CorD Magazine, August 2022, Issue No. 214

ROMAN CATHOLIC ARCHBISHOP OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF BELGRADE

H.E. SANJIV KOHLI

Huge Potential To Develop Postal Services

Rebalance And Multipolarity

www.cordmagazine.com

Real Faith Is A Cry For Community

TATJANA MATIĆ

SERBIAN MINISTER OF TRADE, TOURISM AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS

AMBASSADOR OF INDIA TO SERBIA

AUGUST 2022/ ISSUE NO. 214

MONSIGNOR STANISLAV HOČEVAR

interviews opinions news comments events COMMENT

Favourite Enemies FOCUS

ARMAMENT IN THE SHADOWS OF THE WAR IN UKRAINE

Exclusive 783002 771451

Maintaininig Optimism

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EUSR FOR THE BELGRADE-PRISTINA DIALOGUE AND OTHER WB REGIONAL ISSUES

ISSN1451-7833

MIROSLAV LAJČÁK

CONTENTS

06 FAVOURITE ENEMIES

22 MICHELA TELATIN PH.D.,

Comment ZORAN PANOVIĆ

UNOPS SERBIA MULTI-COUNTRY OFFICE DIRECTOR BETTER PUBLIC SERVICES FOR ALL

08 MIROSLAV LAJČÁK

EUSR FOR THE BELGRADE-PRISTINA DIALOGUE AND OTHER WB REGIONAL ISSUES MAINTAININIG OPTIMISM

43 GORDANA KRAJAČIĆ

PROFESSOR AND MUSICOLOGIST BORN UNDER A LUCKY STAR

44 HAPPY & PRODUCTIVE WORKFORCES

OFFICE DESIGN TRENDS AND IDEAS FOR 2022

CURRENT TOPIC 24 IS RESIGNATION A KNOCKOUT BLOW FOR BO JO? Feature THE DEMISE OF BORIS JOHNSON

50 DRAGAN VELIKIĆ novelist LIFE IN LITERATURE

12 MONSIGNOR STANISLAV HOČEVAR ROMAN CATHOLIC ARCHBISHOP OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF BELGRADE REAL FAITH IS A CRY FOR COMMUNITY

27 BUSINESS DIALOGUE 40 RYAN REYNOLDS

ACTOR, ENTREPRENUR ACCIDENTALL ADVERTISING INDUSTRY POWERHOUSE

58 SUMMER PATTERNS DURING THE SOCIAL SEASON

16 GLOBAL DIARY 18 PEACE HAS BECOME MUCH MORE EXPENSIVE @CORD_MAGAZINE @CORDMAGAZINE

56 CHILL OUT

FASHION

60 CULTURE CALENDAR

Focus ARMAMENT IN THE SHADOWS OF THE WAR IN UKRAINE

62 FACES & PLACES

CORD MAGAZINE CORDMAGAZINE

EDITOR IN CHIEF: Neda Lukić n.lukic@aim.rs ART DIRECTOR: Branislav Ninković b.ninkovic@aim.rs CONTRIBUTORS: Rob Dugdale, Maja Vukadinović,

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“CorD does not criticise or critique. We are a place where people can inspire and be inspired by others” Mirjana Jovanović, Miša Brkić, Ljubica Gojgić Radmila Stanković, Steve MacKenzie, Zorica Todorović Mirković, Sonja Ćirić, Miloš Belčević PHOTOS: Zoran Petrović COPY EDITOR: Mark Pullen TRANSLATION & EDITING: PULLEN EDITORIAL HALIFAX

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Comment

Favourite Enemies

BY ZORAN PANOVIĆ Of course, there has been no occurrence of the most normal possible thing for fixing relations, which would be for Serbian and Croatian presidents Aleksandar Vučić and Zoran Milanović to appear together and lay flowers at Jasenovac - the infamous WWII concentration camp of the Ustasha fascists. If it proved impossible to do in Knin, it was surely possible in Jasenovac.

But that would require what is known as political will (mutual), which the pragmatic and hypocritical don’t have. This is how we continue the eternal return of the same kind...

C

roatia is scared that Vučić would utilise Jasenovac for marketing purposes and destabilise Croatia’s sacralised myth of the “Homeland War” on the eve of the commemorating of Operation Storm (a liberating operation for Croats and a criminal one for Serbs). The current Serbian government is again hoping to use Jasenovac to relativise and grant amnesty to the policies of the ‘90s, because those policies are being massively rehabilitated in this reactionary phase of Vučić’s reign – thereby further legitimising that authority, while presenting the period when the opponents of Milošević and Šešelj were in power in Serbia as a historical anomaly.

The sharpening of relations along the route between Zagreb and Belgrade is cyclical and ritualistic, and proves to be the best pay-off for both sides. As “favourite enemies”. And it isn’t as though there haven’t been attempts to mend those relations: that was also attempted

by Koštunica and Sanader, Tadić and Josipović, and Vučić and Grabar-Kitarović. The balance sheets are thin because the narrative has irrefutable power. That doesn’t mean that there are no parallel dimensions in these relations – indeed, there are excellent such junctures in the sphere

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of culture, entertainment, tourism, the economy or some ordinary interpersonal relations. Nor is there a need for much-lauded reconciliation, just as it is still pointless in narrative matters, so the limit of progress would thus be the abandoning of incitement, or when major topics are left to the devices of the passage of time and “cold peace”.

Vučić’s February 2018 visit to Zagreb also had the aim of alleviating tensions. And that was also

The sharpening of relations along the route between Zagreb and Belgrade is cyclical and ritualistic, and proves to be the best pay-off for both sides. As “favourite enemies” about Jasenovac, or more precisely the exhibition dedicated to Jasenovac at the UN headquarters in New York, which was dubbed a provocation by the Croatian side. Speaking in Zagreb at the time, Vučić said that the two countries don’t have open issues regarding the future. They don’t have them today either, it’s just that both of them have established that the past exclusively exists for them. Just as it is unthinkable for Vučić to visit Zagreb today, and unfortunately also Jasenovac for the foreseeable future, so it is unthinkable

for the Croatian president or prime minister to be seen in Belgrade. It now seems surreal that Kolinda Grabar Kitarović stole the show at Vučić’s inauguration for his first presidential term.

If he had the political will, Vučić’s visit to Jasenovac would have been prepared thoroughly, as was Boris Tadić’s 2010 visit to Opatija, where he was welcomed by Ivo Josipović and nothing in the preparatory stage of the meeting was leaked to the public. However, as Ana Brnabić says about the latest scandal, Jasenovac is not Opatija.

Conditional leftists - Boris and Ivo were polite and mutually considerate, probably also partly sincere, but that was worthless in the long run. Though that isn’t to say that standard communication has become unattainable.

At least we’ve now seen a definitive collapse of the politically attractive, but flimsy thesis that right-wingers understand each other best and that it will be best for Serbia and Croatia when nationalists are in power both here and there or, more precisely, when Tuđman’s students are in power there and Milošević and Šešelj’s here.

Croatia cannot emancipate its statehood from the likeness and deeds of Franjo Tuđman.

Milošević’s pact with Tuđman and lukewarm (non-existent) reaction to Operation Storm also dispelled the motivation of the revisionists, which doesn’t mean that the question of Milošević’s responsibility will be raised at the commemorating of Storm.

Interview Exclusive

MIROSLAV LAJČÁK

EU SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR THE BELGRADE-PRISTINA DIALOGUE AND OTHER WESTERN BALKAN REGIONAL ISSUES

Maintaininig Optimism It is true that we had intended to host the third formal high-level meeting between the two leaders in Brussels before the summer break – which will not happen. However, we do not see this as a major problem or a tragedy at this point in time. The most important thing is that both leaders, President Vučić and Prime Minister Kurti, have agreed to meet regularly and take the Dialogue to the highest political level. This is necessary to make progress on the big picture, i.e., the comprehensive normalisation agreement ~ Miroslav Lajčák 8

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By Ljubica Gojgić

EU ACCESSION

There will be no EU accession for either Serbia or Kosovo without the comprehensive normalisation of relations, and the Parties know this

M

iroslav Lajčák’s mandate as EU Special Representative for the BelgradePristina Dialogue and other Western Balkan regional issues was recently extended, and this Slovak diplomat says that he thinks that an additional two years is “absolutely sufficient time” to conclude the Dialogue and create conditions for the signing of a comprehensive, all-encompassing agreement on the normalisation of relations between Serbia and Kosovo. Speaking in this interview for CorD Magazine, Lajčák discusses the Pristina government’s decision to withdraw the validity of the vehicle license plates and personal documents of Serbs in the northern part of Kosovo, which were issued in Serbia. The EU Special Representative insists that “the phasingout of these plates was no surprise – either for us or for Belgrade”, though he adds that, personally, he “would have wished for a better timing, more generous timelines and a more detailed procedure and information campaign” regarding this step. Mr Lajčák, you have been engaged over recent months on the organisation of a meeting between Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti. With the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina at a standstill, what could be the actual scope of such a meeting?

Firstly, I would not say that the Dialogue is at a standstill. We have had regular meetings at the level of Chief Negotiators in Brussels on an almost monthly basis, which have yielded tangible results. This is evidenced by the recent agreement on the energy roadmap, which is the first major Dialogue agreement since 2016. It is clear that there are challenges, but discussions and contacts are ongoing, so we are making progress, albeit not as fast as I would prefer.

Secondly, it is true that we intended to host the third formal high-level meeting between the two leaders in Brussels before the summer break – which will not happen. However, we do not see this as a major problem or a tragedy at this point in time. The most important is that both leaders, President Vučić and Prime Minister Kurti, have agreed to meet regularly and take the Dialogue to the highest political level. This is necessary to make progress on the big picture – which is the comprehensive normalisation agreement. At the

SERB MAYORITY MUNICIPALITIES

The Ahtisaari Plan set out clear commitments of Kosovo for the Kosovo Serb majority municipalities to exercise their competencies in partnership and association with each other same time, we want to make sure that this official meeting in Brussels will be productive and deliver concrete results – we need to have guarantees on this, and therefore advanced preparation is needed. So, the question is not so much about the timing, but about the quality of the meeting.

After assessing the situation, we decided that the circumstances are not yet conducive enough and it is better to allow more time for preparation to ensure that the meeting fulfils its purpose and takes the normalisation process forward. Multiple analyses show a lack of progress on the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina, while certain analysts cite examples of worsening relations. You nonetheless remain optimistic that pro-

I do not believe that there will be any armed conflict again in the Western Balkans. However, we know that there is always a risk of tensions spilling over and we have thus always prioritised the resolution of any disagreements between Kosovo and Serbia through Dialogue gress is possible. What forms the basis of that optimism?

As I mentioned before, it is clear that there are challenges and that the Parties have very different views on many of the issues on the table, including on what comprehensive normalisation means. We are not denying this. However, painting a gloomy picture and spreading negativity does not help. We need to maintain optimism in order to bring positive momentum to our work.

It is important to work on issues where there are common interests and where progress is possible,

KOSOVO IO MEMBERSHIP

Questions relating to membership in international organisations are not on the agenda of the EU-facilitated Dialogue

and there are many of them – including the broader strategic dimension. We need to remember that the normalisation process is linked to the respective EU paths of both Kosovo and Serbia – there will be no EU accession for either without the comprehensive normalisation of relations, and the Parties know this. EU membership is a strategic goal for both Kosovo and Serbia, so I am confident that progress in the Dialogue is ultimately inevitable, while the fact that both leaders are ready to meet regularly in Brussels is a sign of their commitment to achieve the comprehensive normalisation of relations – despite current differences of opinion on what this entails. You recently announced that the final stages of drafting are underway on three or four agreements between the governments in Belgrade and Pristina. Could you tell us which areas are covered by these agreements?

It is true that there are different documents in an advanced stage of finalisation. One of the issues is Missing Persons, which I have already spoken about publicly. The aim is to give an additional political impetus to the process of locating the remaining missing persons in order to close this painful chapter, which is what the families need and which would give an enormous boost to the reconciliation process across the entire region. What I can say at this point about the other agreements is that they all aim for improved cooperation between Kosovo and Serbia, and also more broadly within the region of the Western Balkans. So, hopefully, once agreed, they will have a positive impact on both relations between Kosovo and Serbia and on regional cooperation, which is currently facing many challenges. We need to find ways to overcome them so that regional cooperation can fulfil its potential to bring tangible benefits to the citizens. You spoke recently with Kosovo PM Kurti. Did you receive an explanation of the decision to change the vehicle registration regime that will force Serbs to attach license plates containing the Republic of Kosovo symbol to their cars as of 1st October?

Both Serbia and Kosovo agreed already in 2011 that all persons residing in Kosovo would have only Kosovo-issued license plates, meaning there will no

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Interview Exclusive longer be Serbian license plates for Kosovo Serbs.

This Agreement was implemented in the south of Kosovo, but not in the north. It was always clear that, at a certain point, this Agreement needed full implementation, also in the north. So, I agree that these plates have to phase out, as this was decided jointly by Serbia and Kosovo. So, it is not out of the question that all Kosovo residents would have to re-register to Kosovo-issued plates. However, I would have wished for better timing, more generous timelines and a more detailed procedure and information campaign – and I have communicated this clearly to PM Kurti.

to refrain from any unilateral action, which could jeopardise security on the ground and further complicate progress in the Dialogue. It seems as though the mutually accepted obligation of forming the Community of Serb Municipalities has not yet made it onto the agenda of the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina, despite this year marking the tenth anniversary of the Brussels Agreement under which its formation was agreed upon. What do you think the problem is?

The decision regarding vehicle license plates and personal documents issued in Serbia (the validity of which has also been suspended) was allegedly announced during your June visit at the very point that you were travelling between Pristina and Belgrade. That seemed to surprise you, but not so EU external affairs lead spokesperson Peter Stano, who said that they knew in Brussels about the moves the government in Pristina would take?

Could you explain what this is all about and your own stance regarding new measures taken by the government in Pristina?

Overall, the phasing-out of these plates was no surprise – either for us or for Belgrade. Kosovo announced it already in September last year, but suspended the implementation at my request during the six months in which the Working Group on license plates was looking into a permanent solution.

We repeatedly warned the Serbian Government that this will come and that it should seek a negotiated solution. When it comes to the concrete measures, Kosovo gave us a heads-up shortly before, but we were not consulted on the details of the plan. Do you consider Serbian President Vučić’s fear – expressed after his meeting with you – that implementing the decision on license plates could destabilise Kosovo and even lead to armed conflict with Serbs in the north of the breakaway province, as being justified?

I do not believe that there will be any armed conflict again in the Western Balkans. However, we know that there is always a risk of tensions spilling over and we have thus always prioritised the resolution of any disagreements between Kosovo and Serbia through Dialogue and with the willingness to show goodwill and flexibility on both sides. It is the clear responsibility of both Parties to prevent another crisis from happening and I do not consider divisive public statements from leaders on either side as being particularly helpful to calming the situation.

That being said, we are constantly monitoring the situation in Kosovo and engage with both parties

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All six know exactly what their pending homework is and for some we have seen zero movement for far too long. So, right now there is momentum for enlargement and the region should be extra motivated to seize it and not let it slip away

We continue to work with both Parties on a wide range of issues, including the establishment of the Association/Community of Serb Majority Municipalities. The establishment of the Association/Community is an agreement reached by both Parties as part of the 2013 Brussels Agreement. The agreement was ratified by the Kosovo parliament and it is now up to the two Parties to implement it. We understand that this issue is sensitive for the Kosovo government, but it is also an international legal obligation. My view is that there can be no more delays, which I and many of the international community continue to convey to the Kosovo PM and Chief Negotiator.

The rhetoric around the establishment of the Association has created an unhelpful narrative.

The Ahtisaari Plan set out clear commitments of Kosovo for the Kosovo Serb majority municipalities to exercise their competencies in partnership and association with each other. That commitment was accepted by the Kosovo government and has been enshrined in Kosovo’s Constitution and laws. The establishment of the Association is therefore based on what has already been accepted by Kosovo.

On the other hand, many Kosovo Serbs will not have read or know much about the Ahtisaari Plan or the Kosovo Constitution and legal framework, and the wide protection they provide them and other communities in Kosovo. The establishment of the Association is intended to create a trusted relationship between Kosovo Serbs and the government in Kosovo, as well as to ensure that Kosovo Serb-majority municipalities can work together, including with support from Serbia, to ensure the Kosovo Serbian community in Kosovo develops and thrives.

It is now time that both Kosovo and Serbia talk about the practical implications of implementing these protections in a way that works for everyone and will result in improved local governance and improving the lives of Kosovo Serbs and other communities in Kosovo. While you’re hoping for a resumption of dialogue and progress in the form of the signing of new agreements, there’s talk in Pristina of a campaign to join the

Council of Europe and other international organisations. How do you view these activities, which are supported by some members of the EU and the Quint, and how do these processes impact on opportunities for genuine success in the dialogue that you’re mediating?

Questions relating to membership in international organisations are not on the agenda of the EUfacilitated Dialogue. Generally, the EU does not comment on applications to join other international organisations. The EU is a strategic partner of the Council of Europe, without voting rights. As far as I am concerned, both Kosovo and Serbia should focus on taking their normalisation process forward without further delay by fully implementing all past Agreements and making progress towards a legally-binding comprehensive normalisation agreement while refraining from any action that could undermine stability and is not conducive to dialogue. You recently related your position that the EU has “unfinished business” in the Western Balkans, after which you gave a critical review of EU conduct in the region, stating: “For too long we were complacent”. What were you referring to specifically and what should be done to change the EU’s attitude towards the Western Balkans?

We showed clear political leadership towards the East in June by taking the decision to grant candidate status to Ukraine and Moldova and giving a clear EU perspective to Georgia. At that point, the countries of the Western Balkans were disappointed because they’ve been engaged in this process for a long time and were hoping for more, while the enlargement to encompass the Western Balkans has turned into a technical process rather than a political one. We have since held the first Intergovernmental Conferences with Albania and North Macedonia, which sounds like another meeting in Brussels, but is actually a big and important step towards their EU membership. It is now that the negotiations are really starting and I’m happy about that. I also think that visa liberalisation for Kosovo is long overdue and should be granted without delay.

At the same time, however, I also see it as a two-way street. It is not just about what the EU should do differently, but what the region can and should do. The EU, and most importantly the EU Member States, need to see that you really want to reform, to get fit for membership, to cooperate with your immediate neighbours and make progress, and we have not seen this from everyone in the region.

All six know exactly what their pending homework is and for some we have seen zero movement for far too long. So, right now there is momentum

Candidate countries know exactly what the conditions they need to fulfil for EU membership are and the conditions for Serbia include real reform efforts, alignment with our EU foreign and security policy and normalisation of relations with Kosovo for enlargement and the region should be extra motivated to seize it and not let it slip away. In contrast, during one recent interview for the Serbian media you stated that membership candidate countries must also fulfil the obligations they’ve accepted.

When it comes to Serbia, the most recent report of the European Parliament included a list of obligations to which Serbia did not commit itself – namely consenting to the mutual recognition of statehood with Kosovo. Is the fulfilling of this requirement a precondition for Serbia’s continued progress towards EU membership?

Candidate countries know exactly what the conditions they need to fulfil for EU membership are

and the conditions for Serbia include real reform efforts, alignment with our EU foreign and security policy and normalisation of relations with Kosovo.

I have said repeatedly that the agenda, pace and outcome of the Dialogue depends on the Parties, who jointly co-own the Dialogue. If you read my mandate, which has been agreed by consensus among all 27 Member States, the outcome of the process is to normalise relations between Kosovo and Serbia. That needs to be a sustainable and lasting solution that’s in line with international law and the EU acquis – and this is up to the Parties to agree. For Kosovo, normalisation means mutual recognition, for Serbia, it may not. As I said, in the end, it is up to the Parties to see what they can both agree on. Your mandate as EU Special Representative for the Belgrade-Priština dialogue was recently extended for an additional two years. Do you believe this will provide sufficient time to reach an agreement that will be to the satisfaction of both sides and the EU?

I absolutely think that this is sufficient time. As I’ve said many times before, it depends on the willingness of both Kosovo and Serbia – as the two co-owners of the Dialogue – to actually make progress and move towards their European future, instead of remaining stuck in the past. I think all political leaders owe that to their citizens. We now have a favourable calendar without regular major elections scheduled in the EU, the U.S., the biggest EU capitals or the region. That is a window of opportunity that’s not to be missed.

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Interview MONSIGNOR STANISLAV HOČEVAR ROMAN CATHOLIC ARCHBISHOP OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF BELGRADE

When I arrived Belgrade, in public, in public gatherings and receptions, I felt like a black sheep.

So many eyes always reflexively questioning me, as if asking: “And what do you want here?”, “Well, the Vatican is to blame for everything” etc. While now many individuals and groups are aware that we have no future without a dialogue between East and West Msgr Stanislav Hočevar

REAL FAITH IS A CRY

FOR COMMUNITY I t was 22 years ago that Archbishop Stanislav Hočevar arrived Belgrade, choosing as his veritable slogan to “Joyfully serve the Lord”.

And that motto has guided him throughout this entire time, which has included lots of turmoil and tough events, but also beauty – primarily the beauty embodied in human encounters.

Here we discuss the current geopolitical juncture – the war in Ukraine, social divisions and the need for unity and wholeness, but also

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the Catholic Church’s position in Serbia, the possible arrival of the Pope, relations with the Christian Orthodox faith and how Archbishop Hočevar views the time he’s spent in Serbia now that he’s reaching the end of his tenure. The war in Ukraine, society and states divided sharply, hostility towards minorities growing – this is the reality in which we live. What role should the Church have

in such a world and, in your opinion, how much do they fulfil that role? Do you hear Christian voices during these times?

I wouldn’t want, first and foremost, to proclaim “big” words about that topic, because today, unfortunately, there are entire societies turning into caricatures. Everyone is rushing to utter “big” words about unimportant and incidental things, while the actual big questions of life aren’t even considered or discussed at all... That’s simply not

By Jelena Jorgačević

MEDIA

It suits many media outlets to have a servile and manipulated society: there you can easily sell all sorts of goods

on the agenda of those who shape public opinion.

That’s why I’m really crying within my heart and mind – I cry at the depths of my being during my morning hours of silence and prayer.

I cry because “my” Slavic world is so divided and in continuous conflict. Yes, it has experienced numerous injustices, starting from the time of the Holy brothers Cyril and Methodius and lasting to this day, but it is now doing it to itself...

I also wrote about that in my correspondences with Holy Father Pope Francis, asking him for help.

The difficulties that you mention only confirm the fundamental importance of my constant call for us to seek Christian unity. I hope that will now be clear to the Christians of East and West. Without our unity, it is possible only to expect even more tough misunderstandings and bigger conflicts!

If the Church wants to be the Church, it must be ready for great martyrdoms – like those in the first Christian centuries – in order to become a stronger generator of unity and communion. How should we, as a society and individuals, position ourselves?

Societies are merely a collection of individuals, but also one that has a clear and unlimited emphasis on the possibility of change. However, if you don’t have a foundation of mature and conscious individuals, if you don’t have people with real visions and strong integrity, if you don’t have enough professional and responsible people – society itself is powerless, with possibilities for everything bad increasingly emphasised.

It suits many media outlets to have a servile and manipulated society: there you can easily sell all sorts of goods.

We need to seek out and raise prophetic individuals, build strong spiritual communities and, above all, authentic church communities that can act both cathartically and preventively against the “hypnotising of society”.

We aren’t losing sight of the fact that the majority of a society follows the path of its shepherds. More than a quarter of a century has passed since the wars of the former Yugo-

CHURCH

If the Church wants to be the Church, it must be ready for great martyrdoms – in order to become a stronger generator of unity and communion

WITH PATRIARCH PORFIRIJE

I cry because “my” Slavic world is so divided and in continuous conflict. Yes, it has experienced numerous injustices, starting from the time of the Holy brothers Cyril and Methodius and lasting to this day, but it is now doing it to itself... slavia, yet we often hear – as one bishop stated recently – that those wars today seem closer than they did in 2004 or 2005.

How do you see current relations around the region and the path we’ve traversed over the past three decades?

I certainly have a different opinion. It is different because I believe in the Lord of history and try to live realistically. There isn’t a single historic juncture that’s been without certain tensions. In the world that was created and still doesn’t have that which is absolute, tensions are a constitutive part of history, part of the transient world. It is

ECUMENICAL DIALOGUE

The fact that we don’t socialise, that we still have to be divided, means that we inevitably introduce division to our societies

those of us who are spiritual people that are called upon to bring “Kairos” into “chronos”, to bring God’s strength and awareness of human weakness.

We cannot live purely from the euphoria of initial moments of change. Only “new” personalities bring new times.

I would really like to be able to socialise intensively with all monks and all church communities of the East and the West. Because the fact that we don’t socialise, that we still have to be divided, means that we inevitably introduce division to our societies.

I’ve already made the proposal, but I will repeat my question: do all the bishops’ conferences of the former Yugoslavia and the Serbian Orthodox Church have the strength to sit around the same table for dialogue? A lot of mayhem and division is occurring within the Orthodox Church. However, one schism was recently healed – the one linked to the Church in North Macedonia. How do you view that?

I publicly expressed my joy in response to that event and sent a congratulatory message to His Holiness Patriarch Porfirije and the Holy Synod of the Serbian Orthodox Church.

I am additionally aware that many individuals and groups care about this process being more transparent and synod preparation being more comprehensive. However, the wisdom of the Gospel is also in responsibly amputating that which should not exist, i.e., that which poisons the whole body... You’ve spoken repeatedly of the need to form one or more expert commissions tasked with dealing with historical facts, in order for the results achieved to form the basis upon which representatives of churches and religious communities could act, look each other in the eye, admit what needs to be admitted and forgive what needs to be forgiven. Do you think that’s a real possibility? And, if so, how close or far away from that goal are we?

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Interview I arrived Belgrade, in public, in public gatherings and receptions, I felt like a black sheep. So many eyes always reflexively questioning me, as if asking: “And what do you want here?”, “Well, the Vatican is to blame for everything” etc. While now there are many individuals and groups who are aware that we have no future without dialogue between East and West.

All honest people are today discovering how close the Vatican is to them.

In short, we now truly rejoice in every meeting and encounter. It is kind of a sign of the springtime of the Spirit. It is nonetheless still clear that the coming of every spring implies many unavoidable and specific jobs and tasks needing to be done.

And, of course, there are always those who don’t rejoice in the coming of spring...

WITH POPE JOHN PAUL II

It is evident that, in the mentality of our times, first place is reserved for consumerism and “business”, which is why there isn’t enough time and willingness to listen to and hear the voice of the teacher of life and history. Furthermore, the tendency towards conflict is much closer to a sinful being than integrity and symphonism of truth. Is that not also the case in our societies, where some kinds of supporters’ groups find it incomparably easier to gain support?

The truth will nonetheless emerge, slowly but surely. But I’m very sorry that there are still so many necessary failures and omissions…that will remain so until we wise up. And that’s why I long so much for togetherness, for cooperation and synergy among all believers. But we’re all too preoccupied with our “own” issues and not with “our” issues...

However, every real faith is always a cry for community!

WITH POPE FRANCIS

I’ve already made the proposal, but I will repeat my question: do all the bishops’ conferences of the former Yugoslavia and the Serbian Orthodox Church have the strength to sit around the same table for dialogue? society – which has become the sole measure of freedom – has rendered us slaves to selfishness and flippant carelessness. However, great blame for that also belongs to all of us who want good things, because we’re not sufficiently acquainted with one another. Falling into a chasm is always easier than rising to the heights of all-encompassing responsibility.

How do you view interreligious and ecumenical dialogue in Serbia today? How much does it relate to joint action? How lively is this cooperation and does it extend beyond the sending of appropriate greetings and occasional courteous and kindly visits?

And what kind of position does the Catholic Church have? Has it changed during the previous two decades that you’ve been in Serbia and, if so, how much?

I’ve actually already said everything. We simply don’t have the time today to address the wholeness of community at any level. Individualism in

The readers will perhaps evaluate the situation differently, but I still firmly stand by my stance that much has changed. At the very beginning, when

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You once stated that the bidding around the (non)arrival of the Pope here has become insulting. However, you spoke about that more optimistically recently. Do you believe a papal visit could happen in the next two or three years? And rather than always repeatedly asking about the obstacles standing in the way, let’s ask what such a visit would mean for us?

I’ve always wanted to emphasise that which is most important at a given moment. Let’s say, it’s different when someone doesn’t want a meeting on principle; yet again - it’s different when we want a meeting, but also want to prepare for it well. Ignorance is one thing, while good intentions and the understanding that something like this should be supported is a different thing entirely.

Responsibility for life, however, demands everything happen in a timely manner. And the same applies to this visit, which I would call - an event of normality.

Specifically, it is time for us to live a normal life. This requires the integral health of the nation and the state. And that, in turn, enables regular and successful communication in all directions. What are all the changes that you think Pope Francis has brought to the Catholic Church?

Authenticity and directness! He isn’t into formality, to purely superficial protocol, to beautiful façades, bells and fanfare. Evangelical closeness to the essence of being human, fairness and solidarity in society, as well as joy and enthusiasm on the

journey to that goal – all literally radiate from his personality! That’s why I accept him as a prophet of our times; and I don’t wonder about the stones that have always fallen on prophets. How do you see the launched synodal path? Various topics have been opened, such as the ordaining of women, the issue of celibacy, attitudes towards homosexual relationships etc. Do you think some major changes are on the way within the Church in this field? And what’s your opinion on the correct response of the Church to the questions posed by modern times?

I’m very glad that we are today finally aware of the essential need for synodality, because only such a way of life is a worthy enough reflection of the Life of the Holy Trinity.

We are simultaneously sufficiently realistic to know that pure material and structural changes actually don’t change anything fundamentally – they usually only additionally complicate life.

This is proven by our lives, by the fact that – after all the great assemblies or councils – new divisions and conflicts usually arose. That’s why it’s necessary to create and renew a new spirit within the Church, and that is the Spirit of Jesus Christ, which enables a more comprehensive and caring perspective on the issues you mentioned: such questions can only be solved by the Creator of everything and the Spirit of Jesus Christ, who is the only one who can make everything new and the only one who saves everything. The Church must first and foremost be guided by the Spirit of God, and not only by the law or materialistic mocking of tradition. You worked with young people a lot before coming to Belgrade. And today you are visited by many young people in search of advice. What would you say they lack and are hungry for; what answers are they (not) seeking?

Our specific way of life nowadays is more aligned to various virtual visions, hybrid products, express solutions and instant beverages. Various forms of gratifying them sprout up quickly and numerous psychotherapeutic havens are on offer. A newborn human child nonetheless needs a mother’s warm arms, a kiss of total devotion, the milk of those breasts under which we spend nine prophetic months enjoying complete freedom and

WITH POPE BENEDICT XVI

I became a Salesian, a monk who lives for the young, because the young are always our best educators and sources of inspiration. Young people don’t seek out questions and theories much, but rather a fulfilled life. That’s precisely why they’re of such great importance to us security. Only those hands can prepare the right food and drink for the child – and that’s all the more because they are supported always by the strong hands of the father that provide complete security and protection. Each such new-born little star – which testifies to just how much empathy God views us with – slowly grows into a big star in such family surroundings, and then into a comet. This positive advancement depends to a large extent on how much the new-born star is accepted in order to gain a clear identity, how much it is loved to be able to carry within itself the security of self-acceptance and experiences in our mutual relationships, so that it may be

imbued with indestructible hope. I became a Salesian, a monk who lives for the young, because the young are always our best educators and sources of inspiration. I am really grateful to the young people for their extraordinary help. I’m firstly grateful that I can devote my every moment to the stars of the future. Young people don’t seek out questions and theories much, but rather a fulfilled life. That’s precisely why they’re of such great importance to us. You came to Serbia more than 20 years ago. We will soon receive a new archbishop.

When you draw a line in the sand, how do you see the time that’s elapsed since your arrival?

For me, my time spent resident in Belgrade was a great and undeserved gift. I lavishly drank the drink of rich experiences; the drink of God’s great goodness. I’ve always at least wanted to be as small as possible, so that the Most-High and Eternal could manifest through me as much as possible. I don’t know how much I succeeded in that. Tastes and assessments always differ greatly. For my part, I am sincerely grateful to absolutely everyone – especially those who were the most critical.

We all always look forward to the new spring.

The new archbishop will have my full support. My God let the great strength of unity and togetherness be between us always and everywhere!

August

15

GLOBAL DIARY

RESULT “People and history will easily forget the procedure, they will only remember the final result.” ~ HERMAN VAN ROMPUY, FORMER PRESIDENT OF THE EUROPEAN COUNCIL

DROUPADI MURMU - INDIA’S FIRST TRIBAL PRESIDENT TAKES OATH Draupadi Murmu becames 15th President Of India, being India’s first tribal woman president.

The 64-year-old former teacher comes from Odisha (Orissa) state and has had a stint as a state governor.

“My elevation as president is not just my achievement but that of everyone in the country, that they can dream of reaching this level,” Ms Murmu said after taking the oath.

The president in India is the head of the state, but does not exercise executive powers. Ms Murmu registered a comfortable win against the opposition’s candidate - veteran politician Yashwant Sinha.

RUSSIA TO DROP OUT OF INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION Russia will pull out of the International Space Station after 2024 and focus on building its own orbiting outpost, the country’s new space chief said amid high tensions between Moscow and the West over the fighting in Ukraine.

The announcement, while not unexpected, throws into question the future of the 24-year-old space

POPE APOLOGISES FOR ‘CATASTROPHIC’ POLICY IN CANADA Pope Francis issued a historic apology for the Catholic Church’s cooperation with Canada’s “catastrophic” policy of Indigenous residential schools, saying the forced assimilation of Native peoples into Christian society destroyed their cultures, severed families and marginalised generations.

“I am deeply sorry,” Francis said to applause from school survivors and Indigenous community members gathered at a former residential school south of Edmonton, Alberta. “I humbly beg forgiveness for the evil committed by so many Christians against the Indigenous peoples,” Francis said.

In the first event of his weeklong “penitential pilgrimage,” Francis travelled to the lands of four Cree nations to pray at a cemetery and then deliver the long-sought apology at nearby powwow ceremonial grounds.

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station, with experts saying it would be extremely difficult — perhaps a “nightmare,” by one reckoning — to keep it running without the Russians. NASA and its partners had hoped to continue operating it until 2030.

The space station has long been a symbol of post-Cold War international teamwork in the name of science but is now one of the last areas of cooperation between the U.S. and the Kremlin.

VIOLENCE “Rather than bring peace and harmony, the EU will cause insurgency and violence.” ~ NIGEL FARAGE, FORMER LEADER OF THE UK INDEPENDENCE PARTY

EUROPE UNDER THREAT FROM WILDFIRES Europe’s spate of fierce wildfires abated amid cooler temperatures, with French firefighters starting to get the upper hand over two major blazes, Spain taming a fire that killed two people and no new outbreaks reported in Portugal. But a fire in Slovenia on the border with Italy kicked up strongly mid July, forcing the evacuation of three villages.

Temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius and a drought have worsened Spain’s wildfires this year again. In France, more than a week of round-the-clock battling against ferocious flames by more than 2,000 firefighters. In Bosnia, a days-long fire in the southern Blidinje nature park prompted authorities to declare a natural disaster because of the danger it posed to a protected conservation area.

HEAT WAVE HITS BRITAIN A record-breaking heat wave could cause “danger to life” in the UK, forecasters warned as scorching temperatures fuelled wildfires and prompted weather warnings in several European countries.

Late July saw Britain’s government hold a meeting of its emergency committee,

CROATIA’S CHINESE-BUILT BRIDGE FINALLY OPENS Hailed as one of the biggest moments in Croatian history, a long-awaited bridge was opened to link southern coastal areas to the rest of the country. The 2.4km Peljesac bridge was was designed by a Slovenian engineer, built by China, but largely funded by the European Union.

Celebrations took place throughout the day. Before traffic was allowed on the gleaming white structure, 250 runners had the chance to cross the bridge. Residents also took the opportunity to walk along the initial stretch of the bridge, while small boats with Croatian flags sailed beneath the six pylons. Both Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Croatian PM Andrej Plenković were due to deliver a video message at the ceremony. Plenković declared “tonight, we are uniting Croatia!” and described the bridge as a necessity, not a luxury.

known as Cobra, after the country’s national weather service issued its first-ever “red warning” for extreme heat for 26th and 27th July.

This means “it is very likely that there will be a risk to life, with substantial disruption to travel, energy supplies and possibly widespread damage to property and infrastructure,” the Meteorological Office, known as the Met Office, said on its website.

MIND-READING COMBAT JET FOR THE FUTURE During World War II, Spitfire pilots described their plane as so responsive it felt like an extension of their limbs. Fighter pilots of the 2030s, however, will have an even closer relationship with their fighter jet.

It will read their minds.

The Tempest jet is being developed by the UK’s BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, European missiles group, MDBA and Italy’s Leonardo.

One feature will be an artificial intelligence (AI) tool to assist the human pilot when they are overwhelmed, or under extreme stress. Sensors in the pilot’s helmet will monitor brain signals and other medical data. So, over successive flights the AI will amass a huge biometric and psychometric information database.

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Focus

ARMAMENT IN THE SHADOWS OF THE WAR IN UKRAINE

Peace Has Become

Much More Expensive We are awaited by a period during which many European countries will prioritise the procurement of weapons and the fortifying of military security, even at the cost of weakening economic growth. Regardless of whether the current circumstances lead to the further strengthening of NATO or the launch of the creation of a common European military force, for Serbia it is primarily important to make rational decisions regarding its foreign policy and to create meaningful alliances

D

uring his country’s recently concluded presidency of the Council of the European Union, French President Emmanuel Macron continued to insist on Europe’s strategic autonomy and strengthening the capacity of the Union to act in the international security sphere. But does such a commitment have any basis in reality and what are its possible practical ramifications?

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Who and how – both individually and collectively – are arming themselves in the shadow of the war in Ukraine, and what does that mean for the security map of Europe and Serbia’s own position? Does a country that’s still struggling with its post-conflict past and illegal arms flows need more weapons or not; and why? We posed these complex questions to our interlocutors, all of whom are great experts on the subject.

ALEKSANDAR RADIĆ MILITARY ANALYST

REARMING IS A LONG PROCESS IT IS OBVIOUS THAT WE WILL SEE THE RE-FORMING OF MANY OF THE BATTALIONS THAT WERE DISBANDED OVER THE LAST COUPLE OF DECADES, WHEN THE DEFENCE BUDGETS OF THE EU’S NATO MEMBERS WERE CUT COMPARED TO GROSS NATIONAL PRODUCT AND AMOUNTS OF WEAPONS IN ACTIVE UNITS WERE REDUCED DRAMATICALLY

F

rance’s ambition to be an all-format power armed for independent military interventions is evident in its policies. Actual resources are limited and one example is the January 2013 intervention in the African country of Mali, where the French army embarked with heart and without allies, but was forced to seek strategic transport support from NATO after a few days. Macron, now acting as the dominant figure on the EU political scene, clearly wants to revive the traditional French penchant for shows of power that extend beyond the NATO format. That’s why it will initiate a higher level of EU independence on the defence front despite this being a programme that’s constantly on the table, though has to date been short on implementation. The main obstacle is the existence of NATO, which clearly satisfies the needs of the majority of EU members, both through guarantees of U.S. support and an effectively structured mechanism of mutual defence. There is turbuINDEPENDENTLY OF THE POLITICAL FRAMEWORK – lence within the alliance, and will continue to be, but it is WHETHER NATO OR THE EU – THERE’S NO INDICAsustainable for now, especially in the context of the Ukraine crisis, which has consolidated relations within NATO and TION THAT A BASE OF FORCES TO FORM PARALLEL rendered the existence of its structures advantageous. It was STRUCTURES EXISTS, DESPITE EXPECTATIONS on the crest of that wave that the majority of NATO members THAT FRANCE WILL CONTINUE LOBBYING FOR initially responded to the Russian invasion by promising to A HIGHER LEVEL OF EU INDEPENDENCE ON THE make major investments in the modernisation of the armed forces. It is obvious that many of the battalions disbanded DEFENCE FRONT over the last couple of decades, when the defence budgets of the EU’s NATO members were cut compared to gross national product and amounts of weapons in active units were reduced dramatically, will be re-formed. Gauging the potential of an army isn’t easy, but let’s use one example to illustrate the atmosphere in the EU: France reduced its number of tanks to 222 units of Leclerc battle tanks. In comparison, on paper, the Serbian Army has 277 tanks in its units. Of course, for deeper analysis it is necessary to also include training parameters, technical support and maintenance, which are resources that don’t favour Serbia. It is nevertheless clearly unusual that France, which tends towards interventionism, has fewer tanks than Serbia.

We are now on the cusp – independently of the French insistence on the EU’s role in the domain of defence – of the process of rapidly renewing the military resources of EU members (i.e., NATO). The organising of the massing of forces against Russia is based for now on NATO structures, with the unified multinational battalions formed in the three Baltic states and Poland set to grow quickly into units of the rank of brigade or even division. NATO has its forces deployed in Romania, Bulgaria and Hungary. There is no sense of the existence of the EU’s military mechanisms, which are swamped by NATO activities focused on the “Russian front”. Independently of the political framework – whether NATO or the EU – this all relates to the same battalions and there’s no indication that a base of forces to form parallel structures exists.

August

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Focus

ARMAMENT IN THE SHADOWS OF THE WAR IN UKRAINE

MARIJA IGNJATIJEVIĆ

RESEARCHER, BELGRADE CENTRE FOR SECURITY POLICY

THE EU (STILL) LACKS SUFFICIENT MIGHT TO FORM AUTONOMOUS DEFENCE CAPACITIES THE VERY FACT THAT THE EU REPURPOSED ITS PEACE FACILITY INSTRUMENT TO ARM UKRAINE HAS SIGNIFICANT OPERATIVE RELEVANCE, BUT ALSO SYMBOLIC RELEVANCE. MEMBER STATES WILL CERTAINLY BE LESS RELUCTANT TO INVEST IN JOINT PROJECTS AND MECHANISMS, ALTHOUGH TRULY INTEGRATED DEFENCE CAPACITIES IN THE EU MIGHT BE A FARFETCHED GOAL

T

he war in Ukraine has already caused tectonic shifts in the global security architecture and interrupted the decadeslong peace project in Europe, forcing it to rearm. The threat of war on its territory will reshape European defence, individual member states’ militaries and common defence, transatlantic relations and Europe’s role in NATO. Nevertheless, defence reforms and rearmament are quite expensive and require extensive planning and long-term adaptation. We can thus expect gradual steps and important political commitments, rather than a Europe armed to the teeth in the nearest future.

Significant changes in defence policies can already be noticed: ever-moderate Sweden and Finland bidding for NATO membership and announcing increased military spending, Germany, dormant for decades, pledging to boost its defence budget, along with many of its European colleagues like Poland, France, Romania and others; Denmark deciding to participate in joint European defence mechanisms etc. It remains to be seen how those budgets will be spent and how that spending will impact on common defence mechanisms. Many resources will undoubtedly RATHER THAN AD HOC ARMING, DRIVEN BY be allocated to replace and replenish arms and military equipment POLITICAL INTERESTS AND SPICED UP WITH sent to Ukraine. When it comes to defence integration, the war in Ukraine has certainly bolstered the process more than any previA LACK OF TRANSPARENCY AND PLANNING, ous EU initiative. The very fact that the EU repurposed its Peace SERBIA SHOULD PAY GREATER ATTENTION TO Facility instrument to arm Ukraine already has significant operative PROBLEMS LIKE THE INCREASING OUTFLOW OF relevance, but also symbolic relevance. Member states will certainly be less reluctant to invest in joint projects and mechanisms, PERSONNEL THAT ERODES THE FOUNDATIONS OF but striding towards truly integrated defence capacities in the EU THE DEFENCE SYSTEM nevertheless requires a lot of time, effort and the overcoming of political obstacles.

The war in Ukraine has made it clear that Serbia will have to choose a side in its foreign policy, which it has successfully avoided having to do for years. Serbia took steps towards the modernisation and renewal of its outdated arms and equipment in the past few years, though predominantly in the service of its foreign policy. Arms and equipment were purchased from all sides (Russia, China, EU member states, European manufacturers etc.), in accordance with the balancing concept and Belgrade’s “four pillars” foreign policy approach.

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NIKOLA LUNIĆ

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE COUNCIL FOR STRATEGIC POLICY

TIME TO CREATE DEPENDABLE ALLIANCES UNDER THE CONDITIONS OF A TAXING HISTORY AND UNSTABLE RELATIONS, THE WESTERN BALKAN REGION COULD EASILY BECOME AN INSTRUMENT OF MAJOR POWERS IN THE CREATING OF A NEW GLOBAL MAP OF GEOPOLITICAL POWER

R

egardless of the EU’s unique perception of existing security threats and future challenges, European strategic autonomy and strengthened defensive capabilities of the EU are unlikely to be forthcoming under the conditions of an enduring political crisis that’s emerged as a consequence of the exclusive attitude towards enlargement, the re-examining of the development model following Brexit and ambitions to project a global impact. The EU’s hitherto comfortable foreign policy position, which maximally capitalised the liberal economic approach with minimal allocations for its maintenance, is no longer possible. It was clearly unsustainable over the long term, but it took advantage of the U.S. commitment to Europe’s security. However, Russian Federation President Vladimir Putin has succeeded where many American presidents, from John Kennedy to Jo Biden, have failed. Most EU member states, in accordance with NATO recommendations, have already taken decisions to increase budget allocations for defence, while some have also changed their traditionally neutral status. In Germany’s case, this will mean that it will soon rank third among the countries with the highest military budgets worldwide, which will inevitably lead to changes in the architecture of European security. EU countries NOW IS THE TIME WHEN DEPENDABLE ALLIANCES will consequently slow down their economic growth, but will ARE FORMED, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THROUGH more effectively realise their defined interests.

THE CREATING OF A NATIONAL SECURITY Under the conditions of a taxing history and unstable relaSTRATEGY BASED ON REGIONAL PREDICTABILITY tions, the Western Balkan region could easily become an instrument of major powers in the creating of global map of geopolitiAND TRUST cal power. That’s precisely why Serbia would have to harmonise its state decisions with analyses and predictions regarding the development of international relations, as opposed to harmonising with the emotions of voters, who bring ratings but not a sustainable future. Now is the time when dependable alliances are formed, among other things, through the creating of a national security strategy based on regional predictability and trust. If we continue to insist on perceiving national security through the lens of unsustainable neutrality based on the concept of total defence, which isn’t recognised by any of the international factors, in a hypothetical war we wouldn’t be saved by either all the steel we procure for the army or by jumping up and down on Belgrade’s bridges.

Serbia only has a future through investments in youth education without party affiliations, patriotism without the hatred of others and foreign policy without being blind regarding international relations. What we least need at this sensitive juncture are pamphlets and slogans of bizarre speeches from the ‘90s, but it’s essential that we have a definition of state reasoning and a leader who transcends party ambitions. If we’re not in a position to do that and continue to revel loudly in the misfortunes of others, we certainly won’t experience our own happiness.

August

21

UNOPS

Better Public Services For All MICHELA TELATIN PH.D.,

UNOPS SERBIA MULTI-COUNTRY OFFICE DIRECTOR

U

OPS is a United Nations agency that has the mission of supporting people in building better lives and supporting countries in achieving sustainable development. Being a project-based organisation, UNOPS has been implementing the Programme Enhancing Good Governance and Social Inclusion for Municipal Development – Swiss PRO for the last four and a half years, with the support of the Government of Switzerland.

What would you highlight as the most important contributions of the Swiss PRO Programme to the enhancement of the quality of life of Serbian citizens?

Our greatest achievement is the tangible impact that our actions bring to people’s lives. More than 20,000 citizens gained improved access to their civil, social and economic rights and public services thanks to the implementation of the Swiss PRO. We are proud of the progress made by the less developed municipalities in the three focus areas of the Swiss PRO: good governance, social inclusion and gender

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Our greatest achievement is the tangible impact that our actions bring to people’s lives. We are proud of the progress made by the less developed municipalities in the three focus areas of the Swiss PRO: good governance, social inclusion and gender equality equality. This progress has also been captured by the Good Governance Index, which showed a general increase of more than 20%, with the most significant amelioration in the area of citizen participation and transparency, administrative efficiency and effectiveness of local self-governments, despite the period of the Covid-19 pandemic. Who are the main beneficiaries of the support programme and why have they been chosen among other groups of citizens?

This programme focuses on providing support to 99 cities and municipalities in the regions of Šumadija, Western, Southern and Eastern Serbia.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Public Administration and Local Self-Government, and the Ministry of Labour, Employment, Veteran and Social Affairs, the activities carried out have helped to improve the socioeconomic position of persons with disabilities, Roma, women, elderly people, the unemployed, youth and children.

Moreover, this programme supported capacity

building for more than 2,000 employees of local self-government institutions to render them better equipped professionally to improve the provision of services to citizens. We have spent more than a decade supporting the growth of Serbia’s local self-governments in the mentioned aspects through our preceding programmes: EU PROGRES and European PROGRES, both of which were funded by the European Union and Government of Switzerland. How were the areas of good governance, social inclusion and gender equality addressed through this programme and how did you measure your four-and-ahalf-year contribution?

The programme’s approach was to ensure that positive change at the municipal level could be translated into practise for the benefit of citizens.

Through the provision of technical assistance to municipalities, the capacities of local selfgovernments were strengthened for the everyday application of good governance principles, social

inclusion and gender policies. For example, by improving capacities for eGovernment at the local level, we enabled people to obtain essential documents or report communal issues to their local self-governments without waiting in line or being subjected to additional costs. By supporting local gender equality mechanisms, we improved the position of women living in rural areas, in-

cluding those who are unemployed and victims of domestic violence. To illustrate, the Swiss PRO supported the operation of SOS lines in three districts, through which psychological and legal support was provided to more than 200 women who have been victims of domestic violence.

Many of the social protection services targeted children directly, such as sensory rooms in Svilajnac, Sjenica and Prokuplje, and personal escorts for children with disabilities, or counselling and socio-educational services for children in families that are at risk of child separation or with behavioural issues.

Thanks to the support of all its partners, such as the Standing Conference of Towns and Municipalities and the Office for IT and eGovernment, the contribution of the Swiss PRO to the different components of the good governance field of work is visible through the progress shown by the Citizen Satisfaction Survey, Good Governance Index and eGovernment Development Index. Furthermore, good governance is also about societal culture and the institutional approach to social services, which are more difficult to measure concretely

Our projects, which are supported by the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Sweden and other UN agencies, bring positive change to people by improving social municipal infrastructure and the competitiveness of small businesses while strengthening social inclusion

in the short term. However, these aspects are fundamental to achieving comprehensive results in public sector reform. Besides the partnership with the Government of Serbia through the Swiss funded-project, what is currently in the focus of UNOPS?

With its mandate in project management, procurement, infrastructure, human resources and financial management, UNOPS has been operating in Serbia for more than 20 years and has built strong relations with the Government of Serbia, line ministries and different national institutions.

We’ve grown into a multi-country office over the last several years, with the establishing of our offices in North Macedonia and Montenegro to support governments in socioeconomic development, the environment and infrastructure, to be able to

achieve the Sustainable Development Goals while supporting the EU accession process.

Our projects that are supported by the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Sweden and other UN agencies bring positive change to people by improving, for instance, social municipal infrastructure, the competitiveness of small businesses and strengthening social inclusion. UNOPS has been a proven partner during emergencies – whether that was in the process of reconstructing roads, homes and schools following the 2014 floods or procuring and delivering medical equipment during the Covid-19 pandemic – and stands ready to offer its expertise to support government institutions in meeting international standards. What added value has UNOPS brought through project implementation?

We listened to the needs of our partners and designed context-specific projects, while seeking collaborative partnerships with national governments and institutions, local self-governments, civil society organisations and other UN agencies.

We focused on the implementation of projects that give ownership to the national beneficiaries.

Targets matter at UNOPS, but how we reach our targets is equally important. Working directly with decision-makers, but also being constantly present in the field and engaging with final beneficiaries, are approaches that have been proven by UNOPS over previous years to yield lasting results. Moreover, gender equality is at the heart of UNOPS development efforts and we ensure that gender considerations and results are taken into account during the implementation of our projects, because societal change is only meaningful if it is inclusive.

August

23

Feature

The Demise of Boris Johnson

Is Resignation A Knock-Out Blow For Bo Jo?

The recent resignation of Boris Johnson from his post as UK prime minister came in the wake of a series of scandals and poor bi-election results, but is this really the end for the outspoken and charismatic former Etonian?

B

oris Johnson was groomed for power, having grown up between New York City, London and Brussels, attending an English boarding school and winning a scholarship to the factory of elite leaders that is Eton College.

He went on to study classics at Balliol

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College, Oxford, where he was president of the Oxford Union.

Following a brief stint as a management consultant, Johnson embarked on a career in journalism. Starting out in 1987 as a reporter for The Times, he was fired for fabricating a quotation but nonethe-

less hired to be a correspondent of The Daily Telegraph covering the European Community (1989–94), before becoming assistant editor (1994–99). It was in 1994 that Johnson became a political columnist for The Spectator, only to go on to become the magazine’s editor in 1999 and continue

in that role until 2005.

Johnson’s role at The Spectator propelled him into the public eye and soon after his first unsuccessful foray into politics – as the 1997 Conservative Party candidate for Clwyd South in the House of Commons, losing decisively to Labour Party incumbent Martyn Jones – he began appearing on a variety of television shows, beginning in 1998 with popular BBC talk show Have I Got News for You. His bumbling demeanour and occasionally irreverent remarks made him a popular public figure and he stood for Parliament again in 2001, this time winning the contest in the Henley-on-Thames constituency, though his rising political star was faltering again by 2004, when he was dismissed as shadow arts minister over rumours of an affair. He nonetheless secured re-election to his parliamentary seat in 2005 and went on to win a narrow victory in the London mayoral election of May 2008, beating Labour incumbent Ken Livingstone. He soon fulfilled a campaign promise to step down as an MP and was re-elected mayor in 2012, again besting the once popular Livingstone.

His return to Parliament came in 2015, when he won the west London seat of Uxbridge and South Ruislip. He retained his post as mayor of London, while the victory fuelled speculation that he would eventually challenge then Prime Minister and fellow former Etonian David Cameron for party leadership.

Johnson opted not to run for re-election in London’s 2016 mayoral race, instead switching to the emerging issue of Brexit and becoming the leading spokesman for the “Leave” campaign in the run-up to the national referendum on the UK’s continued membership in the EU. The campaign’s success prompted Cameron to resign and Johnson to announce his candidacy for party leadership, but a lack of support within the party led to him quickly withdrawing his bid and giving way to Theresa May, who succeeded Cameron and promptly appointed Johnson as her foreign secretary. However, May’s failure to secure a favourable Brexit deal gave Johnson

a reason to join other cabinet members in tendering their resignation in July 2018. He remained a persistent critic of PM May’s approach to Brexit negotiations with the EU and was among the 10 candidates to replace her after she again failed to secure parliamentary support for her ‘soft Brexit’ plan and announced her resignation. Her potential successor was whittled down to four and eventually two candidates through voting within the party ranks, with Johnson ultimately winning 66 per cent of the vote and officially becoming prime minister on 24th July 2019, but there would be no honeymoon period for his premiership.

Internal and cross-aisle wrangling over Brexit would threaten to topple Johnson’s cabinet before it had even warmed its seats, but he would prove successful in securing the UK’s formal withdrawal from the EU

Though Conservative party rules prevent him from standing in the next leadership election, few would rule out the possibility of him attempting an audacious second crack at being prime minister in the future just six months into his term, on 31st January 2020, saying in his address to the British people at the time: “This is the moment when the dawn breaks and the curtain goes up on a new act in our great national drama.”

And what a drama…

Hammering out the details of a new trade deal with the EU would prove tough for Johnson and his government, with protracted and bitter negotiations on a number of issues, but these vital negotiations were soon forced onto the backburner by the emergence of the catastrophic public health crisis of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Johnson initially attempted to take a low-key approach to combating the pandemic, but infection numbers and public

pressure quickly compelled his government to impose harsh lockdown measures. Johnson would go on to initiate and rescind a series of stay-at-home orders (varying by region), for which he was both criticised and praised. However, the Johnson government’s response to the pandemic would make headlines for very different reasons in late November 2021, when reports emerged about Johnson cabinet and staff parties earlier in the pandemic that violated the government’s own bans on social gatherings. Dubbed “Partygate,” the resulting scandal hinged not only on the nature of the alleged violations, but also on Johnson’s initial insistence that the government-issued guidelines had been “followed at all times”.

As reports emerged of an increasing number of illegal social gatherings held at Downing Street, Johnson apologised for attending one such party at which drinks were served, but which he said he’d thought was going to be a work event. He went on to claim falsely that no pandemic-related rules had been broken – an offense that has historically called for resignation.

In late January 2022, an investigation into the Partygate scandal by senior civil servant Sue Gray was reported to Parliament, though in a truncated and redacted form so as not to compromise the investigation into a number of gatherings that had been subsequently undertaken by the London Metropolitan Police. Johnson once again issued an apology to Parliament and was roundly castigated, even by Conservatives, some of whom joined opposition MPs in calling on him to step down.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine seemed to forestall the threat to Johnson’s leadership, with many Brits feeling that this moment of existential crisis for Europe was not the time for a change of leadership. Nevertheless, Johnson’s grip on power remained precarious, particularly after the police investigation into Partygate led to him receiving a “fixed penalty notice” and fined for his transgressions of pandemic-related rules, making him the first incumbent British PM in living memory to be found to have broken the law.

By the first week of June, fallout from the release of the full report by Gray (in May)

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Feature

and growing discontent with the PM’s role in the Partygate scandal led to no fewer than 54 Conservative MPs sending letters to the party’s 1922 Committee requesting Johnson’s resignation. With the number of written requests required to force a party leadership vote having been met, 359 Conservative MPs participated in a secret 6th June vote of confidence in Johnson. Johnson needed 180 affirmative votes to survive as leader. He received 211, but the 148 MPs who voted against him constituted roughly 40 per cent of the party’s MPs and exceeded the 133 MPs who had voted against Theresa May in her 2018 confidence vote.

Just weeks after surviving the vote, Johnson’s standing as party leader was further undermined by the loss of two Conservative seats in by-elections of 24th June 2022, in Tiverton and Honiton, and in Wakefield.

Sex scandals had forced the resignation of the Conservative MPs holding those seats, and in early July Johnson’s handling of another sex scandal, involving Conservative Deputy Chief Whip Chris Pincher, would finally force the resignation of the embattled prime minister, whose grip on power had for so long seemed impervious to scandal.

Despite the multitude of defections, Johnson initially dug in his heels, but then finally, on 7th July 2022, announced his immediate resignation as party leader.

However, some are now speculating that Johnson could be planning an unlikely political

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comeback. As The Guardian reported, following his final appearance in Prime Minister’s Questions, Johnson departed the dispatch box with the words “hasta la vista, baby”, telling MPs “mission largely accomplished – for now”, in typical attention-seeking style.

“He cannot stand not having attention.

It’s hard-wired into him. So, he is playing with us. He is doing it deliberately so we all rush to write articles saying: ‘Will he come back?’, ‘Can he come back?’, ‘How will he come back?’ It’s actually quite funny,” said Sonia Purnell, a biographer of Johnson.

Though Conservative party rules prevent him from standing in this leadership election, few would rule out the possibility of him attempting an audacious second crack at being prime minister in the future.

“He won’t want to go out in this way, although he got his standing ovation – albeit not from Theresa May,” added Purnell.

“He’s always measuring himself against others. That’s what you are trained to do at Eton. He’ll constantly be looking at who managed to stay in for how long. And three years for him is a pretty poor showing and he won’t like that. However, even more than that, he just wants to be “Top Dog”. Forget “Big Dog”. He’s programmed to win. Then once he wins, he doesn’t care about it. It’s all about the winning, so he will see this as a challenge.”

Several former UK prime ministers have bounced back to be re-elected. Sir Winston Churchill, Johnson’s hero, was PM twice, though he, and Labour’s Harold Wilson who achieved the same, did not resign as party leaders in the interim.

“I think you’d have to go back to the 19th century to see people going in and out [without remaining as party leader],” said Tim Bale, a professor of politics at Queen Mary University of London and author of The Conservatives Since 1945.

But is it too late for the aging Johnson?

“He’s 58. He will think of himself in the prime of life. He will think he’s learned a lot by being prime minister. And he’s alluded to the fact he was undefeated in any election. So, I would be very surprised if he excludes [a comeback],” said biographer Andrew Gimson, whose book Boris Johnson: Portrait of a Trouble Maker at No 10 is set to be published in September.

“He will know that some members of the public will like the sheer implausibility of a comeback by someone who seems to be down and out. And he will want to prove to all the people who danced on his grave that he is not actually dead,” added Gimson.

POSSIBLE SUCCESSORS Incumbent UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss will face off against former chancellor of the exchequer Rishi Sunak in the final round of the closely fought contest to succeed Boris Johnson as Conservative Party leader and UK prime minister.

Trade policy minister Penny Mordaunt became the latest candidate to crash out of the race after receiving the least support in a fifth round of voting among Conservative MPs. Sunak maintained his existing lead by winning 137 votes, while Truss finished second with 113 votes and Mordaunt slipped out of runoff contention with just 105 votes.

Truss and Sunak will now go head-to-head, with the results of the final vote by Conservative Party members set to be announced by 5th September at the latest, when Johnson is expected to finally step down in his capacity as caretaker prime minister.

Leaders’

MEETING POINT

SIMON TAYLOR, HYCU Inc. CEO

LUŠTICA BAY

VLADIMIR ŽIVANOVIĆ, Director of the Zlatibor Tourism Organisation

PORTO MONTENEGRO

Providing Easy Ways To Protect Data

Authentic Adriatic In Luštica Bay

Foreigners Also Flock To Zlatibor

The Adventure Continues On The Adriatic

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SIMON TAYLOR, HYCU INC. CEO

Providing Easy Ways To Protect Data

HYCU is a multinational company with offices around the world, but much of its European operation is located right here in Belgrade, an important and growing hub

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YCU CEO Simon Taylor announces that Serbia will become an even bigger hub for the company, as a place where HYCU will continue to invest and spend time, money and resources, with the country becoming a crucial part of HYCU’s business.

Is the proof of your orientation towards clients from all over the world best represented by your more than a million satisfied users and hundreds of partners?

I’ve been a long-time supporter and fan of Serbia as a country for many years. I’ve worked very closely with a number of Serbia’s leading business professionals, like Veselin Jevrosimović and Marija Živanović-Smith among others.

What I’ve seen in Serbia in particular is a strong culture of entrepreneurship. A culture that is based on a “can do” attitude that really resonates with the needs of large-scale organisations and companies, not just in the region but globally. I think being able to bring the Serbian culture to the rest of the world is one of the great added benefits of running HYCU. We certainly consider all of our Serbian employees to be of incredible importance.

The other thing I would say is that, when you’re running a multinational company, it is really important that you choose locations that are going to support the ethos and values of your business. One of the things that we’ve certainly found in Serbia is that our core corporate values of authenticity, grit and empathy are very well represented by our employees.

It is important that employees are in a work environment where they can bring their own personalities to the work they do. They have grit and a drive to succeed. And they care deeply, both about the work they’re doing and about each other. I know that’s what makes HYCU successful. That’s who we are as a

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company. And that’s what makes all of us at HYCU proud to be investing in Serbia.

You deal with managing and protecting the data of some of the largest business systems. Could you tell us about what you do exactly and what kind of help do you provide to clients?

HYCU is the world’s fastest growing multi cloud backup as a service company. Simply put, no matter where your data sits, HYCU will back it up and help you recover it in the event that your data is deleted or compromised. When people ask me about HYCU as a company, and why what we do is important, I think all you have to do is think about how much data there is in the world. How much of our lives are dependent on the data that we use, not only at work, but also personally? Today, with the rise of ransomware attacks, the risk of having your data stolen from you, or exploited in other ways, has never been higher. HYCU is truly here to help. We have more than 3,200 customers in 78 countries around the world. With easy

to use, SAS software, HYCU provides one of the most effective ways for organisations of all sizes to protect their data successfully.

What is currently occupying you and your colleagues the most?

HYCU has had an explosive series of events in the last 12 months. We’ve raised more than $140 million in venture funding. We’ve hired more than 150 people worldwide. And we’ve added an enormous number of customers across the globe. When we think about the trajectory of our business, we are heading towards an IPO, and in order to get there we need to make sure that we leverage the money we’ve raised - from Acrew Capital, Bain Capital Ventures, Cisco Investments and Atlassian Ventures - to scale as efficiently and effectively as possible. That means making the right choices about where we invest, what countries we’re going to invest in, where we build teams, and the work that we’ve asked those teams to do.

Authentic Adriatic In Luštica Bay A PLACE TO BELONG

Authentic residences, The Chedi five-star hotel, beautiful beaches with a crystal blue sea, a unique gastronomic and shopping experience and an intense calendar of events create the striking identity of Luštica Bay

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uštica Bay is not just a town, but a way of life under the slogan and motto A place to Belong.

Located on a peninsula rich in olive groves, surrounded by the blue Adriatic, and built in the spirit of Boka Kotorska, Luštica Bay is a great destination for the summer for which we will write memories under the number ‘22.

You can spend your summer with a view of the Mediterranean in the residences, apartments and villas of Luštica Bay, or in the exclusive hotel The Chedi. Whether you want to spend the weekend on the coast, or for Luštica Bay to be your summer home for a longer time - this community’s way of life will be the dominant impression of your summer on the Adriatic.

The unique gastronomic experience in Luštica Bay is reflected in the great fusion of flavours on the Marina Village promenade. You haven’t been

here if you haven’t tasted Bokesh delicacies with a unique view of the Adriatic horizon from the Lighthouse restaurant, or met the charming hostess of Kiki’s restaurant who will serve you dishes from an authentic Italian recipe, drank gemišt and bevanda in Finestra, but also tried drinks from a great international wine bar. Restaurant 21 is a place with the best fish dishes on the coast, Mediterranean spices and hospitality to remember!

BEACHES OF LUŠTICA BAY THE WILD BEAUTY OF THE MEDITERRANEAN In the heart of Luštica Bay lies Almara Beach, an ode to enjoyment and celebration, a unique beach reached by water taxi from Marina Village or by road across the Luštica peninsula, through shady olive groves lined with the region’s indigenous vegetation. In perfect harmony

with the spirit of the place, the chef Amador Fernandez creates unique experiences for the senses, presenting the finest specialities from his kitchen. At every moment, Almara exudes a unique mundane atmosphere, combining well-chilled wines and world cuisine flavours for a perfect Luštica Bay experience.

Crystal clear water, fine sand, the shelter of Velja Špilje, the peace of untouched nature and the atmosphere of the Mediterranean are characteristic of Beach Club 21, a beach that until recently was hidden from the public eye.

Having preserved part of its untamed nature, Beach Club 21 is today an exclusive beach resort within the Luštica Bay project. A beach bar, canopies, bamboo deck chairs, a swing on the seashore and a first-class restaurant with a view of the blue Mediterranean provide a unique vacation experience on the Adriatic.

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LOCAL NEWS

“Serbia is the most attractive country for French companies in the Western Balkans and many of them do business in the surrounding countries” ~ SANJA IVANIĆ, GENERAL DIRECTOR OF THE FRENCH-SERBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

COLLIERS ANNOUNCES AFFILIATION IN SERBIA WITH WEST PROPERTIES Leading diversified professional services and investment management company, Colliers, announced today that it has entered into an affiliate agreement in the EMEA region with the leading real estate services company in Serbia, West Properties. This partnership expands Colliers’ service offering in Southeast Europe with existing operations in neighboring countries.

West Properties, located in the capital Belgrade, has a 20-year history in Serbia.

SOLAR POWER PLANT AT BELGRADE AIRPORT MADE OPERATIONAL The BELGRADE AIRPORT company, part of the VINCI Airports company and the operator of Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport, has put into operation a solar plant that provides the airport with electricity obtained from renewable sources. The new solar power plant, equiped with almost 3,000 solar panels, will annually produce around 1,130,000 kWh of green electricity, which is comparable to the annual consumption of approximately 430 households.

METITO TO SECURE SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION FOR WATER SUPPLY CHALLENGES IN ZRENJANIN The Contract for the realization of a water treatment project in Zrenjanin has been signed in the Government of the Republic of Serbia between the City of Zrenjanin, the Public Water Company, and the global water provider, Metito The City of Zrenjanin will obtain a state-of-the-art water treatment plant that will bring a lasting and sustainable solution to a year’s long water supply issues facing its citizens. Today marks the signing of the Contract for the realization of a water treatment project in Zrenjanin between the City of Zrenjanin, the Public Water Company, and the leading global provider of intelligent water management solutions, the multinational company ’Metito’.

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“It is noticeable that the number of American investments in our country is growing year on year” ~ STEFAN LAZAREVIĆ, PRESIDENT OF AMCHAM SERBIA

OTP BANKA RECEIVES EUROMONEY AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE 2022 OTP banka Srbija was declared “The best bank in Serbia” at the annual awards ceremony of the world-renowned Euromoney magazine. It is the traditional Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2022, which is awarded to financial institutions that provide clients with the highest level of service, innovation, and expertise. As a result of the successfully implemented most complex integration in the region in the midst of the pandemic, excellent business results with growing profitability, operational efficiency, and healthy growth of the loan portfolio, OTP banka stood out as a leader in the banking market.

MOBI BANKA AWARDS HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES High school graduates showed themselves in the best light not only at graduation celebrations but also at college entrance exams. Mobi Banka made sure that the efforts of the most successful were noticed, and awarded ten students of the generation, each one with an amount of 50,000 dinars.

On this occasion, the award-winning students from Belgrade visited the Mobi Banka branch office in New Belgrade to open their accounts, where they were welcomed by Milka Rajčević, a member of the Executive Board of the first digital bank in the region.

UNIQA STRENGTHENS SOUTHEAST EUROPE REGION Nikola Đukić was appointed as the new chairman of the Executive Board of UNIQA non-life insurance, while Tihomir Milošević is the new president of the Executive Board of UNIQA Life Insurance. UNIQA Serbia, as part of the UNIQA Group present in 18 countries and the fifth insurance company on the market of Central and Eastern Europe, continues the implementation of the growth program “UNIQA 3.0 - Seeds of the Future” which began in 2021. The next level of transformation is focused on the countries of the Southeast European region (SEE) and has the ultimate goal of better customer service, by creating an organization with an even greater customer orientation and efficiency in all markets, with a strong focus on the digitalization of the company and its offer.

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VLADIMIR ŽIVANOVIĆ, DIRECTOR OF THE ZLATIBOR TOURISM ORGANISATION

Foreigners Also Flock To Zlatibor

It is thanks to magical nature and the air spa status that Zlatibor has enjoyed for 129 years, coupled with major investments, excellent infrastructure and a wide variety of facilities, that Zlatibor is the country’s number one tourist destination, a place where every day is pleasant, unique and different

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multimedia fountain – complete with modern sound, lighting and laser effects – was made operational beside the remodelled Zlatibor Lake near Kraljev trg.

Event tourism is also on the rise here. We organise events not only in tourism spots, but also in all the villages of our region. The Municipality of Čajetina and the Zlatibor Tourism Organisation have prepared numerous concerts and cultural happenings for the Zlatibor Cultural Summer event. Bathing areas and swimming pools have been prepared in Zlatibor and the surrounding area, while we have also organised daytrips to Stopića Cave, Sirogojno’s Old Village [Staro Selo] Museum, the Gostilje Waterfall and other localities.

ere Zlatibor Tourism Organisation Director Vladimir Živanović speaks with undisguised pride about previous and upcoming investments, the structure of guests, the enriching of the tourism offer, the area’s natural beauty and increasingly popular events, as well as revealing some plans for the coming seasons to CorD Magazine.

Despite facing strong competition, Zlatibor remains the most visited tourist destination in Serbia. How would you explain that?

Zlatibor enriches its tourist offer with new amenities year on year, and that is what sets it apart from the other destinations.

Diverse contents, a high-quality offer and the blessings of nature attract even the most demanding guests, while ensuring regular visitors are happy to return again and again, because they are always awaited by something new on the “golden mountain”.

Statistics also clearly show the notable progress of this tourist destination.

Visitors are predominantly still local guests, while there are also guests from the region from Republika Srpska and Montenegro – but we are delighted by the increase in the number of guests from Western countries. Thanks to the Auto-Kamp vehicle campsite, Zlatibor is also visited by tourists from the Netherlands, Belgium and the Czech Republic. We have seen is a noticeable increase in the number of tourists coming from Romania, while there are also some arriving from Arab countries.

Foreign guests account for approximately 30% of total visitors to Zlatibor.

We know that the gondola lift’s capacities have been increased and that work has been undertaken to

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improve event tourism and advance the complete tourist offer, but that isn’t all! With what kinds of new additions did you welcome this summer season?

The Gold Gondola Lift has placed Zlatibor on the map of world destinations, because it is the world’s longest single-segment panoramic cable car lift. It has been ridden by more than 360,000 tourists since operations were launched in January 2021. Apart from the nine-kilometre ride along the route in one direction, with the option to disembark at the Ribnica Lake interstation or at the final Tornik station, numerous new activities have been prepared for this summer season, such as archery, paragliding, recreation with entertainers from Čigota, workshops teaching old crafts etc. These activities are all free and intended for both children and adults.

On the occasion commemorating the Day of the Municipality of Čajetina, on 30th June, a

Guests are becoming increasingly demanding, but that doesn’t concern you because the Municipality of Čajetina will continue investing in infrastructure, facilities, contents and its overall offer. What are you planning for the period ahead?

The municipality has created a good business environment and attracted investors who are constructing excellent accommodation facilities, wellness and spa centres, and this season – to the benefit of active holidays – we are currently arranging and marking new hiking routes and cycle lanes.

As the goal is for Čajetina to become Serbia’s first eco municipality, visitors can hire electric cars and bicycles with us, in order to raise awareness of environmental protection.

Zlatibor has become a mecca for the numerous sports teams that come here for preparatory training camps, which is why construction is being launched on a sports and recreational complex with approximately 20 open pitches.

The Adventure Continues On The Adriatic

Summer is in full swing at Porto Montenegro, with yachts lining the marina, a range of new and well-loved shops and restaurants in the village and a full calendar of events taking place in the warm sunshine. Life at Porto Montenegro continues to flourish and we invite you to join us in this magical Adriatic destination OUR BIGGEST SUMMER YET Sun-filled days and light-fuelled nights provide the perfect backdrop for our spectacular summer of events. We have a host of brilliant and major events lined up for the coming months, with events to suit all tastes and types – from gastronomy and sports, to fashion, music and art. One of the most highly anticipated events is Polo in the Port, which will take place in August. Guests will enjoy a spectacular horse parade, stylish receptions, two days of exhilarating polo and a memorable closing party. A must-attend, this is our event of the summer.

Our programme of events isn’t just for adults. We have a range of events that are focused on children specifically, such as our ‘Summer of Football’. We’ve teamed up with the Real Madrid Foundation Football Camp to deliver the ultimate summer soccer holiday experience. All children aged 6-17 are invited to take part and learn from some of Europe’s leading coaches, make friends and develop their skills. There is also a Summer Dance camp taking place, with expert teachers and coaches to guide children in a range of dance styles.

Guests and visitors will also notice that the marina and yacht club has welcomed a world-renowned brand to its shore: BuddhaBar Beach. Find your groove, embrace the hedonistic spirit and gather your friends for some delicious Asian-fusion cuisine in this incredible new setting. What can you expect?

A breath-taking 64-metre infinity pool, signature dishes that marry the finest local ingredients with Asian spice, and international DJs. All with a backdrop of the impossibly beautiful Boka Bay.

We also recently opened AudioPort, our exciting new private recording studio that is available to hire for the hour or day, with an associated productor and label. There will be masterclasses in DJing, creating music and singing, as well as a locally broadcast radio station and music video production facilities. AudioPort will become a laboratory for curious creatives to experiment, collaborate and trailblaze. It can be your platform to broadcast globally, or your intimate studio to sing that song you’ve always dreamt of.

Meanwhile, construction continues at Boka Place – Porto Montenegro’s newest neighbourhood and lifestyle community

with wellness at its core. Structural work is complete and you can now see the outline of the apartments, retail units, and SIRO Hotel rooms that make up Boka Place’s central square. The area offers exceptional off-plan investment opportunities; over 50% of spaces have already been let, with fewer than 10 properties now available.

There is so much to enjoy in Porto Montenegro and we can’t wait to welcome you to our shores. With each year, more individuals join our international community and enjoy the many events and amenities for a fivestar luxury lifestyle. A gem in the heart of the Adriatic, Porto Montenegro will continue to thrive, for both its residents and visitors.

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REGIONAL NEWS

“With its basic guiding idea of the free flow of goods, services, labour, capital and technology, the Open Balkan initiative strengthens all participating countries and increases their competitiveness internationally” ! JURIJ BAJEC, PROFESSOR AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BELGRADE FACULTY OF ECONOMICS

CROATIA TO ADOPT EURO IN 2023 Croatia is to be admitted to the EU monetary union and will start using the euro on 1st January 2023.

“It’s official – Croatia will join the euro area as of 1 January 2023. This outcome is the result of tremendous efforts by Croatia and its citizens to meet all the necessary economic and legal requirements,” said Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank.

“I would like to congratulate my counterpart, Zdravko Maric, and the whole of Croatia for becoming the 20th country to join the euro area,” said Zbynek Stanjura, the finance minister of the Czech Republic, which holds the EU’s rotating presidency.

Croatia’s switch from the kuna to the euro will come less than a decade after the country joined the EU.

BUSINESS CONFIDENCE INDEX IN MANUFACTURING DECREASES IN NORTH MACEDONIA North Macedonia’s manufacturing sector business confidence indicator fell 1% points, to 14 points. According to the country’s statistical office press release, on a monthly comparison basis, the business confidence index in manufacturing was 0.6 percentage points in June.

“The situation with the current volume of production orders in June 2022 is more favourable compared to the previous month, the expectations for the production volume for the next three months are less favourable, while the stocks of finished goods decreased,” the statistical office said.

Survey participants, which comprised of managers, expect the number of employees in the manufacturing sector to increase in the following period.

AUSTRIAN POST STARTS OPERATING IN SLOVENIA Austrian Post’s new delivery subsidiary, Express One Slovenia, began operations in Slovenia at the beginning of July. The logistics company has two centres, in Maribor and Ljubljana, and in addition to these locations, several delivery bases ensure delivery throughout Slovenia. Austrian Post’s logistics centre in Kalsdorf, Styria, will also play a central role in the distribution of import and export parcels. “Due to our high quality, we were motivated by international customers to offer our services on the Slovenian market as well. We already have relevant export volumes to Slovenia, and we also have a strong market position in the neighbouring countries of Austria, Croatia, and Hungary. Selfdelivery in Slovenia was, therefore, the next logical step for us,” explains DI Peter Umundum, Managing Director for Parcel & Logistics, Austrian Post.

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“The Open Balkan initiative favours integration over disintegration, open borders over closed ones, free movement over a limited range” ~ DIMITAR KOVACHEVSKI, PRIME MINISTER OF NORTH MACEDONIA

BULGARIAN RAILWAYS TURNED A PROFIT The Bulgarian national railway carrier reported an increase in its revenues for the second consecutive quarter. For the first 6 months of the year, the accounting profit of the entire BDZ (Bulgarian Railways) Holding Ltd group is BGN 13,256,000 (EUR 6,769,977). For the first time in 10 years, the group, which includes “BDZ-Passenger Transport” EOOD, “BDZ-Tovarni Vervozi” Ltd and “BDZ Holding” Ltd, is making a profit, the Ministry of Transport informs. This also applies independently to “BDZ-Tovarni prevozi” Ltd, which at the end of June realized an accounting profit of BGN 6,904,000 million. After taking into account the effect of the reduced infrastructure fees for the company, the operating profit from its inherent activity is BGN 2,201,000. “BDZ-Tovarni prevozi” Ltd has been at a loss for the entire 10-year period from 2012 to now.

MERIDIANBET BECOMES SPONSOR OF FIRST MONTENEGRIN FOOTBALL LEAGUE The Football Association of Montenegro and the Meridianbet company signed a sponsorship agreement in Podgorica, according to which one of the leaders in the market of betting services will be the sponsor of the First Montenegrin Football League of Montenegro. The elite football competition in Montenegro during the next three years, which is the duration of the sponsorship contract, will be called Meridianbet 1. CFL. The contract was signed by the president of the Football Association of Montenegro, Dejan Savićević, and the executive director of Meridianbet Montenegro, Jovana Klisić. After signing the contract, Savićević emphasised that he believes that the Association and Meridianbet, as well as the clubs participating in the Meridianbet 1. CFL will benefit greatly from this cooperation.

EU COHESION POLICY: €31.5 BILLION FOR ROMANIA Romania will receive a total of €31.5 billion from Cohesion Policy in 20212027 in the framework of its Partnership Agreement with the Commission to promote the economic, social and territorial cohesion of its regions and its green and digital transition. The EU funds will also support the development of a competitive, innovative and export-oriented Romanian economy. €4.33 billion from the European Regional and Development Fund (ERDF) will support Romania’s innovative and smart economic transformation. Funds will increase the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and support research and innovation, in particular through business-academia collaboration. Innovative enterprises and innovative activities in traditional SMEs will also be supported.

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Feature

What Cybersecurity Really Means As more activities move online, our understanding of cybersecurity must evolve to stay ahead of emerging threats to public health and security

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hen we talk about cybersecurity, we usually think of commercial antivirus software, ransomware attacks on large corporations, or leaks of politically scandalous emails. But little is said about public security in the digital realm, and that is a big problem when we increasingly depend on information and communication technologies (ICTs) and the Internet of Things to carry out our ordinary daily activities.

Moreover, these technologies’ rapid development has led to a hybridization of crime. Many illicit activities now straddle the physical and virtual worlds, which has introduced new trade-offs and calls for a reconsideration of longstanding lawenforcement strategies.

Consider illegal recreational substances.

Many people now seek to acquire these over the internet, because buying online is generally seen as safer than meeting a stranger in a dark alley. But online channels tend to put people into direct contact with the organized crime groups that control most of the distribution of illicit substances. When people hand over money to these groups, they are unwittingly helping to fund the global networks that also finance terrorism and traffic in arms, people, and human organs and tissues.

It is well known that the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated many forms of digital innovation and adaptability, and online drug purchases are no exception.

There are both risks and potential benefits associated with these new distribution channels. Transacting on crypto markets or through similar digital channels can protect 36

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individual users from physical violence, theft, sexual exploitation, and abduction.

Governments and law-enforcement authorities should keep these findings in mind as they seek to create safe public spaces online. While the state alone is responsible for defining what counts as a crime, policing criminal activity is not its sole purpose; it also must ensure public health and uphold fundamental rights such as privacy.

Accordingly, many law-enforcement strategies should be reconsidered, and resources should be redirected toward strengthening the competencies of nascent cybercrime units.

Investigative efforts should focus primarily on ICT-mediated criminal activities and operations that pose a significant threat to the general public.

But, owing to the hybrid nature of these forms of cybercrime, effective implementation of new law-enforcement strategies will require international coordination.The United Nations has formed an ad hoc committee to draft a “Comprehensive International Convention on Countering the Use of Information and Communications Technologies for Criminal Purposes.” But to ensure public security in cyberspace, the convention will need to couple improved law-enforcement procedures with the kind of humanitarian vision that underpins deflection.

As the world increasingly moves online, we must recognize that cybersecurity is about more than preventing hacks and fraud. It is also about improving the safety, health, and well-being of the people behind the screens.

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“We’ll be slowing the pace of hiring for the rest of the year, while still supporting our most important opportunities” ~ SUNDAR PICHAI, CEO OF GOOGLE

WORLD NEWS

ROLLS-ROYCE, EASYJET TO TEST HYDROGEN COMBUSTION ENGINE TECH FOR AEROPLANES Aerospace giant Rolls-Royce said it was pairing up with airline EasyJet to develop and test hydrogen combustion engine technology for aircraft. In a statement, London-listed Rolls-Royce said the two companies would work together on a range of ground-based tests slated to begin this year. Both firms had “a shared ambition to take the technology into the air,” it added. EasyJet carried the same statement about the partnership on its website.

The goal of the collaboration, called H2ZERO, “is to demonstrate that hydrogen has the potential to power a range of aircraft from the mid-2030s onwards,” Rolls-Royce said.

GOOGLE FACES 1 BLN EURO UK TRIAL OVER APP STORE PRICING Google faces a London trial over an estimated 976,855,000 Euros damages claim after a court authorized a lawsuit that alleges the Alphabet-owned tech giant overcharged 19.5 million customers for app store purchases. The class action, which was certified by the Competition Appeal Tribunal on Monday, alleges Google abused its dominant position by charging up to 30% commission on popular apps on its Play Store, including Roblox, Candy Crush Saga, and Tinder since October 2015.

RICHARD BRANSON TAKES A STAKE IN LIGHTYEAR Lightyear, a European challenger to trading platform Robinhood, has raised $25 million of funding in an investment round backed by British billionaire Richard Branson. Silicon Valley’s Lightspeed Venture Partners led the deal, the company told CNBC exclusively — a rare vote of confidence for an upstart brokerage at a time when global stock markets are deep in the red. Founded in London last year by Estonian entrepreneurs Martin Sokk and Mihkel Aamer, Lightyear offers commission-free trading in over 3,000 global stocks and multi-currency accounts. Sokk and Aamer previously worked at Wise, the U.K.-listed money transfer firm.

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“For too long, financial markets have been overly complex with high barriers to entry and confusing jargon” ~ RICHARD BRANSON, FOUNDER OF VIRGIN GROUP

AMAZON SUES FACEBOOK GROUP ADMINISTRATORS OVER FAKE REVIEWS Amazon has filed a lawsuit against the administrators of more than 10,000 Facebook groups who have allegedly acted as “fake review brokers”. The lawsuit filed in Seattle accuses the group admins of soliciting reviews for items in exchange for money or free products. One of the groups, “Amazon Product Review,” had more than 43,000 members, and allegedly offered refunds or other payments to buyers willing to leave negative reviews on products like camera tripods and car stereos. Administrators allegedly sought out fake reviews, and offered them to Amazon sellers, charging $10 per review, according to screenshots of Facebook messages included in the complaint.

TWITTER WINS BID FOR EXPEDITED TRIAL AGAINST ELON MUSK Twitter won its motion for an expedited trial in its lawsuit against Elon Musk. Delaware Court of Chancery chancellor Kathaleen McCormick ruled in favor of an expedited 5-day trial, to take place in October, after the conducted hearing.

Twitter is seeking to enforce Musk’s $44 billion acquisition of the company despite Musk’s intentions to back out of the deal. The legal squabble, to be tried in the Delaware Court of Chancery, stems from Musk’s decision to terminate his $44 billion acquisition of Twitter.

SHELL TO BUILD EUROPE’S ‘LARGEST’ RENEWABLE HYDROGEN PLANT Plans to build a major hydrogen plant in the Netherlands will go ahead following a final investment decision by subsidiaries of oil and gas giant Shell. In an announcement, Shell said the Holland Hydrogen I facility would be “Europe’s largest renewable hydrogen plant” when operations start in 2025.

According to Shell, the 200-megawatt electrolyzer will be located in the Port of Rotterdam, Europe’s largest seaport, generating as much as 60,000 kilograms of renewable hydrogen every day.

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Entrepreneur RYAN REYNOLDS / ACTOR, ENTREPRENEUR

techcrunch.com

Accidentall Advertising Industry Powerhouse

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Ryan Reynolds may be best known for the dry-witted, permanently quipping persona he plays in nearly all his films, but away from the camera, he has slowly become one of the most in-demand and influential creators in advertising.

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media.gq.com

he Deadpool star, who is the cofounder of film production company and digital marketing agency Maximum Effort, has had a string of viral hits with advertisements he’s coproduced and written since the firm’s inception in 2018.

Reynolds sold the company to ad tech company MNTN last year but still plays a hands-on role as its chief creative officer.

Addressing a host of industry leaders in a jam-packed auditorium at the Cannes Lions festival on the French Riviera, he revealed how his venture into the sector was largely born from circumstance rather than design.

“Maximum Effort happened completely by accident,” Reynolds admitted.

“I spent 10 years trying to get the film Deadpool made and it was hell. I kept rolling this rock up the hill every single day and it just didn’t work.”

The star said he was forced to use some innovative and “fairly unorthodox” marketing ploys—including leaking test footage—to finally get the green light from Hollywood execs, but even then, he was still left with an uphill battle.

“The studio never really believed in it,” Reynolds added.

“They gave us absolutely nothing to make the movie, compared to other comic book movies.

“We had to make every dollar feel like 10, and as we did this I was learning lessons left, right, and center.

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Entrepreneur “We replaced spectacle with character, and it worked well and really landed.”

Reynolds revealed that he drove home on the final day of shooting Deadpool in the now-iconic red and black suit, after having poured his heart and soul into the production, and that moment evolved into the next phase of his assent to marketing genius.

Suddenly we were having the time of our lives. We then started branching out to other clients and working on projects we really wanted to work on and brands we really wanted to work on

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“Me and George Dewey, my cofounder at Maximum Effort, then started marketing with the suit and having fun with it without giving away pieces of the film, and it turned out to be really successful,” Reynolds said.

“I then used some of that sweet Deadpool money to buy Aviation Gin and I needed to market that, so we inadvertently became a marketing company.

“Suddenly we were having the time of our lives. We then started branching out to other clients and working on projects we really wanted to work on and brands we really wanted to work on.”

Reynolds, who is the majority owner of Aviation Gin, Mint Mobile, and the world’s oldest professional soccer club, Wrexham, has also produced hit advertisements for Match. com, where he matched Satan with a representation of the year 2020.

He famously capitalized on the fallout of a Peloton ad, which was widely panned, by recruiting the same actress to star in a spot for Aviation Gin. His latest viral success is a link-up with Nick Cannon for Father’s Day, which sees the rapper/comedian whip up an Aviation cocktail dubbed the Vasectomy. source: fortune.com

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PROFILE

Born Under A Lucky Star I was born during the waning of winter and the war in “the most beautiful city in the world, in the most beautiful street in that city, in the most beautiful house in that street”, as great pianist, Dušan Trbojević, said about my (Belgrade) address (Rige od Fere 7) . I was actually born in (today’s) Student Polyclinic, which was then a private gynaecology-obstetrics clinic – and that determined that I would be a future student and would choose “the most beautiful job in the world” – speaking and writing about music, which I still do with the greatest satisfaction to this day

GORDANA KRAJAČIĆ, PROFESSOR AND MUSICOLOGIST

I

consider myself a self-realised person: I planted a tree (actually two, while I had my holiday home in Vrčin), wrote books (35 in total) and, most importantly, gave birth to my son Vladimir Baltić, one of the five most intelligent people on the planet (IQ of 176), master of electrical engineering and doctor of mathematics, who hasn’t only fulfilled all my most optimistic expectations but also exceeded them, by marrying Marija, a specialist in emergency medicine who even saved me from death last year, by curing me of a pulmonary embolism.

I also have two grandchildren: the best child in the world – Anđelija, who became a master’s candidate before turning 12 and adores school; and grandson Marko, who has the most beautiful boy’s name in the world, which also belonged to my wonderful father, the noblest man I’ve ever encountered.

I think that I was “born under a lucky star” and that’s why I, like F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Great Gatsby, have never “forgotten the

advantages given to me by birth” – in the blessings and safety of my parents’ home, with a sister who was the best student of the First Belgrade Gymnasium high school.

It wasn’t “from the cradle to the grave - the best school years” – rather I had my best time while I first studied psychology, then in parallel piano and musicology, even finding time for love, for poetry, for concerts, for theatres, for friends... Youth is such a powerful thing, though we’re not even aware of that while we’re at that age...

Rewards for the effort exerted came later!

I participated in the festivals of students of the music academies of Yugoslavia on a couple of occasions during the course of my studies. I was praised immediately upon graduation and my work was published on the occasion of the jubilee 100th edition of the magazine Zvuk [Sound]. It was in that year of 1968 that I began my critical collaboration with newspapers (Borba, Politika, Nova Borba, Glas, Blic, Dnevnik) and magazines (Vidici, Pro musica, Pozorišna kultura, Nada, Dodir, Književne novine, Savremenik), with radio stations from Belgrade, Novi Sad and Titograd [Podgorica], and with television. I gave numerous lectures on music at Kolarac Foundation Hall and in Aranđelovac, Banja Luka, Vrnjačka Banja… I led school pupils to the first Musical Youth Competition (in 1970,

on the occasion of the 200th anniversary of Beethoven’s birth) and the Slavenski School where I then worked beat the only two music secondary schools in Belgrade - Mokranjac and Stanković – where I spent 25 years lecturing with great love on the most beautiful subject that’s taught in schools: music history. It was while working at the Veljko Dugošević Primary School that I received the October Award of the City of Belgrade. I also “clambered up” the Great Wall of China and received a certificate.

I’ve received two Army Plaques, in 1986 and 2019, for research work on Military Music and Musicians from 1831 – 1945. I received the first Politika Award in 1986 for the “Best Album about Vuk”, which included a journey along Vuk’s trail in Budapest and Vienna. Finally, at the height of the pandemic in 2021, I also received “Vuk’s Award”.

When Verdi was once asked which of his works he considered as being the most valuable, he replied: “The Retirement Home for Old Musicians in Milan!”

I wouldn’t want to paraphrase him, but among all of these awards, I almost felt the best (it’s a given that I actually felt best after giving birth to my son Vlada) when receiving the Silver and Gold Sign of the Red Cross – for giving blood 41 times, knowing that I’d enabled someone to spend a little longer living in this beautiful, magical world!

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Architecture

Office Design Trends and Ideas for 2022

Happy & Productive Workforces

Amid the pandemic, the world of office interior design is moving faster than ever before. Trends that were slowly catching on a few years ago are now accelerating, resulting in widespread changes to working styles and, in turn, workspace interior design schemes.

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ith buzzwords like inclusivity, wellbeing, agile working and resimercial, it looks like the overarching trend for 2022 is that business are putting employees first. Whether it be 44

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through creating a comfortable space that replicates the home environment, investing in elements that support physical and mental health, or encouraging skill sharing through interior design, there appears to be

a shift in the way businesses are approaching their workplace transformations.

As far as employees are concerned, this can only be a good thing. For businesses, they will surely reap the rewards that come

with building modern environments that foster happy, productive workforces.

A “VERY PERI” COLOUR SCHEME

For 2022, Pantone has unveiled the elegant Very Peri as it’s Colour of the Year. This sees a return to a single colour following last year’s double selection of Illuminating and Ultimate Gray.

With its lively combination of blue and violet-red, Very Peri displays a carefree confidence that encourages personal inventiveness and imaginative expression.

This makes the colour ideal for creative companies with a forward-thinking ethos, such as those working in tech, architecture or interior design.

For an interior design idea, consider introducing it to a creative collaboration area to help get the ideas flowing!

GREEN DESIGN SCHEMES

With more companies embracing sustainability, the trend for nature-themed office design has evidently been on the rise.

Indeed, those with green corporate social responsibility pledges have taken to introducing a workplace interior design schemes that reflect their values. The benefits of this are twofold: projecting a positive company image to clients and staff while creating a vibrant space that reconnects people with nature.

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Architecture

Office Design Trends and Ideas for 2022 Popular nature-inspired features include moss feature walls, carpet tiles with textures and colours that reflect the great outdoors, and natural materials such as wooden slats.

Combined with energy-saving elements, businesses can really make a positive impact on the environment while reflecting a green ethos through their workplace aesthetic.

BLEACHER SEATING

Simply put, bleacher seats are the mark of a cool, modern office space. With their tiered, sports stadium-like design, they offer a fun, outside-the-box alternative to closed meeting rooms.

Those who operate with agile working are particularly fond of bleachers due to way they bring employees together for ad-hoc collaboration, but they aren’t exclusive to

that kind of environment. Many companies use bleacher seating to bring teams together for presentations and announcements, while coworking companies use them for training and networking events.

AGILE SPACES

If you’re unfamiliar with agile working, it’s where an employee isn’t given a fixed workstation but offered a range of work “zones” to suit the task at hand.

An alternative to the traditional office layout with banks of desks, agile workspaces are modern, practical, and fun! Typically, businesses that operate with agile working get creative with the design scheme, introducing everything from laptop lounges to acoustic booths and gaming areas.

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A HYBRID APPROACH

The forced experiment of working from home has seen some companies adopt a hybrid approach, where some employees split their time between the office and home.

This has resulted in some of those companies making changes to their office to accommodate the change.

One obstacle of hybrid working is maintaining clear lines of communication between those in the office and those at home.

Typically, employees aren’t allocated a fixed workstation in hybrid offices. Rather, they’re given the freedom to hotdesk, meaning robust locker systems are essential.

This kind of office is a great way to make use of space that’s been left vacant due to a reduced workforce. This may also require some intelligent space planning and

furniture procurement to safely optimise the area for a new team.

CREATIVE BRAINSTORMING AREAS

Collaboration is key to the success of every company, so it makes sense to create zones dedicated to creative brainstorming sessions.This can be a simple case of introducing a portable or suspended whiteboard alongside a selection of office furniture, but there are plenty of outsidethe-box options available on the market.

For example, at the 2021 Workspace Design Show, Logovisual introduced its unique whiteboard system called ThinkingWall. Made specifically for visual thinking and planning, ThinkingWall is made from acoustic properties to help cancel noise, making ideal for ad-hoc collaboration sessions in open offices.

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Architecture

Office Design Trends and Ideas for 2022

RESIMERCIAL

Resimercial interior design has been around for some time now, but it’s more relevant than ever given the shift in working styles due to the pandemic.

A cross-pollination of “residential” and “commercial” design, resimercial aims to

replicate the comfort of the home in the workplace. This means introducing homely elements such as soft seating areas with pillows and throws; living-room decorations like rugs, plants, coffee tables and photo frames; and warm wooden finishes on floors and walls.

INCLUSIVITY

Support diversity, inclusivity design takes into account age, gender, technical literacy, physical and cognitive ability and culture.

The space will be fully accessible to support the needs of those with mobility, sensory, mental and neurological issues. It will also provide hundreds of “unassigned” workstations to fit different work and personality preferences and include a hub where the older generation can teach younger generations and vice versa.

This is perhaps more of a future prediction than a trend, but nonetheless gives a fascinating insight into how the office interior design world is evolving to meet the needs of a diverse workforce.

COWORKING DEVELOPMENTS

According to research, the number of coworking spaces worldwide is set to grow by 116% by 2024 and reach a projected 41,975 spaces.

That will mean around five million people will be using coworking spaces worldwide.

While coworking spaces are typically associated with freelancers and start-ups, a 48

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recent research suggests that this isn’t necessarily the case. Some coworking operators provide private spaces for these teams in addition to single workstations for individuals and smaller groups.

Technology has taken over to the extent where coworking offices may no longer require a manager to oversee them. With new technology like access cards, booking systems and digital visitor management machines, it’s possible coworking offices will largely run by themselves.

Niche coworking spaces target a certain sector, meaning the design will cater to a specific demographic. For example, that could mean tech-centric spaces for coders and developers.

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My life

Dragan Velikić, novelist

LIFE IN LITERATURE

A two-time recipient of the NIN Award, the top Serbian award for novel of the year, this novelist’s books rank top when it comes to readership numbers and are among the best Serbian novels translated to foreign languages. He’s spent just 20 months living outside of his home country and says that it’s not bad for a writer to have living in exile among their experiences, but that he ultimately realised he belongs here, that he needs to write here, to advocate for normalcy of behaviour here, because that’s an underdeveloped component in our country. And don’t label that patriotism 50

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By Radmila Stanković

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hen it comes to awards received, readership figures achieved and book translations celebrated, Dragan Velikić (69) is among Serbia’s greatest and most successful authors. His works have been translated into around 20 languages and there are approximately 80 foreign editions of his works.

He was shortlisted for the NIN Award and entered the final with his first ever novel, Via Pula, before going on to repeat that feat five more times, only to win the NIN Award in 2008, when his work Ruski Prozor [The Russian Window] was declared Best Novel of 2007. And when he published his 2015 novel Islednik [The Investigator], the jury again awarded him with a NIN Award. He was the first ever recipient of the Donaustipendium, the Danube Scholarship, which is awarded

by Austria and Hungary, and is a recipient of the Central European Literature Award, the Vilenica International Literary Prize and the City of Budapest Award for Literature. An honorary member of Hungary’s Széchenyi Academy of Letters and Arts, he writes about the cities where he’s lived, as he recognises within them what James Joyce called ‘street furniture’.

Although he was born in Belgrade, he grew up in Pula from the age of five. That was until he returned to Belgrade to study. He even recalls the move to Pula, by train; when he and father Vojislav, mother Ljubica and sister Jelena, two years his junior, took their seats aboard a train in the evening, with all their furniture and others things, and arrived in Pula the next morning. They had leased a train wagon that contained their things, but the train had a stop of around 40 minutes in Vinkovci, and that was enough for thieves to steal plenty of stuff. That was because father Vojislav hadn’t used a padlock to lock the wagon, counting on just a seal being sufficient.

VILLA MARIA, PULA

I today have, or actually I’ve always had, an innate sense of justice and affection towards those who are destined to be sacrificial lambs “I recall it as if I can see him now. My mother had been given a radio that was almost ivory white from a friend who went to America. It disappeared, as did many of our other belongings, so Dad initially only had his uniform to wear, until his suit had been tailored.

I remember the moment we entered Pula, the train track that seems to disappear into the sea.

Land’s end and the sea’s beginning. I later used that striking scene in my literature. If you come by land, Pula is at the end of the line. If you arrive by boat, it’s at the beginning. We spent a week staying at the Lipa Hotel, until we moved to the Villa Marija, which housed our flat. We arrived on the eve of 29th November, 1958, [29th November was Republic Day in the then Socialist Yugoslavia] the city was all draped in flags, pretty much deserted, festive, full of slogans written in Italian.

“I found the move to Pula easy. I immediately spoke in the ‘ijekavica’ dialect. Interestingly, a year ago one of my female friends who went to primary and secondary school with me reminded me of how I spoke ‘ekavica’ with my mother. I have no memory of that at all, but I believe I accepted that through inertia.

One dialect in the house, and the other that everyone else speaks outside.”

The Velikić family also had pleasant living conditions during those years. Vojislav was a naval officer earning a decent salary, Ljubica was a teacher who considered it better to stay at home and raise her children. Dragan’s mother enriched him with numerous words of wisdom that he memorised during his childhood and later used in his novels. She was known for saying: ‘If you organise yourself well, everything is on your way’. And that marks the beginning of his novel The Russian Window.

And The Investigator also includes her words: ‘You’re always relaxed at someone else’s expense, someone else pays for that’.

Summer would see the parents pack their children in their Fiat 500 Topolino and head to Serbia. Dragan’s maternal grandparents were wealthy landowners from Šabac, while his father’s parents lived in Sićevo. Vojislav retired early, when he was still very young, but continued working for the Jugolinija merchant

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My life

Dragan Velikić, novelist

fleet in Rijeka. He spent the last four years of his working life sailing for a German company thanks to his knowledge of the German language, which he’d learnt during his four years held captive in northern Germany: “My father was a lieutenant in the Yugoslav Royal Navy, and he left Divulje [naval base in Croatia] to return home when Yugoslavia capitulated in 1941. He was captured and transferred, together with others, to some place in Bulgaria. The house where my grandfather lived sits beside the railway track, and when my father passed on a train on his way to internment in Germany, he threw his wallet with the emblem of a shark through a gap in the freight wagon and my grandfather found it! That’s how he found out his son was alive.

Those prisoners were transferred from Bulgaria to Bremen. He was imprisoned at the camp. By day he worked on the estate with the rural folk, returning to the camp at night to sleep. After the war, he returned to our country.

“He was fortunate enough to work on a farm with a villager whose son was on the Eastern Front, who supplied him with cigarettes and was very attentive to him. They called him Ivan, though he never knew why. My father went to that village one day in the ‘70s, while he was working for the Germans. He found the lady of the house still alive, the old man had already passed away, and the following summer their children came to visit us. They also invited us to visit them, but I played music during the summer in those years, so I never went.”

Years passed, and Velikić was already a successful writer when the then culture senator of the City of Bremen, Hildegard Koineke, read some text written by Velikić and, delighted by it, invited him to spend two months as a guest of the City of Bremen.

“That’s a woman who boasted of the fact that Fassbinder had his first directing job at the theatre in Bremen that she managed. When I arrived in Bremen, she found the son of those who’d treated my father kindly and I spent a weekend as a guest of him and his wife. At one point he called a man, a Ukrainian who’d been imprisoned at the camp with my father and stayed in the city after the war. He turned on the speakerphone and asked him if he remembered that Serb, “Ivan”.

The Ukrainian said that he remembered him well, particularly his polished boots!”

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AN EIGHT-YEAR-OLD DRAGAN AT THE APARTMENT IN VILLA MARIA

Whenever I come to Pula, my body experiences an adrenaline rush. The city has changed, but I walk through all those layers from the time of my early childhood, schooldays, adolescence Velikić’s parents were among those people who were simply referred to as being honest folk. His mother came from a wealthy family, while his father’s side has been more loyal to the leftist ideal. A monument to Dragan’s uncle Dragomir, after whom he was named, stands in Sićevo. He was commander of the Sićevo Partizan detachment who was killed in 1943, on the very birthday of his brother, Dagan’s father. Their sister was also a Partizan fighter. Dragan was brought up to behave with

THE VELIKIĆ FAMILY (MOTHER LJUBICA, FATHER VOJISLAV, DAUGHTER JELENA AND SON DRAGAN) ON THE PULA PROMENADE IN THE WINTER OF 1960

decency both inside and out of the house, not to lie and not to brag about the things he has.

His graduation trip to Paris could have been paid for in one go, but his mother decided to pay in installments, like most parents in the class. Why would the children need to know that Dragan’s parents have enough money to be able to pay for everything at once? It was better for them to behave like the majority of others.

“I today have, or actually I’ve always had, an innate sense of justice and affection towards those who are destined to be sacrificial lambs. I had great empathy for the ordinary people who left Pula after World War II, shipyard workers, Italians, who were expelled to the country of their ancestors. I found that terribly painful.”

He left Pula to begin his studies and remained in the city of his birth. However, Pula came to represent his great literary inspiration: “Whenever I come to Pula, my body experiences an adrenaline rush. The city has naturally changed, but I walk through all those layers that I recall from the time of my early childhood, schooldays, adolescence... Also inscribed is the Pula that I created in my books. My Pula is

Via Pula achieved fantastic success, with three editions and a NIN Award shortlist… That’s when I said to myself – that’s me.

I’m a writer. After that, it became necessary to wait for a NIN Award

THE BAND SILUETE (ZORAN, BOBA, DRAGAN, DERA AND LJUBA)

actually a large film studio, Cinecittà, where I set the majority of my novels. I certainly wouldn’t use that city in the way I use it in my literature if I lived there today.”

It was somehow destined that the boy who “guzzled” books would become a writer. His parents were subscribed to the famous edition “A Hundred Books of Serbian Literature”, published by the Serbian Literary Association, which was his mother read first, and then he also read. He was only permitted to take three books from the “Slavko Grubiša” pioneer house, but that wasn’t enough for him, as he would have to come two days later to return those books and borrow new ones: “I was slightly over 12 years old when I wrote a novel under the great influence of Ivan Kušan, or rather his novel Koko and His Company.

The novel was called Krađa [Theft] and on it is displayed the date of 21st March, 1966. I then started writing another novel during the summer holidays, Doživljaji kapetana Lingarda [The Experiences of Captain Lingard], but I never finished it. I started becoming interested in music and indulged in it completely. I played

piano and electric organ. Rock bands from across Yugoslavia came to Pula. It was also at the 3rd ‘Gimnazija’ High School that I met Branko Marušić Čutura, a legend of Yugoslav rock who passed away last year. It was then that I spent an evening jamming a little with his band, The Gentlemen. I told him that I would be coming to Belgrade to study a year later, and he gave me his address: Kosovska 39. And when I enrolled in world literature studies, I went to visit him and started performing with him. I was in various groups - Moira, the Silhouettes, Pop Machine – I performed on a two-month tour for the support band of Zdravko Čolić…

While I was with The Silhouettes, we were meant to spend a year playing at American clubs in Germany. Unfortunately, that deal fell through at the last minute. I even received my parents consent to take a one-year hiatus from college, but that didn’t happen. The summer arrived, I knew there would lot of stalls by the sea, and I set aside my vocals to go to Canada, sell instruments and abandon playing music.

The years passed, and one evening I found myself sitting in a large group at Club KPZ

(Cultural and Educational Community), which also included Radio Belgrade journalist Ljubica Urošević. I spent the whole time speaking from my prespective as a writer, criticising everything as a writer, and I hadn’t actually written anything. And Ljubica asked me at one point on whose behalf I was speaking. I sat down the next day and wrote a story that I took to David Albahari at Literary Word.

He published it and asked me if I had more stories, I lied that I had and he suggested that I submit them to the Matica Srpska contest in September. I was 29 at the time. Albahari’s offer had come in the spring, and that summer I, like Hemingway, lowered the blinds in the lower apartment of our summer house and wrote story after story. I used the title The Wrong Move, after the Wim Wenders film.

The Matica Srpska jury included Florika Štefan, Ivan Lalić and Radmila Gikić. I passed and my first book of stories was published. When I read that book, I realised that I was a better writer than I’d presented myself as being in that work.”

It was two years later that Dragan published his second book of stories, Staklena bašta [The Greenhouse], and again he was left with the same feeling – that he could do better. He was then employed at the City Library. He decided to write a novel about Pula, and for that to be the book in which he showed exactly what he is. He spent two years writing that novel, Via Pula, only to realise when he finished it that he still wasn’t satisfied at all and that he’d have to start again from scratch. To smash and grind that book, to upheave the story, and that again took time. When it was finally published, Via Pula achieved fantastic success, with three

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My life

Dragan Velikić, novelist

VILLA MARIA, PULA

editions and a NIN Award shortlist: “And that’s when I said to myself – that’s me. I’m a writer. After that, it became necessary to wait for a NIN Award. Specifically, I knew that it would come to me, and that happened with The Russian window. It could have come earlier, but I nonetheless awaited it. However, when I received my second NIN Award, for The Investigator, that was really a special feeling. Although I’d felt when I wrote it that this would also be a book for those who aren’t typical readers, it simply sticks to you.

I was invited in November to Albania for a major promotion of The Investigator. I saw what kind of cover they’d made for the book, and it was wondrous!”

Apart from the large number of publishers around the world that translate and publish

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If there’s a country where a writer, an artist, is valued to do anything, then that’s Austria. And so it was that the red carpet followed me in Vienna. As ambassador there, I met a world with a different DNA his books, in recent years – thanks to great publisher Agullo Editions from Bordeaux – Dragan’s works have had a strong presence on the French market. He had a prime-time

slot at the festival in Montpellier, while an announcement of his story about exile,The Russian Window, published in French this February, appeared on the front page of L’Monde. The Investigator also made the shortlist for the Jean Monnet Prize. And as the crowning glory of it all, France’s largest publisher of paperback editions, Le Livre de Poche, bought the rights to publish a paperback edition of The Investigator from December.

Dragan was at the 2005 Pula Book Fair when he found himself being persistently called by someone from an unknown number. And he just as persistently cut them off until finally answering upon his return to Belgrade. It turned out to have been Vuk Drašković, calling in his then capacity as foreign minister. He offered Dragan the post of ambassador in Vienna, to

which he responded by asking for two weeks to think it over. He only then called and turned down the offer. Drašković called again two weeks later, wished him a Merry Christmas, and invited him for talks once again, insisting that he should still accept the original offer.

Drašković needed a while to persuade him, until opening a bottle of whisky to toast Dragan’s departure to Vienna, where he would spend four and a half years (2005-2009).

“I came to a city with which I was very familiar, having lived there for a while, and where I knew people. On one occasion, I was at the birthday celebration of Milo Dor. Heinz Fischer was also there and Milo introduced me to him. Fischer then held a high position in the Austrian Parliament. I’d met Austrican Vice-Chancellor Erhard Busek when he’d served as minister of education. If there’s a country where a writer, an artist, is valued to do anything, then that would be Austria. And so it was that the red carpet followed me in Vienna. There I met a world with a different DNA. I haven’t written about it, and I don’t think I will, but it’s true that I met another world. Vienna is a mining site for a diplomat, especially if you are responsible, and I am, I’m a swat, because I had a name in that city and I daren’t embarrass myself.”

Dragan has spoken and written many times about the negative qualities of his nation, about the poor moves of the government, making it clear that he was born in the wrong place, but that he never wanted to switch that place for another; he did not want to be a writer in exile.

“I was always annoyed that being in exile was viewed as a quality in and of itself. Be Brodsky, then you can be in exile wherever you like. You can’t take the time of exile of Kundera, Gombrowicz and similar greats and use that to make an app called “writer in exile”. That’s how you devise a code that becomes more personal than the actually personality.

“During the period of the bombing, I was initially in Budapest, then in Vienna and Munich, and was absent from the country for 20 months. It was then that I realised all my favourite writers had been writers in exile: Crnjanski, Singer, Nabokov, Gazdanov, Bunin… it’s not bad for a writer to have living in exile among their experiences, but I realised that I belong here, that I need to write here,

DRAGAN AND SANJA (ALEKSANDRA GLOVACKI)

You can’t take the time of exile of Kundera, Gombrowicz and similar greats and use that to make an app called “writer in exile” to advocate for normalcy of behaviour here, because that’s an underdeveloped component in our country. And I don’t label that patriotism.

A patriot is anyone who is normal, provided they maintain that normalcy, and don’t make peace with hordes of fans that include killers.

That’s why my NIN columns are important to me, because what I write and advocate for maintains my mental hygiene.”

Dragan has spent more than 20 years living with playwright and theatre critic Aleksandra Sanja Glovacki. They have been married for the last three years. He has a son from his first marriage, Vid, while Sanja has two daughters, Marija and Teodora. It’s easy to conclude that the success of their relationship is partly due to the fact that they live separately, each in their own flat.

“There are no big words there when deep understanding exists. It’s a great thing that we have each other. That’s something that endures, which implies huge understanding that we have for each other. I trust in her literary taste. If what I wrote is good, a large share of that is down to her. We don’t lie to one another; we tell each other what we think. A man must construct himself, work on himself. It’s really good when you work on yourself in the company of the person with whom you’re in a relationship. Then that work isn’t only more productive, but also yields positive results. It’s a good thing that we both seemed to know, at the very beginning of the relationship, that there was a minefield that we needed to bypass.

That’s because when two are connected in a way that fulfills them, then they initiate that good being stronger with everyone.

“We’ve been together more and more in recent years. And we live close to each other.

When a person has children, has acquired habits, he can’t simply enter someone’s life, even if it that person is the closest and most beloved to him. That’s why it’s good to have a certain comfort, to respect obligations and the other person’s time. I’ve always enabled myself to feel comfort, but also those around me. All of that is nice and easy with Sanja.”

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CHILL OUT EU Top Court Announces ‘Feta’ Is Greek Greece claims that feta is part of its cultural heritage because the country made sheep and goat milk cheese for over 6,000 years. This European country scored a win in its fight to protect the right to the term ‘Feta’ as Europe’s top court based in Luxembourg, the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), agreed with its assertion. This comes as the court ruled against Denmark and says the country has mislabelled white cheese as “feta” and allowed local companies to use the name for sales outside the European Union.

Images Of The Unseen Universe The dawn of a new era in astronomy has begun as the world gets its first look at the full capabilities of the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope.

The telescope’s first full-color images and spectroscopic data, which uncover a spectacular collection of cosmic features that have remained elusive until now, were released. Webb’s first observations tell the story of the hidden Universe through every phase of cosmic history – from neighboring exoplanets to the most distant observable galaxies in the early Universe, to everything in between.

Crypto Developers Meet In Paris To Talk Code And Party About 65 feet below ground level in Paris is a labyrinth of centuries-old tunnels known as the Catacombs, which hold the skeletal remains of around six million Parisians. Legend has it that plague victims comprised some of the bones lining the hallways. In mid-July, it turned into a techno cave with neon lights for top ethereum programmers to party till the early hours. “It’s very illegal but also very crypto,” explained one of the roughly 100 party attendees, who declined to be identified for fear of alerting the Paris police.

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A Can Of Coca-Cola For 13 Euro?

A seaside restaurant charges 30 euros for a burger. A large sunbed at an upscale beach club can cost 500 euros in August. And a table at a “VIP” nightclub can run into the thousands.

Though Spain is generally considered a reasonably priced travel destination, the Spanish island of Ibiza has long been known as a place for living the high life.

Elvis Surpasses $100 Million at Domestic Box Office Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis has continued to perform well in theaters with more than $100 million earned in the United States and Canada. Baz Luhrmann’s biopic Elvis, featuring Austin Butler as the titular singer alongside Tom Hanks as Colonel Tom Parker, has officially surpassed $100 million in ticket sales in domestic movie theaters.

When factoring in overseas ticket sales, the movie is now past $170 million earned.

World’s Longest ‘Drone Superhighway’ Gets The Green Light While a ‘drone superhighway’ may sound like the stuff of science fiction, the green light has been given for one to be developed in the UK. The 265 km long superhighway network, dubbed Project Skyway, has been given the go-ahead from the government. It will involve a number of ground-based sensors being installed which will guide the connected drones safely through ‘corridors’ to their destinations.

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SUMMER PATTERNS DURING THE SOCIAL SEASON 5

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1. BURBERRY - 480 € | 2. ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA - 389 € | 3. FRESCOBOL CARIOCA - 199 € | 4. BRUNELLO CUCINELLI - 480 € 5. LOEWE - 842 € | 6. BOTTEGA VENETA - 826 € | 7. LOVE BRAND & CO. - 143 € | 8. CORNELIANI - 291 €

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For those of you who love having a reason to dress up, the summer social season is the highlight of the year as our calendar fills up with garden parties, sporting events and much more. Here are some ideas on how to be the best-dressed guest while enjoying the Summer patterns.

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9. ROKSANDA - 1.015 € | 10. JIMMY CHOO - 675 € | 11. MAJE - 367 € | 12. JIMMY CHOO - 675 € | 13. ETRO - 2.163 € 14. TOM FORD - 908 € | 15. VALENTINO - 3.570 € | 16. CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN - 663 €

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Culture

calendar

NIŠVILLE JAZZ FESTIVAL 2022 11-14 August, Niš Fortress

Nišville Jazz Festival is an international jazz festival that takes place in Niš, Serbia. The festival is held in August on the plateau of the Niš Fortress. The International Nišville Jazz Festival – the most visited jazz festival in Southeast Europe, has consistently defended European values of multiculturalism, while patiently fostering the musical taste of individuals. As such, it was recognized by the European Union Magazine “New Europe” in the “Nišville – the European Face of Serbia” article. Nišville Jazz Festival supports the education of young musicians.

56th Bitef

23 September - 2 October This year’s Bitef will be held from 23 September to 2 October at seven locations in Belgrade.

The main program will feature nine plays from Germany, Belgium, Mexico, France, Serbia, Slovenia, and Great Britain. The thematic focus of the festival, whose slogan is “We – the heroes

PIXIES

29 August, Tašmajdan Legendary American alt-rock band Pixies will hold a long-awaited Belgrade concert on 29 August 2022 at the Tašmajdan stadium. Pixis had to postpone the entire world tour planned for the summer of 2021, due to the still unfavorable global health situation, and accordingly, the concert was postponed for August of this year.

After the breakup of the band in 1993, guitarist Black Frances, guitarist Joey Santiago, bassist Kim Deal, and drummer David Lovering reunited in 2004, with the album Indy Cindy in 2014. With bassist Paz Lenchantin, the album Head Carrier in 2016 and finally Beneath the Eyrie in 2019, preserving the famous angry acceleration, endless imagination, and colorful Pixies aesthetic, as evidenced by the singles Catfish Cate, On Graveyard Hill, and Lone Rider.

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of our work”, is the issue of modern society: job loss, precarious work, the labor market after the pandemic, professional retraining…and a special part will be made up of performances that treat the issue of work in the performing arts.

DARKO RUNDEK

25 August – Botanical Garden From the early 80s on, singer-songwriter Darko Rundek, continuously plays one of the most important roles in Croatian rock music. He started as a singer of the Zagreb new wave band Haustor. After the break-up of Haustor, Darko moved to Paris and remained there for a few years. While living in France, Darko recorded three albums with various musicians, from different parts of the world: U sirokom svijetu, Apokalipso, and Ruke.

The latter is a concept album about a group of musicians traveling on a cargo ship. Coming back to Zagreb, Croatia in 1996 Darko launched his solo career.

SEE MORE: WWW.CORDMAGAZINE.COM

RECOMMENDS

To Speak for the Trees

NUNO: Visionary Japanese Textiles

To Speak for the Trees uniquely blends the story of Beresford-Kroeger’s incredible life and her outstanding achievement as a scientist. It elegantly shows us how forests can not only heal us as people but can also help save the planet.

Diana Beresford-Kroeger - a world-recognized botanist and medical biochemist - has revolutionized our understanding of the natural world with her startling insights into the hidden life of trees. In this riveting memoir, she uncovers the roots of her discoveries in her extraordinary childhood in Ireland. Soon after, her brilliant mind bloomed into an illustrious scientific career that melds the intricacies of the natural world with the truths of traditional Celtic wisdom.

Named with a simple word meaning ‘cloth’, NUNO is one of Japan’s most important textile-design companies.

Founded in 1984 by the legendary Junichi Arai and the company’s current director, Reiko Sudo, it is recognized as one of the world’s most innovative textile producers.

Known for weaving together tradition and cutting-edge technology, NUNO designers are inspired by the past, present, and future, integrating unexpected elements, such as paper or feathers or aluminum, with industrial methods, such as spatter-plating and chemical etching. All NUNO textiles - more than 2,500 have been created - are produced in Japan and are usually the handiwork of an individual craftsperson. Each bolt of cloth has a story to tell.

Money and Power: The 16 World Leaders Who Changed Economics

The Bezos Letters

Diana Beresford Kroeger 2348 rsd

Vince Cable 1457 rsd

Through economics, our politicians have the power to transform people’s lives for better or worse. Think Deng Xiaoping who lifted millions out of poverty by opening up China; Franklin D Roosevelt whose ‘New Deal’ helped the USA break free of the Great Depression. Or Peron and his successors in Argentina who brought the country to the brink of ruin. In this magisterial history, economist and politician Vince Cable examines the legacy of 16 world leaders who transformed their countries’ economic fortunes and who also challenged economic convention.

From Thatcher to Trump, from Lenin to Bismarck, Money and Power provides a whole new perspective on the science of government.

Reiko Sudo 6479 rsd

Steve Anderson 1619 rsd

“Risk-taking” can be costly (even disastrous) if you don’t know how to use it to your advantage. Fortunately, Bezos has provided every business owner a “hidden in plain sight” roadmap for how he grew Amazon through his Letter to Shareholders (or as he named them, share owners) that he has written annually for the past 20 years. For the first time, Technology and Risk expert Steve Anderson has analyzed and distilled these letters to reveal the key 14 Growth Principles that unlock the lessons, mindset, and steps Bezos has used to make Amazon the massive success it is today.

A Horse Walks Into A Bar

China

A Horse Walks into a Bar is a shocking and breathtaking read. Betrayals between lovers, the treachery of friends, guilt demanding redress. Flaying alive both himself and the people watching him, Dovaleh G provokes both revulsion and empathy from an audience that doesn’t know whether to laugh or cry – and all this in the presence of a former childhood friend who is trying to understand why he’s been summoned to this performance

This is an unforgettable tale told from both sides of the divide. The clash of worldviews, of culture, and heritage, is shown in a kaleidoscope of jaw-dropping set pieces. China is a feat of the imagination that will enthrall, instruct and excite, and show us how things once were, and how the turmoil of the nineteenth century led to modern China’s revolution and rebirth. From Hong Kong to Beijing to the Great Wall, from the exotic wonders of the Summer Palace and the Forbidden City to squalid village huts, the dramatic struggle rages across the Celestial Kingdom.

David Grossman 1214 rsd

SEE MORE: WWW.CORDMAGAZINE.COM

Edward Rutherfurd 1457 rsd

August

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&FACES PLACES

26/6/2022

Afro Festival Held At The Museum Of African Art During two warm weekend days, June 25 and 26, the African Art Museum in Belgrade hosted the Afro Festival. Numerous fellow citizens and visitors of our city had the opportunity to learn about African cultural heritage through numerous museum popular programs: public tours, lectures, music, dance and art workshops for children and adults, as well as an African sales bazaar.

29/7/2022

Canada Day Marked In Belgrade On the occasion of Canada Day, the Ambassador of Canada to Serbia H.E. Giles Norman hosted a reception at the official resi­dence in Užička street in Belgrade on 29 June.

This year, Canada Day is an opportunity to reflect on the past, but also to take a moment now to envision a better future for all.

Special publication produced by CorD Magazine, in cooperation with the Embassy of Canada, was presented at the reception.

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29/6/2022

Czech Embassy Marks Its Country Taking Over EU Presidency The Czech Republic took over the presidency of the European Union on 1 July, and the country’s ambassador to Serbia, H.E Thomas Kuchta, hosted a reception at the Embassy premises. In his speech, Ambassador spoke about his hopes that during the Czech presidency, Serbia will manage to open at least one cluster. “The number one priority now is the crisis in Ukraine, so there is a large number of refugees, it is necessary to deal with the economic recovery of Ukraine, then there is energy security, defence, cyber security, democratic institutions, the economic recovery of the whole of Europe and other countries in the region.

30/6/2022

The US Embassy Celebrated Independence Day The US national holiday, Independence Day, commemorating 4 July 1776, was marked with a traditional reception at the residence of the American ambassador. On that day, 246 years ago, the Declaration of Independence was published. The ceremony began with the singing of the national anthems of the U.S. and Serbia which celebrated 140 years of diplomatic relations last year. In his address to the dignitaries, U.S. Ambassador H.E. Christopher Hill said that the USA wants to be friends and partners of Serbia. “Our friends in Serbia, we want to understand you better. We look forward to building long-term relations based on the values we share and on common interests. We want to be friends, we want to be partners, and, depending on your determinations in the future, we want to be allies,” Ambassador Hill said.

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4/7/2022

Reception On The Occasion Of 140 Years Of Japan And Serbia Relations Ambassador of Japan in Serbia H.E. Katsumata Takahiko hosted a reception in his residence to mark the 140th anniversary of the establishment of friendly relations between Japan and Serbia. The reception was attended by the President of Serbia Aleksandar Vučić, the Prime Minister of Serbia Ana Brnabić, members of the diplomatic community, as well as companies that are members of the Japanese Business Alliance. In his speech, Ambassador Takahiko expressed his respect for the Serbian people and their ancestors, who, as he said, made a huge contribution to improving relations with Japan.

7/7/2022

Cyprus Evening In Belgrade The Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus, in cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism of that country, organized a Cyprus evening in Belgrade. Relations between Cyprus and Serbia are based on firm friendship, mutual solidarity and respect for international law. Cyprus supports the territorial integrity of Serbia and Serbia supports Cyprus and that will not change, ambassador of Cyprus to Serbia H.E. Dimitrios Teofilaktu told RTS. The ambassador emphasized that there is great potential in projects that would be jointly implemented by partners from Serbia, Cyprus and Greece, as well as that there are opportunities for cooperation in the field of the IT industry as well as energy, transport and infrastructure.

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7/7/2022

The Diplomatic Jubilee Of Serbia And Algeria Marked The Post of Serbia and the Embassy of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria in Serbia presented in the PTT museum a commemorative edition of postage stamps “60 years of diplomatic relations between Serbia and Algeria”.

At the event in honour of the double jubilee - six decades of diplomatic relations and the 60th anniversary of the independence of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, H.E. Ambassador of Algeria in Serbia, Fatah Mahrez addressed guests in a welcome speech.

13/7/2022

The Statehood Day Of Montenegro Marked At the Montenegrin embassy in Serbia, Statehood Day was marked with a ceremonial reception, in memory of 13 July 1878, when Montenegro was recognized as a Principality as the twenty-seventh independent state in the world at the Berlin Congress. On the same date in 1941 Montenegrin people began their uprising against fascism.

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14/7/2022

National Day Of France Celebrated At The Embassy Ambassador of France H.E. Pierre Cauchard said at the reception on the occasion of the National Day on 14 July that the French-Serbian friendship was not only built on memories but is also based on the project of a common future.

“It is a project for a common future in the European Union,” the ambassador said, adding that the conversations he had during the six-month French presidency of the Council of the European Union with Serbian intellectuals, journalists, entrepreneurs, representatives of local authorities and young people convinced him that their deep aspirations are going in that direction despite sometimes impatience and frustrations. As he stated, for Serbia, as well as for France and other EU members, choosing the EU in no way means renouncing one’s own identity. Special publication produced by CorD Magazine was presented at the reception.

21/7/2022

Reception Marking National Day Of Belgium The reception celebrating National Day of Belgium was for Ambassador Koen Adam and his wife Els last reception they hosted, before leaving Serbia. Ambassador Koen greeted friends and colleagues, and thank them and the Embassy team for the great support over all those years.

“It has been a tremendous journey, in a fascinating country, with friendly and hospitable people”, the Ambassador said. With reference to the current international situation he called for unity, quoting King Filip’s message to the Belgians: “We should answer these challenges with an unshakable faith in democracy, by promoting cohesion and inclusion, by not stirring up what might divide us. Serbia has to decide what is in its best interests, but from a Belgium perspective it is obvious that the destiny of Serbia lies in the EU”. Ambassador concluded “Els and I really regret to leave Serbia. We’ll miss you, and this beautiful location in the heart of Belgrade”.

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INTERVIEW

By Ljubica Gojgić

REBALANCE AND MULTIPOLARITY H.E. SANJIV KOHLI, AMBASSADOR OF INDIA TO SERBIA

India remains committed to an international order marked by robust, rule-based multilateral institutions. It has campaigned for the reform of the UN Security Council to expand its permanent membership to include a seat for itself ~ Sanjiv Kohli

I

n a year when India is commemorating the 75th anniversary of its independence, this CorD Magazine interview sees Ambassador Sanjiv Kohli address current issues related to the war in Ukraine, reiterating his country’s stance that this is a time for right thinking and collaboration to deal with these challenges.

Your Excellency, this 15th August marks your country’s national holiday commemorating the 75th anniversary of Indian independence.

What would you single out as having been the key junctures in that journey of liberation from colonialism to the creation of a country that’s influential and economically powerful?

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We must remember that the India that achieved its freedom at midnight between 14th and 15th August 1947 was the product of several thousand years of history and civilisation. After all, for India, democracy was not just a choice we made in 1947, but rather represented a way of life long before that.

Few societies can compare with the pluralism that has been our historical characteristic.

The fact that we have remained steadfast to our democratic values, despite major challenges in the last 75 years, remains the most defining characteristic of our journey as an independent country. To give your readers a sense of that, in 2019, when the

last general elections were held in India, 912 million people were eligible to vote – more than all other democracies combined. Two out of every three eligible voters actually made the effort to go to the polling stations, in contrast to the indifference seen in many other societies. Strong democratic institutions, a widely respected electoral body, rule of law, a vigorous media scene and a vibrant civil society have contributed to what India is today. India’s growth story over these 75 years has been truly impressive: from agricultural production to nuclear and space technology; from affordable healthcare to world-class educational institutions; from

MULTIPOLARITY

COOPERATION

KOSOVO

India sees itself as a stabilising power that finds benefit in multiple external engagements, hoping to build momentum for a multipolar world

There is a very significant amount of untapped potential in areas such as agricultural products and machinery, food processing, pharmaceuticals, construction materials, the ICT sector, chemicals, textiles etc.

There is no change in our principled stance on the Kosovo issue. India does not recognise the Unilateral Declaration of Independence of Kosovo

Ayurveda to biotechnology; from giant steel plants to becoming an IT power with the world’s third largest start-up ecosystem.

India has become the fifth largest economy and ranks among the fastest growing major economies. We are also among the top FDI recipients. We are not just self-sufficient in agriculture, but have also become one of the major exporters of agricultural products.

India is the pharmacy of the world and our contribution to fighting the pandemic through the supplying of more than 70 million doses of domestically produced Covid-19 vaccines to 93 countries - underlined our continuing commitment to meet the needs of the global community. As India rises and its capacities and capabilities grow, it will naturally contribute more to the world.

of BRICS membership. How do you see this development of events?

It is quite clear that our world is moving towards greater rebalancing and multipolarity.

At the same time, the world is currently experiencing turbulence which, along with the consequences of the pandemic, has made the global outlook even more uncertain and complex. No single country can manage itself and manage everyone else. It’s the time for right thinking and collaboration when it comes to dealing with these challenges.

We once again find ourselves living in times that are considered as leading to the formation of a new international order that will be characterised by multipolarity instead of being dominated by a single super power. Do you agree with that thesis; and where do you see India’s place in that new constellation of international relations?

India remains committed to an international order marked by robust, rules-based multilateral institutions. India has consistently sought reforms in the global multilateral system to reflect the shifted realities of the contemporary world. It has campaigned for the reform of the UN Security Council to expand its permanent membership with a seat for itself. And it has also sought the reform of the IMF and other global bodies to make them more contemporaneous. We stand ready to work with everyone to find solutions to global challenges. We are ready to extend a hand of friendship to one and all.

We must remember that the India that achieved its freedom at midnight between 14th and 15th August 1947 was the product of several thousand years of history and civilisation. After all, for India, democracy was not just a choice we made in 1947, but rather represented a way of life long before that

been part of the solution and never part of the problem. India sees itself as a stabilising power that finds benefit in multiple external engagements, hoping to build momentum for a multipolar world.

Talking specifically about the situation in Ukraine, India’s position on the Ukraine crisis is based on six principles. These include an immediate cessation of violence and an end to hostilities, a return to the path of dialogue and diplomacy and the global order being anchored in international law, the UN Charter and respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all states. As for your specific query on whether it is possible to be on both sides, India has always been on the side of peace and, to quote our External Affairs Minister, we are “guided by our thinking, our views, our interests”.

Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, many analysts have pointed to the interesting dynamic of relations beyond Europe – where, for example, Russia, Turkey and China are emerging with new ambitions, while Iran is considering the possibilities

Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, which many suggest will change relations within Europe and around the world fundamentally, India has also approached the

Western narrative of mandatory choosing sides with reservations. Your country was also restrained in abstaining during the UN vote on the resolution condemning Russia for the war, while India simultaneously maintains good relations with the U.S. Is it possible to be on both sides in today’s world?

A country’s external outlook is never shaped by one single event. India’s foreign policy has been shaped by our geography; strategic culture; India’s requirements and goals; global and regional challenges; and resources. At the same time, a country’s external outlook inevitably matches its internal values.

Throughout our history, we have always

You arrived in Serbia late last year and stated from the outset that relations between our two countries are characterised by a high level of understanding and historical friendship. What have you set as the priorities of your term in Serbia?

It has been a privilege and honour for me to be able to make my own contribution to this historic and important partnership between India and Serbia. I have tried to place a special focus on the economic and commercial part of our engagement. We are witnessing positive trends in that particular aspect of our relationship. This particular sector of our cooperation includes tourism, in addition to trade and investment. We continue to encourage the business community, chambers and trade bodies on both sides to engage more intensively with each other, while the governments will continue to play a facilitating role.

Will India change its stance on the unilaterally declared independence of Kosovo being unacceptable?

There is no change in our principled stance on the Kosovo issue. India does not recognise the Unilateral Declaration of Independence of Kosovo.

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INTERVIEW Economic relations between India and Serbia were characterised by a trajectory of growth until the outbreak of the pandemic. How do things stand today and which areas of economic cooperation offer the greatest potential?

As I mentioned above, there has been a positive growth in bilateral trade between our two countries. There is a very significant amount of

in 2019, when the last general elections were held in India, 912 million people were eligible to vote – more than all other democracies combined. Two out of every three eligible voters actually made the effort to go to the polling stations untapped potential in areas such as agricultural products and machinery, food processing, pharmaceuticals, construction materials, the ICT sector, chemicals, textiles etc. Our companies are keen to participate in projects related to infrastructure. Tourism is also a very promising area.

It was suggested even during the period of the Covid-19 pandemic that Indian companies were interested in making significant investments in Serbia and launching the production of medicines that Indian companies are renowned for around the world. Does this interest still exist and, if so, has it developed into some more tangible agreements in the meantime?

I have already noted some areas of interest and a number of Indian companies have visited Belgrade to explore further opportunities in the last few months.

You spoke earlier this year with the Speaker of the Serbian National Assembly about the strengthening of parliamentary cooperation, and it was then that you also announced the possibility of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha visiting Belgrade. Will that visit be implemented soon?

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There has been a history of contacts between our parliaments and institutions, as well as between our individual parliamentarians. We are keen to sustain those contacts.

On the fringes of last year’s summit commemorating the 60th anniversary of the founding of the Non-Aligned Movement,

an agreement was signed between India and Serbia on cooperation in the fields of culture and art. Can some of the effects of this agreement be recognised already?

Yes, there have been continuing follow-up contacts between implementing agencies.

We hope to see tangible action in the coming months.

India's Cradle Of Military Leadership

SUCCESS

BY AIR MARSHAL TS RANDHAWA

ONE OF THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS MILITARY TRAINING INSTITUTIONS IN THE WORLD, THE NATIONAL DEFENCE ACADEMY (NDA) SHAPES BRAVEHEARTS WHO SERVE ALL THREE WINGS OF THE INDIAN ARMED FORCES - ARMY, NAVY AND AIR FORCE. HERE WE PROVIDE A DEEPER INSIGHT INTO THE PHILOSOPHY OF THE ACADEMY, THE FACILITIES IT PROVIDES AND HOW IT INSTILLS DISCIPLINE, EMPATHY AND CAMARADERIE IN ITS CADETS, TURNING THEM INTO WORLD-CLASS MILITARY OFFICIALS

O

ne of the premier and highly-decorated military training institutes in India, the National Defence Academy (NDA) was founded on 6th October, 1949. It was among the first training academies in the world that sought to train cadets for the Army, Navy and Air Force with specialised training for each service. The institute was also the result of an attempt to create a separate ideology

and Indianisation of the Indian Armed Forces after Independence. Hence, combined academic instructions and military training from the formative stage were considered essential. It was an important decision as at that time, neither the UK nor the US had similar training academies. Built at the base of the Sinhagad Fort in Pune that stands testimony to the courage and sacrifice of Tanaji (the general of Maratha ruler Shivaji’s

army) during a battle against the Mughals in 1670, the NDA embodies fearlessness and valour. Inaugurated on 15th January, 1955, it nurtures in cadets a spirit of service and sacrifice in the line of duty for the nation.

INFRASTRUCTURE The main buildings of NDA include the administrative centre called Sudan Block and two academic blocks named after noted

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SUCCESS Indian cosmonaut and NDA alumnus Rakesh Sharma, AC (Ashok Chakra), and Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey, PVC (Param Vir Chakra, posthumous). An impressive Parade Ground named after Param Vir Chakra recipient (posthumous) Arun Khetarpal is where all cadets receive basic military drill training.

The Passing Out Parade that marks the completion of a successful term is also held here. The parade’s unique showcase comprises over a thousand participating cadets who bid farewell to their senior colleagues.

Other training infrastructures include two gymnasiums, three Olympic-size swimming pools, an astro turf hockey field, ranges for weapons training, synthetic tennis and basketball courts, an aerodrome, a bay for navy training and an army training complex.

An important structure at NDA is the Hut Of Remembrance, a hallowed memorial ground where the academy honours its brave alumni. The names and squadrons of the alumni who have sacrificed their lives for the nation are wriUen in stone here.

Learning to respect and pay homage to the martyrs is an essential part of training. The NDA campus is spread over 8,200 acres and houses a variety of flora and fauna. A number of trees were planted during the

Cadets during the Convocation Ceremony of the 134th course of NDA in 2018

The NDA is one of the finest military training academies in the world. Initially, training patterns of West Point (United States Military Academy) were followed to train NDA cadets but over the years, the patterns have changed dynamically to meet Indian challenges

A bird’s-eye view of the National Defence Academy at Khadakwasla (close to Pune) in Maharashtra. The iconic reddish-pink dome of the academy’s Sudan Block (right) is in clear sight. When seen from the air, the Sudan block appears as a gigantic gun

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initial construction of the academy. To this, each newly-inducted cadet adds a plant and bears its responsibility during his three-year training period.

TRAINING The NDA is one of the finest military training academies in the world. Initially, training patterns of West Point (United States Military Academy) were followed to train NDA cadets, but the patterns have changed dynamically over the years to meet Indian challenges. There is no better proof of good military training than its results in war, and the number of NDA alumni who have attained glory while leading from the front in every military campaign India has been a part of, speaks volumes of the training imparted at the academy. When cadets pass out of NDA, they not only possess the qualities of a responsible officer but also emerge as compassionate human beings as values like empathy, solidarity and kindness are imparted to them. The underlying philosophy of training at the NDA is jointness (inter-service cooperation) – living, studying and working together, understanding joint organisations, administration, capabilities and limitations of services, and tackling problems together. Cadets undergo outdoor training, engage in games and embark on adventure activities together as a group, thereby imbibing the squadron spirit. Joint training is an integral aspect of training at the academy. The objective, for a cadet, is

to imbibe and appreciate the functioning of the three services and the inter-service cooperation between them through military education and training programmes.

Orientation towards this begins from the first term. The three-year course consists of combined service training for the first two years and in the last year, a part of the training consists of individual service training. Cadets, during their last semester, visit service establishments to see how they operate and get a first-hand knowledge of their future work ethos. NDA boasts a number of engaging clubs too – riding,

history and allied subjects relevant for the cadets. The NDA is connected on the National Knowledge Network (NKN) and e-learning facilities are available, which was put to good use during the Covid-19 period.

FOREIGN CADETS Training at the NDA is a prestigious experience and a matter of pride, a reason why several countries across the world send their cadets to train at the academy. This training outreach extends to Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa and more. Over the years, cadets from 33 countries have trained at the NDA.

cadets assimilate areas of excellence like cross country and boxing, etc. NDA also has a regular exchange programme with foreign military academies.

ENVIRONMENT To maintain the pristine environment of the academy, cadets commute on cycles that are provided on their arrival. The vehicle not only keeps the cadets fit but also furthers NDA’s ‘Carbon Neutral’ philosophy. While solar power is utilised for heating water, LED lights illuminate the academy. With tree plantations and voluntary cleaning of the nearby Khadakwasla Lake, the essence of serving the environment is imbibed by each cadet, which they put to use wherever they serve their duty as officers.

The NDA is one of the few inter-service training institutions in the world that has stood the test of time and provided a continuous flow of aspirants into the three

The NDA is one of the few interservice training institutions in the world that has stood the test of time and provided a continuous flow of aspirants into the three services polo, shooting, golf, painting, hiking, flying, sailing, photography, cycling and more. It is compulsory for every cadet to be a part of at least one club. He can even change clubs every six months to diversify his skills.

ACADEMICS Academic studies are carried out under the guidance of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi. Syllabuses for BA, BSc (Chemistry and Computer Science) and BTech have been made in conjunction with JNU. BTech is mandatory for Naval and Air Force cadets as it helps them in understanding the technology they will have to work with during their service.

Classrooms in the academy are equipped with the latest technologies and the labs are set up in conjunction with IIT Mumbai.

Several topics taught at the NDA are drafted to include examples from a military point of view, which makes understanding of military

In fact, of the 284 cadets who graduated from the institute in 2019, 20 were from Bhutan, Tajikistan, the Maldives, Vietnam, Mauritius, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and Myanmar. Presently, cadets from 16 countries are training at the NDA. Most foreign cadets who have trained at the NDA have gone to reach higher ranks in their services in their countries. Their induction enriches both them as well as Indian cadets. While foreign cadets learn about Indian culture and arts, Indian

services. The rapidly-changing technology levels and military concepts have necessitated an evergrowing need for inter-service cooperation and esprit de corps, which have been the bedrock of NDA training.

The training imparted at the NDA has not only lived up to the vision of our founding fathers but continuously evolved to meet their stated aim of keeping the country safe and secure following the institute’s moUo of ‘Seva Paramo Dharma’ (Service Before Self).

AIR MARSHAL TS RANDHAWA Air Marshal TS Randhawa is an alumnus of the NDA. Commissioned into the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force in 1972, he was a founding member and the Leader of ‘Thunderbolts’ the IAF 9 aircraft Formation Aerobatics Team. A former Commandant of NDA, he was awarded the Param Vashisht Seva Medal and the Vayu Sena Medal for his distinguished service.

India 2022

7

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

BY DR SANJEEV RASTOGI

The science Of Life APART FROM BOOSTING IMMUNITY AND REPLENISHING THE VITAL FLUIDS OF THE BODY, AYURVEDA ALSO PROMOTES AND ENSURES HOLISTIC WELLBEING. DR SANJEEV RASTOGI ELUCIDATES HOW THIS TRADITIONAL INDIAN PRACTISE HAS BECOME EXTREMELY RELEVANT IN TODAY’S TIME, ESPECIALLY DURING THE PANDEMIC

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yurveda is considered India’s traditional system of medicine for many reasons. To begin with, it is a science of life with a holistic approach to health and medicine. Moreover, Ayurveda is known to be a complete medical system that comprises physical, psychological, philosophical, ethical and spiritual health. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always placed tremendous emphasis on the benefits of Ayurveda and has provided great impetus to this traditional science of overall wellbeing. In fact, when the coronavirus pandemic struck the country, and the world at large, PM Modi advised citizens to consume hot water and kadha (an Ayurvedic drink that is made with herbs and/ or spices) frequently to boost immunity and maintain

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sound health. “To strengthen your immunity system, do adhere to the instructions issued by the AYUSH Mantralaya. Drink hot water and kadha frequently,” PM Modi said during his address to the nation on 14th April, 2020.

DEFINING HEALTH We often hear the saying “health is wealth”, but we don’t always connect the two. Sound health ensures better productivity which eventually leads to an optimised individual and societal gains. Interestingly, in Ayurveda, health has been defined as a positive state of mind, spirit and body. Ayurveda places greater emphasis on health than on disease.

This also reflects in its fundamental objective, where maintaining the health is given the edge over treating the sick. Ayurveda

proposes a few simple health-keeping strategies, which are of proven value. Preventing an illness largely counts upon prevention of the factors that bring illness. This is essentially needed to be supplemented with measures to increase the inner strength. Ahara (diet), nidra (sleep) and brahamacharya (general code of healthy living) are the three core areas that together assure the best result for sustainable health.

QUALITATIVE FOOD INTAKE Food itself has emerged as one greatest healthcare interventions, if used judicially. Ayurvedic classics are full of praise for quantitative, qualitative and methodological specifications of food as per the needs of an individual. The Ayurvedic science of food and

Mulethi or liquorice root is prescribed in the Ayurvedic treatments for skin ailments and such respiratory symptoms as bronchitis. Mulethi also aids in boosting immunity and digestion

ailment. This pandemic has given us a great learning in this regard. This would be hard to rewire the brain for some unconventional thinking about health keeping derived from Ayurveda, yoga and Naturopathy. Learning it early, however, will be immensely helpful to ensure overall health. PM Modi has always extolled the benefits of Ayurveda. In fact, when the Prime Minister took office in 2014, the Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) was formed, giving the Indian ancient and traditional practices of well-being a major boost. And the properties of Ayurveda that have been tapped into since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic and the benefits reaped bear testament to the fact that although it is an ancient and traditional practice, Ayurveda,

nutrition is an edge over the conventional nutrition science by providing a dynamic scale for food intake as per the daily requirements.

Rather than fixing the energy needs of an individual on the basis of calories, Ayurveda fixes the quantity as per the instant requirements and the digestive status. Similarly the qualitative food intake is assured by proposing the availability of ‘shada rasa’ or six tastes – sweet, sour, salty, pungent (spicy), biUer, astringent – in food. Kaal bhojan (taking food at a time when previously consumed food is digested) is another highly valuable contribution of Ayurveda to health promotion.

This concept of Ayurveda has caught the aUention of nutritionists worldwide and is being adopted as Time Restricted Feeding (TRF) by modern nutrition science.

RASAYANA, THE IDEA OF NUTRITION Rasayana, an Ayurvedic rejuvenation therapy, essentially means nutrition at all levels from macro to micro- cellular level. It replenishes the vital fluids of the body, and boosts the “ojas” (vital force of life) and the immune system, thus keeping an individual away from diseases and ill effects of advanced age. Rasayana application was thoroughly explored during the current pandemic and many herbs having rasayana effect like amalaki (Indian gooseberry), aswagandha (Indian ginseng) and brahmi (water hyssop) were found to be useful in boosting physical immunity and also in mitigating the post Covid-19 complications in long Covid cases.

Plumeria is used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat such ailments as skin diseases, wounds and ulcers

Unlike modern/Western medicine that offers quick relief from ailments, Ayurveda takes time as it addresses the root cause of an

when incorporated into daily life, ensures overall well-being effectively and efficiently.

DR SANJEEV RASTOGI Dr Sanjeev Rastogi, MD, Ph.D. is known for his research in the field of Ayurveda. He has published over 100 research papers on the subject and is the chief editor of the Annals of Ayurvedic Medicine, a research journal enlisted by the UGC, India.

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TRAVEL

BY SHRABASTI ANINDITA MALLIK

Sights To Behold MONSOON PROVIDES NOT JUST RELIEF FROM THE SCORCHING HEAT, BUT ALSO BREATHES NEW LIFE INTO NATURE AND ALL HER ELEMENTS. AS INDIA WELCOMES THE FIRST SHOWERS OF THE YEAR, WE TAKE A TRIP TO SOME OF THE MOST STUNNING WATERFALLS ACROSS THE COUNTRY

DUDHSAGAR FALLS, GOA One of India’s most mesmeric waterfalls is the astounding Dudhsagar Falls. Located in the Sanguem taluka of Goa, this stunning cascade of the Mandovi river plunges 1,017 ft (309.9 m) creating a magical sight. Dropping from such an incredible height, the water of the fall creates an illusion of white spray and foam almost like milk, which has earned it the name Dudhsagar (dudh or doodh in Hindi means milk).Falling in the jurisdiction of the Goa Forest Department, this waterfall is a part of the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary.

The roads to the falls are maintained by the forest department, who charge fees for entry and cameras. The fall can be reached either by foot or by rail. There is also an off-road track that is suitable only for off-road vehicles, but even then visitors have to trek about a kilometre to reach the base of the falls.

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round destination, it is best visited during the Narmada Mahotsava festival (around September-October). The area surrounding the fall is ideal for picnics and there are provisions for boating too. The waterfall can be accessed from both the eastern and western bank of the Narmada river.

DHUADHAR (DHUANDHAR) FALLS, MADHYA PRADESH The pride and joy of the state’s Jabalpur district, the Dhuadhar Falls is so called because the 98.4 ft (30 m) cascade creates a smoky appearance (dhuan in Hindi means smoke and dhar means flow). Located in the district’s Bhedaghat town, this waterfall originates from River Narmada and its roar can be heard from a great distance. Although it is a year-

GIRA WATERFALLS, GUJARAT Situated in Gujarat’s Dang district, the Gira Waterfalls is seasonal, i.e, it comes to life

after the onset of the rains. One of the most picturesque sites of the district, this waterfall drops into the Ambica river from a height of 98.4 ft (30 m). The vicinity around the falls is ideal for picnics and there are several small shops that offer delicious snacks. Located about three kilometres from the town of Waghai, it can be accessed by roads.

JOG FALLS, KARNATAKA A major aUraction of the Shimoga district of Karnataka, the Jog Falls plunges 830 feet (253 m) into a chasm, making it one of the highest waterfalls in India. Also known as Gerusoppe Falls, Gersoppa Falls and Jogada Gundi, this stunning waterfall originates from River Sharavathi and is surrounded by dense evergreen forests. Rainbows are a preUy common sight around the waterfall during monsoon.There are two viewing decks for visitors – one near the main entrance and parking area, and the other near the inspection bungalow. Thrill- seekers can also hike down 1,400 steps to the base of waterfalls and soak in the surrounding natural beauty. According to news reports in October 2020, the Jog Management Authority (JMA) is seUing up a zipline along the waterfalls, as a part of the Jog Falls Comprehensive Management Plan. The zipline is expected to be Karnataka’s longest and the country’s second-longest.

SOOCHIPARA WATERFALLS, KERALA Soochipara Waterfalls, which is also known as Sentinel Rock, is termed as a natural masterpiece of the state’s Wayanad district. This 650-ft-high (198.12 m) waterfall is surrounded by dense forests, enhancing the viewing

experience. The name of the waterfall in Malayalam means needle-like rocks, indicating the pointed-shaped rocks at the base of the fall. The cascading water has created a natural pool where visitors can take a dip or splash in its cool waters. To reach the summit of the falls, visitors have to drive across moderately difficult terrains and walk a rocky pathway.

BHIM NALA (BHIMNALA) FALLS, SIKKIM Also known as Bhewma Falls, and colloquially as Amitabh Bachchan Fall (in reference to its height, which is about 900 ft or 275 m), it is one of the highest and most spectacular of its kind in Sikkim. This fall is located halfway on the road connecting Chungthang to Yumthang valley in north Sikkim and can be best viewed from a quaint wooden bridge in front of it.

CHITRAKOTE WATERFALL, CHHATTISGARH A cascade of River Indravati in the Bastar district of the state, the Chitrakote Waterfall is one of the most magical falls in India, literally. During rainy days, the water of the fall appears reddish while on moonlit summer nights it appears sparkling white. Spanning 300 m in width, it is touted as the broadest of its kind in India. It plunges 90 ft (27.3 m) and is also called the Niagara of India because of its shape, which is similar to a horseshoe just like the famous Niagara Falls of the US. The area around the falls is a popular picnic spot.

Surrounded by dense forests, this waterfall aUracts nature lovers and photographers alike.

Although this fall is at its roaring best during monsoon, it charms visitors all year round.

NOH SNGI THIANG (NOHSNGITHIANG) FALLS, MEGHALAYA Although the high-altitude town of Sohra (previously known as Cherrapunjee) is counted as one of the weUest places in India, it is also home to one of the most breathtaking cascades in the country – Noh Sngi Thiang.

This waterfall, which drops from a height of over 983 ft (300 m), appears like a jewel draped over limestone cliffs in the evergreen forest of Khasi hills. It is segmented into seven parts, which is why it is also known as the Seven Sisters Falls. Often claimed as the third-highest of its kind in India, this waterfall is a haven for photographers who spend hours capturing the myriad hues the sunlight creates on the cascade. Sunset at the waterfall is often termed as a spectacular sight. It is, however, during the monsoon that the waterfall is most gorgeous with all its curtains filled out. The best vantage points of the waterfall are the nearby Mawsmai village and the Sohra Eco Park located close by. The park, along with views of the fall, also offers beautiful vistas of Sohra’s verdant canyons and lush slopes.

TALAKONA FALLS, ANDHRA PRADESH Dropping from a height of 270 ft (82.2 m), the Talakona Falls is the tallest of its kind in the state. It derives its name from the Telugu words ‘tala’ meaning head and ‘kona’ meaning hill. The waterfall originates from the Seshachalam Hills and is a much-frequented site for photography and family picnics. Set

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INTERVIEW

Hogenakkal Falls, Tamil Nadu-Karnataka

in a fairytale-like surrounding within the Sri Venkateswara National Park in ChiUoor, this waterfall can be reached via a well- maintained pathway that is lined with greenery.

Locals believe that the water of this fall has healing properties. There is a checkpoint a few kilometres before the waterfall, where entry fees are collected.

HOGENAKKAL FALLS, TAMIL NADU-KARNATAKA A treat for the eyes, the Hogenakkal Falls is a breathtaking amalgamation of rocks, water, mist and natural beauty. It is located on the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border and originates from the Kaveri (Cauvery) river. The name of this waterfall in Kannada means ‘smoky

rocks’ as the force with which the water hits the base creates a misty sight resembling smoke emanating from the rocks. Although this waterfall mesmerises visitors throughout the year, it is the most picturesque post monsoon. Adventurous rides on country made dinghies called parisal or coracle is a must-have experience here.

SHRABASTI ANINDITA MALLIK A graduate of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Shrabasti Anindita Mallik has worked with MyCityLinks, a Bhubaneshwar-based tabloid, and New Delhi-based The Pioneer newspaper.

She actively writes on travel, Indian culture and traditions, music and any subject that intrigues her.

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Transport & Logistics 2022

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INTERVIEW TATJANA MATIĆ, SERBIAN MINISTER OF TRADE, TOURISM AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Huge Potential To Develop Postal Services By investing in reliable e-commerce web platforms for postal operators, constructing logistics capacities and procuring delivery vehicles, but also opening new parcel warehouses and installing packaging machines, the conditions are created for Serbia to gain an even more developed postal services market

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he volume of e-commerce grew exceptionally during the previous period. This has led to changes in both the operations of traditional retailers who responded to new trends and to the emergence of major e-commerce platforms such as, for example, Shopster and Ananas.

“The development and increasingly com-

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monplace applying of IT in everyday life has also impacted on changing the habits of consumers who are increasingly buying via the internet,” says Serbian Trade, Tourism and Telecommunications Minister Tatjana Matić.

According to the data of the National Bank of Serbia, NBS, Serbia’s central bank, the number of payment transactions realised

for the purchase of goods and services via the internet grew in 2020 by 103.76% in dinars (9.42% in euros) compared to 2019 and by 59.66% in dinars (35.12% in euros) in 2021 compared to 2020. When it comes to the value of payment transactions realised for the purchase of goods and services via the internet, in 2020 the growth in dinars compared

SUPPORT The development of various online sales platforms represents a chance for small companies that often lack the capacity for online sales of their products

POTENTIAL bearing in mind that logistics support is an essential element of e-commerce competitiveness, it remains essential for Serbia to achieve significant development in this field

CONTROL Although fraud is still committed by unregistered traders, it now occurs much less frequently thanks in part to the contribution of all competent inspection bodies and institutions

to 2019 was 81.46%, while there was a drop of 8.75% in euros, while in 2021 there was an increase of 72.37% in dinars and 78.51% in euros compared to 2020.

“Considering the fact that e-sales represent an extremely effective way of expanding business activities, companies are adapting to this trend, particularly large companies; almost all major companies have a website, while a somewhat lower percentage of medium-sized and small companies have one. In comparison to previous years, we see significant progress

It is essential to secure the infrastructure for the further development of new commercial services, such as investments in processing centres nationwide in Serbia and in automated technologies for the processing and sorting of shipments among small businesses in this sense. All told, use of websites by most companies in Serbia remains limited and primarily has an informative function,” says Matić, adding that the development of various platforms certainly represents a chance for small companies that often lack the capacity for online sales of their products.

We are simultaneously witnessing the emergence and expansion of a palette of postal services. From the perspective of your ministry, what is it important to provide for this segment of the market to develop, in terms of infrastructure?

- It is essential to secure the infrastructure for the further development of new commercial services, such as investments in processing centres nationwide in Serbia and in automated technologies for the processing and sorting of shipments. The aim of these activities is to

enable the fast and high-quality processing of a large number of different types of shipments and to enable the directing of deliveries in the appropriate direction.

With this in mind, it is also essential to invest in new delivery vehicles, such as vans, green vehicles, mopeds and bicycles, but also in the opening

of new parcel warehouses and the installing of packing machines in high-traffic areas, in order for users to more easily and quickly receive their deliveries.

Likewise, by informing citizens about the advantages of secure e-shopping via postal deliveries and investing in postal operators’ reliable

Transport & Logistics 2022

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INTERVIEW

With this law, terms and principles in the field of electronic commerce are defined and the responsibility of information society service providers that mediate in the provision of services is regulated.

How often does your Postal Service Inspection Group have to respond to fraud in this field today?

- Unfortunately, fraud is still committed by unregistered traders, but that occurs much less frequently than it did during the period immediately before and during the Covid-19 pandemic. The constant work of all competent inspection bodies and institutions in the country, as well as the Department for Inspection Supervision in the domain of postal services, contributed to reducing occurrences of fraud.

According to the requirements of inspections and the competent authorities, such as the Prosecutor’s Office and the Ministry of Internal Affairs, these services receive essential data and evidence regarding those who commit fraud by advertising via social networks and delivering goods through postal operators.

Our inspectors obtain data and evidence, but often also participate in joint inspections, such as those with the market inspection service, Ministry of Internal Affairs etc.

web platforms for e-commerce, the conditions are created for an even more developed postal services market in Serbia.

How much is the e-commerce sector driving the development of logistics capacities?

- According to theWorld Bank report “Connecting to Compete”, Serbia ranked 65th in 2018 according to the LPI (Logistic performance index). This marks a significant improvement compared to 2016, when Serbia ranked 76th. Still, bearing in mind that logistics support is an essential element of e-commerce competitiveness, it remains essential to achieve significant development in this field.

Food delivery platforms and, to a lesser extent, platforms for passenger transportation, have stood out as separate segments. How do you classify them, given that they are intermediaries in trade and are very often registered as marketing companies or as part of the ICT sector?

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The arrival of large chains on the Serbian retail market has increased demand for labour, and we hope that further growth in competition will encourage the development of operations and increases in employees’ earnings - Online platforms that are intermediaries in the provision of services are considered as providers of information society services in the sense of the Law on Electronic Commerce, or according to the EU Directive on Electronic Commerce with which our law is harmonised. According to the definition, an information society service is a service that is provided at a distance and encompasses, among other things, commerce via the internet and the enabling of electronic searches for services.

We are increasingly facing labour shortages in both trade and the postal transport sector. How concerning a problem has this become and how can it be solved? Is the solution in higher wages in this sector or reliance on foreign labour?

- This problem has been present in the sector of commerce for several years already. The arrival of large chains on the Serbian retail market has increased demand for labour, and we hope that further growth in competition will encourage the development of operations and increases in employees’ earnings.

Postal services are also short of labour, but the situation isn’t alarming. On the one hand, we have Public Enterprise Post of Serbia, which has over 13,000 employees and an open call for new employees on its website, as well as many work applicants. On the other hand, the private sector that deals exclusively with commercial services has to date resolved the shortage of direct service providers, such as couriers, by cancelling parcel deliveries on Saturdays, while unburdening delivery employees with the installing of packaging machines and the opening of parcel warehouses etc.

Transport & Logistics 2022

7

BUSINESS

BOGDAN GAVRILOVIĆ, SALES MANAGER, WORLD TRANSPORT OVERSEAS (WTO)

Expanding Operations World Transport Overseas (WTO), which is headquartered in Eastern Europe and has branches in Bulgaria, China, Croatia, Greece, North Macedonia, Serbia and Slovenia, was the 2020 winner of Bulgaria’s Company of the Year award in the service sector and represents one of the fastest growing companies in the logistics sector

B

y continuing in accordance with the VISION 2030 plan, the decision was adopted to expand the group. We should be opening offices by the end of the current year in Taiwan, Korea and Ningbo [Chinese industrial port city], as well as new Black Sea basin offices in Romania, Georgia and Armenia - announces WTO Sales Manager Bogdan Gavrilović.

The WTO opened a branch in China in 2020 and representative offices in Skopje and Thessaloniki in 2021. Are you planning to expand further?

- We’ve already opened offices in Priština and Piraeus this year, which will certainly contribute to even higher quality services and more competitive prices. We are particularly proud of the opening of our office in the Port of Piraeus, which has already been operating successfully for three months and through which we will be able to offer our clients an express service, in the areas of both FCL and LCL shipments.

With the opening a new direct maritime collective line from the Port of Tianjin to the Balkans, we have continued implementing our expansion strategy, as one of the leaders of the Central and Eastern European market.

Our aim is to provide the possibility of more affordable and faster supplying of goods from the Far East to clients in Serbia and the wider region. In addition to this, another important factor in the improving of services is the new line for supplying goods from the Far East to Southern, Western and Central Serbia, as well as transport to Belgrade itself.

This is a service that operates via the Port of Thessaloniki and intermodal transport via Niš to the final destination. This service has great potential and possibilities, and we will

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company, but first and foremost to our clients, because we will be able to offer them additional, better-quality services around the world, under even more favourable terms.

We assume that last year’s figures and reports have been underscored and are ready to present. Are you satisfied?

- The group’s total turnover for 2021 was a record-breaking 53 million euros. When it comes to the number of TEUs [twenty-foot equivalent units] transported, in both import and export operations, the total amount exceeds 40,000. We are also recording a major upsurge in containerised transport (LCL), i.e., in the number of cubic metres of goods delivered via our main transhipment ports of Varna, Koper and Thessaloniki, which stands at 83,000 cubic metres. Air transport was our main area of investments and the focus of the group in the previous period, which is best reflected in our transporting of more than 1.5 million kilos of goods during the previous year.

Our aim is to provide the possibility of more affordable and faster supplying of goods from the Far East to clients in Serbia and the wider region strive to bring it to life as soon as possible, thereby unburdening other supply lines.

We are proud that we’ve expanded our cooperation with our long-term partner JAS and become its exclusive agents in Thessaloniki and Skopje. This kind of partnership with such a worldwide freight forwarding company brings numerous benefits to our

Are relations with employees still among the most important factors for WTO? - It is common knowledge that WTO employees have constantly undergone supplementary training and additional business specialisation since the opening of the office. The latest such training relates to work with the previously introduced Microsoft Dynamics NAV program, which we are successfully concluding while simultaneously preparing for the introduction of the new CRM solution. WTO has a constant need for new high-quality and highly educated personnel, which we also present at the employment fairs we often participate in.

VELIMIR KUZMANOVIĆ, CEO, NTS INT

BUSINESS

NTS Applications Save Time & Fuel NTS International is a company that’s spent more than 16 years developing and delivering customised software solutions to support the managing of transport and logistics operations. Operating from five centres, NTS INT has more than 50 employees, while its database includes over 2000 companies specialising in various areas The full visibility of fleet operations and other transport activities – in real time and via historical overviews – that’s provided by NTS solutions supports managers in their decision-making processes, operational planning and management, optimisation, analytics and the control of transport and logistics processes.

All data is available on the NTS Desktop, NTS Mobile and NTS@web applications, which you can access at any time and wherever you happen to be from a computer, mobile phone (Android and iOS platforms) or other mobile device, which is particularly important today, when we often work from home and out of the office. NTS also constantly monitors trends in

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nder conditions of pronounced fluctuations in fuel prices, reduced traffic safety and high levels of pollution, it is essential that transport and logistics processes receive high-quality support that ensures the visibility of fleet operations and other activities in real time.

That very support is provided for many companies by NTS solutions.

Accelerated digitalisation requires that companies adapt rapidly. How do NTS solutions help companies remain competitive on the market?

- We create all solutions under our own direction, from analysis of project requirements, via design and implementation, to testing and maintenance. These are modular solutions, with the possibility of being upgraded and integrated into other software solutions. They are intended for all companies, regardless of their core area of activity or the number and type of vehicles they own.

the fields of IT and logistics, developing new solutions that you can get informed about via our website and social media accounts.

Pronounced fluctuations in fuel prices, reduced traffic safety and high levels of pollution are just a few of the challenges faced on a daily basis. Does NTS also have a response to handle them?

- The NTS Fleet management system enables the measuring and monitoring of the amount of fuel in a vehicle’s tank in real time, thanks to a device installed in the vehicle that’s connected to its on-board computer. Data related to the time, place and amount of fuel poured into a tank assists fleet managers in determining if it is really the amount of fuel paid for. Similarly, the moment fuel registers as being withdrawn from

a tank, our system informs the manager and thus enables them to react in a timely manner.

Another NTS application enables route planning and the identifying of the best routes to desired locations. The additional ability to send route plans with simple instructions to drivers on their mobile devices reduces the number of kilometres traversed, which has a direct impact on reducing fuel consumption and savings on transportation costs.

NTS constantly monitors trends in the fields of IT and logistics, developing new solutions that you can get informed about via our website and social media accounts It is necessary to pay special attention to drivers whose conduct determines the safety of all road users. A driver’s specific driving style can have a significant impact on damage to vehicle components and increased fuel consumption, which is a direct cause of harmful emissions.

With the aim of reducing fuel costs and extending vehicle longevity, while at the same time ensuring socially responsible behaviour in the area of environmental protection, we created the NTS Driver Score solution, with which companies motivate their drivers to change their bad driving habits.

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BUSINESS

IVAN MILIĆEVIĆ, HEAD OF INNOVATION & DEVELOPMENT OF LOGISTICS

Strategic Acceleration Through Development Of Logistics And Regional Connectivity The connectivity degree of countries in the region, which essentially implies the flow of people and goods, is a key development parameter. Individual markets have limited capacity and can achieve better optimisation and efficiency only if they are integrated logistically

D

espite global challenges in the field of transport, logistics and supply chains, Nelt’s results are impressive.

Mr Ivan Milićević speaks with CorD Magazine about development plans, how to realise them and how important company values are for achieving common goals.

Why is it more important to you how you achieve your business success than what the numbers show?

- That’s a question of personal integrity and responsibility, which in turn is the basis of the company’s integrity. How something was achieved, not just what was achieved. Success comes as a result of agreeing not to compromise on core values. Values define how we treat each other, our customers and partners, together with the company itself and the local community.

That is why our strategy named Accelerate 2025, which aims to improve business in terms of distribution, logistics and Nelt’s brands, is based on a healthy organisation and values.

Five years ago you opened your intermodal terminal in Dobanovci. Has it met your expectations and is there a need to expand its capacity?

-Over these five years, we have overcome many challenges and learned a lot, and Nelt’s Intermodal Terminal, or dry port as it is increasingly called, has become synonymous with the connection of Belgrade, Serbia and the region with global logistics points, ports in the Far East and around the world, showing Nelt’s impact on developing our surroundings.

Our expectations have been met, exceeded

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- Nelt’s regular road transport routes between our logistics centres in Serbia, North Macedonia and Montenegro improve market connectivity and meet the needs for the transport of small quantities of goods. We receive shipments from clients every day from any location in Serbia. Collective transport is organised for Montenegro three times a week, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and for North Macedonia once a week, on Thursdays.

We also organise fast customs clearance in Danilovgrad, Podgorica and Skopje. Delivery is within 24h/48h from the day of customs clearance, throughout the territory of Montenegro and North Macedonia. The goods are insured during the entire journey, so anyone using this service does not have to worry about the truck, insurance, papers, customs.

After continuous investment in our Intermodal Terminal in Dobanovci, we are rapidly preparing to open a new dry port that we will make available to industry in Serbia and the whole region, together with our partners even. That is why, after the latest investment in expanding the capacity of the Dobanovci intermodal terminal, we are rapidly preparing to open a new dry port that we will make available to industry in Serbia and the whole region, together with our partners.

The campaign for collective transport Serbia-Montenegro and Serbia-North Macedonia is underway. What does this service provide?

Nelt has decided to install solar power plants at most of its facilities. Where are you with these?

- The construction of solar power plants is one of the strategic initiatives that we are carrying out now. We are currently designing and building solar power plants with a total capacity of 4,800kW, that’s 4.8MW on facilities in Serbia and 300kW in North Macedonia, a total of approximately 5MW. Nelt Group will continue building solar power plants with the priority goal of covering its entire electricity consumption, through a buyer-producer model. We look forward to changes in legislation that will enable even greater improvements and further investment in facilities for the production of energy from renewable sources.

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COMMENT

Transport And Logistics Need Innovation Despite the pandemic, labour shortages, lack of transport and warehouse capacity, uncertainty in supply chains, rising prices, inflation, trade wars and armed conflict between states, the transport and logistics sector in many countries is experiencing growth, primarily thanks to the digital transformation. Logistics and transport service providers believe that this trend will continue, with the aim of meeting the growing needs and expectations of consumers

THE ELECTRIC GOODS VEHICLE MARKET HAS TRIPLED Data from IHS Markit for Europe excluding the UK shows that 346 new electric delivery vehicles with a load of more than 16 tonnes were registered in 2021. Although this number

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sounds small for the whole of Europe, the growth rate of 193% compared to the previous year is incredible. Volvo, just one electric truck manufacturer, received orders and letters of intent in 2021 for the purchase of more than 1,100 trucks from 20 countries around the world. Manufac-

turers of these vehicles believe that offering zero-emission electric transport is becoming a key competitive advantage.

Most electric trucks in Europe have been sold in the richest countries, including Switzerland, Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands and Germany.

TOP 5 TRENDS SHAPING THE LOGISTICS AND TRANSPORT INDUSTRY Organisations in the logistics and transport industry will have to embrace cutting-age technologies to design and sustain supply chain solutions of tomorrow. Here are five trends that will shape the future of the logistics and transport industry.

1. Robotic Process Automation Robotic process automation will help eliminate manual tasks, boost order management, improve after-sales service and alleviate labour shortages, while enriching customer experience and enabling business agility.

WAREHOUSE CHARGING POINTS ARE THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS So far, parcel-delivery vans have made up most of the growth in the commercial electric-vehicle fleet. But large-scale are developing the technology for heavy-duty goods vehicles, adding pressure to develop the charging infrastructure. Companies planning to electrify their delivery operations are looking to turn their warehouses into hubs for charging their growing fleets of electric trucks and vans. Industrial real-estate developers say they have been receiving more requests to install charging stations at distribution centres, a sign that logistics companies are preparing for a shift in the power behind transport amid elevated fuel prices and a drive to rein in carbon emissions.

Installing chargers at warehouses, however, carries new costs and complications for distribution operations. Warehouses typically have no fuelling stations on site because drivers can generally fill up on diesel at the wide network of filling stations across the country.

Adding charging capabilities means ensuring there is enough power and space available for trucks and vans to charge up without impeding freight-handling operations.

2. Artificial Intelligence AI-powered systems will not only help organisations optimise daily operations, they can also help in predictive and preventive maintenance, improve procurement and planning, optimise fuel consumption and pave the way for substantial inventory optimisation.

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COMMENT and recommending best routes for rapid delivery of goods between warehouses and to customers.

3. Drones Enabling delivery through drones will become a popular choice to improve the efficiency of last mile delivery while reducing costs. With enterprises like FedEx, Amazon, and DHL already using drones for delivery, we will soon see many more companies join the bandwagon to improve the speed and efficiency of delivery.

5. IoT-led Sustainability IoT-led innovation will allow organisations to unlock new value while giving them greater control over their supply chains. They will eliminate waste to optimise energy efficiency, decision-making, the customer experience and the supply chain.

4. Autonomous Vehicles Self-driving, autonomous vehicles that can operate without human presence will help the sector navigate traffic congestion, improve driver safety, lessen carbon emissions and curtail the overall cost of transport. They will also help reduce the rate and impact of accidents, while detecting obstacles, monitoring engine conditions,

REAL ESTATE MARKET FOR LOGISTICS SET TO GROW According to a new report by Buck Consultants International, the European logistics market is set for another year of growth, as companies ramp up capacity to meet booming e-commerce delivery demand and nearshoring activities in order to navigate mounting supply chain challenges.

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Covid-19 has not affected logistics real estate take-up volumes across Europe. The fast growth of e-commerce and the build-up of inventory to cope with supply chain disruptions favour the growth of warehousing.

Accommodating the growing demand for logistics services will, however, bring challenges. These include the complex journey of digitalising operations and the lack of warehouse personnel.

The lack of personnel is becoming an important hurdle for further growth of the logistics sector and related logistics real estate. In many hotspot logistics regions demand for labour is higher than supply. There are three solutions to this: ensuring employers remain attractive for their staff, looking for migrant workers and accelerating automation and the use of robots.

NEW LOGISTICS SERVICES FOR STRONGER SUPPLY CHAINS In the challenges faced by its logistics sector, Serbia is similar to the rest of the world and even the most developed Western countries.

The pandemic, labour shortages, lack of transport and warehouse capacity, rising prices, inflation, trade wars, armed conflict between states and uncertain supply chains are just some of the problems we are facing. Fortunately, however, the logistics sector has plenty of room for business improvement, reducing costs and making savings.

Experts agree that the solution to many of the challenges can be sought in the introduction of new logistics services, solutions and technologies, in digitalisation and automation of business, in innovations in the environmental, energy and security fields, and in the application of the most modern tools, algorithms, advanced analytics and artificial intelligence, because good logistics and well-developed supply chains are crucial to the successful operation of the economy and the functioning of society.

SEEKING SOLUTIONS FOR THE DRIVER SHORTAGE Germany’s Federal Association for Road Transport, Logistics and Waste Disposal (BGL) has put forward another proposal to solve the country’s acute driver shortage: anyone with a drivers’ license should be allowed to drive vehicles up to 12 tonnes.

Germany currently lacks 80,000-100,000 truck drivers, mainly due to poor wages, poor working conditions, separation from family, traffic jams, tight delivery deadlines, stress... The situation is likely to become even worse in the coming period, as more people leave the profession than take it up. If nothing new is done in the meantime, the shortfall could reach 230,000 in ten years.

Professional drivers’ associations and transport managers think that the problem could be solved by allowing anyone with a driver’s license to drive trucks of up to 7.5 or even 10 or 12 tonnes. They also think that simplifying the procedure for extending the HGV license for drivers over 50 years of age would be helpful.

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CONTENTS

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SANJA PEŠIĆ, CEO, ALMA QUATTRO STABLE OOH DESPITE CHALLENGES

06 08

CATCHING FISH COMMENT

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VINCENT SUBILIA, DIRECTOR GENERAL OF THE GENEVA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, INDUSTRY AND SERVICES (CCIG) BOOMING OPPORTUNITIES FOR COOPERATION

H.E. URS SCHMID, SWISS AMBASSADOR TO SERBIA REASON FOR OPTIMISM EXISTS

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OLIVER MARJANOVIĆ, CEO, ENJOY.ING VIEWING THE TOPIC IN 360 DEGREES

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MAJO MIĆOVIĆ, PRESIDENT OF THE SWISS-SERBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SWISS INVESTMENTS IN SERBIA GROWING

EDITOR IN CHIEF Neda Lukić n.lukic@aim.rs ART DIRECTOR Branislav Ninković b.ninkovic@aim.rs PHOTOS Zoran Petrović COPY EDITOR Mark Pullen mrpeditorial@mail.com

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PROJECT MANAGERS Biljana Dević b.devic@aim.rs Vesna Vukajlović v.vukajlovic@aim.rs Mihailo Čučković m.cuckovic@aim.rs OFFICE MANAGER Svetlana Petrović s.petrovic@aim.rs FINANCE Dragana Skrobonja finance@aim.rs

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MARINKO UKROPINA, SGS GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR FOR SERBIA, CROATIA, SLOVENIA, BOSNIA&HERZEGOVINA AND MONTENEGRO SGS ALSO OFFERS GREEN BUILDING CERTIFICATION

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Maja Vidaković m.vidakovic@aim.rs PUBLISHER Ivan Novčić i.novcic@aim.rs DIRECTOR Ana Novčić a.novcic@aim.rs a.novcic@cordmagazine.com

PRINTING Rotografika d.o.o.

Segedinski put 72, Subotica SWISS 2022 Published by: alliance international media Prote Mateje 52, 11111 Belgrade 17, PAK 126909, Serbia Phone: +(381 11) 2450 508 Fascimile: +(381 11) 2450 122 E-mail: office@aim.rs; office@cordmagazine.com

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PETAR ADŽIĆ PH.D., SERBIA’S SCIENTIFIC DELEGATE IN CERN COUNCIL DECADE AFTER HISTORIC HIGGS BOSON DISCOVERY

www.aim.rs; www.cordmagazine.com

IMPRESSUM

ISSN: 2560-4465 All rights reserved alliance international media 2022 The views expressed in this publication are those of the presenter; they do not necessary reflect the view of publications published by alliance international media

THIS PUBLICATION IS FREE OF CHARGE

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DRAGANA ATANASOV POPARIĆ, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, HEAD OF SERBIA, DEPUTY HEAD OF SWITZERLAND, AT NICOLL CURTIN HUNGRY FOR NEW CHALLENGES

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OLIVER STREIT, HEAD OF THE EDUCATION TO EMPLOYMENT PROJECT, NIRAS – IP CONSULT GMBH E2E LEADS TO TRIPLE-WIN

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SSCC ACTIVITIES SWISS-SERBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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DIGITAL HEALTH GROWTH SWISS HEALTH TRENDS

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ART IS A CRISIS-PROOF INVESTMENT & THE JOY OF

LIFE ART BASEL IN BASEL 2022

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TASTE OF TRADITION AND LUXURY SWISS PRODUCTS

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ANA GRUJOVIĆ, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE SWISSSERBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DYNAMIC YEAR FOR SSCC

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COMMENT

CATCHING FISH What testifies better to the success of cooperation between Switzerland and Serbia than the fact that the donor and receiving countries have become excellent business partners? The numbers speak for themselves: Switzerland ranked as the second largest foreign direct investor in Serbia in 2021, while at the same time becoming a top investment location for Serbian companies, mostly in the ICT sector

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ack in 1991, Swiss humanitarian aid to Serbia was focused solely on helping the country endure difficult times. Since then, over the course of three decades, more than 400 million euros of official development assistance has been committed and spent to date, with an increasing focus on developmental assistance, targeting both vulnerable sections of the population and local communities eager to improve their services and participatory practises, as well as attracting new investments. These areas also constitute the foundation of the current Swiss engagement during the 2022-2025 period, which will place an emphasis on dual vocational education, the participation of local SMEs in the value chains of larger foreign direct investments and renewable energy, energy efficiency and sustainable urban planning.

Switzerland is additionally supporting Serbia in one of the country’s most important, but rather slowly progressing reforms: the oversight of public enterprises. Digitisation now has to help Serbian public enterprises save time on tasks like the physical preparation of documents, and to focus more on data analysis and decision-making due to much-needed transparency with regard to the operations of public enterprises.

These areas are inextricably linked to Serbia’s path to growth, which includes investments in a better educated workforce and the ability to both attract foreign companies seeking nearshoring options and align with EU legislation and the EU Green Deal. Furthermore, all of these areas fortify the current advancement of bilateral relations between Switzerland

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Switzerland is supporting Serbia in its efforts to achieve sustainable and inclusive growth. This is the essence of the cooperation plan for the 2022-2025 period and the foundation of further prosperous bilateral relations and Serbia that can be observed in the areas of trade and investments.

Indeed, despite adverse global trends and negative forecasts of stagflation or even recession throughout the EU and the Western world, the dynamics of SwissSerbian economic relations have remained intact and continued to strengthen. One of the reasons is the strong link between Swiss and Serbian IT companies, which have proven to be resilient in the crisis caused by Covid-19 and the current crisis.

This isn’t to say that IT is the only sector where successful cooperation is unfold-

ing. Among recent Swiss investments in Serbia are the new production site of Regent Lighting in Svilajnac, the establishment of TX Services in Belgrade and the constructions of both the Barry-Callebaut chocolate factory in Novi Sad and Nestlé's new factory in Surčin. Bilateral trade grew by 16% last year, and these new investments are yet to be added to this dynamic.

These examples tell a remarkable story about the success of cooperation between the two countries and show how one win-win situation can be achieved over the course of time.

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By Ljubica Gojgić

INTERVIEW

REASON FOR

OPTIMISM EXISTS Despite adverse global trends and forecasts, the dynamics of Swiss-Serbian economic relations remain intact and continue strengthening. In 2021, Switzerland figured as the second largest foreign direct investor in Serbia. Conversely, Switzerland has emerged as a top investment location for Serbian companies, mostly in the ICT sector.

Despite the pandemic, bilateral trade has grown by 16% in the last year ~ Urs Schmid H.E. URS SCHMID

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he Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine will impact negatively on the global economy, while the energy crisis is also being felt in Switzerland, which has been importing electricity during the winter period for years. Nevertheless, causes for optimism exist and the Swiss-Serbian relations remain strong. It is against this background that CorD had the opportunity to meet Swiss Ambassador, Urs Schmid, to discuss the current development of bilateral relations, the launch of

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SWISS AMBASSADOR TO SERBIA

the Swiss Cooperation Programme for Serbia 2022-2025, his expectation regarding the economic outlook, as well as the Swiss concept of neutrality in the context of Russia's military attack on Ukraine.

■ Your Excellency, it was announced recently that cooperation with Serbia remains part of Switzerland’s New Strategy for International Cooperation until 2024. Can you tell us about

the priorities of the new programme, which is worth approximately 90 million euros?

- What began as Swiss humanitarian aid to Serbia during very difficult times, in 1991, has developed over the last 30 years into a comprehensive cooperation programme.

Switzerland is ranked among Serbia’s most important bilateral donors, with over 400 million euros of official development assistance committed and spent to date. Such an

ASSISTANCE

DUAL EDUCATION

SUPPORT

Switzerland is ranked among Serbia’s most important bilateral donors, with over 400 million euros of official development assistance provided

During the next four years, we will significantly step up our efforts to assist Serbia in turning dual vocational education and training into a success story

Swiss support for digitising the oversight of public enterprises is leading to improvements in both planning and reporting

important and continuous presence has left many footprints, which also constitute the foundation of our current engagement during the 2022-2025 period.

As a highly decentralised country, Switzerland traditionally seeks to establish a strong presence at the local level, working with municipalities to improve services and participatory practises. Local governance reform will remain in focus during the period ahead. Private sector development and employment is another longstanding field of Swiss engagement. During the next four years, we will significantly step up our efforts to assist Serbia in turning dual vocational education and training into a success story. In addition, a new substantial programme will be dedicated to facilitating the participation of local SMEs in the value chains of larger foreign direct investments. Finally, though importantly, engaging in the fight against climate change is a must. Switzerland will complement its current portfolio in renewable energy, energy efficiency and sustainable urban planning with more comprehensive climate mitigation and adaptation measures, in line with the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans.

and labelling tool that was established in Switzerland in the early 1990s and is applied in more than 1,500 cities across Europe. In Serbia, the label helps municipalities comply with national legal requirements on energy matters that are under their jurisdiction and align with EU legislation and the EU Green Deal. Concrete renovation projects are important showcases of how energy efficiency in buildings can be applied, resulting in positive impacts on energy bills, comfort and health.

Switzerland is supporting energy efficiency

down of an important number of nuclear power plants in France for technical reasons and the current prospect of limited supplies of electricity from gas-fired power plants in Europe as a result of reduced Russian gas exports. Electricity prices for Swiss captive consumers (households, SMEs) are usually set each autumn for the following year. Prices will certainly increase, although probably less than elsewhere in Europe, as many retailers are able to produce locally and because of the current favourable exchange rate of the Swiss Franc against the Euro.

■ Switzerland has provided significant assistance to capacity building efforts for local governments in Serbia over previous years. One of the ongoing programmes is dedicated to improving energy efficiency in cities like Vrbas, Užice, Kruševac and Paraćin. Could we talk about the positive effects of this process to date?

- Municipalities in Serbia are facing big challenges in energy management, in terms of costs, greenhouse gas emissions and air quality. Switzerland is providing support in establishing interdisciplinary planning approaches and implementing concrete measures for the sustainable management of energy, cutting across different municipal sectors, such as spatial planning, mobility and public buildings. Introducing the European Energy Award (EEA) was instrumental in this regard. The EEA is a quality assurance

Switzerland will complement its current portfolio in renewable energy, energy efficiency and sustainable urban planning with more comprehensive climate mitigation and adaptation measures, in line with the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans measures in 16 schools and nurseries in these four municipalities, which will be finalised by the end of 2022.

■ The issue of energy efficiency and savings on the consumption of electricity has become one of the key topics under the conditions of war in Ukraine and sanctions against Russia, which have led to the hampering of gas supply lines to European countries.

We’ve been hearing recently that Switzerland could also face electricity supply problems and will very likely have to increase electricity prices for businesses and citizens. How serious are these problems and what kind of plan does Switzerland have to overcome them?

- The risk of electricity shortages in winter has been known for some time, because Switzerland has been an electricity importer for many winters. That risk has been exacerbated in recent months, due to the shutting

■ You are the ambassador of a country that has environmental protection and so-called Green transition high on its list of priorities. Europe paid great attention when your country closed one of its five nuclear power plants, after almost half a century of continuous operations. Are you concerned over announcements that the need to maintain the economy under the conditions of this energy crisis could see large European economies, like Germany’s, return to producing electricity from coal and other traditional but dirty technologies?

- Today’s situation is absolutely exceptional.

There is a serious risk of gas shortages this winter, which could have drastic consequences for citizens and may negatively impact the entire economy. Some EU countries are planning to fire up mothballed coal-fired plants or defer their closure. The resulting spikes in emissions are acceptable under current circumstances, especially if the deployment of non-emitting energies will also accelerate, which is exactly what the EU plans to do with its REPowerEU plan.

■ Swiss financial support to Serbia to date has also included assistance for the digitising of public administration. One particularly interesting project should enable citizens to gain insight into the operations of public companies that experts assess as BUSINESS PARTNER | SWITZERLAND 2022

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having major inefficiency issues. Could you tell us more about this?

- Swiss support for digitising the oversight of public enterprises is leading to improvements in both planning and reporting. Namely, public enterprises will save significant time set aside for the physical preparation of documents, freeing up more capacities for data analysis

Today’s situation is absolutely exceptional.

There is a serious risk of gas shortages this winter, which could have drastic consequences for citizens and may negatively impact the entire economy and decision-making. Additionally, it also improves capabilities to provide more transparency regarding the operations of public enterprises.

The respective companies, local governments, and the Government of Serbia are better equipped to inform citizens about development plans, goals and key performance indicators, as well as progress as compared to the annual plan. Overall, digitalization will allow for a more strategic approach in developing public services, as well as for better aligning the different activities conducted by public enterprises.

■ Switzerland is often singled out here as a country whose policy of military neutrality serves as a model for the Serbian government to define its own foreign policy.

However, it seems that Switzerland nonetheless decided, with unexpected speed, to join the Western sanctions against Russia. Swiss Confederation President Ignazio Cassis says that this does not bring into question Swiss neutrality, but how can picking a side still be characterised as remaining neutral?

- The law of neutrality, as defined by international treaties like the Hague Conventions of 1907, prohibits neutral states from entering into a military conflict and obliges neutral states, in the case of an inter-state war, not to 10

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support any of the parties to the conflict militarily. Switzerland has been strictly adhering to the law of neutrality in the current war in Ukraine.

Neutrality, as an instrument of Swiss foreign and security policy, does not impede the Swiss Government from expressing political opinions and working for the respect of fundamental values like peace, democracy and human rights.

Russia’s military attack on Ukraine, a sovereign state, is a serious violation of international law. With this in mind, the Swiss Government took the decision to adopt the sanctions imposed by the European Union. It is important to emphasise that, prior to taking this decision, the Swiss Government examined the EU sanctions package with regard to its compatibility with a neutral state’s obligations under the law of neutrality and concluded that the measures are compatible. It also examined the neutrality policy within the scope of its political room for manoeuvre. The extraordinary developments of Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine were taken into account. Finally, Switzerland has enforced sanctions in the past under various circumstances, without this bringing its neutrality into question.

■ Do you have understanding for Serbia's argument that the need to preserve its national interests and ensure economic stability during uncertain times means that it cannot fully support the EU's policy towards Russia by imposing economic sanctions?

- It is not for me, as ambassador of Switzerland, to comment on how Serbia should be pursuing its policy of integration into the European Union and defining its national interests in this context. Certainly, for both of our countries, the Russian aggression presents a challenge to the conducting of our foreign policy and we exchanged on these matters during the recent talks between our two state secretaries for foreign affairs that took place at late June’s bilateral meeting in Belgrade.

■ Given that you come from a country that represents one of the world’s main financial centres, are you concerned over signs of a global economic growth slowdown and rising inflation? Are there grounds for the announcements we hear of a new economic crisis?

- All indicators indeed show that the compounding of the damages caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and Russia’s military attack on Ukraine will slow the global economy considerably. The World Bank’s latest Global Economic Prospects report raises the risk of stagflation, with potentially harmful consequences for middle- and low-income economies alike. Switzerland will also face the consequences of the new reality, although perhaps to a lesser extent than many other countries. On the world markets, prices of important export goods from Russia and the Ukraine – namely, energy sources and certain food staples and fodder – have risen sharply. The associated inflationary pressure is weighing on demand in important trading partner countries, with dampening effects on the exposed areas of the Swiss economy. As far as the Swiss and Serbian economies are concerned, it seems that they will both continue their recovery from the Covid crisis with above-average GDP growth for the time being, but less dynamically than expected by previous forecasts.

■ Upon arrival in Serbia, you said that you were planning the strengthening of economic cooperation between our two

countries with great enthusiasm. To what extent will the economic turmoil in Europe and around the world impact on economic cooperation between Switzerland and Serbia?

- I am happy to say that I remain very optimistic about the further development of our economic cooperation, and with good reason!

Despite adverse global trends and forecasts, the dynamics of SwissSerbian economic relations have remained intact and continued to strengthen. In 2021, Switzerland ranked as the second largest foreign direct investor in Serbia. Conversely, Switzerland has emerged as a top investment location for Serbian companies, mostly in the ICT sector. Despite the pandemic, bilateral trade has grown by 16% over the last year and, when it comes to the trade in services, Switzerland has become Serbia's fourth most important partner.

Recent examples of Swiss investments in Serbia include the opening of a production site of Regent Lighting in Svilajnac, the establishment of TX Services in Belgrade, the construction of the Barry-Callebaut chocolate factory in Novi Sad and Nestlé's new factory for plant-based products in Surčin. The number of jobs created by Swiss companies in Serbia is estimated at over 12,000. I would also like to add that the large Serbian diaspora resident in Switzerland plays an important and increasing role in facilitating Swiss investment activities in Serbia.

■ The Swiss Embassy in Serbia has been recognised for many years for the support it provides to culture and art, particularly authors from the younger generation and emerging artists who’ve yet to establish themselves. Do you intend to continue work in this area?

- Cultural ties are a very important part of relations between our two countries. Encouraging and promoting young artists and performers has indeed been a focus of our activities for some years and will continue to be an important objective. Moreover, in order to provide more comprehensive support to the cultural scene in Serbia, in October 2021, Switzerland launched its first long-term intervention in the field

Recent examples of Swiss investments in Serbia include the opening of a production site of Regent Lighting in Svilajnac, the establishment of TX Services in Belgrade, the construction of the Barry-Callebaut chocolate factory in Novi Sad and Nestlé's new factory for plant-based products in Surčin of culture called ‘Culture for Democracy’. Under the scope of this project, worth one million euros, we intend to protect and enlarge a social space where pluralistic and democratic values can be expressed, intercultural dialogue triggered and tolerance promoted. This project looks beyond supporting the production of art and culture, valuing exchanges, mutual learning processes and innovation. This instrument focuses in particular on independent cultural actors at the local level, with a special emphasis on disadvantaged municipalities. For all these instruments, we will be implementing annual open calls in collaboration with our partner, Heartefact Foundation. Switzerland has so far already supported 19 projects with a total of 232,000 euros.

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INTERVIEW

SWISS INVESTMENTS IN

SERBIA GROWING MAJO MIĆOVIĆ PRESIDENT OF THE SWISS-SERBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

I firmly believe that Serbia is awaited by an increase in the volume of Swiss investments in the period ahead, despite these economically turbulent times. Also testifying to this is the recent visit to Serbia of the director general of the Geneva Chamber of Commerce

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he operations of all companies are today dependent to a great extent on how their work was impacted by the pandemic. The sectors hardest hit by Covid-19 were those of the hotel industry, aviation and tourism, while the least negative impact of the pandemic was felt by ICT companies. Swiss-Serbian Chamber of Commerce (SSCC) President

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Majo Mićović is of the belief that room for optimism today exists. “After two years, we’re seeing the appearance of a period of recovery and further development for companies, including SSCC member companies. Some of them have also announced new investments, as Nestle has, then leading IT security company Sky Express opened its representative office in Podgorica

DEVELOPMENT The ICT sector is far and away the most dynamic direction in the development of economic relations and the SSCC membership includes the largest percentage of IT companies compared to the total number of members

PLANS Digitalisation, artificial intelligence and biotechnology are the main directions of the chamber’s activities that will contribute significantly to the further improvement of the business climate

and will soon also do so in Tirana, and two new factories have also opened: Regent Lighting opened a factory in Svilajnac and Barry Callebaut opened one in Novi Sad, all of which testifies to the positive way they view the local and regional business climate,” says Mićović.

■ Are your members also confronted by labour shortages and how much does vocational education and training (VET) help in that sense?

- The Swiss-Serbian Chamber of Commerce organised three conferences aimed at promoting the importance of dual education and finding adequate labour. Member companies are indeed confronted by labour shortages, but we’re glad that some of them – like Nestle and Standard Furniture Serbia – have entered the dual education system and recognised it as a way to find high-quality workers with competencies that are aligned with the needs of the economy. We are extremely glad that, as a Chamber and as individuals from the

INVESTMENT The IT sector has become one of the most important directions of investment in Serbia, alongside services, food and healthcare… Alongside Switzerland, Germany and the U.S. are leading the way in IT sector investments

Board of Directors, we’ve provided a serious contribution to this topic since dual education was first initiated in Serbia.

■ What will be the main directions of SSCC activities in the period ahead when it comes to advancing the business climate?

- Geneva Chamber of Commerce Director General Vincent Subilia has just concluded his first visit to Belgrade. I also organised a meeting with Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabić for this occasion, with that meeting also attended by H.E. Ambassador Schmid. During the meeting, PM Brnabić introduced her interlocutors to the good business climate in Serbia and presented the economic areas favourable to investment, with a special emphasis on digitalisation, artificial intelligence and biotechnology. These are actually the main directions of the chamber’s activities that will contribute significantly to the further improvement of the business climate. On our side, we familiarised the Prime Minister with the fact that the ICT sector is far and away the most dynamic direc-

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tion in the development of economic relations between the two countries, but also the fact that the SSCC membership includes the largest percentage of IT companies compared to the total number of member companies. This itself testifies to possible directions of future cooperation with the Chamber of Commerce of the Canton of Geneva.

We (SSCC) recently signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Geneva Chamber of Commerce (CCIG) that’s tasked with strengthening awareness and understanding of the investment climate in Serbia among CCIG members

■ To what extent has the SSCC’s working methods returned to the pre-Covid period? What would you retain from the working methods utilised during the lockdown period?

- The SSCC closely monitors unfolding events related to the pandemic, with the aim of complying with and implementing health protection measures. Holding webinars remains an integral part of the SSCC’s work, but in-person gatherings among members, as a form of SSCC work, are also becoming more frequent. It could be said that the SSCC combines the advantages of working during both periods - before and during Covid - and in force now is the so-called hybrid model of work, which includes both online events and the staging of live events.

There’s no need to stress the importance of live, direct communication and gathering. That has prompted some members of the Chamber, such as Sky Express with the case of the SSCC Networking Cocktail Party, to organise “live” events as a way of bringing the membership closer together and initiating new ideas and contacts.

■ As of the end of Q3 2021, the Serbian investments of Swiss residents had a total value of almost 1.7 billion euros (€1,685.3 million). What kind of interest are you recording among investors today, when we once again find ourselves in globally turbulent times economically?

- Business operations under the conditions of the pandemic, but also during the time of the global economic crisis caused by military 14

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conflicts, has brought many aggravating circumstances and raised the question of the survival of a large number of companies in almost all industries. The IT industry is one of the few industries to have been barely hit by the crisis. The IT industry is the fastest growing industry in Serbia, which has been recognised by Swiss investors for years and their interest in our ICT sector is fortunately on the rise. The SSCC has a large number of companies operating in the ICT sector among its members, with dozens of Swiss companies having already established a local presence in Serbia through outsourcing and the opening of development centres. Company Sky Express, which is part of Swiss investment fund Evolution Equity Partners, is an excellent example of a company that’s been present on the Serbian market for almost 20 years and continues, with the support of Swiss partners, to invest in the IT sector. We (SSCC) recently signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Geneva Chamber of Commerce (CCIG) that’s tasked with strengthening awareness and understanding of the investment climate in Serbia among CCIG members. I firmly believe that Serbia is awaited by an increase in the volume of Swiss investments in the period ahead, despite these economically turbulent times.

■ Numerous Swiss companies have already established a local presence in Serbia. Looking at the ICT sector alone, how represented are Swiss companies here compared to companies from other countries that are leading investors in Serbia?

- The IT sector has become one of the most important directions of investment in Serbia, alongside services, food and healthcare. Exports of ICT services recorded in January and February this year amounted to 347 million euros (up 42.7% on the same period of last year). There are many factors that influence the decision making of investors, but certainly among the most important are the engineering quality of IT personnel, the level of digitalisation of regional centres, the rate of return on investment, the extent to which certain IT technologies are represented in the country etc. Alongside Switzerland, Germany and the U.S. are leading the way in IT sector investments in Serbia.

■ How would you rate Serbia's progress on the creating of institutional preconditions for transitioning to Industry 4.0?

- Energy, business, agriculture, health and education – as the basic pillars of each country’s economic and social development – are areas where the application of Industry 4.0 can shift and improve functioning significantly. Digital technologies, such as cloud computing, the IoT (Internet of Things), robotics, big data and cyber security software solutions are key to implementing the Industry 4.0 concept.

The ICT sector is today Serbia’s largest net export branch, with a greater contribution to GDP than, for example, construction, while it has also surpassed agriculture in terms of exports. I can thus say that Serbia is on the right track for transitioning to Industry 4.0. The state administration has succeeded in making digitalisation dynamic with its very good internal policy on the development of e-government

The state administration has succeeded in making digitalisation dynamic with its very good internal policy on the development of e-government via the IT Office, though it is still necessary to speed up the digital transformation of social consciousness even more and develop even stronger coordination among the state, business and science via the IT Office, though it is still necessary to speed up the digital transformation of social consciousness even more and develop even stronger coordination among the state, business and science.

■ In which areas can Swiss companies provide the best knowhow when it comes to digitisation and the development of e-services in Serbia?

- The Swiss software sector is incomparable to those of Germany or the U.S. in terms of volume of business, but it has its own advantages and expertise: its technical and programming procedures are

significantly better than those of others, but so are its quality control systems; excellent innovation and attention to detail, as well as excellent understanding of the needs of users. These are certainly qualities that I’d also like to see represented to a greater extent in Serbia when it comes to businesses that depend on digitalisation, and particularly when it comes to e-services.

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BUSINESS

VINCENT SUBILIA, DIRECTOR GENERAL OF THE GENEVA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, INDUSTRY AND SERVICES (CCIG)

BOOMING OPPORTUNITIES

FOR COOPERATION

The field of new technologies, which is booming in Serbia, as well as infrastructure (especially tourism) and transport, are undoubtedly areas where synergies can be found between Swiss businesses and Serbia, but there are also ample opportunities in other sectors

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he Government of the Republic of Serbia and the Swiss-Serbian Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed Vincent Subilia, director general of the Geneva Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services (CCIG), to Belgrade. We took the opportunity to interview him and find out more about previous achievements and future collaboration between the two chambers, which brings new possibilities for economic cooperation

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The CCIG will host the 13th World Chambers Congress in June 2023 and we believe this will be an incredible opportunity to highlight the SSCC and Serbia, as we expect over 1,000 participants from 100 countries to attend

between the two countries.

As CCIG Director General Subilia explains, “cooperation between CCIG and the Swiss-Serbian Chamber of Commerce is not new. We co-organised events that were held in Geneva in 2015 and 2022.

“On the occasion of the signing of this Memorandum of Understanding, we were particularly happy to welcome to Geneva SSCC President Majo Mićović and Executive Director Ana Grujović. This was

PROSPECTS With some 2,400 member companies, the CCIG offers a cross-section of the economic sectors at play in Switzerland.

We are looking forward to cooperating with the SSCC followed by our visit to Belgrade in July 2022, during which we were able to present ourselves to SSCC members and meet with the Serbian prime minister and Swiss companies established in Serbia.”

Citing the numerous areas of cooperation between the two countries, Subilia notes: “the field of new technologies, which is booming in the Republic of Serbia, as well as infrastructure (especially tourism) and transport are without doubt areas where synergies between Swiss businesses and Serbia can be found. As our recent visit to the country has shown, there are already leading Swiss economic players in Serbia, such as Nestlé and Roche. We look forward to implementing the MoU signed last June with the Swiss-Serbian Chamber of Commerce. Several CCIG members that have recently expressed their interest in developing activities in Serbia are already in contact with the SSCC.” The CCIG will also host the 13th World Chambers Congress in June 2023 and Subilia believes that this will provide an incredible opportunity to highlight the SSCC and Serbia, with over 1,000 participants from 100 countries set to attend.

When it comes to prospects for the nearshoring and offshoring of Swiss investments in Serbia, Subilia notes that several sectors seem particularly promising. “We think of the agri-food industry; digital transformation and new technologies (ICT is a mainstay of Serbia’s economy); infrastructure, in particular the construction of tourism infrastructure; energy transition and the improvement of energy efficiency (modernisation of thermal power plants, use of renewable energy sources),” concludes our interlocutor.

Turning to the ways cooperation between the CCIG and the SSCC will proceed, Subilia explains: “the MoU that was signed last month aims to promote exchanges in trade and services, business partnerships and investments between Geneva and Serbia, alongside exchanges of information related to recent developments in trade, the economy

OPPORTUNITIES There are many aspects of Serbia that investors will find attractive, aside from its geostrategic position, and they are appreciated by Swiss investors

Serbia benefits from free trade agreements with the EU, EFTA, the UK, Central European countries and Turkey, and from the Generalized System of Preferences with the U.S. and Japan, while it has moderate operating costs including in terms of electricity – a key factor nowadays and investments. There will also be ample space to discuss specific projects that meet the interest of members of both chambers.

“With some 2,400 member companies, the CCIG – which can call on its 157year history – offers a cross-section of the economic sectors at play in Switzerland.

We are therefore confident that there will be much scope for cooperation with the SSCC,” explains Subilia.

Furthermore, notes our interlocutor, as an international city that’s located geographically at the centre of Europe, Geneva is the

BRIDGEHEAD As an international city that’s located geographically at the centre of Europe, Geneva is the perfect bridgehead to develop business in the heart of Europe

perfect bridgehead to develop business in the heart of Europe.

To conclude, we wanted to know which of the characteristics of the Serbian business environment are particularly attractive to Swiss companies and where they see possibilities for further improvement.

“There are many aspects of Serbia that investors will find attractive, aside from its geostrategic position (at the crossroads of Europe and the East, less than a two-hour flight from Geneva) that offers access to international markets,” says our interlocutor.

“A highly-qualified and motivated workforce is one of them. But Serbia also benefits from free trade agreements with the EU, EFTA, the UK, Central European countries and Turkey, and from the Generalized System of Preferences with the U.S. and Japan. It has moderate operating costs (including in terms of electricity – a key factor nowadays) and a competitive tax policy for foreign investors, who can benefit from a loan from the Swiss State secretariat for Economic Affairs Start-Up Fund (a programme providing loans to investors resident in Switzerland for start-up business projects in emerging economies),” concludes Subilia.

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BUSINESS

MARINKO UKROPINA, SGS GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR FOR SERBIA, CROATIA, SLOVENIA, BOSNIA&HERZEGOVINA AND MONTENEGRO

SGS ALSO OFFERS GREEN

BUILDING CERTIFICATION The SGS Group operates within the scope of a network of more than 2,700 representative offices and laboratories and has 93,000 employees worldwide.

Company SGS Belgrade was founded in August 2001 as a full member of the Group and has since positioned itself as a market leader in our country

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ith its fight to combat the grey economy within the framework of the marking and monitoring of petroleum derivatives, SGS Belgrade has contributed to fuel quality adhering to the level of EU standards. It is thanks to this work that inflows of funds to the budget of the Republic of Serbia from the collecting of excise duties on petroleum derivatives increased by around 1,300 million euros.

■ You deal with quality control, verification, testing and certification, but that’s not everything we need to know about SGS Group and SGS Belgrade. Could you tell us more?

- SGS Belgrade is a leader in quality control, testing, certification and verification, but

We’ve developed a large number of courses within the scope of the SGS Academy in Serbia, with the aim of satisfying our clients’ specific requirements also in monitoring the turnover of goods and investments in agriculture, industry, mining, the petroleum and chemicals industry, turnovers of consumer goods, laboratory testing etc.

The majority of services are implemented in accordance with methodologies that are harmonised at the global level, while we adapt certain services to suit our region, first and foremost in the fields of education 18

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and advancing business operations. We’ve developed a large number of courses within the scope of the SGS Academy in Serbia, with the aim of satisfying our clients’ specific requirements.

SGS Belgrade has developed devices and software applications that will – through the complete automation and digitalisation of processes – not only improve the national programme, but also operate globally in all SGS projects worldwide.

■ Are we, in Serbia, aware of the importance of the substantive applying of business standards, as opposed to their mere formal application?

- The number of certification bodies in Slovenia and Croatia is roughly the same as in most EU member states, while the number is incomparably higher in our country. It is a given that laws, regulations and appropriate technical standards must be applied when doing business in regulated markets, which is why the corporate culture and differences on the market – compared to the competition, your customers and other

interested parties – are actually proven by the holding of certain certificates for management systems. We still have lots of work to do to raise the level of understanding of the importance of substantively applying business standards. When you have the substantive implementation of standards, you are able – amongst other advantages – to very effectively pass customer checks, which is a trend in EU countries. It is very easier for customers to recognise if you

climate change and its consequences, SGS Belgrade implemented circular economy principles through a palette of new services: compiling GHG inventory reports, calculating products’ carbon footprint and conducting life cycle assessments. Following LCA verification, the client has the basis upon which to create an environmental product declaration (EPD).

The new addition to the SGS offer is green building certification according to the

The new addition to the SGS offer is green building certification according to the EDGE global standard, as well as consulting services for LEED standard certification only implement standards formally, which places your company at a very low level of trust within their supply chain.

■ What are the current global trends in your area of business; and how quickly do new services and processing methods developed at the global level of SGS arrive in our region?

- By monitoring the need to deal with

EDGE global standard, as well as consulting services for LEED standard certification.

Alongside expert supervision, we also offer sustainability supervision in accordance with green building standards through the checking of design project documentation and the execution of construction works, which is becoming a standard and will soon be obligatory for all new construction projects.

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BUSINESS

SANJA PEŠIĆ, CEO, ALMA QUATTRO

STABLE OOH

DESPITE CHALLENGES The first half of the 2022 business year and the sales results that Alma Quattro has achieved don’t indicate that a crisis is on the horizon, caused by global events and rising prices. At this company they’re satisfied with their balance sheet, because it appears as though the entire advertising market has resisted all challenges

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eventually catch up with the Swiss model, which creates many opportunities for us in Serbia. We are of the same belief that, even in the most difficult situations, we all have an opportunity to do at least one good thing that can improve the life of the individual, the company and the community to which it belongs. That can be investing in renewable energy sources, reducing carbon dioxide emissions, recycling materials, disposing harmful waste in an adequate way etc.

Over the course of these 28 years, we have had an opportunity to show that successful business operations are the result of a long-term mindset and planning, sustainable development and smart investment.

ere Alma Quattro CEO Sanja Pešić speaks to CorD Magazine about global advertising market trends, the expectations of client, results of the first half of this year, almost three decades of successful work, the company’s Swiss background and many other issues.

■ Does your broad portfolio enable you to tailor campaigns to suit each client?

- Our portfolio, which consists of classic small and large format advertising media and their digital variants, has enabled us to tailor good campaigns for all clients, both large and small.

Global brands continue to maintain an active presence in our country, and we are also delighted by the fact that we’ve also had the opportunity to cooperate with new brands on the market, which raises hopes that the economy will remain stable in the second half of the year.

The general rise in prices certainly impacts negatively on business decisions, but not to the extent that could be expected - if we take into account the historical model of conduct during the period of the sanctions of the 1990s or the world crisis of 2008, which had a marked impact on the advertising market and consequences that we felt for many years later. I believe sincerely that we’ve learnt a lot since then and that these kinds of scenarios will not repeat themselves, and that the market will remain stable and with an upward trajectory until the end of the year.

The crisis that emerged during the pandemic showed that out of home [OOH] advertising has a high degree of adaptability and is able to recover quickly.

■ How would you explain your many years of successful work during what has already been 28 years on the Serbian

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The crisis that emerged during the pandemic showed that out of home [OOH] advertising has a high degree of adaptability and is able to recover quickly market; and to what extent does the company’s Swiss background influence that success?

- The Swiss model can teach us a lot. Their work ethic, attitude towards money, towards natural resources and business results represent a model that we should emulate. Serbia and Switzerland are incomparable in many respects, while at the same time there is a lot of room for improvement in order for us to

■ Despite the emergence of new communications channels, OOH advertising has continued to record growth over the last three years. How would you explain the great impact of OOH advertising on the decisions of consumers?

- Like all visual media, the influence of OOH is thanks to the fact that we spend a good part of our lives out of the home. The active working population spends a large part of the day travelling from home to work, performing their daily routines. The pandemic intensified staying within local borders and, with travel made more difficult, ever more people are choosing Serbia as their holiday destination.

The business world reoriented itself to online meetings, which leaves more time for other activities. Cities are also alive at night, particularly among the younger population, and the messages from our billboards are thus available to a large number of people. All research also shows that people are spending ever more time out of the home.

BUSINESS

OLIVER MARJANOVIĆ, CEO, ENJOY.ING

VIEWING THE TOPIC

IN 360 DEGREES Enjoy.ing is a member of Swiss software company NSM Engineering group, which has three locations in Serbia, more than 250 employees, more than 200 technologies and almost 30 clients and the UK have trusted us for nearly 20 years and enjoy working with us.

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peaking for CorD Magazine, enjoy.ing CEO Oliver Marjanović explains why Serbia and Romania are viewed as core growth markets and announces two new locations that are joining the group, whilst also explaining that the company will continue to nurture its values and invest in people, because it believes in offering employees a real home.

■ How do you succeed in responding to the needs of the growing market and clients?

- As pioneers of the Serbian nearshore market since 2004, we have seen exciting and challenging times. Our daily business relates to the transition of the software engineering industry and demanding clients. We learned that our great ambition to deliver the best fit solution for clients is as important as our culture of living trust at all levels and recruiting the best people to work in this context. We react very quickly to short-term changes that appear, and that will always appear. Learning from

Our great ambition to deliver the best fit solution for clients is as important as our culture of living trust at all levels and recruiting the best people to work in this context these experiences every day, we are rebuilding our organisation into a form that will totally empower all our people to make decisions that are in the best interest of our partnerships with our clients. With our new, hierarchy-free organisation, we grow as human beings in the network of our own ecosystems.

The key is our unique and natural combination of bringing together the best of both the Swiss and Serbian worlds: we have combined the Swiss culture of aiming for the highest quality solutions in the context of our client’s needs with Serbian creativity and the ability to understand our clients’ requirements from all angles – and to challenge them if needed. That’s why our clients from Switzerland, Germany

■ Can you tell us more about your famous Swiss model A-360; how you apply it and what makes it unique?

- The model is not technical, but more about how we understand ourselves and successfully do business. Our services are established, adapted and sometimes replaced – having a 360-degree view of the topic at hand. It is all about people and how we create a system of quality, trust and communication. Examples: we turned down very attractive requests of clients wanting to work with us! Simply because we didn’t believe our people would be satisfied in the long run. Or: investing strongly in young people in IT might sound short-sighted and risky, but we always believed that investing several months in the education of graduates pays off – and it has, for us and for them.

■ What are your future plans in a world where “global sourcing” is increasingly becoming a topic?

- We embrace change, but believe some things should remain constant. I see Serbia and Romania as our core markets, where we bring new clients and growth. We will nurture our values and invest in people, because we believe in offering our employees a real home - wherever they work. For us, it is very important to create opportunities for them to experience new cultures, learn, share, and grow even more.

Finally, I can reveal some big things that we have planned: two new locations are joining our group! They will bring us even more flexibility in our sourcing options and promote exchanges of knowledge. Another important project we currently have in store is our rebranding of the entire group, not just enjoy.ing. That’s already in the works and will be revealed at our huge party on the 17th September, so stay tuned!

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SCIENCE

PETAR ADŽIĆ PH.D., SERBIA’S SCIENTIFIC DELEGATE IN CERN COUNCIL

DECADE AFTER HISTORIC

HIGGS BOSON DISCOVERY To this very day, almost seven decades after its establishment, the European centre for nuclear research that’s known as CERN represents the most prestigious international scientific organisation, the work of which also includes the participation of numerous teams from Serbia SM’s last missing particle, was wrong”.

Finally, after more than 60 years of hunting, it was found in 2012, when the two largest experiments in particle physics – ATLAS and CMS – announced this historic discovery on 4th July at CERN. It represents a huge leap in particle physics, the predicting of which was worthy of the Nobel prize in physics for two great physicists, Peter Higgs and Francois Englert. Among the many scientists taking part in this long journey, Serbian scientists were involved in both of these experiments from 2001 and also gave direct contributions. These two largest and most complex experiments in the history of science involve about 9,000 scientists, engineers and experts of various profiles.

CMS project control room

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peaking to CorD Magazine on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the revolutionary discovery of the Higgs boson, professor Petar Adžić discusses the latest results and upcoming research into the properties of this elementary particle, but also CERN’s importance to Serbia’s scientific community, education system and economy.

■ Precisely 10 years have passed since the discovery of the Higgs boson particle, also known among journalists as the “God particle”.

How do you view this turning point in science from today’s perspective?

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- The Higgs boson was probably the longest awaited particle clearly predicted by the prevailing Standard Model (SM) theory of particle physics. During my past lectures at the Faculty of Physics of the University of Belgrade, I very often had to answer the same question posed by students: do I believe the Higgs boson really exists? My answer was always the same: “besides strong physics and mathematical arguments, there is one more convincing argument: with the exception of the Higgs boson, all particles predicted by the Standard Model – the most precise theory in particle physics – have to date been confirmed as existing, and it is thus hard to believe that only the prediction of the Higgs boson, the

■ Was research on the Higgs boson and the Higgs field concluded back in 2012?

- This discovery represented a turning point in High Energy Physics (HEP) and for particle physicists at the same time also the beginning of new challenges and deeper studies. It firstly confirmed SM as the leading theory of current energies produced at the LHC accelerator complex. This particle also confirms the existence of the complex Higgs field, thus encouraging physicists that they are on the right track in their research endeavours. However, although it is perfectly explained mathematically, we still do not understand the physics behind the Higgs mechanism and how it acts in the creation of particle masses. There are so many phenomena within the Higgs sector that we still need to understand and we are trying to study them in the Higgs boson’s interactions with other particles. Over the last ten years, ATLAS and CMS experiments performed very

complex and comprehensive investigations to understand such interactions.

■ What has been happening at CERN in the meantime? Has the research of some other teams led to some new discoveries, to new revelations about new particles?

- There are other priorities in particle physics too. Several important results and discoveries have also been reported and published in the meantime by ATLAS, CMS and another two LHC experiments: LHCb and ALICE. Some new exotic particles were discovered and some very rare particle decays were confirmed or discovered, including the Higgs boson rare decay, along with other phenomena. On the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the announcing of the discovery, ATLAS and CMS collaborations published two independent papers in the scientific journal Nature showing that the properties of the Higgs boson are remarkably consistent with those predicted by the SM. Further studies of this particle would represent a powerful tool to search for new and unknown phenomena that may shed more light on some of the biggest mysteries of physics, such as the nature of the mysterious dark matter present in the universe. All these discoveries and new precise measurements of particle properties are in line with SM predictions, but one of the priorities is also to search for indications of possible new physics and phenomena beyond SM predictions. All these will stimulate a more intensive search in the ongoing experiments, particularly after the upgrade of the High Luminosity LHC (HLLHC), the operation of which is planned for 2027-2028, while its programmes are expected to probably conclude by 2040.

■ Serbia has been a full member of the European Organization for Nuclear Research – CERN since 2019. What has this membership brought us?

- There are several Serbian research teams involved in CERN projects, four of which are larger: two particle physics teams involved in the CMS (since 2001) and ATLAS experiment (2004), then one research team working on ISOLDE (in nuclear physics) experiments and the team involved in LHC GRID computing and SHIP experiment. There are also several smaller research groups and Serbian scientists and engineers contributing independently to

different CERN projects. More than 80 people from Serbia have been registered as CERN users since Serbia became a full member of CERN. Apart from organised teams that provide an active research contribution to CERN projects, to date many Serbian summer students, Ph.D. students, postdoctoral and senior researchers have obtained prestigious CERN stipends, fellowships and various forms of financial support. They have spent between several months and several years working at CERN. Most of them returned to their home institutions to share their knowledge and experience with their colleagues, while continuing their close collaboration within CERN projects.

were also active within CERN projects, but we expect the industrial return to improve in the following years.

■ Did the engagement of a larger number of research and technical experts at CERN at least slow down the brain drain of experts and future experts leaving Serbia?

- I don’t have any official information, but the answer is positive as far as HEP physicists are concerned. Most of those who collaborate actively within CERN projects travel from Serbia to CERN when needed. We are grateful for the general support of the Serbian govern-

With Rolf Heuer, former CERN General Director

It is estimated that approximately 80% of total particle physics research worldwide is currently being carried out at CERN One of CERN’s important missions is education. Serbia utilised the great opportunity to send pupils from Serbian schools to CERN on several occasions, then students and physics teachers, to attend CERN educational programmes. These programmes included lectures by CERN scientists, active training sessions, visits to CERN laboratories and experiments. Such activities were highly valued by Serbian schools and by the Serbian Ministry of education.

During the construction phase, Serbian industrial companies designed, constructed and delivered some detector parts for ATLAS and CMS detector as an in-kind contribution early in 2000. Some Serbian industrial companies

ment, but what we need is much better financial support. We have been expecting the financial support required for active and comfortable work, including necessary longer stays at CERN, for many years. We hope that financial support will improve in the following years.

I should like to take this opportunity to mention that Belgrade will host the annual international conference “LHCPhysics” (LHCP2023) in the last week of May (22nd-29th) 2023. Serbia and Belgrade will have the honour of welcoming about 500 physicists from all over the world, who will present the latest results of LHC experiments at CERN. During one conference week, there will be also several ongoing events connected with CERN activities.

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In front of open CMS detector

■ Does research work or engagements on projects at CERN imply the transferring of part of the activities to the domestic scientific institutions to which researchers belong and, if so, to what extent?

- This is crucial and one of the most important benefits for each CERN member state. New research goals stimulate the development and application of new technologies as an indispensable ingredient of the construction of complex detectors. It is always a great opportunity for industrial companies to get involved in CERN’s scientific and technological projects. The knowledge and experience gained in this work pay off in the best way provided at least part of these activities and experience are transferred to home institutions.

The same holds for scientists. Their experience and knowledge gained working on CERN projects represent the great award and may become beneficial for their home institutions.

When they return home, they still can continue collaborating within CERN projects, but at the same time they can upgrade and enrich the scientific environment by implementing their knowledge, experience and new methods in research work at home institutions.

■ What are scientists from small countries like ours most impressed by at CERN? - The experimental research in HEP projects assumes the period from feasibility studies, construction and then commissioning of 24

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complex detectors and it takes usually 10 or more years. All these are dictated by high and ambitious research goals and priorities set by scientists and by technological development. Naturally, scientists and engineers, particularly young ones, are always impressed by unique equipment and the presence of many experts from whom they can usually learn. Even we seniors, with 35 or more years of experience at CERN, are astonished and thrilled each time we find ourselves in

- It is estimated that approximately 80% of total particle physics research worldwide is currently being carried out at CERN. It is also one of the leading institutions in accelerator technologies, engineering and IT, along with all activities that necessarily follow the construction of complex detectors. CERN will certainly retain the status of leading HEP laboratory for several more decades and even longer, as all HEP research priorities should receive additional focus in

Serbia utilised the great opportunity to send pupils from Serbian schools to CERN on several occasions, then students and physics teachers, to attend CERN educational programmes front of those complex and huge detectors composed of more than 100 million parts surrounded by associated instruments and occupying the space of four- or five-storey buildings. Besides top-class research and the use of all kinds of modern equipment, I would reemphasis that the greatest benefit offered by CERN is education and experience that scientists or engineers can gain and bring back to their home institutions.

■ It is thanks to CERN that Europe continues to play a leading role in the world when it comes to the physics of elementary particles, but also in some other areas of particle physics. How can that advantage be preserved?

future CERN experiments at much higher energies. The ongoing LH-LHC programme upgrade has already enabled CERN to take a leading role in the following decades. The concept for building the new Future Circular Collider (FCC), which will be more than three times bigger (100 km circumference) than the existing LHC complex at CERN, has been considered and already adopted by the CERN Council within the scope of the plan of the European Strategy for Particle Physics. It should guarantee CERN’s long domination, as the first stage of FCC would become operational after 2040 and will offer the most advanced particle physics programmes for new generations of scientists worldwide for another 20 years or more.

BUSINESS

DRAGANA ATANASOV POPARIĆ, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR,

HEAD OF SERBIA, DEPUTY HEAD OF SWITZERLAND, AT NICOLL CURTIN

HUNGRY FOR

NEW CHALLENGES Nicoll Curtin is an international recruitment company that has been specialising in information technology and change since 1999 and has a long tradition of operating on the markets of Switzerland, the UK and Singapore

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ompanies that are creative, put effort into their employees’ learning and development, offer clear career progression, improved benefits and perks, and which have strong cultural values, are winners ~ Dragana Atanasov Poparić

■ Nicoll Curtin operates in the tech industry, which is in very high demand.

Does this create challenges for you?

- All markets where we operate are currently going through the same challenge, which is a shortage of suitable candidates. This trend will continue, given that the industry is still in the expansion phase. This makes it difficult for companies to attract and retain talent in the current environment, but we work to enable our clients to overcome these challenges. We focus on quality and always keeping up-to-date with tech sector developments, as well as refining our trailblazing approach to recruitment.

■ Could you provide us with an overview of your business? What is particularly important to you?

- It was three years ago that we opened our Serbia office, which is also our Centre of Excellence. From Belgrade we provide support to the global operations of Nicoll Curtin in areas such as recruitment, finance, human resources and administration. We take pride in the way we operate and provide clients with services. The focus is on the quality and integrity of our work. We prioritise ensuring Nicoll Curtin employees have the best environment, resources and opportunities available to them. If they are happy and satisfied, our clients and candidates will be too.

■ How do you rely on Swiss examples of good practice? We know the ways in which two markets differ, but they also certainly have a lot in common.

- Belgrade team has predominantly been built and trained in alignment with the high standards of quality of our Swiss business.

Zurich and Belgrade team collaborate daily, and it is thus essential that processes and skills are aligned.

The Belgrade office has adopted the efficient use of systems and extreme diligence from our Swiss operations. Having spent eight years working on the Swiss market, I have learnt that speed and efficiency of work can indeed be combined. It isn’t required to compromise on one to ensure the other. This is another really

We focus on quality and always keeping up-todate with tech sector developments, as well as refining our trailblazing approach to recruitment important principle for our Belgrade office.

What we have in common in both countries is openness to innovation and hunger for new challenges. I believe that our business model showcases how fantastically the two professional cultures and talent capacities can merge and mutually benefit.

■ The pandemic showed that it is possible to work from home very effectively, which is why many employers and workers are now choosing this option. Are there any other global trends in employment? Is it difficult to retain a good employee?

- Hybrid work is a standard now. Due to the huge competition, companies need to do more to retain good employees. I would say that companies that are creative, put effort into their employees’ learning and development, offer clear career progression, improved benefits and perks, and have strong cultural values – are winners.

This is a long checklist for businesses, but the offer of a good salary is no longer the single main reason for someone to stay in their job.

This is why we, at Nicoll Curtin, have been investing in upskilling our people, making them feel both challenged and part of something bigger. We are really proud that many of our senior management personnel joined Nicoll Curtin as trainees and that 75% of our people progress from junior positions within the first six months and are able to develop their careers further, in their direction of choice.

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BUSINESS

OLIVER STREIT, HEAD OF THE EDUCATION TO EMPLOYMENT PROJECT, NIRAS – IP CONSULT GMBH

E2E LEADS TO TRIPLE-WIN A total of 1,678 young people have so far completed 127 on-the-job training programmes, with more than 77 per cent of the young people who completed the training immediately gaining employment within the same company. The results of E2E are seen through young people who are satisfied to have gained employment and companies that are happy to find motivated young workers overwhelming interest, with the E2E fulfilling a niche and leading to a triple-win,” says E2E Project Director Oliver Streit.

This eight-year project has a total value of 28.7 million euros and the 2nd phase (2020-2023) has seen Switzerland and Serbia continue to contribute jointly to

Based on the experiences of the 132 companies involved in this training in previous years, we see overwhelming interest, with the E2E fulfilling a niche and leading to a triple-win

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he “Education to Employment” (E2E) project, a multi-annual partnership project of two governments, Swiss and Serbian, which was designed to support the development of an environment conducive to improved youth employment, published a new April 2022 call for employers, entitled “Employees to Fit your Business”.

Since 2016, together with the relevant ministries and institutions, the private sector, CSOs and local governments, the E2E project has been advocating the improvement

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of employment policies that would enable young people to gain an inclusive and sustainable position on the labour market.

“I believe that the response of employers within the scope of the fourth call, Work-Based Learning (WBL) Training Platform, is now already astonishing and indicates that more companies are seeking qualified young workers, which is an area where the E2E - with its structured approach to training - has proven successful. So far, based on the experiences of the 132 companies involved in this training in previous years, we see

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project implementation, namely the Swiss Government with 8.9 million euros and the Government

of Serbia with 4.5 million euros. A total of 1,678 young people have so far completed 127 on-the-job training programmes, with more than 77 per cent of the young people who completed the training immediately gaining employment.

“We want to influence the modernisation of youth employment, so that by learning through practical work young people will acquire skills that are in demand and that will help them find their future job faster and easier. At the same time, we help companies find new and adequate personnel who will acquire the necessary competencies required on the labour market.

This is a unique opportunity to create a youth employment support system that’s tailormade just for Serbia, and our results are seen through satisfied, employed young

people, as well as through happy companies that find a motivated, young workforce,” says Streit.

WBL TRAINING IMPACTS ON YOUTH AND COMPANIES At the Stax company in Čačak they note that organising training through projects like “Education to Employment” is the only way to reach workers suitable for the specific requirements of the workplace.

They are satisfied with the personnel they trained, and Guča local Rajko Stanić was hired immediately after completing the training.

“I learned the most from my mentor, as well as working on the machine and simulators. I was very proud when, after three and a half months of training, I was able to work independently on

the machine and when I took the processed piece in my hands, done without anyone's help. This kind of training is an ideal opportunity for young people who need to get a job,” explains young Rajko.

The welder job profile tops the list of occupations that are in short supply in Serbia, and it is true that those who have this trade under their belt can choose any job they want. However, there are few young people wanting to learn this vital trade. In cooperation with the “Education to Employment” project, company DMV from Niš opened its doors to four future welders, with 25-year-old Marija Nešić also training for this job.

“I've wanted to learn this job since I was little, but no one ever had the time to show me. Then I saw the advertisement for the

'Education to Employment' programme and decided to apply, so here I am today. My wish came true, and I started the new year getting to learn a new, practical skill,” said Marija, adding that she likes the job and the team very much and now couldn’t imagine working anywhere else.

“This is not an easy job, but when you love something, it isn’t difficult. A steady hand is required, the work is interesting. It's very similar to embroidery or crocheting, with the added fact that there are sparks, and I'm not afraid of sparks,” she added with a laugh.

Požega-based company Inmold participated in the implementation

WBL TRAINING PROGRAMMES WILL BE ORGANISED IN 12 DISTRICTS Within the scope of this call, the E2E project provides financial and technical assistance to pri-

but not excluding other potential participants, particularly from vulnerable groups. This support programme will assist employers in the process of selecting, training and recruiting new workers. The E2E promotes decent work and will particularly incentivise employers who offer trainees suitable employment conditions.

A total of 75 million dinars has been earmarked for this call. The training budget will be the result of joint funding, with employers, entrepreneurs, micro firms and small companies participating with a minimum of 30 per cent of the total budget, while medium-

vate sector employers in need of competent labour through the organisation of various work-based learning opportunities via the WBL Training Platform for current or future jobseekers, focusing mainly on young people aged under 30,

sized and large companies will provide a minimum of 50 per cent of the total training budget.

More information about the Call and how to apply can be found at https://znanjemdoposla.rs/currentcall-call-2022.

enter our system and to become independent in their work,” said Tomislav Miletić, Inmold’s main mentor of practical teaching.

Tomislav points out the continuity of training as a key advantage of the E2E programme, as it is carried out according to a preprepared plan and the knowledge imparted to young people is systematised.

Continuity of training is a key advantage of the E2E programme, as it is carried out according to a preprepared plan and the knowledge imparted to young people is systematised of the E2E WBL training for the first time in 2021, after which it employed 24 trainees as CNC operators and plastic injection technicians.

“We need young people who want to work, to learn and live from the knowledge gained. The young people who came to the company through the E2E project were motivated to learn, to

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INTERVIEW

ANA GRUJOVIĆ, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE SWISS-SERBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

DYNAMIC YEAR FOR SSCC This year was marked by an increase in the number of chamber members, expansion of the network of institutional partners in Switzerland and the continuation of successful cooperation with existing institutional partners

A

fter a break of two years, the SwissSerbian Chamber of Commerce returned to organising physical gatherings of members and reduced the number of “online” events, which was welcomed by many members. “The possibility of meeting and talking directly, live, with representatives of the Swiss-Serbian business community, as well as with members of the wider business community, has been missed the most by company representatives since the outbreak of the pandemic,” says Swiss-Serbian Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Ana Grujović.

SSCC members were invited in March to participate in a business networking event that was organised in cooperation with other bilateral chambers during the Kopaonik Business Forum and sponsored by two SSCC member companies: Roche and Tomic Sinđelić Groza - TSG law firm.

Additionally, Grujović notes, some online events are still being held, such as the webinar “Measures of active employment policy and financial support for companies”, organised in cooperation with the National Employment Service of the Republic of Serbia and bilateral chambers. “It is also important to mention the webinar on the ICT sector, which was organised in cooperation with Switzerland Global Enterprise and colleagues from the Bulgarian-Swiss and Romanian-Swiss chambers. A novelty linked to this event is that it also provided participants with the possibility of virtual B2B meetings,” explains Grujović.

Similarly, a novelty of the work done during the course of this year includes the expansion of the number of SSCC members, expansion of the network of institutional partners in Switzerland and the continuation of successful cooperation with existing institutional partners.

■ Judging by your website, one would say that the time has come for so-

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cialising, networking and meeting.

Which of these activities have your members been missing the most?

- Expanding the network of business contacts has always been exceptionally valued by SSCC members. Our events provide companies with the opportunity not only to establish direct contact with representatives of Swiss companies operating in Serbia, but also to present their own business activities and launch new business initiatives. For example, a gathering of members held in March

was hosted by company Merkle.

Moreover, SSCC events are often attended by representatives of state organisations, both Swiss and Serbian. We had the honour of having the SSCC networking cocktail party held in May at La Cucina restaurant being attended by H.E. Ambassador Urs Schmid.

That event also provided an opportunity to meet new chamber members. This year we had the satisfaction of seeing the SSCC membership enriched with the addition of successful

TRANSPARENCY Legal certainty and transparency in operations are two crucial points for attracting and retaining foreign investors, Swiss included

NETWORKING

COOPERATION

Our events provide companies with the opportunity to establish direct contacts with representatives of Swiss companies operating in Serbia and to launch new business initiatives

In our opinion, establishing contacts with as many business organisations in Switzerland as possible is important to the further development of Swiss-Serbian business cooperation

companies like Stadler Rails, Kuhne Nagel, Prodyna, Holycode and numerous others.

Finally, events organised in cooperation with other bilateral chambers in Serbia, such as the “Speed Business Meeting” held in April, enabled SSCC members to meet and get acquainted with member companies of the Italian-Serbian Chamber of Commerce, the German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce and the Hellenic Business Association in Serbia.

■ You recently signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Geneva Chamber of Commerce. What does this document mean for advancing Serbian-Swiss economic relations?

- It was last year that the SSCC brought the decision to launch the process of expanding its network of institutional partners in Switzerland and established initial contact with the Chamber of Commerce of Geneva. Following a year of independent work, the SSCC managed to secure an accord with the Geneva Chamber of Commerce, which brings together more than 2,500 companies, to approach the organising of joint events, as well as signing a memorandum of cooperation. We are extremely proud that this SSCC initiative was implemented exclusively with the use of the chamber’s own resources, which resulted in the staging of the event “Market Focus Serbia”, with the aim of presenting the economic potential of the Serbian market to potential Swiss investors from the canton of Geneva.

The event began with the signing of a memorandum of cooperation with which the signatories, the SSCC and the Geneva Chamber of Commerce, committed themselves to strengthening cooperation, regularly exchanging information and providing support to entrepreneurs interested in contributing to the further strengthening of Swiss-Serbian business relations. The Geneva Chamber of Commerce was established as far back as 1865 and represents one of Switzerland’s oldest cantonal chambers. It is also one of the most influential business organisations of the canton of Geneva, with its member companies creating approximately 133,000 jobs.

We are extremely proud that the SSCC initiative to establish cooperation with the Chamber of Commerce of Geneva was implemented exclusively with the use of the chamber’s own resources, and with the aim of presenting the economic potential of the Serbian market to potential Swiss investors from the canton of Geneva ■ How much have investors from the canton of Geneva been present on the Serbian market to date? What do you expect from the “Market Focus Serbia” seminar?

- Among the most important investors from the canton of Geneva, it is certainly necessary to mention company Nestle, which marked the completion of the first phase of construction of its new factory in Surčin in February, which will produce plant-based food. A total of 67 million Swiss francs has been invested in the construction of this second Nestle factory in Serbia, which will sprawl over an area of around 18,000 square metres and is yet more proof of the commitment to the local market of this investor from the canton of Geneva. Alongside this, I would also like to mention company Petite Geneve Petrovic, the official representative of Rolex watches in Serbia.

The Market Focus Serbia seminar marked the first step in SSCC-Geneva Chamber of Commerce cooperation. The next step was the visit

of CCIG general director Vincent Subilia, who accepted the SSCC’s invitation to visit Belgrade for the first time. This occasion provided him with the opportunity to present CCIG activities to SSCC member companies, but also to meet representatives of Swiss-Serbian state institutions and to visit the shop of the official representative of Rolex watches, Petite Geneve Petrovic.

■ How attractive to Swiss investors has Serbia's approach to encouraging foreign investments to date proved to be; and what, in the opinion of your members or future investors, should be innovated?

- In our opinion, establishing contacts with as many business organisations in Switzerland as possible is important to the further development of Swiss-Serbian business cooperation. The SSCC took an important step forward in this regard this year by adding, based on its own initiative, the Geneva Chamber of Commerce to its network of institutional contacts in Switzerland.

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SWISS-SERBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SSCC ACTIVITIES

WORKING VISIT OF GENEVA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DIRECTOR GENERAL In early July 2022, at the invitation of the SSCC, Geneva Chamber of Commerce Director General Vincent Subilia made his first visit to Belgrade. The visit provided him with an opportunity to present the canton of Geneva to SSCC members and hold direct discussions with companies on possibilities for further cooperation.

Together with SSCC President Majo Mićović and H.E. Ambassador Urs Schmid, Mr Subilia participated in a meeting with Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabić. The meeting saw PM Brnabić introduce her interlocutors to the good business climate in Serbia and present areas of the economy deemed as being favourable for investment, with special emphasis on digitalisation, artificial intelligence and biotechnology.

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presented with economic developments and trends in Serbia, the experiences of Swiss companies already operating successfully in Serbia, as well as various benefits available to foreign investors in Serbia. The seminar was opened by H.E. Goran Bradić, ambassador of the Republic of Serbia to the Swiss Confederation, who welcomed the initiative as a significant step in the further advancement of economic cooperation between the two countries.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------SSCC NETWORKING COCKTAIL PARTY An SSCC business networking cocktail party was held at La Cucina restaurant in May. The event’s guest of honour was H.E. Ambassador Schmid, who gave a welcome address. SSCC members had an opportunity to learn more about the activities of their colleagues, meet new members and establish new business contacts.

A visit to Petite Geneve Petrovic, the official distributor of Rolex watches, was also organised.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------GENEVA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOSTS MARKET FOCUS SERBIA SEMINAR

The Swiss-Serbian Chamber of Commerce signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Geneva Chamber of Commerce in June 2022. Following the signing, a seminar entitled “Market Focus Serbia” was held and saw companies operating in the Geneva canton

---------------------------------------------------------------------------WEBINAR “ACTIVE EMPLOYMENT POLICY MEASURES AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT TO COMPANIES” A successful online meeting between 12 bilateral business associations in Serbia and the National Employment Service (NES) was held on 17th March. More than 100 companies that are members of associations had the possibility to discover more about ongoing employment and entrepreneur financial support programmes.

NES representatives informed participants about all novelties within the scope of the active employment policy measures programme, amounts of financial support available to employers, categories of unemployed persons who can be engaged, as well as other benefits that can be achieved through cooperation with NES. The event was organised under the joint initiative of the French-Serbian, German-Serbian and Swiss-Serbian chambers, the Chamber of Italian-Serbian Businessmen, the Dutch-Serbian and Belgian-Serbian business associations, the Slovenian and Croatian business clubs, the Hellenic Business Association, the Canadian-Serbian Business Association, as well as the Japanese and Nordic business alliances.

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WORKING BREAKFAST “SHORTENING THE WORKING WEEK AND REWARDING EMPLOYEES”

A working breakfast was organised in cooperation with SSCC member law firm Tomić Sinđelić Groza - TSG. The appropriate rewarding of employees is constantly topical, while there is currently increased interest in understanding the mechanism related to the possibility of acquiring company shares, which the recent amendments to the Law on Companies introduced as part of regulatory changes.

The entire presentation was also given a tax context, with participants able to hear about the most important tax breaks currently existing, but also new tax incentives that are available to companies for hiring young people, but also for research and development activities.

SPEED BUSINESS MEETING A Speed Business Meeting was held in Belgrade in April and included the participation of members of four bilateral chambers: the German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce (AHK), the ItalianSerbian Chamber of Commerce (CCIS), the Swiss-Serbian Chamber of Commerce (SSCC) and the Hellenic Business Association (HBA). The event brought together almost 50 representatives of member companies from various business sectors.

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INTERNATIONAL COFFEE BREAK

Within the framework of the Kopaonik Business Forum, nine bilateral associations in Serbia brought together representatives of their member companies at the already traditional event called “International Coffee Break” held in the Hotel Grand’s Casa Restaurant. The event was sponsored by two SSCC members companies: Roche company and law firm Tomić, Sinđelić, Groza - TSG. This third International Coffee Break provided guest participants in the Forum with the opportunity to get acquainted, network, and exchange experiences and ideas. The event was simultaneously also an opportunity to meet representatives of bilateral associations in Serbia and discover more about opportunities for cooperation, activities and plans.

MANAGING THE SECURITY OF INFORMATION SYSTEMS A webinar on the topic of cyber security was held in March, in cooperation with SSCC member company Sky Express and together with the German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce and the Italian-Serbian Chamber of Commerce. The webinar marked the first in a series of webinars aimed at demonstrating the importance of the security of information systems and ways to handle challenges posed by information security.

ROUNDTABLE “DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF THE HEALTHCARE ECOSYSTEM – ONE YEAR LATER” An online roundtable entitled “Digital Transformation of the Healthcare Ecosystem - One Year Later”, organised by the Swiss-Serbian Chamber of Commerce and SSCC founding member company Roche Serbia, was opened by H.E. Urs Schmid, Swiss ambassador to both Serbia and Montenegro. Welcoming participants, he said that this roundtable marked the latest step in efforts aimed at better understanding the implications of the digital transformation of healthcare and enabling discussion on how this transformation can be further implemented to the benefit of more effective healthcare protection.

Alongside SSCC President Majo Mićović and Roche Serbia and Montenegro CEO and SSCC Vice President Ana Govedarica, the event was also attended Dejan Kovačević, advisor for Digital Health in the Cabinet of the Serbian Prime Minister, Dr Nick Guldemond, Senior Researcher at Leiden Medical University (Netherlands), I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University and Roche partner globally, Branko Radulović, full professor of economics and economic analysis of law at the University of Belgrade Faculty of Law, and Mirko Jokić, member of the board of the Serbian Haemophilia Society.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------ICT NEARSHORING IN ROMANIA, BULGARIA AND SERBIA – WITH B2B MATCHMAKING January saw the staging of a webinar on the topic of presenting the local market’s ICT sector potential to Swiss companies, in cooperation with Switzerland Global Enterprise. This ICT sector webinar was jointly organised together with colleagues from the Bulgarian-Swiss and Romanian-Swiss chambers. One novel element of this event was that participants were offered the possibility of virtual B2B meetings.

Roche Serbia and Montenegro CEO and SSCC Vice President Ana Govedarica noted that we today receive huge amounts of data that can help us to significantly improve medical treatments.

Information is today collected through so-called Real World Data, which includes data from electronic health records and hospital registries, as well as data obtained from various apps. The management of health data is a key task.

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SWISS HEALTH TRENDS

DIGITAL HEALTH GROWTH Switzerland has an increasing number of start-ups in the digital health field.

According to the conclusion of a study by ZHAW and Health-Trends, these start-ups focus primarily on technology-oriented offers and doctors, hospitals, insurance companies and pharmaceutical companies as customers

S

witzerland has a dynamic, rapidly developing start-up landscape in the digital health sector. Of the current total of around 180 to 200 start-ups, the majority are active in the “data health” and “tech health” segments: they offer, for example, digital solutions for evaluating health data or digitally controllable medical technology products. More than half of the start-ups included in the survey are located in the Zurich area and

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have a maximum of five employees. These are the findings of a survey conducted by the ZHAW School of Management and Law and Health-Trends, a Swiss think tank for digital health. The study is based on this online survey of 42 Swiss start-ups.

FURTHER GROWTH EXPECTED “We assume that the digital health sector and associated start-up scene will develop rapidly in the coming years. The Covid-19

pandemic is likely to accelerate this trend even more,” says Alfred Angerer, head of the Department of Management in Healthcare at the Winterthur Institute of Health Economics at the ZHAW School of Management and Law. “The high proportion of start-ups in “tech health” and “data health” also illustrates how important high-tech skills are for innovations in the digital health environment. Many start-ups use forward-looking technologies like artifi-

cial intelligence, cloud computing and the Internet of Things.

WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES Around three-quarters of the surveyed startups offer digital products and services in core medical areas, such as prevention, symptom recording, information search, diagnosis and therapy. These can be digital symptom testers or online information platforms, for example for searching for doctors and therapists. In terms of content, the solutions are often aimed

Around three-quarters of the surveyed start-ups offer digital products and services in core medical areas, such as prevention, symptom recording, information search, diagnosis and therapy at chronic illnesses like diabetes or cancer, or at psychological complaints.

The survey further shows that 80 per cent of the start-ups are active in the B2B sector and focus on hospitals, doctors, health insurance companies or pharmaceutical companies as customers. This is mainly due

to the fact that the willingness of private customers to pay for digital health offers in Switzerland has been rather low to date.

Around half of the start-ups already have a well-developed offer of products or services.

Another quarter has at least one offer in the

form of prototypes with market demand that’s currently being validated by the companies concerned. Almost 85 per cent of the surveyed start-ups have established cooperation agreements to develop their offer with academic partners.

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ART BASEL IN BASEL 2022

ART IS A CRISIS-PROOF

INVESTMENT & THE JOY OF LIFE

Art Basel is the world’s leading platform connecting collectors, galleries and artists. This year’s edition proved Basel to be a ‘must’, with some true gems of 20th and 21st century art finding admirers and buyers

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I

n the first full, in-person edition of the fair since 2019, this June’s Art Basel hosted a wide selection of sculptures, paintings, installations and art performances in the city of Basel, among them a number of big-ticket items – such as a $40 million Louise Bourgeois spider, a $22 million painting by Francis Bacon and an exquisite $6.5 million bust by Alberto Giacometti – coming from 289 renowned galleries from 40 countries and territories.

In 2020, the 50th edition of the fair in Basel was initially postponed, pushed back to September, only to later be cancelled entirely due to the Covid-19 pandemic, while the 2021 exhibition took a hybrid form. In 2022, 19 galleries from Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Americas participated for the first time in a mostly live but still hybrid event, thus reaching the widest possible audience both on-site and online. Some of the site-specific works were shown throughout Basel’s Old Town.

Art Basel is a for-profit, privately owned and managed, international art fair that’s

staged annually in Basel, Switzerland; Miami Beach; Hong Kong and, as of October 2022, Paris. Founded in 1970 by a trio of Swiss gallerists comprising Ernst Beyeler, Trudl Bruckner, and Balz Hilt, it was their vision that brought together the artists they represented. Their initial idea was to allow local galleries to reach their target market and improve sales, but the event soon grew beyond the parameters of its beginnings. It restored its pre-pandemic glory this June by exhibiting (and selling) some of the most sought-after enigmatic large-scale sculptures, installations and thought-provoking art, proving itself to be the gold standard of contemporary art fairs.

It also attracted a total of 70,000 visitors

from all over the world, who were eager to see good and very expensive art. That was slightly below the total of 93,000 visitors who visited Art Basel in Basel in 2019.

In the words of the organisers, “Art Basel is a meeting place for artists, art collectors and many celebrities from the art scene. The high-calibre exhibitions showcase various art forms, with works by both modern masters and emerging talents. Art Basel brings the art world to life – which is probably why it is so successful”.

This fair is pure joy for the soul and mind for some visitors, while for others it represents a busy shopping season. Based on the volume of sales, it seems as though

Art Basel Paris will take place in October 2022 at the prestigious Grand Palais in Paris. This new project will build bridges with France’s cultural industries – from fashion and design, to film and music. The new fair will initially take place on the Champ-de-Mars, until the 2024 completion of restoration works on the Grand Palais.

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some of the wealthiest collectors were willing to spend more than ever before at this year’s fair.

“We knew people would return,” said dealer Thaddaeus Ropac, whose booth included works by Georg Baselitz, Robert Rauschenberg and Roy Lichtenstein.

Despite weakening economies, demand for artworks was “stronger than we could have imagined”, said Ropac speaking to members of the press.

Another reason for this is the fact that the owners of many of the most expensive artworks, which had been held in private collections for years, assessed demand as being right this spring. The same also occurred in New York and elsewhere this year, with collectors seeking premium prices. In the words of David Zwirner, “sales were strong, and the atmosphere in the opening hours was just like the 38

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Art adviser Alex Glauber told gathered media that he bought multiple works for clients having in mind that the window of opportunity to sell might close soon. He was referring to the nose-diving equity markets, combined with looming rises in rates akin to those seen in 2008 good old pre-pandemic days. Decisions came quickly, with competition for the best works brisk”.

Many dealers brought works cooked in their own collections for a while before they decided the time is right to pull them out.

Nonetheless, the fair’s second floor, which was filled with galleries selling lower-priced contemporary art, also experienced high demand, despite prices being high. Importantly, these high prices were not connected to inflation, but rather to the quality of works exhibited being far above those seen during Covid-era fairs.

Some experts nonetheless see other reasons for collectors and artist themselves being eager to display their best artworks: a looming crisis.

Art adviser Alex Glauber told gathered media that he bought multiple works for clients having in mind that the window of opportunity to sell might close soon. He was referring to the nose-diving equity markets, combined with looming rises in rates akin to those seen in 2008.

The experience still suggests that physical assets weathered the crisis better than stock market assets, thus suggesting that being

in art is a better investment. Interestingly, 20th-century masters sold as well as some emerging artists. Consider that Louise Bourgeois’s Spider (1996) sold for $40 million – up nearly $8 million on the artist’s auction record set at Christie’s in 2019. An Arshile Gorky work on paper, a preparatory piece for his Betrothal paintings from the late 1940s, went for $5.5 million. An early 1940s Francis Picabia painting of bathers sold for $4 million; Mark Bradford’s new mixed-media Cobra (2022) sold for $3.5 million; and George Condo’s oil on linen Large Reclining Nude, also from this year, sold for $2.8 million. Other paintings sold includes works by Frank Bowling ($2.75

million), Philip Guston (two works at $2.5 million each), and Glenn Ligon ($2 million), and another Bourgeois — this one a dye, drypoint, ink and embroidery on cloth piece — went for $1.1 million. John Flag (1965–66) sold for $3 million, Milton Avery’s colourful waterside Bikini Bather (1962) went for $2.5 million and Lynda Benglis’s Power Tower (2019) was snapped up for $1.2 million, Hannah Wilke’s snaking sculpture Rosebud (1976), sold for $1.5 million. Ed Clark’s lush New York Ice Cream (2003) sold to a private collector for approximately $1.2 million.

Art Basel 2023 is scheduled to take place from 15th to 18th June 2023.

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SWISS PRODUCTS

TASTE OF TRADITION

AND LUXURY

Switzerland is a veritable paradise on Earth. That is undeniable. When travellers visit this paradise, they would also like to taste the best Swiss flavours, to match the level of fantasy it creates. Switzerland does have some of the best products that are luxurious and make travellers feel high class

OONA – PURE SWISS ALPINE CAVIAR At the foot of the Bernese High Alps lies the Tropenhaus Frutigen, the production site for Oona, pure Swiss Alpine caviar. Mountain water, fish farming and a tropical garden – a harmonious trio under one roof and with three times the appeal, along with an innovative energy concept.

Oona is the first Swiss caviar produced from sturgeon bred in naturally warm mountain spring water. “Oona”, derived from 40

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Celtic, means uniqueness and genuineness, so it’s no wonder that you are able to feel the exceptional nature of each grain of caviar.

BREGAGLIA CHEESE OF SWITZERLAND An entire country is dedicated to producing high-quality cheese.

Dairy farmers lead their cows up the Swiss mountainsides each spring, encouraging them to graze in the meadows and natural pastures. The cows thus trim and fertilise the fields, which keeps

the Swiss countryside looking as vibrant and green as a postcard.

This practise also ensures that all dairy products in Switzerland are sourced from grass-fed animals. Milk from grass-fed animals is more flavourful than conventional milk, which makes for better cheese.

Authentic to the Val Bregaglia, a valley pass that connects Italy and Switzerland, Bregaglia cheese is slightly sour and has a stunning natural rind. This cheese’s uniquely delicate flavour can only be produced in the Val Bregaglia from milk supplied by local farmers.

THE FAVARGER ETHOS High standards, an appreciation for both tradition and innovation, the courage to try new things – these are all characteristic that make the Favarger Manufacture stand out, and further supporting this claim is the fact that Favarger has been honoured by all chocolatiers throughout the generations. Favarger has preserved its legacy and knowhow by passing the tradition down to new

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generations, interweaving it into its new products and combining it with innovation.

Favarger is a Swiss chocolate making company located in Versoix, Canton of Geneva, Switzerland, that was founded in 1826

by Jacques Foulquier.

LINDT, CHOCOLATE PIONEERS It all began with the opening of David Sprüngli’s small confectionery in Zurich. The business grew quickly, thanks to Sprüngli’s entrepreneurial spirit and passion for chocolate, and Sprüngli soon achieved renown among chocolatiers.

Lindt & Sprüngli is today a household name signifying bliss, quality and chocolate delight the world over. The company has expanded its brand portfolio over the years and ventured abroad, acquiring other chocolate businesses. Despite its global growth, Lindt &

Vinification in oak barrels lends them all the complexity and aging potential of wines worthy of the finest occasions.

EDIBLE ALPINE WILD FLOWERS One of the most wonderful things about hiking through the Alps are the wild flowers. In summer, petals displaying all the colours of the rainbow fill mountain meadows everywhere, and hikers encounter countless different species growing right beside the hiking trails. Wild flowers surely brighten the trail, but did you know that they can also brighten up your salad?

Adding wild flowers to your salad really adds something special. Lettuce forms the base of the salad, while various species of Alpine mountain wild flowers can be added. Rosebay willowherbs, common mallows, harebells, wild thyme and oxeye daisy petals all add their wonderful colours to this delicious salad.

Sprüngli maintains its Swiss roots – in fact, the Swiss remain the biggest champions of this brand, with each citizen consuming an average of one Lindor truffle a day.

ALPINE APPEAL: GERMANIER Swiss wines might not be well-known beyond the country’s borders, but Switzerland boasts a wealth of characterful viticultural areas and many autochthonous grapes.

Few wine lovers are fully aware of Switzerland’s viticultural beauty.

This country of Alpine peaks, countless lakes, velvet green pastures and even palm trees boasts some of the world’s most dramatic and breath-taking vineyard vistas. These are wines at their highest level of character and expression, and only the best vineyards – capable of yielding the most noble and concentrated fruit – are selected.

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BUSINESS PARTNER | SWITZERLAND 2022

BUSINESS PARTNER | SWITZERLAND 2022

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BUSINESS PARTNER | SWITZERLAND 2022