO AT DDOR INSURANCE, MEMBER OF THE UNIPOL GROUP

SUPPORT THAT WORKS Like Magic

In this emergency situation, the role of the Chamber was essential in our business community, both in protecting existing companies and reinforcing the bridges between Italy and Serbia. We are not magicians, but as a chamber we support our member companies in their everyday business life and cultivate longterm relationships with them. This seems to be appreciated as a value proposition

Italian FDI will continue for sure, says Italian-Serbian Chamber of Commerce President Giorgio Marchegiani in this interview for our CorD special edition. Indeed, as can be read in the lines below, the Italian-Serbian Chamber of Commerce is doing its best to keep the existing business community safe and sound, and to attract new members and prospective investors. And we can therefore look with hope towards new Italian investments in 2021.

Mr Marchegiani, the previous months weren’t normal for any of us. What was the “not normal / new normal” for the Ital ian-Serbian Chamber that you head? - You are right, nothing was normal - first of all for all of us as human beings, even before considering our professional role.

Thinking back to the previous months, I can describe two phases: the emergency and the restart. For the first part, I remember very well that week starting on 9 th March: I flew to Serbia on the Monday, hoping that flights would be maintained. Italy was already experiencing a health tsunami and we were all worried for our companies and our families. The whole of Europe, and also Serbia, implemented more severe measures that week, closing airports and locking down borders with neighbouring countries in a few hours. In that situation, where all of us were confused, scared and also had huge logistical problems (trucks blocked, drivers quarantined, families displaced), the Chamber behaved as a community to help, cooperating with the Italian Embassy in Belgrade, sharing information about the situation at the border crossings, health regulations, safety measures in the workplace, solutions, concerns, experiences.

That first phase brought us back to the original role of the Chamber of Commerce: to meet and share information, in a difficult environment. Compared to the past, the meet ing place was on the web and via social media, or over the telephone.

During those days, I immediately pushed the staff to issue our newsletters almost daily via email, with all relevant official information. Further to this, a huge number of special cases was dealt with, with some thousands of phone calls that our staff answered, to support specific situations.

After a few weeks, in May, the second phase started, which purchases of policies for all insurance products and services I define as “the search for new markets”. In that phase, Italian within the regulations in Serbia. Besides this situation, DDOR companies – in most cases ones with no existing presence in osiguranje has also been preparing new products and services, Serbia – started calling us to understand how this market can but also channels that will enable customers to have better help them generate new business. This activity is still continu information, purchase policies, but also report claims. ing and I hope it will bring new investments to Serbia in 2021. The ‘new normal’ that awaits us in the future will have a From the perspective of your members, which measures of going to be a value adding part of that. the Serbian government were the most important for com strong online component of everyday activities, and we are panies to proceed to work? Which of your services did clients need the most and how - The COVID-19 impact is specific by industry and company size. has your offer adjusted to cope with the new circumstanc Each industry sector had its own approach. In general, I can say es of the market? that both the salary contribution and the moratorium on tax and - From the beginning of the epidemic, DDOR osiguranje called other payments were highly appreciated by companies. I person on people to act responsibly and follow prescribed measures ally observed and praised the quick reaction of the Government of behaviour. However, in the case of COVID-19 infection, we and rapid implementation of measures. Speed is key and our were the first to introduce the product ‘Epidemik Protekt’, members appreciated that. which provides assistance and financial We were the first to help to those who must be hospitalised. How complex is it for your company to navigate and organise workers and oper introduce the product The citizens can have it as additional insur ance with their life insurance policy and ations in volatile times and during sudden ‘Epidemik Protekt’, which companies as a group accident policy for changes in the health situation? - Now that the we have several months of experience with the new situation, I can t provides assistance o those who must be a life insurance policy that already cover risks against epidemics. Additionally, we introduced special travel say that we must be satisfied with how we hospitalised. We also health insurance that included COVID-19 reacted to the new conditions of business with the epidemic. introduced special travel for all tourists planning their holidays somewhere abroad. At the same time, we

DDOR osiguranje is a large company health insurance that included offered special insurance for hotel guests with a large network and the challenge was to reorganise processes in order to protect employees and clients, while COVID-19 for all tourists travelling abroad who decide to stay in Serbia. Given that Serbia operates on a tight still providing a high level of service. We budget, which non-financial measures decided to remain open the entire time, but we also adjusted. could help the insurance industry better catch up with the That said, we enabled the option of working from home for needs of the market? more than 70% of our people, immediately introduced high - There are a number of measures that we can apply: we have to health and safety measures on our premises and introduced listen continuously to our clients, use their language – including the contactless purchasing of policies for both citizens and digital media – work on the availability of insurance and pro companies. In the Claims department we introduced a system viding it when its needed, and in a way that can be understood of contactless claims reporting and scheduling of damage by most people. At the same time, the whole industry, along assessment, in order to reduce the number and volume of with regulators and partners, should continue joint efforts contacts between employees and customers. on educating the general public, which is a continuous and

All the measures taken were implemented in a timely man enduring process. That said, we used to say that insurance ner and I can say that we did a good job in protecting people is most expensive when you don’t have any. This also means while maintaining the level of business operations. that citizens can buy insurance that could save their homes or other property for amounts that are affordable to most people. How successful was the shift to the online domain for the For business clients, some forms of insurance are obliga insurance industry and your company in particular? tory or required by partners, and for them insurance is part - The whole world shifted online. Unlike some other industries, of their investment in business continuation. insurance is one of the most conservative and, to some extent, We have a good example in the agriculture business, where this situation accelerated the shift online. On top of our regular the state provides incentives for producers by subsidising online shop that offers standard insurance products, mainly 40% of the premium. In this way, food production – as one for travel, we provided the option of completely contactless of the most important branches of industry – has support.

WE CONNECT Three Continents

Express SEE has been providing logistics services, both abroad and on the domestic market, since it was founded in Belgrade in 2014. The company operates within the framework of Italy-based international freight forwarding group ExpressGlobal

Thanks to the fact that it is currently present on three You are in a position to respond to almost all market needs. continents, this group is able to meet the specific and Does this mean that your list of satisfied clients is long, while demanding needs of the markets, operating via all you have an even greater desire for growth and progress? modes of transport and dealing with customs media - The team that I lead is experienced, but still sufficiently tion in import, export and transit procedures. young. We are constantly improving and have a pronounced need to both nurture relationships with existing clients and Your company’s focus is always the same - providing optimal acquire new ones. We are helped in this by the fact that clients solutions in terms of costs and transit time for each delivery. recommend us to their acquaintances, because they recognise Do you manage to achieve that on all three continentswhere us as a reliable partner in every respect. you operate? We want to be recognised on the market as a company - ExpressGlobal, which we are a part of, represents a network that succeeds in overcoming all challenges, in order for our that’s able to respond to the demands of clients on all conti clients to be able to dedicate themselves to their jobs and nents. We strive to offer a service that is tailored to the client, work obligations. With a professional approach to each cli i.e. to always offer a service that provides ent, we create stable cooperation that the best ratio of costs and delivery time. We want our clients to know endures for years. Apart from costs and delivery time, we consider our company’s responsiveness as its special quality. We don’t allow much that their goods are secure with us and that we take care Express SEE is synonymous with reliable logistics partners in the region. Does time to pass before responding to every of them throughout the course this mean that clients recognise that request received. Moreover, we also strive hard to ensure that clients are constantly of transport and logistics cooperation with you guarantees the security of their shipment until the end well informed about the status of their of its journey? shipments, and to work proactively with the aim of preventing - Apart from standard criteria in terms of punctuality and reli problems that can arise due to possible disruptions withinthe ability of delivery, which we maintain at a high level, Express logistics chain. SEE considers it very important that our clients don’t feelstress

Express SEE attributes the success of its operations, among during transport and logistics operations. We endeavour to other things, to the extraordinary interpersonal relationships adapt the service to each client individually, because we are cultivated among colleagues on all three continents. As we all aware that not everyone has the same parameters forassess share the same goal of ensuring satisfied clients, we manageto ing level of service. find the best transport and logistics solutions. Our workis eased We want our clients to know that their goods are secure by the fact that we have offices around the world,because we with us and that we take care of them throughout the course know that we always have colleagues we can turn to for every of transport and logistics, while our experience enables us to request beyond the borders of our country. avoid or overcome any problem during the transport process.

AUNDE WILL MOVE A Step Forward

AUNDE SRB D.o.o. (Ltd.) is a manufacturing plant in the Pomoravlje District of Serbia, a partner of thr AUNDE Group that’s 100% owned by AUNDE Italia S.p.A and is among the top players in the sector of vehicle upholstery production in Serbia

AUNDE had a total of 700 employees in 2019, while in 2020 the company expects to increaseits number of workers bynine per cent, thus reaching the level of 760 total staff.

It was in January 2015 that AUNDE SRBlaunched productionof seat covers for theFIAT 500L, one of the best selling cars in itssegment in the EU, on working area of approximately 11,000m2. AUNDE SRB produces seat covers for FIAT, MERCEDES, Peg Perego, IVECO and other important automotive customers. Thanks to great advances in its production processes,based on the TPS methodology, AUNDE is nowamong the best players in the seat cover production sector in Serbia.

The company had a turnover of 24.7 million euros in 2018, while the 2019 result will total 25 million euros, and turnover is set to increase by six per cent in 2020.

The company’s current workforce is 72 per cent women. Shifts are restricted to two, in order to ensure AUNDE’s ladies are also able to take care of their children. AUNDE also has more than 10 per cent of women staff at the first and second levels of management. As a customer-orientated company, AUNDE SRB – like all companies in the Aunde Group - pay attentions to all environmental and safety issues. Some important awards symbolise the way major institutions recognise the greatin vestment and workdone by AUNDE in Serbia: ○ Leonardi Price (Ital ianSerbian Chamber of Commerce). ○ Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Serbia Award for the Best Company, in recognition of the company’s success in increasing its turnover and number of workers. ○ Freedom of the City of Jagodina Award (17th October 1945). ○ Captain Misa: National Award of the City of Novi Sad. ○ Confindustria Serbia AWARD. AUNDE SRB will continue operations in Serbia and advance towards opening the doors to important new markets, and not only in the automotive sector. AUNDE SRB will chose its new Customer in Serbia and in Balkan area in sectors like furniture.

We Recognised Common GOALS & WORKED AS A TEAM

Everything we achieved stems from teamwork and mutual support. Now it is important to move forward and define our priorities clearly

COVID-19 represents a global problem and as a con sequence it seriously affects the global economy. Unfortunately, the negative consequences of the pandemic in the first half of the year did not sparetrade and business relations between Italy and Serbia. Italy was under “lockdown” in the period from March to May, during which – statistically speaking – production levels fell by 29.9% compared to the first three months of the year. Since the lockdown applied to industry too, in that period production was reduced to manufacturing of only essential goods and this affected the operations of Italian subsidiaries in Serbia,” says Patrizio Dei Tos, President of Confindustria Serbia. “In the first days of the Coronavirus crisis in Serbia, our member companies recorded a decline in exports and productivity, some of them up to 30 per cent, but once the issues of mobility, transport, logistics and import-export procedures between the two countries were regulated, companies returned to a steady business flow.”

In the meantime, which sectors had been able to reorganise under the new circumstances and which of them will be most seriously affected? - In my opinion it is important to emphasise that, soon after the declaration of the epidemic and the introduction of a

state ofemergency in Serbia, Confindustria Serbia’s member companies reacted quickly and readily to the new situation and reorganised their operations by implementing all safety rules to protect the health of their employees and secure a safe working environment, preventing the further spread of the virus.

At the same time, a positive impulse arrived from the Government of the Republic of Serbia, which reacted in a timely and adequate manner by adopting economic measures, with the aim of reducing the negative economic effects of the Coronavirus pandemic. These measures had a positive impact on the operations of companies under these circum- stances, helping them to secure both production and the employment rate.

How supportive were other branches ofConfindustria to your work and in whichaspects was their expertise most needed? - Synergy and coordination with the Italian headquarters of Confindustria were of great importance to us in terms of facing the upcoming crisis in Serbia.

Italy was hit by the Coronavirus crisis before Serbia, and that “Italian experience” was invaluable for us - we used

Here in Serbia we’ve hadexceptional support from,and maximum cooperationwith, the Embassy of Italyin Belgrade, the Chamber of Commerce & Industryof Serbia, the Serbian Association of Employers andthe Foreign Investors Council.We’ve worked as a team

their models to build our strategies, to develop proposals in terms of protocols and recommendations for safe and healthy work space and management of the relations with employees, but also to propose economic, fiscal and finan- cial measures to the institutions of the Republic of Serbia, many of which – I am pleased to add – were included in the set of measures adopted by the Government of Serbia to help the economy.

I’d also like to add that thanks to the efforts of Confin- dustria Serbia, but also to the joint action with the Italian - Serbian Chamber of Commerce, there had been appeals addressed to the head of the Italian government, aimed at drawing attention to the difficult situation experienced by CEOs operating in both countries, due to the strict limits imposed on movement of people. With the simultaneous commitment of the President of Confindustria in Italy, we managed to fight for a significant change in the rules regarding transfers to Italy from Serbia, so that now travel- ling between the two countries for business has become possible again.

LOOKING BOLDLY Towards The Future

Given that Italy is among the leading nations in many aspects of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Serbia is keen to strengthen bilateral cooperation between companies, universities, research institutes and local administrations. And Confindustria Serbia has been contributing to this cause for years

According to the latest Deloitte report (2019), Italy is at the global forefront in many aspects of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the so-called digital revolution. Furthermore, Italian executives fully appreciate digitalisation as being fundamental to their companies’ futures and are looking to adopt and use digital technologies.

According to Eurostat, there are approximately 5,400 high-tech manufacturing companies in Italy, making it one of the top four countries in Europe (along with Germany, the UK and Poland). If all sectors are included – among both services and manufacturing – Italy remains among the top countries.in Europe, with more than 105,000 hightech companies. Italy is also above the European average in terms of the production and use of industrial robots and in the adoption of 4.0 technologies, such as the cloud, the Internet of Things (IoT) and machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, the Deloitte report states.

Italian companies also invest heavily in scientific and The second one was organised with the participation of Boctechnological research. According to the European Comconi Universityat the Zvezdara Science and Technology Park mission, at €185.4 million, the average annual research and included the presenting of the various possibilities and and development expenditure of Italy’s top R&D spending challenges that digitalisation offers for traditional industries, enterprises is higher than the equivalent EU average of such as production or sales. The third conference covered to €165.8 million. the topic of cyber security, while the fourth addressed 5G,

Italy is ranked seventh worldwide in robotics, just beenabled technologies and similar topics. Conferences now hind giants like China, South Korea, Japan and the U.S. The represent a tradition ofgreat importance for Confindustria, country’s annual production of 6,500 units is expected to as well as an occasion tomeet every autumn and highlight the rise to about 8,500 units by the end of 2020. Although that digital revolution, which encompasses both our private and number is low compared to Germany, which manufactures professional lives. about 20,000 robots annually, Italy still ranks second in Europe, with France and Spain trailing behind, with 4,200 and 3,900 units respectively.

Moreover, Italy is also in the global top ten in terms of robotic intensity: the number of industrial robots compared to the size of the workforce. According to the International Federation of Robotics, Italy has 185 robots per 10,000 manufacturing employees, placing it far ahead of Spain, France and the UK.

The same report states that Italyranks sixth worldwide in terms of M2Mcommunication, which is fundamentalto Industry 4.0, and is also advancingpromisingly in cloud computing. Based onEurostat data, cloud technologies havebeen introduced by around 22 per centof Italian companies, which is slightly above of the European average of 21 per cent. Use of the IoT is Confindustria Serbia has These events brought together nualso rising quicklyin Italy, with the sector having more than doubled in three years. Smart meteringand smart car segments r hosted four conferences elated to digitalisation since merous representatives of Serbian and Italian companies, both traditional and innovative IT companies focused on represented Italy’s largest IoT sectors in 2016, focusing on start-ups, digital transformation, as well as EU 2017, withoutput of €980 million and €810 million respectively, followed by smart the digitalisation of experts and representatives of the Serbian government. They also presented buildings (€520 million) and IoT solutions traditional industries, cyber the experiences and expertise of Italian forindustrial logistics. In February 2017, the Italian Ministry security and 5G technologies and other top companies, as well as the good practises of Italian cities that have of Economic Development launched the embraced the smart city approach. Industria 4.0 National Plan (I4.0), as thenew strategy to put The aim of these events was to promote public-private in place horizontalmeasures accessible for all enterprises partnerships and collaborations, as well as to emphasise with the aim of boosting investment in new technologies, the importance of introducing fast-changing technological research and development, thus revitalising the competishifts to the traditional businesses environment. tiveness of Italian companies. It was with this in mind in 2019 that Confindustria

Within such a context, it is no wonder that Italy was among initiated cooperation between the Serbian Ministry of the leading countries in introducing the topic of digitalisation Innovation and Technological Development, and its Italto Serbia. Confindustria Serbia has hosted four conferences ian counterpart, the Ministry for Digitalisation, in order related to digitalisation since 2016, each with different foto strengthen bilateral cooperation between companies, cuses: the first conference was dedicated to start-ups and universities, research institutes and local administrations the establishment of a business environment to sustain them. in Italy and Serbia.

THOUGHTFUL APPROACH To Job Creation

Under the leadership of Confindustria Serbia and supported by the Italian Embassy in Belgrade, Italian companies have been contributing strongly to the development of dual education in the country, through cooperation with both schools and the Serbian Ministry of education

Consider this: in 2015 a then small offshoot of Jagodina-based Italian company Aunde employed 200 workers, while its entire production was directed towards the local market. Over the course of the next three years, the number of employees grew to 750, while exports soon expanded to account for 80% of the company’s production. Along the way, in 2017, the company started cooperating with the Italian Embassy, Confindustria and the Serbian Ministry of Education, with the aim of implementing the dual education programme. Aunde provided industrial machines for the school it collaborates with, and has employed 40 young students over the past five years. At the beginning of 2020, Aunde won the award for “Contribution to the Implementation of the Dual Education System”, which is presented to the most successful members of Confindustria Serbia.

In a nutshell, this is how the win-win story of dual education in Serbia looks. But there are many more Italian companies

that have been contributing to the development of dual people aged from 15 to 29 when entering the workplace, and education in Serbia. Among them are Fulgar, Modital, Dafar, such apprenticeships can last up to three years, according to Tehnostruture, Promeks and many others. collective bargaining. Such an approach offers reduced costs

Italy’s contribution to the development of dual education for new entrants and training opportunities, increases the in Serbia is both practical and envisages support for schools work-related capabilities of young employees (learning-byto procure state-of-the-art equipment for school training doing) and provides the opportunity for companies to test and experts. Specifically, as of 2017, Confindustria Serbia, as new entrants through on-the-job training. the most important association of Italian manufacturing and The Serbian approach to dual education has certainly service companies, was included in the team of the Ministry learnt from different perspectives and experiences that have of Education. Italian executives thus gained an opportunity, led to a specific model. Within that model, dual education through the association, to influence the creation and estabonly serves to complement the current model of vocational lishment of a more efficient education system in Serbia, which will serve in the function of economic development.

One of the examples of the cooperation between the Ministry of Education, and Confindustria is the launch of the “National Day of Small and MediumSized Enterprises”, which - from 2017 onwards - became a series of events bringing together numerous Italian SMEs and local communities. On this occasion, Italian SMEs open their doors to students, professors and the local community, in an effort to raise awareness among younger generations about the importance of also learning within companies. Participants are given an opportunity to gain first-hand experience of a business environment and With young people now education and differs from the model employed in other European countries. the way particular companies operate. This enrolling in dual education Specifically, the National Model of Dual event also serves as an opportunity to establish a dialogue between the business world, education and local communities, throughout Serbia, it is good to know that the whole Education protects the general education system, while the fund of hours of professional subjects is divided into learning in while encouraging the entrepreneurial process is well supported by an educational institution and learning in spirit and the development of critical and creative thinking among young future Italian companies that a real work environment. In the words of Gabriela Grujić Ph.D., Assistant Minister of professionals. are looking forward to Education responsible for dual education Indeed, Italy has rich experience in this field. The two main forms of the dual system in Italy are “school-work welcoming new entrants and future employees and upbringing, education does not mean only the acquisition of knowledge, but also the way we teach young people to use alternation” and “apprenticeships”. The their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Italian “school-work alternation” was introduced with the The Serbian concept got its legislative form in the Law aim of improving the work-related skills of young learners. It on Dual Education, which was adopted by the National Asstarts with an agreement between a school and companies. sembly of Serbia on 8th November 2017 and began being As of 2015, school-work alternation became mandatory in implemented at the start of the 2019/2020 school year. secondary education in Italy. In the meantime, the number of dual educational profiles

On the other hand, Italian apprenticeships represent a implemented in 104 secondary vocational schools has grown labour and training contract with specific supporting legislato 37, while the number of companies participating in the tion; active mainly in the labour market, these apprenticeships implementation of learning through work has reached a total have limited connections with the education system. Italian of 880. Some 2,533 pupils were enrolled in the first year of apprentices are paid workers who participate in training high school in the 2019/2020 school year. This September courses/experiences in order to acquire different kinds of marks the second year of the concept, which Italian comqualifications. The target group for apprenticeships are young panies are contributing to strongly.

Italian small and medium-sized enterprises are seen as role models and hubs for sharing knowledge when it comes to the promotion of entrepreneurship among their Serbian counterparts, particularly among the Serbian youth. On the other hand, they are also important investors in the Serbian economy

A Coach And

AN INSPIRATION

We would like to ask Confindustria to be our coach when it comes to small and medium-sized enterprises, said Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Serbia President Marko Čadez, speaking at the Public Meeting of Confindustria Serbia – the Association of Italian Industrialists in Serbia – back in February this year.

According to the Confindustria statistics, SMEs account for 70 per cent of its members in Serbia, with a total of around 600 Italian enterprises having invested approximately three billion euros of capital in Serbia. And many of these companies are run by entrepreneurs who identified an opportunity to improve their business in Serbia.

According to Italian Ambassador to Serbia H.E. Carlo Lo Cascio, Italian SMEs play a crucial role in the country and are seen by their Serbian partners as role models. “SMEs represent a model that perfectly fits the Serbian business environment, and they can bring added value to the communities where they operate,” said the ambassador, speaking at one 2019 event that brought together representatives of businesses from Italy and their Serbian counterparts.

SMEs actually represent the beating heart of the Italian economy, both within the country and beyond its borders. According to the latest OCD report, SMEs generate 66.9% of overall added value in the Italian ‘non-financial business economy’, massively exceeding the EU average of 56.4%. The share of employment generated by SMEs is even larger, at 78.1%, compared to the EU average of 66.6%.

Micro firms are particularly important in Italy, providing 28.4% of overall value added and 44.9% of overall employment in the ‘non-financial business economy’. SMEs operating

in the manufacturing sector generate 30.4% of overall SME value added in the Italian ‘non-financial business economy’. 1 There are more than 0,000 innovative start-ups and production activities, emphasising in particular the interest in cooperating in the field of the creative industries. PM Brnabić Between 2014 and 2018, SME value added currently listed in the Italian said that Serbia was interested in continuing in this sector increased by 9.7%, thus exceeding its 2008 pre-crisis level by 4.6%. national start-up register, cooperation in the segment of innovative technologies and investments by SMEs In contrast, SME employment remained mainly in high-tech from Veneto, a region that is considered a 16.2% lower than its 2008 level, rising by only two per cent between 2014 and 2018. This higher growth of value added k manufacturing and nowledge-intensive services, leader of this field in Italy. The expansion of cooperation to new fields would also certainly be welcomed, compared to employment levels is due and Serbia is seeking to learn and would contribute to expanding the to various factors. A notable driver was the Italian government’s 2016 ‘Industria from these experiences present network of Italian companies, mostly SMEs, operating in other fields 4.0’ plan, which acted as an incentive for of the Serbian economy. SMEs to increase innovation by, for example, investing in As noted, Italian SMEs are seen as promoters of the digitalisation. Consequently, most SMEs in manufacturing culture of entrepreneurship. A good example of knowledge have introduced new digital systems, such as IT security, sharing is represented by Confindustria Serbia’s ‘Day of connectivity, cloud computing and collaborative robotics. Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises’ events, which provide

Moreover, Italian SMEs have been particularly strong opportunities for dialogue between commercial sectors, the contributors to GDP growth through their direct exports. educational sector and local communities. Exporting SMEs generate significantly more value added than Such events also underpin the efforts undertaken by non-exporting SMEs and boost SME employment in particular. the Government of Serbia to strengthen entrepreneurship. Growth is currently driven mainly by SMEs in the south of the Namely, in March 2015 the Government of the Republic of country and its islands, generating 59.2% of overall growth Serbia adopted its Strategy for Supporting the Development in 2018, which equated to 18,705 new businesses. of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, Entrepreneurship and

This increase was partly the result of national and regional Competitiveness for the 2015-2020 period. Subsequently, in incentives for start-ups, such as the ‘Resto al Sud’ initiative. 2016, the government introduced financial and non-financial As a result, there are at present more than 10,000 innovative support for this sector, which later grew into the Decade of start-ups listed in the national start-up register. SMEs in highEntrepreneurship, with the Government of the Republic of tech manufacturing and knowledge-intensive services, which Serbia and the Ministry of Economy continuing to provide are usually R&D-intensive, generated 28.6% of SME value systematic support to the SME and entrepreneurship sector. added in the ‘non-financial business economy’ in Italy in 2018. The SME sector in Serbia currently accounts for 99.8%

At a recent meeting in Belgrade, Serbian Prime Minister Ana of the Serbian economy and employs 67% of Serbian workBrnabić and President of the Veneto Region, Luca Zaia, discussed ers. However, a need remains for more knowledge on how to the continuation of cooperation in the area of the economy enter foreign markets, which is a speciality of Italian SMEs.

Partner GERMANY - SERBIA

2020 The Year Of Jubilees

History CONDENSED

While we are celebrating many events and factors that make German-Serbian bilateral relations stronger, history might also be in the making. This largely depends on how the new Serbian government and parliament will deal with current accession issues

Long before the pandemic turned our world upside As such, 2020 might prove to be an historic year for down, it was well known that 2020 would be a year the region. There are several reasons for that: first, the packed with historic events. Included among them EU strongly demonstrated its interest in the region during are undoubtedly the anniversary of three decades of the crisis. This was demonstrated by EU financial support the reunification of Germany, a jubilee passionately debated of €3.3 billion to Serbia and rest of the Western Balkans; both within German borders and around Europe. Here in activation of the Union Civil Protection Mechanism during Serbia we are marking half of the century of the work of the the time of the pandemic and the expected inclusion of Goethe-Institut and preparing for the celebration of two the region in the EU developmental package including the decades of the existence of the German-Serbian Chamber a European Green Deal. of Commerce, technically in 2021. All of these events seek For their part, North Macedonia and Albania are right a different size and scope of thorough contemplation, and in the middle of their preparations for accession talks, fresh ideas about what to do next. which is an important milestone, while Serbia itself has the

Even without different kinds of jubilees, the year possible momentum required to galvanise its somewhat itself could have been remembered stalled accession negotiations. as an historic one, both at the global level and at the level of national economies. Early 2020 was marked It seems that 2020 might become an historic year in Indeed, such a shift seeks signifi cant effort from the new Serbian government and parliament to embrace by acceleration of the trade war Serbian records, as the one in a faster pace of reforms, in terms between U.S. and China, trouble some Brexit negotiations and, as a which no negotiation chapters of the rule of law and, in particular, judicial reform, media freedom and consequence, a slowdown in global were opened. However, things the fight against corruption. As Ger economic activity. This gave eve rybody a headache – from strong may look up before Germany's man Ambassador to Serbia Thomas Schieb put it: “the more progress economies like that of Germany, to EU presidency ends. on the rule of law, the more chapter the much smaller ones, such as the openings are possible.” Serbian, which is strongly dependent on its largest trade Furthermore, there is obviously the issues of the and investment partner. normalisation of relations with Kosovo, as well as the

Then the pandemic emerged, ensuring - among other general alignment of Serbia’s foreign policy record with things - that Germany’s EU presidency would a very difficult that of the EU. period in which many historical moves had been, and still One also has to keep in mind that 2020 might be an have to be, taken. The list is already long: an agreement historic year in Serbian records as the one in which no on the multi-annual financial framework for the EU for chapters were opened. Yet, as the clock ticks, space for the next seven years, plus an additional package of 750 optimism still lingers in the air. billion euros aimed at helping the recovery of the European Consequently, this edition of CorD, in which we address economy. The further complication of negotiations with all of the aforementioned issues and many more, might the UK, as well as the most important topic for our part become an important piece of evidence on how history of the world – the future of the EU enlargement process. has turned, one way or the other.

SPEED OF ACCESSION In Serbia's Hands

There is a danger of an imbalance between the overall pace of negotiations and the pace of rule of law reforms. Therefore, the basic equation is quite simple: the more progress on rule of law, the more chapter openings are possible - Thomas Schieb

The annual report of the European Commission, which has been announced for publication in October, should evaluate how far Serbia has progressed in the implementing of reforms linked to EU membership. At that time there will be discussion within the EU over whether some new chapters in the accession negotiation process could be opened,” say H.E. German Ambassador Thomas Schieb, speaking to CorD Magazine. Turning to the recent renewal of dialogue on the normalisation of relations between Belgrade and Priština, ambassador Schieb says that the essence is to ensure that “both sides reach a legally binding agreement that enables both Serbia and Kosovo to pursue their EU accession aspirations and fulfil their rights and obligations as EU members”. Asked whether that process also implies that Serbia must recognise Kosovo’s independence, Schieb says: “In my political imagination ... it would be hard to envisage such a solution without Serbia recognising Kosovo”.

Your Excellency, Germany took on the presidency of the European Union during the very difficult period of the COVID-19 Pandemic. In your opinion, what will be the biggest challenges for Berlin until the end of 2020? - The Council Presidency of the European Union is always a very challenging responsibility. And it goes without saying that this is especially true now, given the COVID-19 Pandemic – a health crisis on a global scale with enormous economic and political repercussions. The logistical difficulties of a situation when physical meetings and travel have become part of the problem alone make it challenging to organise

ECONOMY The green transition and digital transformation will play a central role in modernising the economies of the Western Balkans INVESTMENTS Germany is Serbia’s biggest trading partner; German companies’ investments in Serbia are significant: around 450 companies in Serbia have created about 64,000 jobs to date EU EU is not only an economic union, but also a union of values. Democracy and rule of law are key elements of that union. Without sharing these values, no country can and will join the EU

a presidency. The German EU Council Presidency does sion negotiations with both Serbia and Montenegro. Another everything in its power to deal with this situation. focus is the issue of demographics and migration, which we

When addressing the economic and social consequences will discuss at a conference on Youth and Migration with the of COVID-19, it is important to do this in a smart, intelligent Western Balkan countries in Berlin at the end of October. way. The objective is to ensure a transition towards a sustainable economy, also taking account of the EU Commission’s The European Commission has announced a major economproposal for the so-called “Green Deal”. ic investment plan for the Western Balkans, as a separate

At the very beginning of our presidency, we reached an project. Will that plan be presented this autumn, as previagreement on the multi-annual financial framework for the ously announced? next seven years. This agreement provides for a total volume - That is a question for the Commission, of course, but I think of more than 1074 billion euros. An additional 750 billion I’m free to say that the Economic and Investment Plan will euros will support the recovery of the European economy be presented this autumn. To the best of my knowledge, by the end of 2023. preparatory work is quite advanced. After the very substan

Beyond COVID-19, there are other difficult issues on the tive COVID related EU solidarity package, this will be a furagenda, foremost concluding negotiather means to support the countries of tions with the UK on future trade relaBeyond COVID-19, there are the region, to spur long-term recovery, tions in order to avoid a hard BREXIT. And, lasty, maintaining the momentum regarding the enlargement process. other difficult issues on the agenda, foremost concluding boost economic growth focusing on a sustainable recovery and the idea of a European Green Deal as well. The green negotiations with the UK on transition and digital transformation You’ve stated that the Western Bal kan region remains high on the agen future trade relations in order will play a central role in modernising the economies of the Western Balkans. da of Germany’s presidency of the EU. to avoid a hard BREXIT. And, Investing in clean and digital technologies What specifically does that mean for the region? - First of all, it means that, in our relast but not least, maintaining the momentum regarding the and capacities – in combination with a circular economy – will help to create jobs and growth. sponse to COVID-19, we include the enlargement process Western Balkans. The virus knows no International financial institutions have borders. We have to deal with it together. That’s why I’m predicted economic recessions for most European countries very satisfied with the EU’s financial support of €3.3 billion this year, Germany included. How will this impact on ecothat’s been mobilised for Serbia and the Western Balkans nomic cooperation between Germany and Serbia? so far, and the fact that European response mechanisms - The interim projection 2020, which was published by the are also eligible for the countries of this region. The Union German Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs at the beginning Civil Protection Mechanism, for example, has been activated of September, shows that the recession was not as severe and assistance through delivery of equipment allocated. as feared and the upswing is going faster than expected.

Besides COVID-19, we are glad about the new momentum Also, expectations among German companies for the coming of enlargement. This is most visible in the cases of North months seem to have brightened up again. Macedonia and Albania. We are preparing accession talks with The Government of Serbia invested significant funds these two countries by finalising the negotiating frameworks to help the economy. That was instrumental in tackling the within the Council right now. During our Presidency we aim crisis. Positive developments in Germany and Europe would to hold the first intergovernmental conference with North also be good news for Serbia, given the close economic Macedonia and, if conditions are met, also with Albania. We links. Germany is Serbia’s biggest trading partner; German want to promote the EU rapprochement of all the countries companies’ investments in Serbia are significant: around of the region, and pay a lot of attention to the ongoing acces450 companies in Serbia have created about 64,000 jobs

to date. Of course, some companies are able to cope with the current challenges better than others; some might have postponed the implementation of projects. However, we see no signs of German companies turning their back on Serbia, on the contrary.

Recently, Germany and Serbia established an Institutional Partnership which aims, among other things, at strengthening

more time to be implemented and to show results than rather technical adjustments in, for example, the field of agriculture. There is a danger of imbalance between the overall pace of negotiations and the pace of rule of law reforms. Therefore, the basic equation is quite simple: the more progress on the rule of law, the more chapter openings are possible.

In October we expect the Commission’s country report, which will assess Serbia’s performance over the last 12 months. Then the discussion about possible chapter openings will start within the Council. Of course, other issues apart from the rule of law also factor in, like normalisation with Kosovo and the foreign policy record generally. Unfortunately, as time passes, 2020 risks becoming a lost year for rule of law reforms. I hope that the new government and parliament will redouble their efforts to make up for the time lost due to COVID-19 and elections.

When congratulating the Serbian Progressive Party on its election victory this spring, you stated that you are convinced that the new Serbian government will increase the temthe respective supply chains, in accordance with Serbia’s industrial policy strategy and the EU Green Deal. Also, in The lack of progress on implementing the action plans po of reforms, mentioning as key areas the fight against corruption, freedom of the media and the rule of law. the framework of the German Developled to the EU’s decision not What do you base that optimism on, ment Cooperation, we are setting up an emergency grant scheme for the private to open a new accession given that EU member states have to date only criticised Serbia for insuffisector, in support of the digitalisation negotiation chapter this ciently visible progress on reforms in of small and medium-sized enterprises. Serbia didn’t open a single new negosummer. Without swift and tangible progress with regard these areas? - As I said in my answer to the previous question, Serbia will need to swiftly tiating chapter with the EU during the to the media situation, implement the reforms in the fields course of the Croatian presidency. Do you think that any will be opened durindependence of the judiciary you mention. The necessary reforms were agreed with the EU and are oping the German presidency? and the fight against erationalised in the action plans for - We hope so. However, this depends first and foremost on Serbia. Serbia detercorruption, I’m afraid it will be chapters 23 and 24. The lack of progress on implementmines the speed at which the accession difficult to argue for further ing the action plans led to the EU’s process advances. The more substantial the reforms Serbia is implementing, in chapter openings decision not to open a new accession negotiation chapter this summer. Withparticular regarding the rule of law, the higher the chance of out swift and tangible progress with regard to the media opening new chapters. situation, independence of the judiciary and the fight against

In order to open a chapter, two conditions need to be corruption, I’m afraid it will be difficult to argue for further fulfilled: it needs to be technically ready; and we need to chapter openings. However, I am indeed an optimist. With its see progress in the fulfilment of those conditions that are very strong mandate, the new government should be able to particularly important for EU accession, i.e. the rule of law, in swiftly and effectively implement the reforms in the aforeparticular justice reform, media freedom and the fight against mentioned areas. I can only encourage the new government, corruption. We know from experience that such reforms take once it is in place, to start delivering on its commitments.

from the U.S. State Department, Dep. Ass. Secretary MatAt the recent Crocodile Literary Festival held in Belgrade, thew Palmer, at the outset of the last high-level meeting in you helped in the organising of a debate on European perBrussels underlines the interest in working together closely. spectives. Participants discussed the strengthening of the so-called ‘stabilocracy’ in the region, or governments that Speaking recently about the dialogue, Mr Lajčak said that are formally democratic but authoritarian in essence. Com‘the final agreement should be in accordance with Internamentators note as a particular problem that such regimes in tional Law, acceptable for all EU Member States and prothe region still have EU support. How would you comment on that? - I know this argument, and it does not convince me. We all agree that a lot remains to be done. We have just talked about standards with regard to, for example, media freedom. Serbia and other countries in the region have embarked on the road to EU accession. We commend this choice and are doing our utmost, as a reliable partner, to help the countries of the region advance on this reform path.

It is important to stress that the EU is not only an economic union, but also a union of values. Democracy and rule of law are key elements of that union. Without sharing these values, no country can and will join the EU. This summer saw the resumption of the Belgrade-Priština Dialogue, but a new With its very strong mandate, the new mote reconciliation’. Do you agree with a framework set in such a way? - Yes, we do. The goal of the normalisation problem seems to have arisen in the government should dialogue is a legally binding agreement form of a kind of rivalry between the EU and the U.S when it comes to this be able to swiftly and between Serbia and Kosovo that needs to be comprehensive, i.e. dealing with process. Miroslav Lajčak, the EU’s eneffectively implement the all relevant open questions, and needs voy for this dialogue, said that the EU was not consulted during preparations for the meeting of Belgrade and Priština reforms in the aforementioned areas. I can only encourage the to promote reconciliation and increase regional stability, indeed. It needs to unlock both Kosovo and Serbia’s eventual delegations in Washington. How would new government, once it is in EU membership and to contribute to you comment on that? - In general, activities that bring the place, to start delivering on regional stability. parties closer together are welcome. its commitments When it comes to this dialogue, the esWe are ready to work with our U.S. sential question is whether Germany colleagues to help grow the economies of Kosovo, Serbia, will be among those EU member states that will seek that and the wider region. As for the many unresolved political Serbia ultimately recognise Kosovo’s independence as a issues between the two countries, it is very positive that condition of EU accession? President Vučić and Prime Minister Hoti both stressed - The essential question is that both sides reach a legally that they attach the highest priority to the EU-facilitated binding agreement that enables both Serbia and Kosovo to dialogue at their last meeting in Brussels. From our point pursue their EU accession aspirations and fulfil their rights of view, the talks facilitated by EU Special Representative and obligations as EU members. This is the condition set in Lajčak are progressing well. It is clear that reaching a susthe negotiation framework signed by Serbia and the EU. To tainable, comprehensive agreement between Kosovo and this end, it must have all the attributes mentioned before. Serbia will require close cooperation between the EU, as the How else should it work? In my political imagination, I may facilitator of the dialogue, and the international partners of add, it would be hard to envisage such a solution without Kosovo and Serbia. The presence of a high-ranking colleague Serbia recognising Kosovo.

UP TO 1,100 JOBS Will Be Created

Brose, the world's fourth-largest family-owned automotive supplier, will open a location for development and production in Pančevo in the summer of 2021, with the company striving to generate revenue of around 440 million euros in Serbia by 2025

The supplier wants to create up to 1,100 jobs in development, sales, purchasing and production. With 120 million euros set to be spent for the new location, construction works are advancing rapidly and will be completed by the spring of 2021, with production set to start in August.

The highly automated production at Brose’s Pančevo facility will include, among others, the production of electronics and drives for cooling fan modules. All electronics for the Brose group are produced under clean room conditions. In the coming years, the company plans to employ about 900 employees in all areas of production. In addition to this, a development centre will also be built in Pančevo by 2025, where up to 200 engineers will develop new products for electric vehicles. The goal is to offer customised solutions for car manufacturers and provide vehicle users with more comfort, safety and efficiency.

Brose offers many benefits for its employees, in

BROSE PANČEVO

COOLING FAN MODULE

cluding a canteen. Healthcare is also very important: employees receive private health insurance funded by the company, including an annual medical examination. Modern training, in part with challenging sessions at locations in Germany, Mexico and China, is offered to top representatives, as well as participation in management development programmes.

SOCIALLY ACTIVE IN THE CITY AND THE REGION

Brose also takes its corporate social responsibility seriously: it has, for example, made a significant contribution to expanding the testing capacity for COVID-19, thus protecting the health of the population in Pančevo. Brose aims to collaborate with local schools, as well as the Technical University of Novi Sad and the University of Belgrade, in order to discover and promote talent at an early stage and encourage the development of joint research projects. In the future, this automotive supplier will regularly open the gates of its factory to interested citizens and provide insight into production and the working world.

ROMAN STRAKOS, GENERAL MANAGER OF BROSE BELGRADE:

“When investigating possible locations for our new production and development site, contacting the GermanSerbian Chamber of Commerce and the Development Agency of Serbia proved invaluable. The two organisations host a number of interesting and useful conferences, as well as training and knowledge-sharing events, which helped us understand the local market and set up our organisation accordingly.

“Even under the influence of the Coronavirus Pandemic, Brose continues to focus on the construction of our new plant in Pančevo and the recruitment of experts and skilled personnel. Things are progressing rapidly and we aim to start production earlier than planned in 2021. Our family-owned company is proud to support society in these challenging times - in order to fulfil this commitment, we are looking for the most passionate and capable employees. Anyone willing to deliver an outstanding performance is welcome. Our highly motivated first 100 employees have convinced me that Serbia in general, and Pančevo in particular, was the right choice for Brose“.

COMPANY PROFILE

The Brose Group develops and produces mechatronic systems for vehicle doors and seats, as well as electric motors, drives and electronics, among others for steering, brakes, transmissions and engine cooling. Approximately 25,000 employees at 65 locations in 24 countries generate a turnover of 6.2 billion euros. Worldwide, every second new vehicle is equipped with at least one Brose product. The company’s list of clients includes approximately 80 car brands, over 40 automotive suppliers and 50 manufacturers of electric bicycles.

MILESTONES • October 2019: Signing of the settlement contract • March 2020: Foundation stone ceremony • Spring 2021: Finalisation ofconstruction and movement into the new building • August 2021: Start of series production • Autumn 2021: Official opening

SUPPORTING CLIENTS At All Times

We are aware of the consequences of the Coronavirus pandemic, but we were also ready to face them, so their impact on our operations will be much smaller than will be the case with companies that weren't orientated towards their own priorities – and those are clients and employees, and digital services, where we have been pioneers in many areas

ProCredit Bank is the only bank in Serbia with a hundred per cent German capital, which also has a direct impact on the way this bank operates and approaches its clients.

“We are guided by the principles that characterise the German economy, and those are precision, responsibility, security and quality. Investing in education, both of our colleagues and our clients, is a standard for us, and our commitment to focus on preserving the natural environment in everything we do is no less important,” says Ivan

We recently launched the most modern way of communicating with individuals, and that is the ability to open an account via video identification. This is just one of the digitalised services with which we’ve enabled clients to conduct their business with the bank from home

Smiljković, member of the ProCredit Bank Executive Board.

Being a German bank in Serbia also implies that a system of double control exists – on the part of the National Bank of Serbia and the German Board for Banking Supervision, BaFin, which takes care to ensure that all banks with German capital respect the same rules, regardless of where they operate, says our interlocutor, adding that “this type of control serves as a guarantee to our clients that we are an institution that they can trust and that they can rely on, and the previous period only proved this fact”.

Which of your services are digitalised? Do your clients also use part of their loans for digital - We started the digital transformation six years ago and transformation? can now state with pride that the client can complete - ProCredit Bank’s corporate clients are among the group everything they needs from the bank from their home. Also of the most respectable companies that are aware that testifying to this is the fact that we recently launched the digitalisation is not just a buzzword, but rather that the most modern way of communicating with individuals, and benefits of digitalisation are visible in all segments of that is the ability to open an account via video identificabusiness – both in more efficient processes that save tion. In just a few minutes, in a video conversation with our time and money, and in the quality of the services that advisor, anyone who is interested can open an account and are provided to clients. activate electronic and mobile banking, while payment cards are delivered to clients at their home address. Fitch Ratings recently confirmed the investment rating

We are one of the first banks in Serbia to introduce the of ProCredit Bank in Serbia. What does this decision Apple pay option, through cooperation with Mastercard. mean to you? Clients can now perform transactions - Confirmation of a good credit ratmore securely using just their phone. ing by one of the world’s largest ratIt is not necessary to enter the PIN ing agencies during times of crisis is code at a POS terminal to authorise an indicator that our operations in the transaction, regardless of the Serbia are extremely stable. It was amount, rather the transaction is aulikewise assessed that we have the thorised through a fingerprint or face absolute support of our shareholder ID and placing the phone close to the - ProCredit Holding, which means that contactless reader at the point of sale. all our financial and business risks are

Internally, we have implemented minimal. We will strive to maintain our the so-called “paperless concept”, with good position on the international list which the need to print documentation of institutional investors, but also to is reduced or eliminated completely. improve it, because it is only through Every employee of our bank has a progress, improvement and innovation qualified electronic certificate that that we can respond in the right way they use in their daily work. We have to all the current and future needs of thus significantly reduced the need our clients. for printed paper and contributed to protecting the environment. What impact will COVID-19 have on the operations of banks in Serbia How is your bank helping SMEs to and how do you respond to these overcome the crisis? challenges? - Small and medium-sized enterprises - It was precisely during the time of are the driving force of our economy, the Coronavirus pandemic that we which is why we believe that they need considered and long-term assistance, We will strive to maintain confirmed that all our investments in the digitalisation process made sense both in an advisory and financial sense, our good position on the in multiple ways. as well as through effective and achievable strategies and cooperation with international list of The banking system is extremely agile and always ready to adapt to development funds (IPARD, EIF), which institutional investors, but new challenges. Our aim is to exit this we’ve also offered clients in times like these. We are all on an unfamiliar also to improve it, because period professionally and responsibly, to be available to our clients, and to ground when it comes to the duration it is only through progress, consider our employees while doing of the pandemic, and as we view clients as partners, our support has not been lacking during the past six months i improvement and nnovation that we can so. We are aware of the consequences, but we were also ready to face them, so their impact on our operations will be - whether that related to approving respond in the right way to much smaller than will be the case with postponements on repayments, making new placements or the advisory all the current and future companies that weren’t orientated towards their own priorities – and role for which our bank is recognised. needs of our clients those are clients and employees.

RONALD SEELIGER,PRESIDENT OF THE GERMAN-SERBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (AHK SERBIA) AND CEO OF HEMOFARM (STADA GROUP)

We Can Still DO WONDERS

You don't need to be a businessman to know that the shortfalls in production during the spring will affect balance sheets for 2020. However, there is a window of opportunity for institutional changes that may help the business community and keep us all healthy and in our workplaces. And then it will be possible to break new records, as we have done at AHK over the past decade

Ifeel a great pleasure when I look back and see the way in which German investments developed in Serbia. This year is of special importance to us because we symbolically mark two decades of the presence of the German economy in this region. About 450 German companies operate in Serbia today, employing over 60,000 employees. Figuratively speaking, an entire Pirot or Kikinda work at the companies that came to

Serbia from Germany, points out Dr Ronald Seeliger, President of the German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce and CEO of

Hemofarm, speaking to CorD.

You have spent two terms in office as the head of the GermanSerbian Chamber of Commerce, which has represented an important link between Serbia and Germany. In addition to the permanent growth of German investments in Serbia,

OPTIMISM Despite the global economic crisis, we hope for good results and some new examples of cooperation between Germany and Serbia OPPORTUNITY Given the fragility of supply chains, Serbia now has a good opportunity to present and expose itself to potential investors as a favourable business destination PROPOSAL I propose the start of the new term of the Government begin with an open, goodhearted and cooperative dialogue that will involve as many different actors as possible

what were the greatest achievements of AHK in the previous to ensure that their employees remain healthy. There is no years, in your opinion? Is there an achievement that you find worse nightmare for any industry than stopping production, crucial, but that has been less known to the general public? in this particular case due to mass illness of workers. As an - More precisely, if we count the period when AHK had another employer, you face two responsibilities: to protect the emform of presentation in Serbia, I have been a member of the ployees and to secure stable production, so you can imagine leadership of this organisation for seven years. I mention this the magnitude of responsibility of each company. because I’ve played an active role over this fairly long period For example, our task at Hemofarm was to secure the of time, in the continuous economic rise of my home country regular supply of the market with medicinal products, namely in the country in which I now work, and I think this is my greatest satisfaction. Mind you, we are talking about a serious increase of investments and growth of foreign trade between Germany and Serbia. If I tell you that the trade between our two countries has increased two and a half fold over the past decade, and that it reached as much as five billion euros last year, which is a remarkable record in our economic cooperation, I believe I have every reason to be a proud German in Serbia. Unfortunately, this information has not received the deserved spotlight, because the current pandemic has taken us in another direction. Namely, we have paid more attention to finding a way to help the operation of the economy at this critical juncture than we have had time to summarise the results of the last year. However, here is the opportunity to also If I tell you that the trade ensuring that no patient is left without mention some of the economic records. between our two countries has their therapy, and you only can do that if the production is working full steam and Given that you’ve mentioned the panincreased two and a half fold if your employees are healthy. Therefore, demic, health and safety seem to be the most important elements of a successful business operation. How are over the past decade, and that it reached as much as five the focus of our activities over the past several months, as well as today, has been on protective measures for our AHK members in Serbia managing the billion euros last year, I believe employees. COVID-19 situation in terms of their present activities? I have every reason to be a Today, almost seven months after the - Let me use the terminology of the secproud German in Serbia start of the outbreak, could you antor I come from: this is a unique situation ticipate the extent to which COVID-19 in recent history, where the health crisis has had a dramatic has influenced business plans for 2020, given the high impact on the business scanner. For this very reason, AHK has concentration of companies in the automotive sector and maintained permanent contacts with its member companies other labour intensive industries? and I can tell you that, not only did they observe the measures - You don’t need to be a businessman to know that the shortfalls prescribed by the state, but they went a step further in order in production during the spring will affect balance sheets for

factor. It suddenly became clear that it is never good to be dependent on one supplier alone. I find this experience of fragile supply chains as one of the real and most important messages of the pandemic.

I really think this can be an opportunity for the Western Balkan countries. Serbia now has a good opportunity to present and impose itself to potential investors as a favourable business destination.

How could the new Serbian Government further improve the business environment? - I think it would be very important for the new Government to start its mandate with a dialogue with chambers of 2020. However, some industries have Hemofarm is well-known for commerce, representatives of national recovered quickly following the end of the lockdown, so they will probably end having helped and been a good and international companies and renowned businesspeople; to sit around this year better than it initially appeared. partner to the healthcare the same table and discuss what has Speaking of the automotive industry, it has certainly been one of the worst sector at all times, especially in to be changed or improved, especially taking into account the problems that affected and it will take time to recover. times of crisis. We worked night the pandemic brought to the world of There are companies in Serbia that are suppliers of German companies in this industry, and we are doing our best to and day, our task was fulfilled, and I am very grateful to our business. I therefore propose the start of the new term of the Government begin with an open, goodhearted and help them. AHK has been implementing a employees for that cooperative dialogue that will involve regional project for years called Supplier as many different actors as possible. Initiative, as part of which we have been connecting German companies with supplier companies from Serbia. Not even Given your expertise in the medical sector, how would you the pandemic stopped us; we just moved from live meetings assess the overall health situation in Serbia? Were companies to an online format. Right now, in September, we organised a from the sector able to contribute to the healthcare system new matchmaking with the participation of over 30 German in their full capacity? companies and 50 Serbian ones, while across the area of the - I have lived in Serbia for almost nine years, and there Western Balkans this initiative gathered together a total of are certain things I find to be constant. One of them is the over 150 companies. This time also most of the interested extraordinarily professional level of doctors and other mediGerman companies came from the metal processing industry, cal staff. If we talk about cooperation with the healthcare the automotive industry supplier sector, as well as from the system, Hemofarm is well-known to have helped and been a industry of manufacturing and processing plastic materials. good partner at all times, especially during times of crisis. Despite the global economic crisis, we hope for good results Already at the beginning of the pandemic outbreak, we and some new examples of cooperation between Germany donated medical equipment worth 400,000 euros, which and Serbia. was one of the greatest donations made by companies in this region. Hemofarm Foundation provided financial aid To what extent has the current situation impacted on proto the cities of Vršac and Šabac, which are the cities where spective German investors and their plans regarding Serbia? our manufacturing sites are located. However, as I have - Let me put it like this: the Coronavirus crisis has shown how already stated, our primary task was to provide a regular sensitive our supply chains are. At the height of the crisis, during supply of the market with medicines. As said, we could not April, a kind of panic broke out in many German companies that have allowed our hospitals to be left without Hemomycin, started discussing the need to shorten and diversify all supply our antibiotic that was the first line of defence against chains. Eastern Asia, for example, was considered a major risk COVID-19, or pharmacies to be left without the medicines

that are used as regular therapies for patients suffering from heart problems and other diseases. We worked night and day, our task was fulfilled, and I am very grateful to our employees for that.

How could the healthcare system become more sustainable and capable of addressing similar challenges? - Speaking of healthcare systems and their sustainability, I think that all those who want to will be able to learn lessons from this experience and be more prepared for some future crisis. If a similar crisis strikes, I believe everyone will react better. What I fear is some crisis in the future that could have a different form than this one, and which could also have global and devastat- ing effects. In short, I think that the crisis plans of international organisations, states and healthcare systems should be revised and updated, and should include many more different scenarios and potential answers. It seems as if the end of the previous century and the beginning of this one spoiled us a little, so the world was not ready for the Coronavirus pandemic.

When it comes to the sustainability of healthcare systems, it is important to point out the following – one of the important experiences we gained over the past few

months is digitalisation in all fields, including this one. I think a much greater number of citizens have now realised that digitalisation is very important in the healthcare system and that e-medicine is our near future, and in some cases is already our present. Of course, severe diseases and surgeries require direct contact with a doctor, but the life of people with light or chronic diseases can have a better quality owing to what we call ‘virtual care’. Some examinations, check-ups and prescriptions of therapy are already performed via e-platforms, through which various costs are cut and time is spared for both patients, on the one hand, and doctors and hospitals, on the other. This is why I see the sustainability of the healthcare system precisely in the digitalisation of services in this sector, in higher flexibility and better adaptation to situations among everyone who participates in management, in a more resilient supply chain, and in a higher degree of social solidarity at the global level.

Unfortunately, this pandemic has taken many victims, but it has also born heroes, and here I mean doctors, other medical and nonmedical staff, pharmacists, as well as numerous scientists and researchers. In the post-COVID-19 era, we need new heroes from different profes- sions, those whose knowledge will make this world more resilient to another new crisis.

WE OFFER Consumers Joy

Dr Oetker will be celebrating two decades of its existence in Serbia next year, while in Germany the brand will celebrate 130 years of operations. It operates today in more than 40 countries, has more than 16,000 workers and 3,500 different products, but is continuing to expand and works constantly on innovations

Dr Oetker has a traditional range that persists thanks to Oetker. Each country strives to adapt its offer to the needs of its the brand’s loyal consumers. Despite its leading posi market. Among varying countries there are the same products, tion in the segment of cake preparation products, Dr but also completely different groups of products that are spe Oetker follows all changes on the market, developing cific only to certain markets and the tastes of their population. and expanding precisely those groups of products that follow Dr Oetker baking powder is of uniform quality and is a wellthe lifestyle of modern people known product that’s present on a large number of markets, but cake mixes are adapted to the tastes and habits of consumers in What is it like to lead such a unique company? different countries. What is common and unique in all Dr Oetker - I would say that the most accurate an member countries are the standards and swer is ‘challenging’. From the beginning, our goal in Serbia was first to return the The requirements for the quality that we strive to achieve uncom promisingly in every business process. brand to the market, to complete the quality and safety of our The requirements for the quality and acquisition of Centroproizvod and, fi products are based on the safety of our products are based on the nally, to construct a factory where our products would be produced according same standards and internal same standards and internal guidelines at all Dr Oetker factories worldwide. The to the highest standards of quality. Of guidelines at all Dr Oetker certificates that we possess are part of a course, throughout this entire journey, we’ve been working constantly to advance factories worldwide global certification matrix, which ensures a high level of quality and an absolutely our people, to improve our processes and safe product, regardless of the country corporate culture, so – as such – we’ve implemented the most in which it is produced. modern tools in all areas of operations. Dr Oetker is known everywhere as one of the most socially We presume that your product range varies from market to responsible companies. Has the pandemic only strengthened market, but that you insist on high standards in business and your concern for employees and the communities in which product quality wherever you operate... you operate? - Understanding the similarities and differences between consum - Thanks to responsible operations and dedicated, hard-working ers in different countries is very important for a company like Dr employees, during the period of the state of emergency and

tough economic conditions caused by the COVID-19 Pandemic, the consumer and their behaviour, because it is precisely the our company ensured the regular and full payment of salaries behaviour of consumers that has the greatest impact on profit for all employees. and business success. Throughout all these years, Dr Oetker

The company’s management waived the assistance offered has been offering its consumers the joy of preparing delicious, by the Government of the Republic of Serbia that was intended beloved cakes and desserts in the most affordable form and for businesses, in the form of a package of tax breaks and direct the best quality. From traditional additives for preparing des payments of the net minimum wage for every employee. We felt serts, through cake mixes that simplify their preparation, to that this help was needed by companies that were particularly oatmeal, as a quick solution for breakfast or a snack. hard hit by this crisis, as well as small and medium-sized enter By turning towards changes on the market, Dr Oetker has prises. As such, we at Dr Oetker Srbija considered it socially combined quality and competencies with its range, making responsible and patriotic to leave that help for them. its products available to its consumers in the form of simple

Apart from caring for employees during these uncertain and preparations. We live today in the time of digitalisation, when difficult times, we at Dr Oetker Srbija believe that all members the flow of information is faster than ever before, as is the of the community should do what is in their power to help those availability of products, while consumer tastes are becoming on the front line of the struggle against the pandemic and ever more demanding and the time available for baking and those for whom help means the most. It is for this reason that preparing desserts is constantly reducing. we’ve turned to what we do best and donated our products to Our traditional range still resists the changes of this institutions nationwide. time, because we have loyal consumers and occupy a lead

We donated, to the Clinical Centre of Vojvodina in Novi Sad, ing position when it comes to this segment of products the Institute for Pulmonary Diseases of Vojvodina in Sremska intended for the preparation of cakes. However, as we are Kamenica and the Clinical Centre in Niš, our instant products for orientated towards the market and follow the changes that quick preparation, which include oatmeal, muesli and milkshakes, while the SOS This year we went a step are happening, we develop and expand precisely those groups of products Children’s Village “Dr Milorad Pavlović” further and launched puddings that shorten preparation times and in Sremska Kamenica, the Red Cross of Serbia and the Foundation SOS Children’s that are prepared in a cup. are the most suitable companions to the lifestyle of the modern consumer. Villages of Serbia in Belgrade, Zemun, All you have to do is add milk Our wide range of cake mixes testifies Kraljevo and Niš received our products from the range for the preparation of and blend well, which to that. For example, in order to make cornbread quickly and easily, with a sweet confectionery products. is a response to new small number of ingredients, you need The Dr Oetker family owners and com market trends the Dr Oetker cornbread mixture, 100ml of carbonated mineral water and 400ml pany have for decades shown strong support to families, i.e. of oil, and the job’s done, after 25 minutes of baking. You children and parents, in the most diverse ways. SOS Children’s can opt to add other ingredients, such as cheese. Do you Villages is just one of the many organisations with which you have a quicker recipe than Dr Oetker? Or a recipe for vanilla have enduring cooperation? Tell us more about that... custard slice filling... All you need to do is add 800ml of milk - It was in 2011 that Dr Oetker Srbija established cooperation and the filling is ready. with the SOS Children’s Village in Kraljevo, and the “Kinderdorf In addition to cake mixes, we also have oatmeal, which is SOS International” institution at the international level, which known as a high-quality and fast meal that’s ready in three cares for children and youth. We recognised the importance minutes, a wide range of puddings, cream puddings that and contribution of this organisation in providing a family don’t need to be cooked, instant desserts and many other home for children without parental care and we very happily high-quality products. provide support and our contribution to ensuring this beautiful This year we went a step further and launched puddings story really endures. Our wish, not only for children but also for that are prepared in a cup. All you have to do is add milk and ourselves, is to have beautiful memories from the large number blend well, which is a response to new market trends. On the of gatherings that we organise together. The aim of our many other hand, the health trend also defines the target group and years of friendship is to elicit smiles on the faces of each of in the future will have an even greater impact on consumer the several hundred children that this organisation cares for. behaviour. The development of products that help to more quickly and easily prepare healthier meals is definitely one of In which ways do your current customers differ from those the areas in the focus of Dr Oetker. Responses to this trend you had a few decades ago, and what will the consumers of are oatmeals and cereal mixes made from different types of the future look like? cereals, created with the intention of enabling consumers to - No oranisation, not even the smallest, can or should neglect also consume this type of product.

MARTIN KNAPP,EXECUTIVE MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE GERMAN-SERBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (AHK SERBIA)

WE'VE QUICKLY LEARNT To Live With The Crisis

Companies have learnt over time to work under new circumstances. We are now waiting to see the results of the survey among German companies operating in Serbia and 16 Eastern European countries in early 2021, in order to get a clear picture of how the Coronavirus pandemic has changed the way they see the world. The results might give us a better idea of whether the idea of nearshoring will gain momentum

Like in the case of many other organisations in the previous period, AHK had to face the challenge of shifting many of its activities online. One of the most challenging would be the organisation of the AHK-supported Serbian Visions, the traditional annual festival of civil society with 60 co-organisers that used to see thousands of visitors over the course of one weekend in November. Yet some of the signature activities, such as bringing German industrial companies into contact with potential suppliers from the Western Balkans, took place almost as usual this year, only in electronic form.

“Many things are still unclear and we will have to wait a little longer before we see clearly what has happened in 2020,” says Martin Knapp, Executive Member of the Board of Directors of AHK Serbia. How would you assess the impact of the pandemic on trade between Germany and Serbia in 2020? - During recent years the volume of the bilateral exchange of goods and services has increased-year on-year. But this probably won’t be the case this year. The Coronavirus pandemic will certainly lead to a decline here, but this decline probably won’t be as catastrophic as originally anticipated. However, only two thirds of the year have passed and one should be careful with forecasts in these times.

Around this time each year we expect the results of the AHK Serbia survey in order to learn whether German companies present on the market would invest again. Is this a plausible question in times like this? What are the major concerns of companies that they share with you today? - We also conducted the survey this year, shortly before the outbreak of the pandemic. When it was finished, we were all in lockdown, so we asked ourselves who would be interested in what the companies expected before the crisis. We then concluded that we wouldn’t publish it. We are now eagerly awaiting the results of the survey, which we will relaunch at the beginning of 2021 – not only in Serbia, but in 16 Eastern

European countries, as we do every year. We will then compare the results with those of this year in order to form a clear picture about how the Coronavirus pandemic has changed the way companies see the world.

How has AHK assisted companies through these tough times? - At the beginning the main goal was to inform companies about current topics. There we mainly did webinars, for example about labour law issues during the pandemic. We also spoke with many company bosses over the phone, to find out how the companies are getting through the crisis, on the one hand, and to signal to them that they weren’t alone with all the problems, on the other. However, I have to say that most companies quickly learnt to live with the crisis. What were your major policy-related activities? - We tried to represent the interests of our member companies when the government was setting up its assistance packages. Here we were particularly concerned about so-called large companies. With them it is always easily assumed that ‘big’ automatically German value chains, or with Serbiand institutional culture is changing towards less travelling and more digital communication.

With this in mind, there are many discussions about whether multinational companies will rethink their approach to building global value chains and opt for partners closer to their central operations. Would you expect German com- The issue of supply chains is now being given more attention.

means ‘strong’. That is often true, but not There is the approach of reducing risks always. A large enterprise is always also At the beginning of the by shortening supply chains, but above a large risk. If, for example, production has to be stopped because employees crisis we were particularly all by diversifying suppliers. There are opportunities for the region in this area, fall ill, this has significant consequences concerned about so-called large especially when we consider that other for employment, not only at the local companies, given that it is factors are also becoming increasingly level, but also regionally. always easily assumed that ‘big’ important, such as compliance with certain standards of occupational safety How has the current situation impactautomatically means ‘strong’, and employee remuneration. This, too, ed on some of your activities, such as connecting Serbian companies to which is not always the case should lead to increased demand for suppliers from European countries. panies to focus further on this region? an start-ups? How are current developments influencing the way AHK - Our buyer initiative, through which we bring German industrial works at the central and local levels? Will there be innocompanies into contact with potential suppliers from the vations in your work? Western Balkans, took place almost as usual this year, only - Like many other institutions, we now have very interesting in electronic form. There is now a lot of talk about so-called experiences with our home office. Another innovation is the nearshoring, i.e. the search for suppliers in the geographical transfer of events to the internet. We organise 50 events vicinity of a company. In this context, new opportunities exist every year. Digitalising them all is not easy. The digitalisation for Serbian industry. of Serbian Visions, for example, which is our annual festival

For start-ups, especially in the IT sector, new opportuniof civil society, with 60 co-organisers and thousands of ties lie more in the fact that the demand for IT services and visitors over the course of one weekend in November, will products is growing worldwide, because the organisational be a real challenge.

Our Company Is HERE TO STAY

Siemens, a company with a rich history and a pioneer in the field of digitalisation, today offers solutions and technologies that help its customers and partners respond far swifter and more efficiently to crisis situations and changing market demands

Our company is here to stay and we will extend our facilities even more over time. We want to grow and develop right here in Serbia, as well as to contribute actively to local society through our solutions and expertise, announces Mr Udo Eichlinger.

Of all the areas in which you operate in Serbia, which currently has the best prospects? - Siemens has a thrilling history. I am personally proud to be part of such an amazing global heritage and to witness exciting developments occurring every day. Unfortunately, we are also witnessing the global pandemic that the world has been fighting over the last year. Because of that, all businesses worldwide have had to adapt to new ways of doing business. Trends of digi talisation have proven to be very effective during the COVID-19 pandemic. They are able to adapt their production quickly and flexibly to any need, which is why I believe that our company has great prospects, since it is focused on the future and on meeting the challenges brought to us by the newly established global market. We are a partner to industry in digital transformation and we are here for our costomers when it comes to unlocking the full potential of digitalisation in their organisations.

Mobility, smart infrastructure and digital industries are areas that require constant improvement. One of the great examples that we’re currently working on is a new state-of-the-art traffic management system that will cover around 300 junctions in Belgrade. When completed, it will have a positive impact on commuter times, CO2 emissions and congestion.

Do the conditions exist for you to build and expand your pro duction capacities? Is that realistic now, under the conditions of the global health crisis? - From day one, Siemens has followed the measures recommended by the Government and expert teams, responding in the short term in order to protect its employees. Across all businesses and regions, our employees have risen to the challenge and continue to do so. Siemens became an integral part of Serbian society and the partner of choice, with over 3,500 employees. It is still impossible to predict when and how the global crisis will end, so we are making it a priority to successfully maintain the continuity of our business despite the many difficulties, while keeping our employees and their families safe as our top priority.

The word “mobility” forms part of the name of your factory in Šumadija. Is that a word that best describes our lives in the 21 st century? - The world’s population is becoming increasingly urban year on year, so the possibility of moving is becoming key for individual and collective progress. Mobility must be a priority in urban development, as it allows cities to become a field of opportuni ties. It contributes significantly to a better quality of life and, when done right, is a factor that makes any city more attractive. Siemens Mobility understands that mobility is not the simple movement from point A to point B. We know it is a tool through which we all build our everyday world.

Saying that, going hand in hand with these trends and changes, Siemens Mobility has been a leader in transport solutions for more than 160 years. We provide answers to all challenges in the transportation industry, with our comprehensive portfolio of state-of the-art solutions. In Serbia the setup of Mobility, with the factory in Kragujevac, has bright prospects when it comes to expanding its portfolio and capacities. At this very moment, entire trams that will be used in the most developed cities in Europe are being assembled at our factory in Kragujevac! It is a great success to be able to see trams across Europe that are made in Serbia.

We're Here When TIMES ARE HARDEST

Galenika Pharmacia is a factory that produces complete sanitary consumables – from compresses, gauzes and bandages, via disinfectants, to surgical masks that have become the number one product. Although exports at the beginning of the pandemic would have been the business move of the decade, no Galenika mask left Serbia

In agreement with the Serbian Ministry of Health, the And what about the markets you conquered prior to the Government of the Republic of Serbia and the Republican pandemic? Where do all your products end up? Health Insurance Fund (RHIF), we undertook to supply - We have for years been exporting to the Federation of Bosnia numerous clinics and pharmacies with surgical masks and and Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Montenegro; our products disinfectants when that was most needed. reach Nigeria and Iraq, and a year ago we established cooperation with Germany. Galenika Pharmacia became a member of the

Behind you is an extremely dynamic, gruelling and exhausting German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce thanks to our good busiperiod. You have many reasons to be proud of your team, right? ness results, which is yet more confirmation for us and our work. - Yes, you are right. Galenika Pharmacia represented the We are at an advantage over other companies that do the backbone of the supply of our health institutions and same work because we also have a respected brand, as well pharmacies during a very challenging period. At the beas quality, knowhow, professionalism and competitive prices, ginning of the pandemic, with the help of Prime Minister and alongside all of that we are a more than reliable partner,

Ana Brnabić, we engaged a large number of professional which was also confirmed at the beginning of the pandemic. staff and expanded production capacities. Given the great All this allows us to conquer new markets. urgency of the situation, we reduced all other production flows to a minimum. Although export - There is currently a lull as far as the even just within the region - would have We produce masks with silver pandemic is concerned, and supply has been the business move of the decade, given the shortage of this product in nanoparticles for the Novak normalised. How do your operations look generally? every country, not a single mask from Đoković Foundation, and we - We managed to secure a leading position our factory left Serbia. also produce protective masks on the market and maintain it successfully.

At the instant when disinfectants were in short supply on the with five protection filters We supply all healthcare institutions, from hospitals/health centres, pharmacies and market the most, we secured large pharmaceutical institutes, via private capacities for their production. Moreover, we produce and state hospitals and clinics, to major healthcare centres. masks with silver nanoparticles for the Novak Đoković We have divided our operations by sector, so we have

Foundation, and we also produce protective masks with a sector for the production of sterile and non-sterile comfive protection filters. presses, plasters, adhesive bandages and other bandages, a

I am proud to note that there has never been a drop in sector for the distribution of medical devices in Serbia and quality at the expense of speed or efficiency at our factory, the surrounding countries, and a sector for the production of as evidenced by the fact that, for instance, the Belgrade first aid kits, car and motorcycle pharmacies, as well as first

Pharmacy Institution didn’t have a single complaint. aid kits for employees in emergencies and natural disasters.

The Vision Of Next GENERATION MOBILITY

ZF is a global technology company that supplies systems for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and industrial technology, enabling the next generation of mobility. ZF enables vehicles to see, think and act

ZF SERBIA MANAGING DIRECTORS

In the four technology domains - Vehicle Motion Control, Integrated Safety, Automated Driving and Electric Mobility - ZF offers comprehensive solutions for established vehicle manufacturers and newly emerging transport and mobility service providers. ZF electrifies different kinds of vehicles. The company contributes to reducing emissions and protecting the climate with its products.

ZF SERBIA PANČEVO PLANT, SEPTEMBER 2020

ZF, which acquired WABCO Holdings Inc. on 29th May 2020, now has 160,000 employees worldwide, with approximately 260 locations in 41 countries. In 2019, the two then-independent companies achieved sales of €36.5 billion (ZF) and $3.4 billion (WABCO).

The combination of these two successful enterprises will bring a new dimension of innovation and capability for commercial vehicle systems technology. Thanks to perfectly complementary portfolios and competencies, ZF can offer unprecedented solutions and services for manufacturers and fleets globally. In this way, the company is actively shaping the future of the changing transportation industry.

It was just two years ago that ZF chose Pančevo and Serbia as a location for the biggest European plant of its youngest division, ZF E-Mobility, initiated with an investment of 160 million euros. This bold decision launched the Northern Industrial zone in Pančevo and the company’s Pančevo plant is now operational, featuring 50,000m 2 of a fully equipped production facility and a new modern R&D centre that’s gearing up to start working as we speak.

This project is bringing new investors and positively developing the local community, impacting every person in Pančevo.

ZF Serbia continues to act in accordance with its long-term strategy, maintaining its course through the challenges of global crisis and working to accomplish plans and set goals.

Although we have a diverse portfolio, our focus is primarily on electric mobility.

We identify and offer solutions for the next generation of mobility and the reduction of global pollution emissions every day.

We work with our customers on ensuring their satisfaction, aware that this is a measure and criterion of world market quality, and the factory in Pančevo received the best marks and daily praise from its most important customers: BMW, Volkswagen and Volvo.

We are particularly proud of that fact, as it is confirmain return provided with their commitment and performance. tion of the correctness of our strategy and the success We are committed to sticking with the people – of our approach. supporting and building up each individual, promoting

During two years working on this project, we have behaviours and values to establish an organisational been growing our team and today have 650 people culture that will ensure we are able to move forward actively working at the Pančevo Plant. Their dedication together and overcome challenges. Only people that and engagement are an essential part of the overall are motivated and equipped with right attitude can success of the project. As we speak, ZF is working on stimulate innovation and growth, and support the ambiextending the team, with more than 50 new specialists tion of our business. and experts, in order to make the new business ready The core of our strategy is the idea that our people, R&D centre fully operational. in their own country, in their own city,

When the factory reaches its The core of our strategy with their own work and knowledge, full capacity, we expect to have over 1,000 employees in the production is the idea that our people, know that they build their own better future as part of the successful team programme for electric motors, genin their own country, in their of ZF Serbia. erators for hybrid and electric drives, gearboxes and microswitches. A commitment to people is one own city, with their own work and knowledge, know that ZF Serbia’s plans remain positive and focused on the successful operation of a large, new, great ZF factory of the key values of ZF as a company. they build their own better in Pančevo, with great prospects for Through support and encouragement to our employees in the fulfilment of future as part of the current and future generations of all people focused on work, quality their duties and responsibilities, we are successful team of ZF Serbia and success!

Photo: Dusan Ivanov c

TOGETHER For Tomorrow

Through continuous work, the organisation Help has spent the last 25 years cultivating and encouraging the inner force of people in the Western Balkans to help themselves and their communities

When you walk through a desert and suddenly come across an oasis – that is our image of Help, says Nenad Draganović, Deputy Director of the Sremska Mitrovica Correctional Institution.

It was 25 years ago that the organisation Help-Hilfe zur Selbsthilfe from Germany delivered its first emergency aid in response to the crisis in the Balkans. Crises (conflicts, migrations...) heavily hinder sustainable development and prosperity. The need for emergency aid, the restoration of homes and support to economic growth endures year after year.

Help provided 36.5 million euros worth of emergency aid, de-mining and reconstruction in the first decade of its work in the Western Balkans.

Human dignity and the integration of particularly disadvantaged groups are always at the centre of Help’s work, be it in the context of emergency and reconstruction aid, vocational qualification or business start-ups and income generation activities.

Since 2001, Help has been targeting socio-economic development in the region. Help supports low income families, women, young people, prisoners and former prisoners and other disadvantaged groups in setting up sustainable business activities. Help provides necessary equipment, but also mentoring, management and vocational training for entrepreneurs, prisoners etc. towards more sustainable entrepreneurial endeavours.

Biljana, a 52-year-old lady from Pirot, was unemployed for nine years before being supported by Help in 2018. All her attempts to find work proved unsuccessful. Help provided Biljana with equipment and management training to set up a bakery. She had already completed an apprenticeship as a pastry chef. Her business is “Slane tajne” (literally – “savoury secrets”). She produces savoury cakes, cookies, muffins and other confectionery goods. Her small business increased her financial security and engaged all family members, including two of her three children who’d started their own families but, like many young people in the Balkans, rely on their parents’ support.

Within five to ten years, an average of 1.3 additional jobs is created in the companies that Help supported. The agriculture and craft sector plays a major role in the region, but services, the tourism sector and the IT industry have started to emerge.

Through the interaction of the measures and close cooperation with municipalities, ministries and the target group, entrepreneurs and thus families receive a stable income. In the long term, the economy is also strengthened sustainably.

To date a total of 13,141 micro and small enterprises have been supported by Help in the Western Balkan countries, with the value of that support amounting to 34.2 million euros.

Refugees, internally displaced persons, socially vulnerable segments of the population and minorities all lack basic conditions and decent housing to start building their prosperity. Living in collective centres and informal settlements puts already marginalised people at risk of additional diverse health and social problems.

Emilia, together with her husband and four children, has now been living for three years in a social housing building provided by Help. Her family has a better vision of their future. She has adorned the walls of her new home with the medals that her children won in sports. They study hard to become self-sufficient.

Help has provided 7,717 housing units for refugees, minorities and local socially vulnerable segments of the population, worth 58.1 million euros.

“Help clients help others through the products of their labour, which is the essence of Help’s work. We can achieve much on our own, but much more together” ~ Nudžejma Čikić, Help Finance Officer, Bosnia-Herzegovina.

GRUNER - Every Young Worker's Dream

In just 13 years, Gruner has, as a company, succeeded in changing the economic situation in the south of Serbia and providing adequate earnings for almost 600 workers and their families through the expanding of production facilities and conquering of new markets and technologies

Gruner’s owners are satisfied with the company’s operaAfter 13 years of operations in Serbia, you now have more than tions in Serbia and with the workers, both those from the 550 employees and 7,000m 2 of production facilities, with around production side and it highly qualified personnel. They 12.5 million euros having been invested. What’s next in your plans? believe that there would be no work, no expansion of pro- We currently have 570 employees, which is less than at the end of duction facilities or new hiring of staff without mutual satisfaction. 2019 and is a consequence of the pandemic that slowed us down and reduced our sales. We hope to recoup everything that’s been You started operations in Serbia from a rented hall with around lost in the period ahead. Fluctuation are very small with us, and a dozen workers and one product for smart meters. How did you interest in work at in our factory in Vlasotince is high, because such conquer the market? a large number of different production processes is the dream of - We produced relays for smart meters, for General Electric and every young engineer who’s eager for knowledge. the U.S. market, producing around 50,000 units at a weekly level. Our plan is to build a new hall of 3,000 square metres for the Our owners recognised the potentials of Serbia and its southern production of plastics and a new tool shop. That should serve region, so already by 2009 they’d built the first production hall of for the maintenance of tools for our production, but also for the 2,000 square metres. We started cooperatproduction of certain tools both for our ing with the automotive industry the very Our plan is to build a new market and foreign ones. next year, initially with Daimler, then later with other manufacturers. Apart from relays, hall of 3,000 square metres Have you started applying your own model during that period we also started working for the production of plastics of dual education with the opening of your on the “start stop system”, according to the wishes and requirements of Daimler, and a new tool shop as soon workshop for training students? How are your impressions? which we still produce today, although in an as possible - We launched the model of dual education improved, generation 4, version. This product back in 2016, in cooperation with GIZ and is our pride, because the entire development and production line the Technical School from Vlasotince, as pioneers in this field. It is designed and realised at our factory in Serbia. initially only covered a course for industrial mechanics, but now we

We built another 2,000-square-metre hall in 2012 and started already have courses for electricians and mechatronics engineers. with new technologies, then already in 2013 the need emerged for a In order for education and industry to develop in parallel, edunew expansion of production capacities. Thus, in 2014 we reached cation needs to listen to the demands of the economy. In that way a total of 7,000 square metres of production facilities and more young people would leave high schools and be capable of starting than 300 employees. work immediately, without additional training. Dual education has

It was during this period that we started with plastic injection, helped us to quickly find professional personnel for our specific and then also with the production of metal parts for our own needs, needs. If the dual education model was transferred to higher educawhich required the procurement of new machines, and that led to tion institutions, emerging from colleges would be young experts the establishment of a small tool shop with the latest technologies. who could perform specific jobs immediately upon graduating.

DOMESTIC PRODUCTS That We Are Proud Of

From the most varied parts of Serbia to the shelves of dm drugstores

Ayear after the products developed within the scope of the dm Incubator found themselves in dm drugstores, this company continues to provide support to the local economy. Through this project, dm provided 18 small and medium-sized domestic producers with the opportunity to place as many as 57 products from the food segment and care & beauty segment on the shelves of the largest drugstore chain in Europe. Support also continued in the following period, and in the last nine months 17 new products were developed additionally, so the customers were able to enjoy as many as 72 top quality products created in the heart of our country.

The end result of their intensive work with mentors and experts is reflected in exclusive products which, are characterized by unique design in addition to high quality ingredients, demonstrating that local producers from various parts of Serbia are able to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with major world brands.

BLUSHES OUT OF THIS WORLD One in a series of products distinguished by world class quality is Coquette, liquid blush of unusual packaging and even more interesting shades of apricot, raspberry and blackberry. Coquette Apricot Light contains natural apricot kernel oil known to be useful for dry skin, thanks to a complex of essential vitamins. The raspberry seed oil found in Coquette Raspberry Smooth blush is responsible for the fresh pink shade, also providing skin protection against harmful UV radiation, while the Coquette Blackberry Rich gives an antiageing effect to the face.

UNIQUE FORMULA THAT NOURISHES YOUR FACE The range of cosmetics available at dm drugstores since the dm Incubator project has been enriched by another brand- Biona, products for complete skin care. Micellar water, facial cream and serum, as well as anti-wrinkle care cream have been winning over the hearts of customers for a year already. Based on ingredients such as organic cellular apple water, green caviar and chamomile, macadamia and camellia oil, Biona products render the skin silky, soft and gentle.

FORGET SENSITIVE GUMS WITH OLYDROP When natural ingredients of lemon balm, mint, marigold, white mistletoe, rabbit thorn and others are combined, another innovative product of the dm Incubator is created - Olydrop oil for gum massage. Nurturing painful and sensitive gums and oral infections is no longer a problem with this solution, which has both an antibacterial effect and the ability to reduce inflammation.

COMPLETELY NATURAL DRINKS FROM THE HEART OF SERBIA Food selection at dm drugstores is rounded off with unique foodstuffs that will complete your day, whether you’re looking for sweet treats or tasty natural snacks and drinks.Thus, the Dolovac family brand offers pure juices without additional water, sugar or additives, of completely natural color. Available in combinations of five different fruit flavors, these make up truly healthy refreshments and can be consumed diluted with water or mixed with some other fruit juice. Characteristic beverages are also trademark of the domestic brand Vrtlari, which - within the scope of the dm Incubator project - has also developed pulpy natural juices made from broccoli and apple that contain as much as 51 per cent broccoli and 49 per cent pulpy apple juice.

Apart from the aforementioned items, other specific products have been developed in the food segment, such as Tvoja domaćica salad containing natural ingredients, various combinations of organic mushrooms under the Taste of the West brand and the Veverko natural honey spread with raspberry and cherry. In the care & beauty segment, there are Hvala cosmetics, Call me Frank remedies for men’s care, miraculous Multiactiv marmalade for the under eye area, as well as firming body lotions from My Way Natural.

KRUNA GAVOVIĆ, CEO OF THE LEAN SIX SIGMA COMPANY CEE AND TMS CEE MARKETING AND ACADEMY MANAGER

FFE HAS GOT The Momentum

The Lean Six Sigma Company CEE has high occupancy of its LSS courses. This is because the number of companies organising training for their employees is increasing, as is the number of experts who independently invest in their education

Under the conditions of the pandemic, the effects of applying internationally approved methods and techniques for preserving the business proved to be good, with a slight fall in turnover, but also with significant savings on costs, emphasises Kruna Gavović, TMS CEE Marketing and Academy Manager and CEO of the Lean Six Sigma Company CEE.

The concept of establishing a proper balance of professional and private life is also available to companies in Serbia through the “Family Friendly Enterprise” certification. Has it gained its full meaning now that a virus has reminded us of what is really of the most importance to us? - The Family Friendly Enterprise (FFE) certificate is awarded to companies that enable their employees to more easily harmo nise their private life and professional obligations. Employees should always be viewed beyond just the work environment and provided with opportunities to enjoy some of the most significant moments in their lives without the stresses of work.

FFE principles have to date been implemented in Serbia by leading companies in the fields of telecommunications, media, finance, and FMCG, while most of the implemented measures have now gained their full meaning. This is especially important at this time when is more essential than ever to ensure the harmonising of professional and private life.

As the company that brought the FFE concept to Serbia, TMS is recognised as an innovative firm that is focused on creating value for the customer. What does your business look like under the conditions of a pandemic? - The correct response to the new conditions was both adapta tion and operating with a focus on costs. We have applied most of the internationally and nationally approved methods and techniques, such are Remote audit, Remote inspection, web meetings, and others, along with the necessary accompanying procedures and risk assessments. Overall, Risk Management, Business Continuity and Corporate Resilience (security) proved to be management techniques crucial for maintaining operations under these conditions.

Our clients have demonstrated exceptional strength and vitality. Out of our approximately 1,500 clients, almost none of them gave up on further cooperation. This is one more proof that companies that have introduced and certified standards show better performances than the average.

Lean Six Sigma distinguishes itself because the results of applied measures are also shown in savings proven through bookkeeping. Is that all, or are there any immeasurable benefits? - Of course, there are. I will give you just one example of a cli ent of the Lean Six Sigma Company CEE which has factories in many countries around the world and which implemented an LSS project at its factory in Serbia. Alongside extremely large savings on costs, the effect was that employees are now much fresher and can invest more energy in regular work than was the case previously.

As with many other examples, it can be concluded that the success or failure of an LSS project in a company depends mostly on the level of competence of the LSS experts participating in the project. It is by no means inconsequential whether the people who are coming to your company new graduates, or they are experts with extensive experience of LSS, industry, and in applying LSS at the world’s best companies.

It is particularly encouraging that even the virus couldn’t diminish interest in LSS training, so we already have ar ranged and scheduled training courses until the end of this year, with coaches from Serbia, but also the Netherlands and other countries.

Our companies, including TMS CEE and the Lean Six Sigma Company CEE, deliver absolutely the same quality of services as in the developed world, and we are especially proud of that.

Serbia Will Need

TO SPEED UP

"In a world affected by climate change, Serbia will need to speed up its transition to alternative, low carbon sources of energy", says Nikola Ćatović of German consulting company MACS Energy & Water

The State must create adequate conditions for the private sector, including banks, to bear the invest ments at their own risk. We hope that all required efforts and synergies will be used to set in place a working system, both in commercial and environmental terms, says Mr Ćatović

Your consultancy is providing services not only in Serbia and the region, but also worldwide. Who are your clients? - MACS Energy & Water is an international consulting company headquartered in Germany and with several offices around the world. Our main clients are financial institutions that we support in sustainable financing, with our competencies covering energy efficiency, renewable energy and water and sanitation.

What is your view on our potential in renewable energy resources (RES)? What would be the areas to prioritise for investments: hydro, wind, solar? - In a world affected by climate change, Serbia will need to speed up its transition to alternative, low carbon sources of energy. At this moment, more than 60 per cent of our energy comes from fossil fuels.

However, the potential for renewable energy investments needs to be assessed carefully from different perspectives. We have a situation that in the past related to the generation of energy being what mattered the most. Thus, many renew able energy projects were developed without much thinking regarding the negative impacts of these investments. These projects were recently in the spotlight with respect to their negative impact on the environment and the community. People today better understand that “green” energy might also lead to some negative impacts on the environment.

In our work we always emphasise the importance of a broader outlook to identify potential negative impacts that such projects could have on the environment and on communities living close to those areas. We underline the need for adequate measures that mitigate environmental and social risks effectively.

In a recent discussion with a banker over a project, I heard him say: “For us, as a bank, it is equally important to go for this project as it is not to go for it in the case that it will harm the environment“. This was a very comforting statement for us, meaning that our work has already contributed within the Serbian banking community to a positive shift for our environment and our future.

Is our administration, including all governments of the last 15-20 years, aware of the importance of RES? What are your takeaways comparing the institutional framework and the situation on ground? - Since 2009, when the legal framework for renewable energy projects introduced the incentive scheme in the form of feed-in tariffs, more than 270 projects have been implemented, with a cumulative installed capacity of 530MW. With several wind parks currently under con struction, that total will reach close to 700MW of renewable sources, which is around 10 per cent of the nominal installed power in Serbia. So, yes, it is possible to invest in renewable energy projects in Serbia and have them running. However, even with these results, the country is still far from meeting the commitments it gave in the framework of the 2015 Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5 to 2 degrees. As in many other countries, policymakers in Serbia run the risk of losing the battle due to short-sightedness and slowness.

MILAN MANIĆ, DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER OF LEONI SERBIA AND HEAD OF THE LEONI MALOŠIŠTE PLANT

We Offer SECURE JOBS

LEONI has invested in excess of 146 million euros in its facilities and equipment since 2009. The company currently employs around 10,000 people in Serbia and plans to increase that number when its Kraljevo plant begins operating at its full capacity. One of the 15 largest exporters in Serbia, LEONI also has a network of approximately 500 domestic suppliers

Serbia has great potential in terms of human capital, its work culture and ethics that are valued. This represents the foundations on which LEONI bases its plans for further growth. Around 10,000 employees comprise the loyal team that supports LEONI in completely challenging and important projects for its faithful customers

You entered the second decade of your operations in Serbia with great results and, we assume, major plans... - The growth of our operations in Serbia comes with great responsibility, both towards the premium customers that we supply and towards the thousands of people that we employ. Our plans are focused on the completion of works at our fourth production plant, in Kraljevo. In addition to this, we are focused on introducing and developing new projects at our other three factories, in Prokuplje, Malošište and Niš.

The plant in Kraljevo will be our largest factory in Serbia, covering an area of 52,000 square metres, while it currently occupies 34,000 square metres. Construction of that additional 18,000 square metres of the plant is currently underway. This factory has 1,500 employees at present and we are working hard on boosting employment, so that we will have around 5,000 workers there by the end of 2023.

We are continuing to offer employees secure jobs and career opportunities within the framework of the automotive industry for the world’s leading brands.

Are you aware of your contribution to the development of the country’s economy? - LEONI has been contributing to raising the standard of living and reducing the unemployment rate in the area of its business for the past 11 years. Over the course of those 11 years, LEONI has contributed more than 92 million euros to the budget of the Republic of Serbia, in taxes and contributions on the salaries of its workers. LEONI expects to become the largest employer in Serbia’s manufacturing industry, and Serbia will be the only European country in the global network of the production capacity of LEONI with four production plants.

Leoni is recognised as a company that cares about the community. How much do you invest in social programmes, health, sports and culture; and how much do you invest in the education and training of your employees? - LEONI is proud of its commitment to social responsibility in Serbia and the continuous improvement of its employees. We are happy to respond to activities that support the engagement of young people in the fields of sports and culture; we care about the communities in which the company operates, and where our employees live and work. Our participation as donors and humanitarians in projects is aimed not only at furthering the development and well-being of the community, but also at placing an emphasis on the importance of our employees’ participation in activities of this type. We have excellent cooperation with health institutions in the municipalities in which we operate, and we have our own new health clinics at our plants in Prokuplje, Malošište, Niš.

We are particularly proud of our investments in our employees, advancing their knowhow and skills, as well as their continuous professional development. We have a wide range of internal training courses and skills programmes that employees go through in their workplaces, and to date we’ve invested as much as 800,000 euros in external training. We consider our people as our greatest and most important resource when it comes to the good business operations and excellent results that we’ve been achieving for 11 years already.

The Story Of GERMAN REUNIFICATION

3rd October 1990: End of the struggle for unification, beginning of the struggle for unity

The Past is a Foreign Country is the title of American historian David Lowenthal’s famous monograph. For the generations born during the previous thirty years, East and West Germany are indeed “foreign countries”. From today’s perspective, many would at first glance agree with the statement of (East) German writer Stefan Heym that the German Democratic Republic

BERLIN LIGHTING TODAY

will remain nothing more than a footnote in German and more freedom into demands for, and then negotia and world history. It is today difficult to imagine that tions on, German unity, leading to the reunification of German history could have taken a path that wouldn’t Germany less than a year later. The entire civil, political, have led to not only reunification, but also to the economic and social system of the German Democratic essential dissolving of East Germany into the legal, Republic, which had been built over the course of dececonomic, political and cultural order of the Federal ades, collapsed almost overnight. On 3 rd October 1990, Republic of Germany. the territory of the former East Germany became part However, what seems inevitable from the subsequent of the Federal Republic of Germany, in the form of five perspective could not even have new federal states, while East Berlin been predicted by the politicians “The wall will still be was integrated with West Berlin in or scientists dedicated to the study of the German question just a few months prior to that fateful date of standing in fifty and even a hundred years,” asserted Erich the form of a distinct administrative area. The lightning speed at which events unfolded surprised everyone 9 th November 1989. “The wall will Honecker, General Secretary of who had hitherto researched and still be standing in fifty and even a hundred years,” asserted Erich the East German party, written about the German ques tion. It was a tectonic tremor, in Honecker, General Secretary of in January 1989 the words of Klaus von Beyme, the the East German party, in January “Black Friday” of the social sciences 1989. Historians, sociologists and political scientists and humanities, which had been unable to predict the analysed the foreign policy stabilisation of the German development of happenings. At the same time, it was Democratic Republic in the late 1980s and considered the precisely the strength of the changes that took place possibilities of economic and political reforms, starting that tasked scientists with explaining how they had from the assumption that East Germany would remain come to pass. The consequence was the dominance of an historical reality in the coming years and decades. teleological interpretations of recent German history, Nevertheless, in just a short period of time, the fall according to which German reunification was an inevitaof the Berlin Wall turned demands for political reforms bility, to which all historical processes in the second half

of the 20 th century had striven towards almost linearly. identity. To reduce the history of East Germany to a Under the impression of the almost unrealistically rapid footnote would not only be unjust to the people who collapse and disappearance of the German Democratic lived and worked creatively in that country, and whose Republic, in analysing that country’s past, historians lives would be consigned to oblivion, but would also, first began to identify shortcomings and anomalies from and foremost, be politically perilous. That’s because its inception, the consequences of which “must” have knowing and understanding Germany’s integral past resulted in the collapse of the regime and order. And for is a precondition for understanding the country and a considerable number of historians post-1990, there was only room for Knowing and its society today. The German Democratic Re the history of West Germany in the understanding Germany’s public was smaller than the Federal history of Germany in the second half of the 20 th century. East Germany is integral past is Republic of Germany in terms of territory and population, economicommonly denied any legitimacy, a precondition for cally weaker and politically inferior, with its existence reduced to a kind of provisional entity that is more understanding the country but it was still a state of almost 17 million inhabitants, which existed part of the Soviet past than the and its society today for 41 years and in which two genGerman one. erations of Germans grew up and Still, after the first wave of excitement and euphobrought their experiences into the common state in ria abated, it became clear that the fall of communist 1990. Furthermore, excluding the German Democratic regimes in Eastern Europe did not mark the “end of Republic from modern German history would also mean history”, just as the issue of German reunification may belittling German culture, depriving it of creators like have been concluded on 3 rd October 1990, but that only Bertolt Brecht and Anna Seghers, or Christa Wolf and opened the issue of German unity. Even today, thirty Heiner Müller. Besides that, ignoring East Germany years on, the East-West divide still exists in Germany, would lead to a fundamental misunderstanding of the both economically and financially, but also politically, history of the Federal Republic of Germany, because socially, culturally, demographically and in terms of German-on-German rivalry “hovered” over almost every

social, political, economic and cultural aspect of life in in the years that followed German society and instituboth German states during the second half of the 20 th tions showed a readiness and maturity - through inquiry century. The existence of competing German states commissions, expert groups, school programmes, mucrucially shaped the social and poseum exhibitions, commemorations, litical climate of West Germany, as well as the foreign policy activity of In the years that projects, public debates etc. - to also face elections with those issues and the “Bonn Republic”. followed German society problems that, viewed over the long The history of German reunification was not a success story for every individual. For many inhabitants of and institutions showed a readiness and term, secure German unity. Dominating the work of the Commission on the 30 th Anniversary of the Peaceful the former East Germany, adapting maturity - through inquiry Revolution and German Reunificato the new political and social circumstances was arduous, with many commissions, expert tion, which was established in 2019, are topics related to the contrasting losing their jobs and social security, groups, school experiences of citizens from East while many felt like “second-class citizens” in the reunified Germany programmes, museum and West Germany, with the aim of achieving better mutual understandin the years after 1990. However, exhibitions, commemorations, ing and social integration. Today, it would be a mistake to claim that the history of German reunification is a history of failure. Not only was projects, public debates etc. - to also however, there is no talk of a “crisis of unity”, as was the case during the first decade of the existence of the it the case of a so-called “peaceful face elections with those “Berlin Republic”. revolution”, and one that saw solutions found to numerous extremely issues and problems that, By Natalija Dimić, complex political, diplomatic, legal, viewed over the long term, Associate Researcher, economic and financial issues over the course of just a months in 1990, secure German unity Institute for the Recent History of Serbia

Uncertainty over Brexit and the trade war between the U.S. and China led to a slowdown for the export-orientated German economy. However, leading German think-tanks suggest that the country's economy is on the road to recovery

September Brings A DEGREE OF OPTIMISM

One of the characteristics of the crisis caused by the pandemic is that the economies worst hit by it were those that are the most developed and usually demonstrate excellent export results. The German economy, Europe’s largest, contracted by a record 9.7% in the second quarter of 2020, as consumer spending, company investments and exports saw a steep decline due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

This second-quarter contraction was the worst since the documenting of GDP figures began in 1970, proving much more pronounced than was the case during the 2007-08 financial crisis, which resulted in a 4.7% decline in the first quarter of 2009.

The slowdown of the German economy is in line with all major economies in Europe. The GDP of the Euro area fell from 0.4% in the first quarter to 0.2% in the second quarter, while France, Italy, Spain and the UK all saw double-digit declines in their economic activity.

The German government, which has forecast a 6.3% economic decline for the entire year, pushed a multibillion-euro coronavirus aid package, followed by another €130-billion stimulus in June, in order to alleviate the consequences of the crisis.

The German economy had shown robust results prior to the start of the crisis. In 2016 Germany recorded the highest trade surplus in the world, worth $310 billion, making it the biggest capital exporter globally.

Germany’s top 10 export items are vehicles, machinery, chemical goods, electronic products, electrical equipment, pharmaceuticals, transport equipment, basic metals, food products and rubber and plastics.

The International Monetary Fund gave the country’s economy “yet another bill of good health” in July 2017, but some economists speculated that the slowdown recorded in the final quarter of 2019 was mainly as a consequence of uncertainty over Brexit and the trade war between the U.S. and China, which were then exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Although the current contraction was the worst on record, it was still less than initially anticipated by economists. Indeed, Germany’s Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) revised its quarter-on-quarter contraction in GDP from the 10.1% it initially reported at the end of July.

Spokesperson of the German Chamber of Industry & Commerce, Volker Treier, recently expressed strong concern over the course of the country’s short-term economic future. Indeed, if the German economy has another negative quarter it will be considered as being “in recession”. For this scenario, the government is preparing some countermeasures to mitigate the effects, such as the accelerated introduction of short-time work and employee retraining.

However, some better news has already arrived in September. The Zew Indicator of Economic Sentiment for Germany rose 5.9 points in September, month-onmonth, to 77.4 points. Positive signals in Germany were

followed by the rise in sentiment for the eurozone’s economic development, which increased by 9.9 points Increased business confidence suggests that the German that the German economy is on the road to recovery. Similar results were reported to bring the indicator to 73.9 points economy is tracking a stronger by Oxford Economics. Increased for September. According to Zew sentiment, even recovery than the eurozone business confidence suggests that the German economy is tracking a the stalled Brexit talks and rising as a whole, yet there are stronger recovery than the euroCoronavirus cases could not dampen the positive mood. Attitudes towards the current ecoconcerns that the banking sector could see a rising zone as a whole. Yet the fear hasn’t dissipated, note analysts of Oxford Economics. nomic situation have also improved, number of loan defaults in One of the most promising news although they still remain negative at -66.2 points, which is 15.1 points the coming six months stories is that the business climate index rose sharply in the service sechigher than in August. tor, showing that service providers are

On the other hand, a survey published by the Ifo Insignificantly more satisfied with their current business stitute for Economic Research suggests that companies situation. evaluate their current business situations with far more Given the structure of the German economy – in which optimism than in the previous month. the service sector contributes around 70% to total GDP,

The institute said that its business climate index - an with industry accounting for 29.1%, and agriculture 0.9% indicator of economic activity in Germany - rose to 92.6 - it is easy to see why this is excellent news. from a previously downward revised 90.4 in July. This The outlook for the coming six months has also immarked the fourth consecutive monthly increase and proved, according to the Ifo. Economists concerns now was higher than economists’ initial expectations of 92.2. mostly relate to the banking sector, which could see a This prompted Ifo President Clemens Fuest to reason rising number of loan defaults in the coming six months.

LOGISTICS Of The New Era

Synergy of all modes of transport

CFND deals in logistics services and is specialised in the transport of goods on inland waterways in the Danube Basin. A member of several national and international associations, since 2015 it has been part of the Rhenus Group, one of the worlds leading logistics companies.

“What distinguishes CFND Ltd. from the majority of compa nies on the localmarket is precisely its synergy of all modes of transport,” says CFND Belgrade Managing Director Bojan Lasković.

CFND was established ten years ago with the aim of developing logistics activities in the Danube basin, and went on to become part of the Rhenus Group five years ago. How did you attract the attention of one of the world’s leading logistics companies? - CFND was initially founded by French companies CFNR and ATIC Services, which deal mainly with river transport and port operations. The idea of the founders at the time was to establish a company that would transfer the business model from Western Europe to Serbia’s local market. Every start is difficult, and we had several challenges from the outset that hindered the development of the company. We encountered the col lapse of the river freight market, then faced the economic crisis that shook every segment of the economy. Despite unfavourable conditions, with a quality service and optimal logistics solutions we managed to position ourselves on the market and gradually gain the trust of many multinational companies with which we now have partnership relations.

The Rhenus Group spent many years seeking a reliable com pany with the potential for development on the Serbian market, in order to be able to cover the entire route of the Danube and, together with offices in Regensurg, Krems and Constanta, provide its clients with a competitive advantage in the area of logistics services. Simply, it was there that interests intersected, finally resulting in the takeover of CFND Ltd. by the Rhenus Group.

You specialise in the transport of goods on inland waterways in the Danube basin, but you are also able to organise a complete logistics chain, combining road, rail and river transport, to more than 40 locations across Europe... - What distinguishes CFND Ltd. from the majority of companies on the local market is precisely this synergy of all modes of transport. The benefit for clients is that one company provides them with a complete logistics service, whether that relates to river transport, from port to port, or combined transport, from warehouse to warehouse, via waterways.

In this way, through the Rhenus network, we can state freely that we are in a position to satisfy the requirements of our cus tomers throughout Europe, and beyond if required.

You have at your disposal kno whow and experience, but also the support of the entire Rhenus Group, while it seems that you also boast a modern fleet. Is that correct? - The entire fleet that works for us came from the waterways of Western Europe. Our 2,700HP tugs are equipped according to EU standards, both in terms of navigation safety and in terms of housing conditions for crew members. Our barges have a large capacity and are suitable for transporting all types of dry cargo - light and heavy grain, fertilis ers, metals, oversized cargo etc.

To conclude, I would like to point out that we are in the pro cess of changing the name of the company. The new name of the company under which we will operate will be Rhenus PartnerShip Serbia d.o.o. (Ltd.), which will certainly remain synonymous with high-quality services.

It Will Be CONTINUED

The Goethe-Institut in Belgrade adapted its programmes to the conditions imposed by the pandemic, preparing for the time when it will again be possible to function without the threat of the virus

The commemorating of this year’s great jubilees – the 30 th anniversary of the reunification of East and West Germany and the 50 th anniversary of the establishing of the Belgrade centre of the Goethe Institute (GoetheInstitut) – has been adapted to the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic, but that didn’t reduce the quality of the celebrations. Apart from these major anniversaries, here we also discuss the experiences of the previous seasons for this German cultural centre with its director, Frank Baumann.

Unification is at the very foundation of the Federal Republic of Germany, so commemorating the anniversary of your country’s reunification will serve to remind us all of one good example and good practise. During this year, the GoetheInstitut commemorates half a century of its existence. How will you mark these jubilees? - Yes, 50 years of the Goethe-Institut in Belgrade is certainly something special; something to be proud of, to be thankful for and to prompt us to stop for a moment, looking both back and forward at the same time. The official reception should have taken place in June, with some high-ranking guests from Serbia and Germany. And a big fat party with some cool live music and all of our friends, clients and partners around, in a cheerful mood, down at Dorćol Platz – that was the idea. The Coronavirus pandemic destroyed everything, as you can imagine. What remains are memories of 50 years of the German culture and language in Belgrade, good years mainly, though some tough ones as well, and one of the strangest right now. But no complaints, many people paid a much higher price than cancelling a single event. For the culture scene, both the independent and the state-run, it’s a disaster. I wish someone could see some light at the end of the tunnel, but this nasty virus probably came to stay for a while longer.

Regarding the commemoration of 30 years of the reuni fication of the two Germanys: well, to me that’s first of all a political date, a historical landmark, and as such it’s up to our

Embassy to communicate. I’m sure they will, probably in some be extremely challenging to follow all health recommendations combination with the current German presidency of the EU, and restrictions of the Serbian government and the World which would make sense to me. When it comes to culture and Health Organisation. However, given that not everybody feels ordinary people, we could discuss the extent to which Germany comfortable to come around personally despite all measures is unified today. To a certain degree, it’s still a divided country, being taken, we keep on streaming everything for remote use. not only between east and west. The Coronavirus alone makes Apart from our own online events, we did our best to keep no difference. in touch with our audience on social networks, sharing relevant German content, such as virtual exhibitions from important How did the Coronavirus pandemic lead to changes in the German museums, online concerts and DJ sets, even films for Goethe-Institut’s plans? Which programmes did you have free streaming etc. to cancel or postpone? Judging by an nouncements on the Institute’s Facebook page, you maintained a very rich online programme. - Well, first of all our ongoing language courses were paused. We had to stop them immediately, and those which were about to start were cancelled. Luckily, a vast majority of our students agreed to continue by switching to an online format. The language course of fice promptly coordinated this with our teachers, who did their very best to make it happen, though it came over them just out of the blue, but mutual goodwill on each side made it a success for most of our customers and colleagues. We even extended our online portfolio during the lockdown phase and saw a significant 50 years of the Finally, our so-called e-Library, which has been very well known to our regular increase of interest in this format. Goethe-Institut in Belgrade readers in Serbia since 2014, has been

Regarding cultural events, we had is certainly something to be used more frequently than ever during to cancel or postpone performances of several German authors (Noor Kanj, proud of, to be thankful for, the past few months. With its huge offer of German e-books, films magazines etc., Marion Poschmann, Robert Menasse), and to prompt us stop for a as well as regular updates, it has become as well as several exhibitions, among which “Missing Stories” was an incredible moment, looking both back one of our most popular online content. loss. This is a highly rated international and forward at the same time It can be said that the Goethe-Institut art exhibition on forced labour under has a comprehensive programme of the Nazi occupation. Two years of work, a grand opening at German language courses – for both beginners and experts. the Salon of Contemporary Art in Belgrade, and then – back Are you satisfied with the response; how do you compete to storage. It will be continued, hopefully, in 2021. Still, we did with the popularity of the English language? our best to use the potential of the all-round virtual space. - Yes, we have a wide range of courses from the age of six For example, we presented a digital exhibition, “Abandoned” onwards, as well as many different course formats – super by Sanja Latinović, through our YouTube channel. The panel intensive, two extensive options, online and blended learning, discussion with the artist happened on Instagram. That’s also which is 50% in person and 50% online. Something for everyone! the place where we later celebrated World Book Day. It worked We don’t feel like we have to compete with the popularity of the pretty well, even if all these streaming actions cannot replace English language that much, since speaking English is a given personal contacts, as everybody now knows. Still, we’ll stick now and most children learn it at school from an early age. Ger to it in the future and keep having online talks on literature. In man is usually a second foreign language that people in Serbia June we presented a music documentary as a live premiere by learn and they know exactly why they’ve chosen German and Belgrade-based saxophonist and composer Hayden Chisholm the Goethe-Institut: better business opportunities in Serbia, on our YouTube channel. Also in June we started the experiment as well as job opportunities in Germany, further education in of a real exhibition in the gallery of our library. It turned out to a German-speaking country, to name a few.

Škograd is one of many programmes online, also in physical spaces such as with which the Goethe-Institut is pre squares, open-air cinemas etc. The 13th sent in our area. How is progress being Beldocs presented i.a. seven carefully achieved for this open classroom in chosen German documentary produc which schools and local communities tions and co-productions. cooperate in sorting out their local Through this year’s cooperation environment? with Bitef, everyone involved in the - Thank you for this question. The project was facing the importance of long-term cooperation with the (still quickly finding alternative ways of young) Škograd crew is one of our doing things, caused by many uncer beacon projects. It’s based on a civil tainties in every respect. As an outsociety platform that we established come, the German guest performance a couple of years ago, called “Next “Uncanny Valley” of Rimini Protokol Generation”, and aims at fostering a and Kammerspiele Munich was one new understanding of the school/town of two solo lecture performances relationship in a specific environment presented at the Prologue Edition through mutual participation. The fo of the 54 th Bitef festival. The digital cus of the activities is on a suburban body of a performer (German author area of Belgrade, the agglomeration Thomas Melle) on the stage of Bitef of Ledine, established not too long Theatre raised many important issues, ago, with its inhabitants facing quite wonderfully mirroring the momentum. a few challenges and open issues. So, on the basis of numerous activities During this time when we’re talking organised by Škograd in cooperation for CorD, it is almost certain that the with local school kids, the activists traditional Belgrade Book Fair won’t be developed a kind of methodology that held this October, though that has not was previously presented at several yet been confirmed officially. If the Fair conferences outside Serbia. Sharing experiences with other expert groups People in Serbia know is cancelled, do you plan to present the latest editions of German publishers in from Germany and other countries exactly why they’ve some other way? strengthens the position of Škograd, chosen German and the - Well, of course we couldn’t replace enhances their networking and, finally, helps to continue the beneficial work Goethe-Institut – better or at least compensate for activities of German publishing houses. It’s just for (not only) underprivileged kids in business opportunities a very small window to some carefully local summer schools, but also open classroom formats (“Infrastructure in Serbia and job selected releases of the book market that we could contribute. But Goetheof hope”), among others. For the lat opportunities in Germany Institut used to present itself at the ter, Škograd was just awarded by the Belgrade Book Fair together with other 2020 Belgrade Salon of Architecture / BINA, and I really European cultural institutes at a common EUNIC stand, until hope that this cool initiative (one for our children that are 2016. In 2017 Goethe-Institut was widely present as a partner about to grow up) will remain an integral part of the city’s of the joint project “4 Countries, 1 Language”, presenting cultural landscape. the literature works of four German-speaking countries as “guests of honour”. The Goethe-Institut traditionally collaborates on many impor We later decided to support the Book Fair by organising tant festivals that are held in Belgrade, to mention only BITEF different events prior to it, or in the context of it, such as the and Beldocs. How has this year’s cooperation been realised, EUNIC conference for librarians “What kind of library do we given the changes to conditions as a result of the pandemic? need?”, which took place at the National Library of Serbia in - The novel COVID-19 outbreak also caused many changes 2018. As far as I know, something similar won’t happen this in realising our planned programme activities in the realm year, as it was too complicated to organise it in an online of arts and culture. Strictly following current epidemiologi format. But, given that the Belgrade Book Fair is the biggest cal rules, our traditional partners, Bitef and Beldocs, have and most important event of its kind in the entire Western managed to be among the rare festivals presenting their Balkan region, I’m sure this is just an exception due to the programmes in September, alongside the safest place – overall situation.

"BUG" Hunters

Quality House was founded in 2004 as a home for software testing professionals driven by a passion to find "one more bug". Today, with offices in Bulgaria and Serbia, Quality House is a leading provider of software testing services in Southeast Europe

We have set an agenda to increase our presence in cannot save time and/or money. However, indirectly, if done other regions. In order to achieve this growth, we properly, it can certainly mitigate risks related to developing devote great effort to educating our team memproduct and support a development team in implementing bers, following world recognised standards and application with the desired level of quality, within defined certification schemes, says Quality House MD Predrag Skoković. budget and set timeline. Since the mid 1950s, when the term ‘Cost of Quality’ was What services does your company provide? Is professional coined, development teams were struggling to keep the cost software testing the basis for all your activities? of poor quality lower than the cost of good quality. - Software development is a very young discipline, but one that’s In today’s world, it seems like people are slowly getting evolving at an incredible rate. What was seen as a task half a used to failures in software applications. Yet there are still century ago is today recognised as an opportunity for lifelong many more applications that do not see the light of day due learning and specialisation. These tectonic movements have to their poor quality. There were (and I’m afraid there will be) not bypassed software testing either. companies that lost their reputation or

Following this progress, based on the Quality House is participating went bankrupt as a consequence of a expectation that high-quality software applications will be an imperative in the in the organisation of the single “bug”. By applying proven software testing 21 st century, Quality House was founded SEETEST conference, which is services, Quality House can help avoid in 2004. It is envisaged as a home of software testing professionals, driven by a passion to find “one more bug”. dedicated to the domain of software testing these negative scenarios that could make your company’s name the next news headline.

Today, with offices in Bulgaria and Serbia, Quality House is a leading provider of software testWhich companies and industries do you test for the most? ing services (outsourcing, consulting, training), primarily in - Outsourcing companies increase their knowledge with each Southeast Europe. new client and project. Quality House has a diverse portfolio,

To repay its debt to the community, Quality House is parcovering financial, mission- and safety-critical domains (e.g. ticipating in the organisation (with SEETB) of the SEETEST banks, the automotive sector etc.). Domain knowledge is very conference, which is dedicated to the domain of software testing. important in providing valuable information to end customers. However, it is necessary to supplement this knowledge Software testing is thought to save more time and money with specific technical and soft skills, in order to perform the than any other activity in development, because any defect service to the highest level of quality. Therefore, the QH team that would delay market entry costs both a company’s money is composed of members who have different backgrounds in and reputation? Is that right? terms of education, knowledge, skills and experience. This gives - Software testing can be a very expensive “sport”. By itself, it us flexibility to quickly solve everyday challenges.

The importance of placing much needed value on the notion that women are equal is not something that is unique to any one culture or country — it’s a movement that transcends borders and oceans, because what is at stake is ubiquitous

Here, we pay homage to some incredible women in a variety of careers and fields who have made a name for themselves as actresses, politicians, artists and more.

They are human beings who hail from the Mutterland and who have contributed something special — not just because they are women, but because they’ve added value to society as individuals with a voice that is worth listening to.

Frauen-Power is an antiquated term associated with women who have struggled, sweated and paved their own way to be able to play an integral role in this world.

BERTHA VON SUTTNER

This Nobel Peace Prize winner fought hard to live an unconventional life for her time. As a means of departing from the widely accepted (and only) route of her time, she tried to train as an opera singer to avoid having to marry for money. Her crippling stage fright impeded this, but she ended up marrying for love, to the chagrin of many. This decison, coupled with her poor financial status, forced her to take many different jobs, and she even worked as a housekeeper and secretary for Alfred Nobel in Paris. As an already avid writer, Bertha became a prominent figure in the peace movement with her publication Die Waffen nieder! (or Lay Down Your Arms!) in 1889 and later became the founder of the German Peace Society. She also took part in organising the first Hague Convention in 1899. Her journalistic efforts, mixed with her fervent support of and interest in promoting peace, led her to eventually win the Nobel Peace Prize in 1905, and it is rumoured that the prize exists in the first place because of her.

AMALIE EMMY NOETHER

This impressive woman made powerful contributions to abstract algebra and theoretical physics and is still considered one of the top mathematicians of the 20 th century. In physics, her theories articulated the connection between conservation laws and symmetry. In maths, she instigated theories about rings, algebras and fields. It’s safe to say that Amalie was a bit of a brainiac, and she was partially conditioned by her father, who was also a mathematician. Abandoning her original plan to study English and French, mathematics became her vice, and later, her weapon of mastery; demonstrated by her gifts to academia in the late 19 th and early 20 th centuries.

ANGELA MERKEL

Angela Merkel is the first female chancellor of Germany. She took office in 2005, but this is only one of her feats — with a doctorate in physical chemistry, she’s not a one-trick pony. This former research scientist hails from Hamburg circa 1954. Merkel’s Germany was not our Germany, and her involvement in politics started at an early age with her participation with the Free German Youth, and she later got involved with the growing Democratic movement after the fall of the Berlin Wall. This passion for government and participation snowballed, eventually landing her the spot as the Chancellor of Germany. Known for her tenacity, ability to make tough decisions, and for being a beacon of fortitude in a male-dominated branch, Merkel was voted Time Magazine‘s ‘Person of the Year’ in 2015. With an arsenal of awards under her belt and a penchant for blooming in tough times, Angela Merkel is a force to recognise.

LISE MEITNER

Lise Meitner was one of eight siblings, born in Vienna in 1878. Her love of physics bloomed at an early age, which led her to obtain her doctorate in the subject, but a woman working in this specific and male dominated field of academia was rare at that time. She was welcomed into a group of scientists with whom she worked closely in Berlin, including chemist Otto Hahn, and the two discovered protactinium in 1918. Though a brilliant contributor in her field, she was often overshadowed by the men — like when she discovered the radiationless transition in 1923 that ended up being named the ‘Auger effect’ after Pierre Victor Auger, who ‘discovered’ it two years after Meitner. In an even bigger oversight, the acknowledgement of nuclear fission was credited largely to Otto Hahn (though the two had come up with it together), and Hahn went on to win the Nobel Prize for Chemistry in 1944. Meitner later received many awards in an attempt to somehow reconcile her many exclusions and acknowledge her unbelievable contributions.

HANNAH ARENDT

Hannah Arendt was a prominent political theorist who was German born but eventually escaped to America during the Holocaust. Her works largely dissected and evaluated power, paying specific attention to totalitarianism, authority and democracy. She rejected the idea of being a philosopher and de spised this nomenclature, because philosophy tends to fixate on the individual and she erred on the side that assumed parts are the sum of a whole. In other words, she was part of human kind, and through this context she discussed the trials and concepts of life. She was a prolific writer and thinker whose works are still read today, and some of her theories trace the roots of Stalinism and rally for the concept of inalienable human rights. Hannah Arendt was truly a woman with an inexorable voice and astute perspective.

GABRIELE MÜNTER

This German expressionist painter doesn’t come directly to mind when talking about the feminist movement, but she was an integral part of the process. Her affinity for colour manifested in her famous landscapes, while her earlier works borrowed from the big wigs of Fauvism — specifically, Matisse and Van Gogh. Münter and her then partner, Kadinsky, were prominent leaders in the Munich Avant-garde movement. Along with Kadinsky and Franz Marc, she started the expressionist group called Der Blaue Reiter, or the ‘blue rider,’ which hoped that painting would take on a symbolic and spontaneous relationship of colour that, in turn, was a metaphor for the bleeding out of life towards the point of abstrac tion. Gabriele was a prolific painter who embodied the spirit of the expressionist and avant-garde movement. Her contributions, though not as widely known as some of her contemporaries, remain relevant and inspiring.

ALICE SCHWARZER

Alice Shwarzer is a contemporary feminist who still works in the move ment. As the founder and publisher of the German feminist magazine EMMA, Alice works to spread her ideas of equality throughout Germany and beyond. She prioritises economic self-sufficiency in women and constantly speaks out against antiquated and misogynistic laws from the 1970s that still persist today. Alice was also of one of the founders of the feminist movement in Paris, and was arguably one of the catalysts for the ‘second wave’ movement of feminism. Alice is never shy about voicing her ideas or acting as a champion for what she believes is fair, equal and right.

TRÜMMERFRAUEN

The Trümmerfrauen, literally “women of the rubble”, were the women who rebuilt Germany. After World War II, there were around seven million more women than men left in Germany. Along with that, there was an estimated 400 million cubic metres of rubble to be cleared and four million homes to be rebuilt. For months after the end of the war, women aged 15-50, some volunteers, others contracted, set to work building the country back up. There were a few rough years directly after the war, but after the rubble was cleared and the Marshall Plan got into full swing, West Germany’s economy recovered tenfold and, by the late 1950s, the economic miracle had taken hold. Without these brave women, Germany may never have fully recovered from the devastation of the war.

AHK SERBIA

Reliable Economic PARTNER OF SERBIA

The German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce (AHK Serbia) represents the interests of its member companies, provides informational support for their business and advocates for the development and improvement of German-Serbian trade and cooperation in all aspects of the economy. One of the tasks of AHK Serbia is to provide advisory support to German companies entering the Serbian market, as well as to Serbian businesspeople entering the German market.

MEMBERS OF THE GERMAN-SERBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HAVE DONATED MORE THAN A MILLION EUROS FOR THE FIGHT AGAINST THE PANDEMIC

With the aim of supporting institutions and health workers in Serbia in the struggle against the COVID-19 pandemic, AHK Serbia member companies have donated aid with a total value 1,087,000 euros in recent weeks. This relates to aid in the form of specific medical equipment and financial resources for the procurement of such equipment, donated goods and food/hygiene packages, but also the provision of services to companies for humanitarian purposes (such as transportation and distribution).

President of AHK Serbia and General Manager of Hemofarm, Dr Ronald Seeliger, emphasised that Germany has been, and remains, a reliable partner to Serbia, and that the engagement of German investors will continue contributing to the economic sustainability of Serbia even in difficult times.

“German investors have been present in Serbia for a full two decades, and close to four hundred German companies currently operate here, with more than 60,000 employees. This is a clear indicator that Germany is one of Serbia’s most important and most reliable economic partners, and it will also continue to be so in the future. Even in these challenging times when the entire world and the global economy have already been impacted by the effects of the pandemic, it is very important that we remain human and that each of us does as much as we can to help institutions and health workers in the struggle against this coronavirus. Donations from companies are our way to show that Germany is not only an important economic partner of Serbia, but above all a friend,” stressed the AHK Serbia president.

The AHK Serbia member companies that have donated aid to date include: Generali Osiguranje Srbija, Hemofarm AD, Henkel Srbija, Inmold, Klett publishing doo, Lidl Srbija, Messer Tehnogas, Mirax Agrar, Nelt Group, Peric Trans Company, Stim-Import Loznica, Transfera d.o.o., ZG Lighting SRB d.o.o. (Zumtobel Group) and many others.

GERMAN INITIATIVE TO IDENTIFY SUPPLIERS IN THE WESTERN BALKANS 2020

AHK Serbia, the representative offices of the German economy in the Western Balkans (AHK), as well as the German Association for Materials Management, Import and Logistics (BME eV), jointly organised the regional B2B project “German initiative to find suppliers in Western Balkan countries”, which is being implemented for the sixth consecutive year. This year’s regional B2B project was held online from 8 th to 22 nd September.

More than 30 German companies participated in the project, as well as 154 companies from the Western Balkan region. From Serbia alone, 52 supplier companies presented their businesses to potential German partners, with a total of 340 B2B meetings held.

The aim of the project is for German companies to find producers from the economic domains they’re seeking in Serbia and elsewhere in the Western Balkans. The concept of the project is based on the “B2B - matchmaking” mechanism. Interested German companies come primarily from the metal processing sector, the automotive industry supply sector and the plastic materials processing and production sector. Other industries are also represented in individual cases, such as construction and the energy sector. Events are realised under the patronage of the Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy of the Federal Republic of Germany, within the scope of the Programme for the Development of Foreign Markets for Small and Mediumsized Enterprises of the Federal Republic of Germany.

ONLINE PORTAL FOR SUPPLIERS FROM SERBIA

Following numerous supplier initiatives and gatherings organised in Germany, and in response to great interest in cooperating with SMEs and for imports from Serbia, AHK Serbia launched an online portal for suppliers from Serbia https://www.lieferanten-serbien.com/. At a time when doing business digitally is a “new reality” for companies globally, domestic business leaders and entrepreneurs have gained an excellent opportunity to present their companies, products and services on this platform, via which German companies seek suppliers of goods and services in specific areas and receive insight into the offer of domestic suppliers. A great advantage of this is that AHK Serbia has initiated exclusive cooperation with the German Association for Materials Management, Import and Logistics (BME e.V.), so that companies from Serbia that are participants in the AHK Serbia portal are also promoted on the BME portal. BME represents a professional association for buyers, supply chain managers and logisticians in Germany and Central Europe, with a total of over 9,750 individual and corporate members. AHK Serbia invites all interested companies to secure their place on the AHK portal and take advantage of all the benefits of this digital platform – to present their companies, products and services to potential German customers. Contact us for more information and ways to promote.

CONFERENCE: MODERNIZATION IN THE SECTORS OF TRANSPORT, LOGISTICS AND TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE IN SERBIA AND MONTENEGRO In February 2020, AHK Serbia, under the patronage of the Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy of the Federal Republic of Germany and in partnership with German company em&s GmbH, organised a conference on the topic “Modernisation in the sectors of transport, logistics and transport infrastructure in Serbia and Montenegro”. The conference saw a delegation comprising seven German companies present their production programmes, innovations and services in these areas, after which all conference participants had an opportunity to hold B2B meetings with German companies.

ONLINE BIOMASS AND BIOGAS CONFERENCE AHK Serbia, under the patronage of the Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy of the Federal Republic of Germany and in partnership with German company energiewächter GmbH, organised an online conference in September 2020 on the topic “biomass and biogas in Serbia”, with the aim of connecting successful German companies with domestic companies from Serbia in order to share technology and experiences.

CONFERENCE “WESTERN BALKANS AND THE GERMAN ECONOMY: INVESTMENTS - SUPPLY INITIATIVES - MOBILITY”

In November 2019, under the patronage of the Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy of the Federal Republic of Germany, and in cooperation with the Committee of the German Economy for Eastern Europe – Eastern European Association of German Economy (OA) - and the German Association for Southeast Europe, AHK Serbia organised a conference on German initiatives, economic development, new conditions and the effects of the German Law on the Immigration of Skilled Workers from Non-EU Countries, as well as demographic challenges in Serbia.

The conference was opened by AHK Serbia President

Dr Ronald Seeliger, Serbian Minister without Portfolio in charge of Demography and Population Policy, Dr Slavica Đukić Dejanović, and the Head of the Section for Southeast Europe, EU Enlargement and Turkey at the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, Helge Tolksdorf.

VISIT OF PETER ALTMEIER, MINISTER FOR ECONOMIC AFFAIRS AND ENERGY OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY, WITH A BUSINESS DELEGATION

Under the auspices of the visit to Serbia of the Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy of the Federal Republic of Germany, Peter Altmeier, at the end of October 2019, AHK Serbia hosted German business leaders at the Business Briefing and Round Table at the Palace of Serbia in Belgrade.

The Business Briefing gathered businesspeople from Germany, who came as part of the delegation of Minister Altmeier, and German MPs. Businesspeople from Germany received relevant information on the political situation in the country from Dorothea Gieselmann, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Federal Republic of Germany, while the situation in the economic sector was presented by the AHK Serbia President Seeliger.

Following the briefing, Minister Altmeier spoke at a meeting attended by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, Serbian Chamber of Commerce & Industry President Marko Čadež, Deputy Director General of the Association of German Chambers of Commerce (DIHK) Dr Volker Trajer, AHK Serbia President Seeliger and AHK Serbia Director Martin Knapp, as well as German and Serbian business leaders representing members of AHK Serbia. Minister Altmeier said that Germany and Serbia want to intensify their relations and that they can primarily achieve that through economic cooperation. Also speaking on this occasion, AHK President Seeliger assessed the current economic cooperation between Serbia and Germany as good, noting that Germany invests a lot in Serbia and that German companies employ more than 60,000 people in the country.

DUAL EDUCATION

A conference of the German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce entitled “Dual Education - Experiences of German Companies in Serbia” launched the Week of Dual Education at the end of October 2019, under the patronage of the Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Serbia (CCIS). The conference was opened by AHK Serbia director Knapp, Assistant Minister for Dual and Entrepreneurial Education and Training Gabriela Grujić, and Director of the CCIS Centre for Dual Education Mirjana Kovačević. Representatives of German companies Siemens Srbija, Robert Bosch, ContitechFluid Serbia and Draexlmaier Serbia shared their experiences in the implementation of the dual education system with media representatives and the gathered members of AHK Serbia.

AHK ONLINE PORTAL FOR STUDENT WORK PLACEMENTS

The portal for student work placements at AHK Serbia member companies, www.ahk-praksa.com, was created on the initiative of AHK Serbia and the University of Belgrade, “Model of German business to work experience”, with the aim of advancing students professionally and ensuring their better connection with the labour market. This online platform enables members of AHK Serbia, but also other companies with German capital that are not members, to regularly publish open positions for work placements within their companies.

SENIOR EXPERT SERVICE The main activity of the Senior Expert Service (SES) programme is based on the mediation of professional consultants in various economic and non-economic activities around the world. This German non-profit organisation, which is subsidised by the German Ministry for International Cooperation, deals with the mediation and organisation of engagements of professional consultants from Germany in SMEs. SES consultants are active German retirees, experts with vast experience who undertake their engagements with great enthusiasm and a strong work ethic. They provide consulting services without financial compensation, with the aim of helping and promoting the organisation of the operations of SMEs, public institutions, associations and educational institutions, both in Serbia and around the world. The German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce has been representing the SES programme in Serbia since 2005. Until the end of 2018, approximately 250 SES engagements had been realised in Serbian companies and non-business entities. FAIRS IN GERMANY German business fairs, as the most significant promotional mechanisms and sales institutions in Europe and beyond, have always occupied a significant place in economic cooperation between Serbia and Germany. AHK Serbia represents:

•The International Fair in Munich •The International Fair in Cologne •The Nuremberg Toy Fair •The Intec and “Z” fairs in Leipzig

AHK MEMBERS DINNER The AHK Serbia business dinner for representatives of member companies is among the most popular events among members of this association. The event is opened with an honorary speaker from the domestic economic and political scene, with a short presentation on a current topic, followed by a discussion and a cocktail reception in a relaxed atmosphere. In January 2020, the guest of honour at the AHK Members Dinner was Zsuzsanna Hargitai, regional director for the Western Balkans at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), who spoke about opportunities and obstacles to investing in Serbia from the EBRD’s perspective.

WORKING GROUPS

The German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce organises working groups with a focus on three areas: human resources, communications and public relations, but also energy efficiency and renewable energy sources. At interesting interactive meetings of members that have an average of 35 participants, attendees present common topics, while expert lectures are given in selected fields, with exchanges of experience among colleagues from various companies.

ESTABLISHING OF THE NEW AHK WORKING GROUP FOR CSR/SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Reputation is the most important aspect in the business of modern companies, which is expected to not only yield a positive financial performance, but also to create a positive contribution to social development. Everything is important for a good corporate reputation today, from the quality of employees, via product quality and financial performance, to corporate culture. Recognising the importance of corporate social responsibility and corporate philanthropy, AHK Serbia this year established its Working Group for CSR/Sustainable Development, which has to date organised three online meetings, with the support of the Serbian Philanthropic Forum.

AHK OKTOBERFEST

The German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce each year conveys a German tradition dating back almost 200 years with the unique AHK Oktoberfest. The tenth Oktoberfest in Belgrade, and the fourth organised by AHK Serbia, was held over the course of two days on 10 th and 11 th October 2019. Around 1,300 guests from member companies, partners and guests from business life enjoyed Erdinger beer, a variety of specialities of Bavarian cuisine and the music of Dejan Petrović and his Big Band, as well as competitions in holding multiple beer mugs and drinking beer.

SERBIAN VISIONS

The fifth Serbian Visions multicongress was held on Friday 22 nd November and Saturday 23 rd November 2019 at Belgrade’s Radisson Collection Old Mill Hotel. The opening ceremony of the fifth Serbian Visions multicongress saw plaques awarded for the third time: the plaque for the Best Vision was awarded to the Association ‘Žene na prekretnici’ [Women at a Turning Point], which is the only association dedicated to the economic empowering of unemployed women aged over 45, who represent the most vulnerable group on the labour market in the Republic of Serbia.

The plaque for the best social engagement was awarded to the Association of Internal Auditors of Serbia, which works to promote sound corporate governance and ethical principles, as well as to raise awareness of the value of internal audits.

• 40 two-hour events over the course of two days • 40 participants and event co-organisers: NGOs, expert associations, institutes, institutions, companies, associations, universities… • 40 different ways of presenting: discussions, forums, presentations,workshops, seminars, film screenings and many others • 40 interesting topics covering the fields of human rights, economics, education,culture, health, environmental protection, EU integration and others • 40 plus reasons to come as a citizen and visit the only multicongress in Serbia!

NEW CHALLENGES Drive Efficiency

Vlado Baumaschinen, a Surčin-based company that deals in construction, transport and services, has been engaged successfully in civil engineering for more than a decade and has achieved successful cooperation with both domestic and foreign construction companies

We have enviable experience and great references mists and trained, qualified workers of all required profiles, when it comes to the construction of roads, and we are absolutely committed to improving working and earthworks, building demolitions, excavations, organisational skills and capacities. The largest percentage of securing foundation pits and landscaping of all employed personnel comprises workers who have completed kinds, as well as basic and ancillary civil engineering structures,” secondary education - construction machine operators, dump says Vlado Baumashinen Director Vladan Marković with pride. truck drivers and auxiliary construction site workers. Employees with higher education qualifications include engineers, You founded the company in 2004 and it has gone on to project managers and financial experts. become one of our country’s most successful and respected Vlado Baumaschinen has spent years investing in the companies in the field of civil engineering in a relatively latest construction machines, tools and cago vehicles, but short period of time. How would you evaluate these first primarily in the continuous training of around 80 employees 16 years of operations? who achieve exceptional results in practise. - The first few years were extremely difficult. It was necessary to work hard We have spent years investing Your colleagues point out that it’s and make sacrifices for years in order to create the conditions for the procurein the latest construction increasingly challenging to achieve everything, particularly some of the ment of new machinery and equipment machines, tools and cago specific requirements of clients. Isn’t essential for achieving a certain market vehicles, but primarily in that a problem for you? share. Over the last five years we’ve been working on the development, expansion the continuous training of - We have amassed more than ten years of experience in the field of civil engineerand improvement of the work process employees ing, we successfully perform works on necessary for providing high-quality the construction of roads, earthworks, services. building demolitions, excavations, securing foundation pits

Everything is easy when you have a goal, and the goals of and landscaping of all kinds, as well as basic and ancillary civil our work and operations imply a professional and detailed engineering structures. By applying the latest technology and approach to work, the application of economical solutions, mechanisation, as well as high-quality construction materials, utilising modern technologies, hiring a professional team of along with the experience and knowhow of professional staff, people and constantly increasing the efficiency work through we realise all requirements of clients, which we perceive as a the accepting of new challenges. great challenge, within agreed deadlines and to the highest standards. Given that this is about specific demands and that What is the structure of your personnel like? each project is unique, we approach each project carefully and - In our team we have managers, licensed engineers, econorespond with high-quality services within the deadlines sets.

EXHIBITION 2009 DEVOTED TO THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BLECHTROMMEL AT THE GÜNTER-GRASS-HAUS

10 GERMAN BOOKS You Have To Read Before You Die

These ten novels, ranging from the late 19 th century to the last couple of years, are modern German classics. Earning international acclaim, each one is essential reading. This list takes a whistlestop tour through Germany's most influential books and authors

1. DIE BLECHTROMMEL (THE TIN DRUM) BY GÜNTER GRASS (1959)

In Die Blechtrommel, Oskar Matzerath narrates his life story from a mental hospital in the early 1950s.

Born in 1924, Matzerath decided at the age of three to stop growing, retaining the stature of a child whilst having an adult’s capacity for thought. Nobel Prize-winning author Günter Grass’ most famous novel is not the easiest of reads, but it is definitely worth the effort.

The book “most completely defines the [20 th century] in all its glories and catastrophes - the moods, atmospheres, manias, streams, currents, histories and under-histories,” writes The Guardian. 2. DER TOD IN VENEDIG (DEATH IN VENICE) BY THOMAS MANN (1912)

Buddenbrooks and Der Zauberberg (The Magic Mountain) are probably Thomas Mann’s most renowned novels.

But to get a taste of Mann’s writing, Der Tod in Venedig is a good place to start.

Gustav von Aschenbach is a famous writer who takes a summer holiday in Venice. During one dinner, he notices an exceptionally beautiful adolescent boy.

He becomes obsessed from a distance, shutting out the ominous news of a danger spreading through the city.

3. DER VORLESER

(THE READER) BY BERNHARD SCHLINK (1995)

In the late 1950s, 15-year-old West German Michael Berg finds himself in a passionate but secret love affair with a woman who is over 20 years his senior, leaving him confused yet enthralled.

As a law student several years later, he is observing a trial when he realises that the woman in the dock is his former lover. But the woman on trial is a very different person to the one he thought he knew.

Der Vorleser belongs to the genre of Vergangenheitsbewältigung - a term used to describe post-war attempts to come to terms with the Nazi past - and is one of the best known examples outside of Germany. In 1997 it became the first ever German book to top the New York Times bestseller list, and Kate Winslet won an Oscar for her performance in the 2008 film adaptation.

The book has, however, come in for staunch criticism, as critics claim it encourages identification with the perpetrators of the Holocaust.

4. IM WESTEN NICHTS NEUES (ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT) BY ERICH MARIA REMARQUE (1929)

One of the most well-known books about the First World War, Remarque’s novel tells the story of German soldier Paul Bäumer, giving a human perspective to the mass of

fighting in Europe between 1914 and 1918. Remarque was himself a veteran of the war, and he wrote and published the book a decade after its conclusion.

The novel zooms in to the daily life of an army private, detailing both the violence of battle and the mundaneness of life on the front.

Published in 1929, it quickly received international acclaim, being translated into 22 different languages and selling 2.5 million copies in the first 18 months.

It was also one of the first books banned and burned by the Nazis for being “degenerate.” 5. DAS PARFUM (PERFUME) BY PATRICK SÜSKIND (1985)

Whereas most good novels manage to conjure up images in your head, Das Parfum also conjures up scents and smells that waft up from the page.

Following the journey of a boy with an exquisite sense of smell which drives him to gruesome deeds, Süskind’s novel transports you back to 18 th century France, and the sprawling, stinking city of Paris.

When it was published in 1985, Das Parfum shot to the top of the best-seller tables. It stayed on Der Spiegel’s bestseller list for eight consecutive years, also experiencing great success internationally.

You will not regret picking up this gripping yet grotesque read.

6. AUSTERLITZ BY W.G. SEBALD (2001)

W.G. Sebald’s fourth and final novel before his untimely death in a car crash in 2001 is a challenging but unquestionably rewarding book. He lived in southeast England for the majority of his life as a university professor, and the breadth and depth of his knowledge shared in the novel could only be that of an academic.

The novel traces the journey of Jacques Austerlitz, a man who arrived in Britain in 1939 as a young boy from Prague. Through a series of lengthy conversations with the narrator, Austerlitz slowly reveals his life story.

Sebald’s unusual style has been described as its own genre: dense and slightly old-fashioned, it still captivates the reader and leads them on a fascinating journey through the history of Europe.

7. DIE VERWANDLUNG (METAMORPHOSIS) BY FRANZ KAFKA (1915)

Franz Kafka was born in 1883 in Prague, now capital of the Czech Republic.

At the time, Prague was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and Kafka wrote in German. He is now regarded as one of the most influential literary figures of the 20 th century, and the adjective “Kafkaesque” – meaning nightmarishly complex and oppressive – is taken from the themes of his works.

9. IMPERIUM (IMPERIUM: A FICTION OF THE SOUTH SEAS) BY CHRISTIAN KRACHT (2012)

Die Verwandlung is probably his most famous work, and many are familiar with the bizarre first line: “As Gregor Samsa awoke one morning from uneasy dreams, he found himself transformed in his bed into a gigantic insect-like creature.”

Don’t expect this novella to get any less nightmarish from thereon in.

8. BERLIN ALEXANDERPLATZ BY ALFRED DÖBLIN (1929)

The year 1929 - when Berlin Alexanderplatz was published - was the highpoint of the Weimar Republic, before it all came tumbling down with the Wall Street Crash. Berlin was like no other city in the late 1920s: diverse, liberal and often debauched.

This iconic novel narrates the story of ex-convict Franz Biberkopf who, after being released from prison in Berlin, swears that he will live an upstanding and decent life. He is soon, however, plunged into the capital’s louche but exhilarating underworld. Döblin’s novel was voted one of “The top 100 books of all time”, on a list compiled in 2002 by The Guardian.

In Imperium, a vegetarian nudist from Nuremberg sets sail for a South Pacific island to set up a religion worshipping coconuts and the sun. Sounds like absurdist fiction? Kracht’s novel Imperium is actually based on a true story.

In this witty and ironic book, Kracht - one of modern German literature’s most elusive figures - tells more than just the surprising yet true story of this extreme figure. He also deals with extremist movements of the 20 th century, as well as offering other interesting insights.

10. EFFI BRIEST BY THEODOR FONTANE (1896)

Written at the end of the 19 th century, Fontane’s novel tells the story of a way of life that was also on its way out, with the unification of Germany and its rapid modernisation.

Effi Briest is a young girl from traditional Prussian noblility, who is married off to a considerably older official. Although a devoted servant to the state, her husband is less loving towards his wife, which leads to great problems.

This poignant work is seen as one of the great German realist masterpieces, and a beautiful yet tragic story of two people caught up in the shackles of society. By Alexander Johnstone

KEY MESSAGES

H.E. Thomas Schieb, German Ambassador to Serbia

Speed Of Accession In Serbia's Hands

There is a danger of imbalance between the overall pace of negotiations and pace of rule of law reforms. Therefore, the basic equation is quite simple: The more progress in rule of law, the more chapter openings are possible - Thomas Schieb

The annual report of the European Commission, which has been announced for publication in October, should evaluate how far Serbia has progressed in the imple menting of reforms linked to EU membership. At that time there will be discussion within the EU over whether some new chapters in the accession negotiation pro cess could be opened,” say H.E. German Ambassador Thomas Schieb, speaking to CorD Magazine. Turning to the recent renewal of dialogue on the normalisation of relations between Belgrade and Priština, ambassador Schieb says that the essence is to ensure that “both sides reach a legally binding agreement that enables both Serbia and Kosovo to pursue their EU accession aspirations and fulfil their rights and obligations as EU members”. Asked whether that process also implies that Serbia must recognise Kosovo’s independence, Schieb says: “In my political imagination ... it would be hard to envisage such a solution without Serbia recognising Kosovo”. Ronald Seeliger, President of German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce (AHK Serbia) and CEO of Hemofarm (STADA Group)

We Can Still Do Wonders

You don’t need to be a businessman to know that the shortfalls in production during the spring will affect balance sheets for 2020. However, there is a window of opportunity for institutional changes that may help the business community and keep us all healthy and in our workplaces. And then it will be possible to break new records, as we have done at AHK over the past decade. “I feel a great pleasure when I look back and see the way in which German investments developed in Serbia. This year is of special importance to us because we symbolically mark two decades of the presence of the German economy in this region. About 450 German companies operate in Serbia today, employing over 60,000 employees. Figuratively speaking, an entire Pirot or Kikinda work at the companies that came to Serbia from Germany,” points out Dr Ronald Seeliger, President of the German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce and CEO of Hemofarm, speaking to CorD.

KEY MESSAGES

Martin Knapp, Executive Member of the Board of Directors of the German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce (AHK Serbien)

We've Quickly Learnt To Live With The Crisis

Companies have learnt over time to work under new circumstances. We are now waiting to see the results of the survey among German companies operating in Serbia and 16 Eastern European countries in early 2021, in order to get a clear picture of how the Coronavirus pandemic has changed the way they see the world. The results might give us a better idea of whether the idea of nearshoring will gain momentum. Like in the case of many other organisations in the previous period, AHK had to face the challenge of shifting many of its activities online. One of the most challenging would be the organisation of the AHK-su pported Serbian Visions, the traditional annual festival of civil society with 60 co-organisers that used to see thousands of visitors over the course of one weekend in November. Yet some of the signature activities, such as bringing German industrial companies into contact with potential suppliers from the Western Balkans, took place almost as usual this year, only in electronic form.

“Many things are still unclear and we will have to wait a little longer before we see clearly what has hap pened in 2020,” says Martin Knapp, Executive Member of the Board of Directors of AHK Serbien. Frank Baumann, Director, Goethe Institute

It Will Be Continued

The Goethe-Institut in Belgrade adapted its programmes to the conditions imposed by the pandemic, preparing for the time when it will again be possible to function without the threat of the virus The commemorating of this year’s great jubilees – the 30th anniversary of the reunification of East and West Germany and the 50th anniversary of the establishing of the Belgrade centre of the Goethe Institute (Goet he-Institut) – has been adapted to the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic, but that didn’t reduce the quality of the celebrations. Apart from these major anniversaries, here we also discuss the experiences of the previous seasons for this German cultural centre with its director, Frank Baumann.

KEY MESSAGES

Ivan Smiljković, Member of The Executive Board of Procredit Bank

Supporting Clients At All Times

We are aware of the consequences of the Coronavirus pandemic, but we were also ready to face them, so their impact on our operations will be much smaller than will be the case with companies that weren’t orientated towards their own priorities – and those are clients and employees, and digital services, where we have been pioneers in many areas Zoran Mitić, Director, Dr Oetker Srbija

We Offer Consumers Joy

Dr Oetker will be celebrating two decades of its existence in Serbia next year, while in Germany the brand will celebrate 130 years of operations. It operates today in more than 40 countries, has more than 16 000 workers and 3,500 different products, but is continuing to expand and works constantly on innovations

Udo Eichlinger, Ceo, Siemens and Siemens Mobility

Our Company Is Here To Stay

Siemens, a company with a rich history and a pioneer in the field of digitalisation, today offers solutions and technologies that help its customers and partners respond far swifter and more efficiently to crisis situations and changing market demands Ljiljana Topić, Director, Galenika Pharmacia

We're Here When Times Are Hardest

Galenika Pharmacia is a factory that produces complete sanitary consumables – from compresses, gauzes and bandages, via disinfectants, to surgical masks that have become the number one product. Although exports at the beginning of the pandemic would have been the business move of the decade, no Galenika mask left Serbia

KEY MESSAGES

Michael Stauch, Zf Managing Director – Technical, and Milan Grujić, Zf Managing Director – Commercial

The Vision Of Next Generation Mobility

ZF is a global technology company that supplies systems for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and industrial technology, enabling the next generation of mobility. ZF enables vehicles to see, think and act Vladica Stanković, Director of Gruner Serbia

Gruner – Every Young Worker's Dream

In just 13 years, Gruner has, as a company, succeeded in changing the economic situation in the south of Serbia and providing adequate earnings for almost 600 workers and their families through the expanding of production facilities and conquering of new markets and technologies

Kruna Gavović, Ceo of The Lean Six Sigma Company Cee and Tms Cee Marketing and Academy Manager

FFE Has Got The Momentum

The Lean Six Sigma Company CEE has high occupancy of its LSS courses. This is because the number of companies organizing training for their employees is increasing, as is the number of experts who independently invest in their education Nikola Ćatović, Director, Macs Energy & Water Doo

Serbia Will Need To Speed Up

In a world affected by climate change, Serbia will need to speed up its transition to alternative, low carbon sources of energy

KEY MESSAGES

Milan Manić, Deputy General Manager of Leoni Serbia and Head of The Leoni Malošište Plant

We Offer Secure Jobs

LEONI has invested in excess of 146 million euros in its facilities and equipment since 2009. The company currently employs around 10,000 people in Serbia and plans to increase that number when its Kraljevo plant begins operating at its full capacity. One of the 15 lar gest exporters in Serbia, LEONI also has a network of approximately 500 domestic suppliers Bojan Lasković, Managing Director, CFND Belgrade

Logistics Of The New Era

CFND deals in logistics services and is specialised in the transport of goods on inland waterways in the Danube Basin. A member of several national and international associations, since 2015 it has been part of the Rhenus Group, one of the worlds leading logistics companies.

“What distinguishes CFND Ltd. from the majority of companies on the local market is precisely its synergy of all modes of transport,” says Bojan Lasković

Predrag Skoković, Managing Director, Quality House

"Bug" Hunters

Quality House was founded in 2004 as a home for software testing professionals driven by a passion to find “one more bug”. Today, with offices in Bulgaria and Serbia, Quality House is a leading provider of software testing services in Southeast Europe Vladan Marković, Director, Vlado Baumaschinen

New Challenges Drive Efficiency

Vlado Baumaschinen, a Surčin-based company that deals in construction, transport and services, has been engaged successfully in civil engineering for more than a decade and has achieved successful cooperation with both domestic and foreign construction companies