Austrija 2013

FDI Foreign Direct Investment

Austria & Serbia

Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

SPECIAL EDITION

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contents 4

hared European S Future

30

JOVANA GLIGORIJEVIĆ, Editor 6

Economy of Austria

M oving Ever Forward

MICHAEL SPINDELEGGER, Vice Chancellor of the Republic of Austria

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N o Compromise on Quality

Cooperation in the Interest of the Economy

ŽELJKO SERTIĆ, President of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce

Partnership on a Large-Scale

Extraordinary Cinema Experience

CHRISTOF PAPOUSEK, Managing Partner, Cineplexx International Gmbh

KAROLY LAJKO, General Manager, Omv Serbia 22

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Among Most Stable in the World

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Austria & Serbia

Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

EDITOR Jovana Gligorijević, j.gligorijevic@aim.rs ART DIRECTOR Ilija Petrović, i.petrovic@aim.rs

Dynamic at All Levels

Economic Cooperation 40

Kindred Cultures Nicolaus Keller, Austrian Cultural Attaché

IVAN MRKIĆ, Serbian Foreign Minister

PROJECT MANAGERS: Biljana Dević, b.devic@aim.rs Svetlana Okanović, s.okanovic@aim.rs Vanja Đorđević, v.djordjevic@aim.rs Marija Vujković, m.vujkovic@aim.rs Marina Grčić, m.grcic@aim.rs Jasmina Vasiljević, j.vasiljevic@aim.rs PHOTOS Zoran Petrović assistant EDITOR Christen Bradley Farmer, c.farmer@aim.rs TRANSLATORS Snežana Bjelotomić

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On the Investment Radar

44

ANDREAS HAIDENTHALER, Austrian Commercial Counsellor at the Austrian Embassy to Serbia

Strength in

Numbers

DR. CHRISTOPH LEITL, President of the Austrian Economic Chamber

Trans-cultural Hospitality

Customs and Tradition 46

A World Created

by Man Austrian Culture

50

Tourism Superpower Tourism

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Dance the Night Away

Viennese Ball in Belgrade

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ustainable S Friendship

H.E. MR. JOHANNES EIGNER, Austrian Ambassador to Serbia

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Proud to be Reliable Partner ALEKSANDRA POTKONJAK, General Manager of Lagermax Aed

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Ruža Ristanović, r.ristanovic@aim.rs GENERAL MANAGER Ivan Novčić, i.novcic@cma.rs FINANCIAL DIRECTOR Ana Besedić, a.besedic@aim.rs EDITORIAL MANAGER Tanja Banković, t.bankovic@aim.rs office manager Nataša Nešić, n.nesis@aim.rs PRINTING Rotografika d.o.o.

Segedinski put 72, Subotica Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 published by: alliance international media Makenzijeva 67, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia Phone: +(381 11) 2450 508 Fascimile: +(381 11) 2450 122 E-mail: office@aim.rs www.allianceinternationalmedia.com ISSN no: 1451-7833 All rights reserved alliance international media 2013 This issue is audited by ABC Serbia

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 3

comment

Shared European Future Tied together by the winding body of the River Danube, Austria and Serbia share a complicated history. From the Habsburg monarchy and WW1 to increasing levels of trade, investment and cooperation in the post-Milošević era, these proud nations have become firm 21st-century partners Jovana Gligorijević Editor

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ustria is the biggest foreign investor in our country: there are more than 300 Austrian companies doing business in Serbia, with our northwest neighbour having invested over €3 billion into the Serbian economy since 2000. The biggest greenfield investments come from the Austrian economy. The Austrian and Serbian chambers of commerce have a close and welldeveloped cooperation, aimed at encouraging Austrian entrepreneurs to invest in Serbia and aiding Serbian exporters. This is also realised through various agreements and other forms of international cooperation. Estimates suggest there are over 300.000 Serbian citizens living in Austria for temporary work.

An agreement between Serbia and Austria from January 2012 allows these citizens to enjoy all social and health-insurance rights, as well as insurance in case of unemployment.

Other than their strong economic cooperation and geographical proximity, Serbia and Austria are also connected by the Danube, which offers great potential economically and in terms of tourism, potentially strengthening the link between the two countries even further.

Austria, separated from Serbia only by mutual neighbour Hungary, is especially interested in the political and economic stability of southeast Europe and, in accordance with its capabilities, strives to support the integration of Serbia and other western Balkan states into existing European structures.

To that end, there have been attempts at further cooperation via regional initiatives such as the Danube Cooperation Process, Central European Initiative, the Danube Commission and the Working Community of the Danube Regions.

In recent years, the number of Austrian companies’ offices in Serbia has grown. Austrian enterprises are at the forefront economically,

In recent years, the number of Austrian companies’ offices in Serbia has grown. Austrian enterprises are at the forefront economically, particularly in the financial sector (banks, insurance companies, law firms) particularly in the financial sector (banks, insurance companies, law firms). If political stability is secured and the investment climate continues to improve, it is certain that the engagement of Austrian investors will continue to intensify.

The areas of culture, education and science are still in a phase of core reconstruction and moderni-

4 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

sation in Serbia, but the cultural sphere is dynamic and diverse. By establishing the Austrian Cultural Forum in Belgrade in December 2001, bilateral relations received a new boost, with Serbs who live in Austria and Austrian citizens of Serbian descent being given a forum for collaboration and the exchange of cultural ideas.

June 28 next year marks the 100th anniversary of the assassination of Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo, an event that was the direct cause for Austria to declare war against Serbia on July 28, 1914. That day signified the start of the Great War, later known as World War I. Over the course of four years, the war completely changed the structure of Europe and the relations that had been prevalent in the region. Today, a century later, Serbia is once again on a path that will change its role within a pan-European context. This time, however, Austria is its dedicated partner, advisor and supporter.

The two countries will mark the anniversary of the assassination with joint projects aimed primarily at young people and bilateral cooperation. Within the context of history, a century is a small period of time; for Austria and Serbia, it has been a century of effort and work, leading two former adversaries towards cooperation, friendship and a shared European future. ■

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 5

interview

Michael Spindelegger, Vice Chancellor of the Republic of Austria

Moving Ever Forward I have actively spoken out on a European level for the opening of accession negotiations because Serbia has shown clear steps to fulfil the main conditions for these talks. I consider it of the utmost importance that the European Council in June 2013 decided to open negotiations with Serbia and wouldn’t call the date January 2014 a delay. What matters is that the decision to open negotiations has been taken

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ustrian Vice Chancellor Michael Spindelegger has long been a proponent of Serbia’s beginning negotiation talks with the EU. His stance, now that the EU has signalled its openness to these negotiations, has not changed. Speaking in an exclusive interview with CorD about the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina, Vice Chancellor Spindelegger notes that the ongoing dialogue, in accordance with the April 19 agreement, “will steadily improve the rule of law, foster cooperation between the countries and make the life of the people easier.” In this interview, Mr. Spindelegger speaks about the place of the Balkans and Serbia in Europe and emphasizes his commitment to support the positive decisions concerning the further EU integration of Serbia. “All sides will profit from further integration: Serbia, the region and the whole of Europe,” affirms the Vice Chancellor.

■ You are among the European officials who have been very enthusiastic about the commencement of EU accession talks with Serbia. Why is this

event important for Serbia and why for Europe?

- The Balkans is an essential part of Europe. The tragic conflicts of the 1990s have shown how interwoven the countries of this region and the rest of Europe – and notably Austria – are. European integration means sta-

■ Austria has always advocated the launch of accession talks with Serbia, maybe even this year. But the talks are only due to start in 2014. Is this delay significant in any way, and will it have any significant consequences for Serbia’s accession process?

As everybody else in the EU, I welcome the progress that has been made in the dialogue between Serbia and Kosovo. It is in no one’s interest to have a non-relationship between two neighbouring countries, especially for the people on the ground who have been living in a legal vacuum without real perspectives bility and sustainable peace, and this is exactly what the countries of this region need. Therefore, all sides will profit from further integration: Serbia, the region and the whole of Europe.

6 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

- I have actively spoken out on a European level for the opening of accession negotiations because Serbia has shown clear steps to fulfil the main conditions for these talks. I consider it

Support

Message

Relations

I have actively spoken out on a European level for the opening of accession negotiations because Serbia has shown clear steps to fulfil the main conditions for these talks.

The continuation of the dialogue and its implementation is not only good for Serbia and Kosovo, but it also sends out a powerful message to other countries of the region.

The fact that Austrian business remains the biggest investor in Serbia clearly shows the extraordinary level of our economic relations.

regarding EU accession.” What is the rationale behind this compliment?

- I made this compliment to my Serbian colleague and friend in recognition of the clear and committed policy he has been following: no devia-

of the utmost importance that the European Council in June 2013 decided to open negotiations with Serbia and wouldn’t call the date January 2014 a delay. What matters is that the decision to open negotiations has been taken, provided that progress continues regarding reforms and in the dialogue with Kosovo. What also matters is being well prepared for the talks, and in this sense a bit more time can actually be useful.

Over the last few years, Serbia has made so much progress that every year could easily be called “historical”

■ Following your meeting with Serbia’s First Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandar Vučić in June, you were quoted as calling Vučić “the architect of what Serbia has achieved over the last months

tions, no excuses, but a clear focus on what has to be done on the path towards the EU. I think that the further positive developments after our meeting in Vienna have shown that my statement was no exaggeration.

■ What do you think of the level of normalisation so far achieved in the relations between Serbia and Kosovo, and what else should be done in order for these relations to be completely stable?

- As everybody else in the EU, I welcome the progress that has been made in the dialogue between Serbia and Kosovo. It is in no one’s interest to have a non-relationship between two neighbouring countries, especially for the people on the ground who have been living in a legal vacuum without real perspectives. The first agreement of April 19 and everything that followed will steadily improve the rule of law, fos-

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 7

ter cooperation between the countries and make the life of the people easier. I can therefore only encourage both sides to continue with the consequent implementation of their agreement.

Let me add that the continuation of the dialogue and its implementation is not only good for Serbia and Kosovo, but it also sends out a powerful message to other countries of the region. Dialogue and compromise pay off: this is a lesson from history and will be the message of the talks between Belgrade and Pristina.

What are the biggest challenges in this process?

- Recent experiences have shown that the areas of justice and fundamental rights are of particular importance, which is why in the case of Serbia these important chapters will be opened first in the negotiations.

At the same time, other chapters like agriculture, free movement of goods,

■ What kind of message does Croatia’s recent entry into the EU send to Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Macedonia and Albania?

- The accession of Croatia to the European Union is of enormous political significance for the whole region.

It shows that reforms and continued efforts pay off. Most media and analysts see Europe in a stage of “enlargement fatigue”. But the Croatian example shows that the European Union keeps her promises.

■ Following your meeting with Vice Prime Minister Vucic, it was said that the period until the start of accession negotiations would be used to advance economic relations between Serbia and Austria. How is this plan developing?

- The plan is developing rather well: the Austrian Chamber of Commerce organised a special event in Vienna this year to promote investment opportunities in Serbia. Only recently, the Chamber reported to me a high interest by Austrian investors for Serbia. The fact that Austrian business remains the biggest investor in Serbia clearly shows the extraordinary level of our economic relations.

■ Regardless of the success represented by the commencement of EU accession negotiations, Serbia still has to go through a very complex accession process.

Aleksandar Vučić, First Deputy Prime Minister of Serbia and Michael Spindelegger, Vice Chancellor of the Republic of Austria

Recent experiences have shown that the areas of justice and fundamental rights are of particular importance, which is why in the case of Serbia these important chapters will be opened first in the negotiations public procurement and others will have to be prepared as well in order to proceed swiftly with the negotiations.

And of course, the normalisation of relations with Kosovo will have to be continued simultaneously.

■ What do you think of the possibility of EU visas for Serbian citizens being reinstated following the European Parliament’s approval for a revision of the visa regime in an attempt to reduce the number of false asylum requests?

8 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

- As the text of the decision says, the possibility to suspend the visa waiver is only intended for emergency situations and as a last resort in the case of a substantial and sudden increase, over a six month period, of unfounded asylum requests. Asylum is intended for the protection of politically persecuted people, and high numbers of asylum seekers from politically stable countries such as Serbia undermine the functioning of this important instrument. We therefore have to work together with our partners in the countries of origin to prevent such an increase in unfounded asylum requests through information measures, and I am confident that the reintroduction of visas will not be necessary.

■ 2014 is not far off and will also mark the centenary of the Sarajevo assassinations of 1914.

That year was historically very detrimental to relations between Serbia and Austria, but on the other hand 2014 can also be a historical year in a positive sense. Do you believe so?

- Let’s not use the term “historical” too excessively. Over the last few years, Serbia has made so much progress that every year could easily be called “historical”. What matters is to maintain the momentum in the European integration path and to continue consistently with reforms and the normalization of relations with Kosovo.

As for the centenary of World War One, our historians should analyse how the international system could fail so badly in 1914. As for Austria and Serbia, the activities of my ministry will focus on projects with and for the Serbian youth, in order to further boost our excellent bilateral relations, which 100 years after Sarajevo are better than ever. We are definitely moving from a history which has several times divided us into a joint future in the united Europe. ■

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 9

interview

Ivan Mrkić, Serbian Foreign Minister

Partnership on a Large-Scale The Austrian format of an export-orientated economy can be a development role model for many countries in the region, including Serbia. The only difference is that the Austrian economy is based on the service and industry sectors, and much less on agriculture, unlike Serbia which has yet to fully utilize its agricultural potential vitation by Austrian President Heinz Fischer. In the last three years, several Austrian officials have visited Serbia, namely President Fischer, Vice-Chancellor and Foreign Minister Spindelegger and many members of the Austrian government. Friendship groups have been formed in our respective parliaments too.”

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part from historical events, Austria and Serbia are bound by long-term economic relations, geographical proximity and dynamic political dialogue. In assessing the quality of relations between the two countries, Serbian Foreign Minister Ivan Mrkić says that bilateral relations between Serbia and Austria are good and comprehensive, primarily owing to a very dynamic political dialogue which has resulted in a substantial number of high level official visits in the last few years. “This year alone, Serbian Prime Minister Ivica Dačić, first Deputy PM Aleksandar Vučić, and Parliament Speaker Neboša Stefanović officially visited Austria.

Serbian President Tomislav Nikolić is expected to visit Austria in the first quarter of next year following an in-

I would like to single out regional cooperation in which Austria has initiated many cooperation models and in which Serbia is one of the most active countries

■ Considering that our two countries are similar in size but at different development levels, how important is the Austrian development role model for Serbia?

- The fact that our two countries are similar in size and population number, but with Austrian GDP being several times higher than ours, makes Austria a good role model for Serbia. Austria is one of the most economically successful and stable EU members. The Austrian economy is very developed, exportorientated and based on political stability, social peace, harmony between employers and trade unions and is greatly integrated in the global economy. Such a format of an export-orientated economy can be a development role model for many countries in the region, including Serbia. The only difference is that

10 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

the Austrian economy is based on the service and industry sectors, and much less on agriculture, unlike Serbia which has yet to fully utilize its agricultural potential, along with developing industrial production and service sectors.

■ What are the most developed formats of partnership between the two countries?

- The partnership between Serbia and Austria is manifested through a wide array of partnership formats. I would like to single out regional cooperation in which Austria has initiated many cooperation models and in which Serbia is one of the most active countries. I would also like to mention the EU’s Danube Strategy which carries a great potential for the development of various partnership formats in the region. Such cooperation enables us to harmonize our views on how the region should be developed and to contribute substantially to its stability and prosperity. Apart from that, the geographical proximity and the fact that there are many Serbian citizens who live and work in Austria, and who are an important factor and a bridge in the bilateral relations and cooperation, play their part.

partnership

Danube Strategy

investment

The partnership between Serbia and Austria is manifested through a wide array of partnership formats.

The EU’s Danube Strategy is the backbone of regional cooperation, connectivity and good neighbourly relations in the region.

Austria is one of the most important economic partners of Serbia and one of the biggest investors in Serbia.

■ How important is the Danube region for Serbia and Austria?

- The interest shown in the Danube, as one of the most important European development potentials and the starting point for many ideas and projects aimed at linking European countries, has grown a lot recently. The Danube River, as the central and the second longest river transport route (Corridor VII), will gain in importance both in the mid and long-term thanks to its capacity, while the Danube basin is one of the most important European ecosystems which requires urgent and internationally coordinated environmental protection and preservation measures.

To that end, Serbia, Austria and 12 other countries have participated

Following consequences of the current crisis in the Eurozone and the EU, the integration of the West Balkan countries is the second most important foreign goal of Austria

in the drafting of the EU’s Danube Strategy which covers a region with over 115 million inhabitants. Out of 14 Danube countries, nine are EU members. Austria and Romania have been working on coordinating the issue of inland waterways in line with the Priority Axis 1 (improving mobility and intermodality), while Serbia and Slovenia have been coordinating activities on road, passenger and air transport. The Danube River and the EU’s Danube Strategy are the backbone of regional cooperation, connectivity and good neighbourly relations in the region.

Cooperating with Austria in this segment is a priority for us, also because Europe has come to the realization that the Danube, as a natural resource and major development

mechanism with its civilisational, historical and commercial importance, cannot be left to chance. The topic of Danube cooperation at the European level should be approached in a coordinated and serious manner that will yield concrete results. The Danube dimension is increasingly becoming an internal development issue for the European Union, while the EU is becoming the common denominator for all endeavours involving the Danube. The ministerial conference on the EU’s Danube Strategy, which will take place in Bucharest, on October 27, 2013, is going to provide a great opportunity to discuss that.

■ The World War I Centennial is approaching. What was the evolution of relations between Ser-

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 11

bia and Austria in this century, considering that the two countries started off as warring sides and ended up as firm partners?

- The World War I Centennial is going to be marked next year, and it is an important historical date both for Serbia and Austria. We need to observe historical facts consistently, refrain from politicizing the events from the past, and avoid trying to change or revise them.

In this respect, both Serbia and Austria need to send a message to the current and future generations that the horrors of the World War I are firmly behind us and that they won’t stop us in building the present and the future together in our common house that is Europe.

The first Serbs came to Austria in 1526, and, since then, they have contributed immeasurably to defending European values. The establishment of the Military Frontier (1530-1882) was a period when the Serbs were defending the very core of European civilization. The history of European countries has cited Serbs as “the gatekeepers of civilized Europe.” Both Serbs and Austrians can be proud of the fact that they had cooperated so closely, resulting in a 484-year old heritage of Serbian-Austrian relations.

Today’s relations between Serbia and Austria can be viewed as very constructive and dynamic, especially in the context of Serbia’s accession to the EU. We see the Austrian government as a reliable partner to Serbia on its way to EU membership.

■ How important is Austrian support in the European integration process for Serbia, and in which segments does this support mean the most?

- After dealing with the consequences of the current crisis in the Eurozone and the EU, the integration of the West Balkan countries is the second most important foreign goal of Austria. Austria has been actively supporting EU enlargement, and since

becoming a member, the country has greatly helped many countries, particularly neighbouring ones, in preparing for full-fledged EU membership in 2004. Because of this direction, the place and the role that Austria has in the EU, our proximity and relationship, Serbia considers Austrian support very important in attaining our goal of becoming an EU member. At the meeting of the EU Council in June

As a reliable and consistent partner of the Republic of Serbia in the European integration process, Austria has been providing a principled and continuous support to us

this year, Austria gave its vote for unconditional commencement of negotiations with Serbia for EU membership. This political support is very important for us. Also, we highly value Austrian support in various twinning and EU-funded projects.

■ What treaties have Serbia and Austria concluded so far, and why are they important for bilateral cooperation?

- The contractual regulation between the two countries is at a very high level. The consolidation of the contractual state was carried out in 1997 when the two sides agreed to continue implementing 18 agreements concluded by the former Yugoslavia and Austria. I would like to single out the agreements on reciprocal promotion and protection of investments, on economic, agricultural, industrial, technical and technological cooperation, on readmis-

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sion, and on cooperation in fighting international drug trafficking and terrorism. Apart from these, we have initialled agreements on scientific and technological cooperation, and on international road transport of passenger and goods. The new Social Security Agreement was signed early last year. Also, the Agreement on Development Cooperation between Serbia and Austria, signed in February 2009, is considered very important.

■ Does the Serbian Foreign Ministry cooperate with the economic associations in Serbia and Austria with the goal of improving the existing economic cooperation?

- Austria is one of the most important economic partners of Serbia and one of the biggest investors in Serbia. There are over 400 companies operating in Serbia, and Austria is the biggest investor in the Serbian economy, having made US $3.14 billion worth of investments in the last decade alone. Our economic relations are regulated by the Agreement on Economic, Agricultural, Industrial, Technical and Technological Cooperation from 2001. Additionally, we have set up the Serbian-Austrian Economic Forum which is managed by representatives of the biggest companies. We are also cooperating with the Austrian Chamber of Commerce via our embassy in Vienna. The Serbian Embassy is not only active in establishing and developing contacts with Austrian institutions, but also in promoting Serbian businesses in Austria through organizing meetings and presentations and facilitating contacts between business people.

■ Apart from economic links, cultural links also play an important role in diplomatic relations. How developed are the cultural links between Serbia and Austria?

- Austria is definitely one of the more important partners of the Republic of Serbia in terms of cultural coop-

eration. Both sides have been greatly contributing to maintaining a high level of this interaction, with the periodical bilateral Programme of Cultural, Scientific and Educational Cooperation being one of the tools used to accomplish that. In the past, we have had quite a few very significant campaigns, like the exhibition “Serbia – Culture between the East and the West” at the Museum of St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna, an exhibition of Milan Konjović’s paintings at the Palais Porcia in Vienna, a concert by the Royal Strings of St. George at the Royal Hall of the Vienna Piano Gallery, and an exhibition entitled “Belgrade – Moments in Architecture”. The Serbian Cultural Forum in Austria assembles our artists and intellectuals who live and work in Vienna, as well as artists from Serbia.

■ There are many people of Serbian origin living in Austria.

In which way does the Foreign

The links and contacts with the Serbian community in Austria are numerous and dynamic and they mostly take place via our Embassy in Vienna and the Consulate General in Salzburg

Ministry maintain communication with them?

- There are over 200,000 people living in Austria who have either a Serbian passport or originate from Serbia. Communication with this second largest Serbian diaspora in Europe (the biggest Serbian diaspora is in Germany) is frequent and diversified. The links and contacts with the Serbian community are numerous and dynamic and they mostly take place via our Embassy in Vienna and the Consulate General in Salzburg, as well as through the visits of the representatives of the Office for Cooperation with the Diaspora and Serbs in the region.

The Serbian diaspora in Austria is well-organized and integrated.

Apart from 13 communities and over 70 clubs and associations, there is also the Union of Serbs in Austria, as an umbrella organization. Our diaspora in Austria has three delegates in the Assembly of

the Diaspora and Serbs in the Region who visit their homeland and our ministry on regular basis.

We should underline that, on their visits to Austria, the highest Serbian officials always use the opportunity to meet with our diaspora which is a real bridge of cooperation and friendship between our two countries.

■ Do you think that Austria will change its visa regime for Serbian citizens?

- As a reliable and consistent partner of the Republic of Serbia in the European integration process, Austria has been providing a principled and continuous support to us in terms of the EU’s decision on liberalization of the visa regime.

We don’t expect Austria to change its stance on visas because we haven’t a drastic increase in the number of asylum seekers there or the emergence of other problems that would warrant a change in visa regime. ■

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 13

interview

Dr. Christoph Leitl, President of the Austrian Economic Chamber

Strength in Numbers The Austrian Federal Economic Chamber represents the interests of business, promotes the economy, and communicates knowledge. In this sense, we feel that we have a socio-political responsibility towards the citizens of our country. The chambers of commerce were established by the Austrian legislative body to safeguard the interests of particular social and professional groups. Only a strong chamber organization can be a partner to the government and can speak with one voice in the name of companies, representing the interests of its members

W

ithin the long history of the Austrian Economic Chamber System, there is a very long history of the Austrian Chamber’s presence and work in Serbia.

For an uninterrupted 60 years, the Austrian Chamber has been fostering cooperation and the development of business ties between Austria and Serbia. According to Dr. Christoph Leitl, President of the Austrian Economic Chamber, there is still much more opportunity for developing these ties. In this interview, Dr. Leitl discusses the Chamber, its role in the region and in Serbia, and some of the highlights of its work here. â– Membership in the Economic Chamber is a legal obligation for

any company registered in Austria. Could you tell us something about the principles upon which the chamber was founded and its operations?

- The Austrian Economic Chamber System can look back on a long history. We can trace our roots back to 1848. In all these years, our role as a chamber of commerce has continually evolved, but we have always remained loyal to the key principles that have made the Chamber organization what it is today.

We are proud to say that we have the second biggest foreign trade network in the world, with over 115 offices working in the interest of Austrian companies The Austrian Federal Economic Chamber represents the interests of business, promotes the economy, and communicates knowledge. In this sense, we feel that we have a

14 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

socio-political responsibility towards the citizens of our country.

The chambers of commerce were established by the Austrian legislative body to safeguard the interests of particular social and professional groups. Only a strong chamber organization can be a partner to the government and can speak with one voice in the name of companies, representing the interests of its members. The important aspect here is that the Chamber remains independent, thereby strengthening its position in negotiations with the state and representatives of unions and management. When I am talking about our members, our duties also include weighing the competing interests of diverse groups. The Chamber also participates in the legislative process, both on the federal and the regional level. Our goal is to provide the best possible framework conditions for conducting business. We also represent the interests of our mem-

Cooperation

Partner

Investments

For an uninterrupted 60 years, the Austrian Chamber has been fostering cooperation and the development of business ties between Austria and Serbia.

The Serbian Chamber of Commerce is an important partner for us, both on the bilateral level as well as on the European level in, for example, our common work within Eurochambres.

Since 2000, Austrian companies have invested more than €2.9 billion in Serbia, according to official statistics from the Serbian National Bank.

bers at the EU level. The Economic Chambers have additional formal roles, in which they act on behalf of the Austrian public administration, for example, in the certification as master craftsman, administering the apprenticeships system, and issuing of certificates of origin for traded goods.

■ How important is export and market expansion to Austria’s economic strategies?

- Austria’s export quota is 40% of GDP. Export is of the utmost importance for our economy and our country. It also is the main force which is driving growth. Being a small country, we cannot rely on

our home market. We need to venture abroad.

■ How many offices does the Austrian Chamber of Commerce have worldwide and what are their main activities?

The important aspect here is that the Chamber remains independent, thereby strengthening its position in negotiations with the state and representatives of unions and management - We are proud to say that we have the second biggest foreign trade network in the world, with over 115

offices working in the interest of Austrian companies. Their range of activities is extremely wide, from introducing SMEs to export markets to taking experienced exporters into overseas markets, from finding business partners to solving company-specific problems. They are engaged in lobbying and networking, they organize trade missions and participations in trade fairs. In short, they are the offices of the Austrian economy abroad.

■ How important is Serbia as a trade partner to Austria, in terms of the work that the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber does, and what kind of treat-

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ment does the Serbian market have in the region?

- South East Europe in general and especially Serbia is a very important business partner for us. Austria is the biggest foreign investor in Serbia. Since 2000, Austrian companies have invested more than €2.9 billion in Serbia, according to official statistics from the Serbian National Bank. We can count over 450 Austrian companies with subsidiaries in the country. Our annual bilateral trade volume is close to €900 million. You can measure the importance of Serbia for the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber and the treatment which the Serbian market gets by a simple fact: our office in Belgrade was founded over 60 years ago, in 1952 to be precise, and it has been operating ever since without any interruption, even during 1990s when the world looked a bit different from today.

■ What is the nature of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber’s collaboration with the Serbian Chamber of Commerce and how could this collaboration be further developed?

- The Serbian Chamber of Commerce is an important partner for us, both on the bilateral level as well as on the European level in, for example, our common work within Eurochambres. We organize trade missions as well as business forums together, both in Serbia as well as in Austria. Our last “Serbia Forum” on the premises of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber in Vienna in May this year was attended by over 200 business people. Still, I believe that our collaboration can develop in many more ways. One example: with the WIFI Austria, the biggest institution for adult vocational training in Austria and part of the Chamber Organization. Just now we are exploring ways to further our cooperation with the Serbian Chamber of Commerce in this field.

■ How much room and potential is there for Serbian companies to break onto the Austrian market, and what kind of prerequisites do Serbian companies need to fulfil in order to satisfy your market’s requirements?

- In business, there is always room and potential for an entrepreneur who is actively looking for it. From

Since 2000, Austrian companies have invested more than €2.9 billion in Serbia, according to official statistics from the Serbian National Bank the legal side, there are no barriers for entry into the Austrian market. The only thing you have to look out for, both on your home market as well as abroad, is competition. I encourage all Serbian companies which see their products as fit for the European market to come to Austria.

■ There has been a lot of talk about the Danube playing a much more important role in linking the economies of the two countries. What are the major hurdles to implementing this project?

- The Danube is a physical link between many countries and also is

16 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

a symbol. What would be needed are adequate harbour capacities and ensuring that the river remains navigable throughout the year, that is, also throughout winter time.

■ For decades Austria has fostered a unique social partnership between employers, the

government, and trade unions, with WKÖ playing an advisory role. What does this entail?

- Representing the employers side the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber actually plays a much more important role than just an advisory one. The model of social partnership in Austria is indeed unique and something which many countries envy in us. The main principle behind this social partnership is the idea that differences between employers and employees are settled through negotiations and not through strikes. It sounds like boasting, but it’s a fact that this model has proven to be so successful that in Austria we measure strike time in seconds per year, much in contrast to some other countries where the economy suffers from days and weeks of strike time. Yet, the necessary changes to ensure competitiveness and improving life are being made. ■

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 17

interview

H.E. Mr. Johannes Eigner, Austrian Ambassador to Serbia

Sustainable Friendship Serbia is indeed just one step away from starting accession negotiations with the EU. Austria welcomes the determination with which the Serbian leadership is pursuing the European path. If this determination continues, if the reform and modernization process translates into real changes, if a constructive neighbourhoodpolicy, including towards Kosovo, remains in place, then even the most sceptical EUmember state will be convinced about the added-value of Serbia’s EU membership.

And eventually it is about membership and not mere partnership

I

n looking at the position and progress of Serbia following the EU’s decision to set a date for the beginning of membership negotiations, H.E. Mr. Johannes Eigner, Austrian Ambassador to Serbia continues to show strong support and encouragement in the efforts to bring the reforms and changes needed for membership. In this exclusive interview for CorD, the ambassador points out that the cooperation between Serbia and Austria has been very strong for a very long time on many levels and that it will continue to play this role. In projects reaching from the Danube strategy to regional development in Vojvodina, Austrian know-how and expertise continues to have a guiding role and influence on Serbia’s overall development. Mr. Eigner is very clear: now is the time to ensure that all such projects and reforms be addressed with renewed energy and determination.

■ As a neighbour to Southeast Europe, Austria is interested in the region’s stability. How do you view Serbia’s position in the region?

- The development in and of Serbia is key to the development of the entire region. A stable and prosperous Serbia can play its part in advancing

Apart the well known engagement of large Austrian players in the sectors of finance, telecommunications or construction, I want to highlight two promising fields of cooperation: energy and agriculture the entire region. A Serbia moving ahead on its European path can substantially contribute to achieving the full integration of the all the remaining Western Balkan countries

18 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

into European structures. Austria is greatly encouraged by the progress made by Serbia in the past year and will continue to consistently lend further support.

■ What effect do events in Southeast Europe have on Austria as the region’s closest neighbour geographically speaking?

- Austria experienced immediately the negative consequences of the tragic war in the nineties; we had to face a wave of refugees and gave shelter to more than 100.000 of them. This shapes our particular interest in and support for a lasting stabilization of the region, whose positive effects are felt equally immediately. Trade and investment picked up with the recovery after 2000, and the region became a key partner for

Support

Region

Investment

Austria is greatly encouraged by the progress made by Serbia in the past year and will continue to consistently lend further support.

The development in and of Serbia is key to the development of the entire region.

A stable and prosperous Serbia can play its part in advancing the entire region.

Further promising fields of investment activities are agriculture and energy, the development of which is also high on the agenda of the Serbian government.

Austria – politically, culturally and economically.

■ The last time we talked, Serbia had not yet been given a date for the beginning of EU accession negotiations. The situation is different today. What steps should Serbia take in order to prove itself as a reliable and stable partner of the EU? - Serbia is indeed just one step away from starting accession negotiations with the EU. Austria welcomes the determination with which the Serbian leadership is pursuing the European path. If this determination continues, if the reform and modernization process translates

into real changes, if a constructive neighbourhood-policy, including towards Kosovo, remains in place, then even the most sceptical EU-

There was a desperate need in Serbia for a modern, solid, functioning financial sector in which customers, both private and corporate, could trust. Austrian banks and financial institutions were among the first able and willing to satisfy that need member state will be convinced about the added-value of Serbia’s EU membership. And eventually it is about membership and not mere partnership.

■ The Danube region is one of the main issues in bilateral relations between our two countries. What kind of cooperation exists or will be developed with regard to the Danube Strategy?

- Serbia was an active partner in the EU strategy for the Danube region from its very inception. It quickly realized the potential of this new tool for regional development and cooperation stretching beyond the EU borders. This became quite evident in the field of science and research, where Serbia – and concretely in the person of the rector of the University of Novi Sad - is one of the coordinators and significantly intensified its cooperation, particularly with Aus-

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 19

trian partner institutions. And the most visible project so far is the EUfunded socioeconomic development of Serbia’s Danube region which is being put in place under the tutelage of Austrian experts.

for organic farming, for which this region is particularly well suited.

■ Most Austrian investments in Serbia have been made in the banking sector. Why is that so?

In which economic segments

■ Apart from the Danube Strategy, what are some other key segments of economic cooperation between Serbia and Austria?

- Apart the well known engagement of large Austrian players in the sectors of finance, telecommunications or construction, I want to highlight two promising fields of cooperation: energy and agriculture. Both are of significant importance to the Serbian economy, and Austrian companies are already active in both and can bring specific know-how, be it renewable energy or organic farming, for instance.

■ Since 2000, the Austrian government has been providing substantial financial assistance to regional and local projects in Serbia. Which of these projects is considered the most important?

Holding the pride parade should first and foremost be seen as a very visible call for tolerance, a sign of the maturity of a society. The role of the state consists centrally in securing a safe environment for holding the parade and not to capitulate to violent opponents of the basic freedom of assembly - From the many projects set up and financed by Austria, mainly through its Development Assistance (ADA) I would like to highlight two which reflect particularly well the longterm approach and the focus on the sustainability of our assistance. One is a five million euro contribution to the Integrated Regional Development of the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina, and the second is support of a comparable size for the Centre for Development of Jablanica and Pcinija District in the South. The first comprised, for instance, the setting up of the Vojvodina Investment Promotion Centre, the second: a project

can Austria up its investments?

- It is true that Austrian banks and insurance companies have a leading position in Serbia. There is a quite simple reason for that: there was a desperate need for a modern, solid, functioning financial sector in which customers, both private and corporate, could trust. Austrian banks and financial institutions were among the first able and willing to satisfy that need. And with them other investments followed in construction, tourism or utilities, to name just a few areas.

Further promising fields of investment activities in my view are, as I

20 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

mentioned above, agriculture and energy, the development of which is also high on the agenda of the Serbian government.

■ In early September, the Austrian Embassy was one of the institutions that voiced its support for the Gay Pride Parade in Belgrade. What is your view of the developments around the Pride Parade so far, and how important is the Parade in the light of Serbia’s integration in Europe?

- Holding the pride parade should first and foremost be seen as a very visible call for tolerance, which, by the way, ought not to be confined to a single day of tolerance. It is a sign of the maturity of a society not to feel threatened by people demonstrating for their freedom of sexual orientation. The role of the state consists centrally in securing a safe environment for holding the parade and not to capitulate to violent opponents of the basic freedom of assembly.

■ Austria has many immigrants from Serbia and the Balkan area. How have they been contributing to cultural and social diversity, considering that most of them came to live in Austria as part of the “brain drain” in the region?

- People in Austria originating from the former Yugoslavia, more than 350,000 persons, of which there are, according to most recent statistics, approximately 110,000 Serbian citizens, are of quite diverse backgrounds. This includes the traditional “Gastarbeiter” of the first wave, war refugees as well as young students, researchers or sportsmen.

To a large extent they are well integrated, respected and successful in their respective professions. Cultural life, especially in Vienna, wouldn’t be as rich, diverse and colourful without the “Balkan” influx and influence – one of Vienna’s trendy music festivals Vienna has the emblematic name “Balkan Fever”. ■

interview

Karoly Lajko, General Manager, OMV Serbia

No Compromise on Quality By implementing the "Profitable Growth" strategy, OMV will develop into an integrated, international company focused on oil and gas with clearly improved profitability and strong growth in the upstream sector

W

strategy of offering premium quality service and products to our customers ‘on the move’.

OMV offers its customers the same high quality standards on all its filling stations, in all the countries where it is present. In some countries, OMV was the first to introduce the concept of a multifunctional service centre. OMV filling stations were the first to include children’s playgrounds and sanitary facilities for the disabled in Serbia, as well as the first to implement the most advanced safety and environmental standards.

Our VIVA shops offer a large range of everyday goods including fresh food, snacks and refreshments, the popularity of which has helped to support our business.

Our convenient shops are very popular with our customers as they can quickly pick up some groceries, stop for a short break in a pleasant environment and be helped by our friendly staff.

hanced in order best to meet the challenges of the future. R&M (Refining & Marketing) will continue to be an important business division for OMV. Given the challenging market conditions, the focus will be on optimization and increasing efficiency to adapt to the challenging market environment.

The cornerstones of OMV's “Profitable Growth” strategy at a glance are: growing upstream, integrated gas, restructured oil downstream and improved performance across the entire Group.

ith Group sales of EUR 42.65 bn and a workforce of around 29,000 employees ■ How important is Serbia as a market in 2012, OMV Aktiengefor the company globally? sellschaft is Austria’s largest listed indus- OMV has a network of 61 filling stations trial company. OMV has proven oil and gas covering all major routes and cities in Serreserves of approximately 1.12 bn barrels bia. OMV Serbia directly employs 44 people, of oil equivalent (boe) as of year-end 2012 and we are also very proud that we have and production of around 303,000 boe/ contributed to the creation of over 1,300 day in 2012. In refining and marketing, jobs through our network of filling stations.

OMV has an annual refining capacity of 22 Serbia remains important as a market million tonnes and approximately 4,400 for OMV, and the company has demonfilling stations as of the end of 2012 in 13 countries. In gas and power, OMV sold ap- ■ What is OMV's strategy through 2021. strated its commitment to the local market proximately 437 TWh of gas in 2012. With - In September 2011, the OMV Executive by making a series of sizeable investments. a trading volume of around 528 ■ When we are talking about fuTWh in 2012, OMV’s gas trading OMV has invested around €140 million ture growth and development, platform, the Central European Gas Hub, is among the most important locally and the SIEPA recognises OMV as what are OMV’s plans for Serbia? hubs in Continental Europe. one of the largest greenfield investors - OMV will continue to provide the highest quality fuels and services at its filling stations.

■ What are the main business We are ambitious and continue to strive Board presented its strategy based on the principles of OMV Serbia?

- OMV’s business philosophy is to provide pillars of "growth, integration, change, per- to grow our business further. OMV has inthe best to its customers. This is the key to formance" in Istanbul. By implementing vested around €140 million locally and the our success, not only in Serbia but also in the "Profitable Growth" strategy, OMV will Serbian Investment and Export Promotion the other countries where we are present. develop into an integrated, international Agency (SIEPA) recognises OMV as one of As a premium brand, OMV makes the nec- company focused on oil and gas with clear- the largest greenfield investors in Serbia.

Our strategic objective for the following essary investments to be able to provide the ly improved profitability and strong growth years in Serbia remains to continue offering highest quality fuels and services on our in the upstream sector.

The OMV portfolio will be more focused, premium quality services and products to filling stations. OMV does not make compromises on quality and continues with its and profitability will be continuously en- our customers ‘on the move’. ■

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 21

interview

Željko Sertić, President of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce

Cooperation in the Interest of the Economy Economic cooperation between Serbia and Austria is based on a bilateral foreign trade platform, investment cooperation, and Austrian support to Serbia’s participation in the EU projects

T

he cooperation between Austria and Serbia has traditionally been very dynamic and broadly positioned. We are talking to Željko Sertić, President of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce, about the platforms on which this economic cooperation is based and how much the Serbian side has contributed to the bolstering of this cooperation.

“Economic cooperation between Serbia and Austria is based on a bilateral foreign trade platform, investment cooperation, and Austrian support to Serbia’s participation in the EU projects. In the interest of the Serbian economy, the Serbian Chamber of Commerce

has been encouraging cooperation with the Austrian businesses by organizing various business events in Austria. This year alone, via its office in Austria, the Serbian Chamber of Commerce has organized dozens of events with hundreds of Serbian companies, institutions, and local governments participating. The Serbian Business Forum was by far the most important event this year. It took place in Vienna in May and was organized in collaboration with the Austrian Chamber of Commerce. Over 200 Austrian companies and institutions interested in cooperating with Serbian businesses took part. The Serbian Chamber of Commerce also facilitates the participation of its members in fairs and other significant

Mr. Gusenbauer is highly respected and has important acquaintances in politics and business which is certainly going to be helpful in the course of our preaccession negotiations business events in Austria which are of interest to Serbian economy,” Mr. Sertić says at the beginning of the interview.

■ There are close to 250 Austrian companies and branch offices operating in Serbia. What

22 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

do you think of their contribution to the country’s overall economic development?

- We already have around 450 Austrian banking and insurance companies (Raiffeissen Bank, Hypo Alpe Adria Austria, Volksbank, Erste Bank, Wiener Städtische, Uniqa, Grawe, and others), telecommunications (Mobilkom), construction (Tondach) and chemical companies (Henkel) doing business in Serbia, including Austrian companies from other economic segments.

In the period from 2000 to 2010, Austria was the leading foreign investor in Serbia and the fifth biggest cash investor in the last two years. In upcoming months, we expect the agreed and announced Austrian investments to be realized (namely, investments by companies Kronospan, Swarovski, Vamed and others).

Also Austria is a very important bilateral donor to regional and local development projects.

When deciding whether to invest or not, Austrian investors are very mindful of a strategic approach and long-term perspective. The long-term presence of these companies in our country therefore has a positive influence on its overall economic activity, both in the production and service sectors. Austrian investments bring know-how to

investment

cooperation

example

In the period from 2000 to 2010, Austria was the leading foreign investor in Serbia and the fifth biggest cash investor in the last two years.

The most prominent formats of economic cooperation are certainly exchange of goods and services which value amounts to nearly 1 bln US dollars annually.

The Austrian economy can serve as a good example not only to our economy, but to developed European economies too.

Serbia. They raise technological levels and the volume of domestic production and, in so doing, improve the competitiveness of Serbian products in exigent foreign markets.

Considering the importance of the service sector for the national GDP of both countries, complying with Austrian standards in banking and insurance has substantially raised the level and quality of financial services in our market.

■ To what extent can the Serbian economy keep up with Austrian initiatives in strategic projects like the Danube Strategy, for instance, which is something from which Serbia could certainly benefit a lot?

- As we speak, preparations are underway for Serbian companies and local governments to participate in the Third Danube Region Business Forum, organized by the Austrian Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with the EU’s Danube Commission, which will take place on November 14 and 15. All Danube countries are going to participate in the Forum, and one of the main topics will be defining concrete activities on improving cooperation between local self-governments and institutions in Danube countries.

■ What do you think are the most prominent formats of the economic cooperation between the two countries?

- The most prominent formats of economic cooperation are certainly exchange of goods and services whose value amounts to nearly a billion US dollars annually (this figure stood at US $550 million in the first seven months of this year) and investments by Austrian companies

which, since 2000, have been valued at over €3 billion. We are talking about investments in banking, insurance, service, food and other industrial sectors.

The Austrian Chamber of Commerce is, in many ways, our role model, primarily in terms of efficiency and the influence that chambers of commerce exert on economic policy ■ Which sectors are going to appeal to Austrian investors in 2014?

- In the last ten years or so, the Austrian economy has been focusing its development on sectors like environmental protection, energy and energy efficiency. Hence the strong interest for establishing and expanding cooperation in these areas. For instance, the Austrian company PORR has built a landfill in Jagodina and has expressed interest in further developing its environmental business in other parts of Serbia too. There is also an ongoing waste water filtering project which was presented in Niš in late July. Another Austrian company, Energie Steiermark, has acquired a majority share in the Belgrade-

based company Beogas. Austria is willing to invest in building new and modernizing the existing hydro-power plants in Serbia (in late 2011, a Memorandum of Understanding for cooperation in the hydro-energy sector was signed by Serbia and Austria). Certain Austrian companies have expressed interest in building wind farms too.

■ Austria is the number one investor in Serbia’s financial sector. What do you think of this sector’s development in Serbia considering the still visible consequences of the economic downturn?

- The Serbian financial market is dominated by foreign banks. Foreigners are majority shareholders in 21 banks, while Austrian shareholders (Raiffeissen, Hypo Alpe Adria Austria, Volksbank, Erste Bank) have the biggest share in total banking assets in Serbia. There are Italian, Greek and French shareholders too. The Serbian insurance sector comprises of 27 insurance companies, with 20 of them having of foreign entities as majority shareholders, including Austria (Wiener Städtische, Uniqa, Grawe).

The severity and financial loss sustained because of the financial crisis have led us to believe that there needs to be a systematic approach to regulating and supervising the financial sector. Owing to supervision by the National Bank of Serbia and the Securities Commission, the Serbian financial system is totally stable and is characterized by a healthy level of the capital adequacy ratio (over 20%) and a satisfactory market cap. Maintaining price stability and further developing all segments of the financial system

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 23

will contribute towards dispelling certain prejudices that other countries have regarding Serbia, will improve Serbia’s reputation as a future member of the European family dedicated to strengthening the system’s institutions, fighting corruption, and jump start the process of creating the Serbian national brand. It is a well known fact how much Austria has been investing in improving its image. By building our national brand, we are going to

(primarily the banking sector which has a dominant role due to its 92% share in the total balance) are going to heavily influence further economic activities of our country.

■ What are your experiences in communicating with senior representatives of the Austrian economy and the Austrian Chamber of Commerce? Would you apply some Austrian experiences to Serbian economic system?

- The Serbian Chamber of Commerce has exceptionally good cooperation with the Austrian Chamber of Commerce whose experience is valuable for our further development. Our Austrian counterparts are, in many ways, our role model, primarily in terms of efficiency and the influence that chambers of commerce exert on economic policy. We also have good communication and cooperation with the Austrian Ministry of Economy. The Austrian economy can serve as a good example not only to our economy, but to developed European economies too. At a recent conference of the European Trade Promotion Organizations (ETPO) in Vienna, the Deputy European Commissioner for industry and entrepreneurship spoke about the need for Europe to be re-industrialized, and cited Austria as an example of a modern, highly technologically developed and industrialized economy.

■ Former Austrian Chancellor Gusenbauer has recently been appointed an advisor to Serbian government. Do you think that this appointment will make the Serbian-Austrian cooperation even more dynamic?

- Mr. Gusenbauer is a member of the Austrian team for negotiations with the EU. He is highly respected and has important acquaintances in politics and business which is certainly going to be helpful in the course of our pre-accession negotiations. International events, which Serbia will organize with his help,

In the last ten years or so, Austrian economy has been focusing its development on sectors like environmental protection, energy and energy efficiency

protect the interests of our national economy and, while building this brand, we really what to hear about Austrian experiences.

■ What are the most important bilateral treaties between our two countries that are supposed to yield concrete results in the foreseeable future?

- It is very important for our business people and entrepreneurs to have an adequate legal and regulatory framework which ensures, facilitates, and simplifies establishment and advancement of various formats of economic cooperation with Austria. The concrete examples of the application of this regulation can be seen in investment and development cooperation, while the implementation of the intergovernmental Social Security Agreement,

24 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

which started last year, is very important for many of our citizens who are temporarily living and working in Austria, as well as for Austrian companies doing business in Serbia.

The intergovernmental agreements that are most important for the development of bilateral economic relations are the following: • Social Security Agreement between the Republic of Serbia (RS) and the Republic of Austria (2012) • Agreement on Scientific and Technological Cooperation between Serbian and Austrian governments (2010) • Double Taxation Agreement between RS and the Republic of Austria, applicable to income and property tax (2010) • Agreement on General Provisions of Development Cooperation between Serbian and Austrian governments (2010) • Agreement on Military Cooperation (2009), Agreement between the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Industry of the Republic of Serbia and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Environmental Protection and Water Industry of the Republic of Austria on Cooperation in the Field of Agriculture and Forestry (2007) • Agreement between the Federal Government of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and the Government of the Republic of Austria on the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investments (2002) • A greement between the Federal Government of Yugoslavia and the Austrian Federal Government on Economic, Agricultural, Industrial, Technical and Technological Cooperation (2002), and • Agreement between the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and the Republic of Austria on Social Security (2002), and Agreement between the Federal People’s Republic of Yugoslavia and the Republic of Austria on Cooperation in Plant Protection (1960). ■

interview

Andreas Haidenthaler, Austrian Commercial Counsellor at the Austrian Embassy to Serbia

On the Investment Radar The EU accession process helps to put Serbia on the “economic radar screen” of people, something which it has not sufficiently been in the past try. I am also happy to report that the level of Austrian investment has been growing continuously in the past, even in the past few years which were economically quite difficult.

E

conomic ties between Serbia and Austria are deep-rooted and comprehensive. As one of the top investor nations in Serbia and a top trade partner, Austrian companies continue to invest and expand in Serbia as the country moves closer to EU integration. This month we speak to Andreas Haidenthaler, Austrian Commercial Counsellor aht the Austrian Embassy to Serbia, about the Austrian business community in Serbia and its growth prospects.

■ What has been the level of Austrian investments in Serbia so far?

- According to the statistics of the Serbian National Bank, Austrian companies have invested almost €2.9 billion in Serbia, making Austria the biggest foreign investor in the coun-

■ In late 2012 the Economic Affairs Section of the Austrian Embassy carried out a survey which showed that Austrian businesses declared themselves to be “mostly satisfied” with their operations in Serbia, despite the overall economic downturn.

Why do you think that is?

- Austrian companies have a lot of experience in this part of the world and they are here for the long term.

You do not become the biggest investor if you plan to leave the country at the first opportunity or when things become a bit more difficult. Still, we

A lot will depend on the question of whether the long-awaited and long-announced reforms will be fully implemented, so that the positive effects can actually be felt at the level of companies know that our companies would like to see more reforms put in place that would help Serbia become a more attractive investment destination and make business people not only “mostly”, but “very” satisfied. In Austria we have a motto: “When the economy is happy, everybody is happy”, and I think there is some truth in this.

■ How well did Austrian companies in Serbia do in the first

half of this year compared to the same period last year and what are the projections for 2014?

- Our companies do have a long-term interest in Serbia, but, of course, we are not immune to the ups and downs of the economy. Austrian exports to Serbia are slightly weaker than in 2012 and we do hope that the Serbian economy will pick up steam in the second half of this year, as well as in 2014. A lot will depend on the question of whether the long-awaited and long-announced reforms will be fully implemented, so that the positive effects can actually be felt at the level of companies. I will only cite the project of the “regulatory guillotine” and the sad fact that Serbia is ranked rather unfavourably in the World Bank’s “ease of doing business report”.

■ You recently said that Serbia should be investing more effort in improving its image in the eyes of potential investors.

What aspects of bolstering the country’s reputation require the most effort and urgency?

- When people associate a product, company or country with a certain image, this is often something that does not change very quickly. The second issue is that a deterioration of an image can happen much faster than an improvement. An improvement of an image is something that you have to work on very hard and it does take a concerted and longer effort. Some of Serbia’s neighbouring countries have worked on this, with TV promotions on all major interna-

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 25

economy

taxation

lecture

Our companies do have a long-term interest in Serbia, but, of course, we are not immune to the ups and downs of the economy.

Despite being the biggest foreign investor we still didn’t have a double taxation treaty and I am happy to report that we do now.

We do not come to a country to teach economics or to give lectures, but to work efficiently and professionally.

tional news networks, for example.

The connection between image and investment is such: All Southeast European countries are sending the same message to foreign companies, the message “come and invest”. In this competition, countries face the danger of being eliminated from the decision-making process when their image is not perceived as businessfriendly or when people still associate them with problematic events from the past. The most important aspect in my view is to show the modern Serbia of today in order to replace the image of a Serbia in the midst of the break-up of the former Yugoslavia. Needless to say, improving a country’s image also means “walking the walk”, in other words TV promotions and campaigns alone are not sufficient if the underlying product is not continuously improved to match the image.

■ Which branches of the Serbian economy look the most promising in terms of receiving more Austrian investments?

- We have seen interest from Austrian companies in manufacturing, especially labour-intensive manufacturing, agriculture, food production and environmental protection, as well as the IT industry.

■ Which bilateral agreements between our two countries are considered the most important for advancing economic cooperation?

- When I came to Serbia, despite being the biggest foreign investor we still didn’t have a double taxation treaty, and I am happy to report that we do now. Also important is the treaty for the protection of investments. And it goes without saying that all agreements between Serbia and the EU, with Austria being a member of the EU, are of great importance.

■ How much does Serbia’s progress in political cooperation with the EU influence economic cooperation with Austria and investor interest?

- The process of joining the EU is a catalyst for reforms, reforms which

We have seen interest from Austrian companies in manufacturing, especially labour-intensive manufacturing, agriculture, food production and environmental protection, as well as the IT industry otherwise would take longer and/ or would be more difficult to implement. We saw this in Austria during our own accession process as well. The EU accession process also helps to put Serbia on the “economic radar screen” of people, something which it has not sufficiently been in the past. Investors will start to realise that the Serbia of today is an EU candidate country and will eventually become a member, thus creating confidence and trust in a possible investment in Serbia.

26 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

■ Austrian investors in Serbia are known for being strategically orientated and focused on advancing technology, production and exports. What other features are typical of Austrian investors?

- My answer might surprise you, but I think one of the most prominent features of Austrian investors is the fact that we deal with our business partners on an equally level basis. We are a small country and we know that many tourists come to Austria because they like the good-natured atmosphere and the friendliness of the people and that’s a feature we like to project as investors as well. We do not come to a country to teach economics or to give lectures, but to work efficiently and professionally with the people and combine our resources to achieve something positive for both sides.

■ The Austrian media have reported on the transfer of financial assets from Southeast European branches to their parent banks in Austria due to new, much stricter EU banking rules in 2014. Is this true?

- European banks restructured their financing in 2009, due to the global economic crisis, and financing in general is not as easy as it was comparatively in the pre-crisis period.

But one should also put things into perspective and look at the hard facts: In 2008 the level of Austrian investment in this country was at €2.2 billion according to NBS statistics. Today, after the crisis years of 2009 to 2012, the level of investment is at €2.9 billion, in other words significantly higher, with a substantial part of the total Austrian investment in Serbia coming from the financial industry.

■ In which way does the Embassy and its Economic Affairs Section assist in establishing links between Austrian and Serbian businesses and chambers of commerce?

- We assist Austrian companies in various aspects: from analysing if there is a market for their products and what the best ways for them to do business in Serbia are, to finding suitable Serbian business partners or investment locations. We help them resolve all kinds of problems, from bureaucratic issues

Improving a country’s image also means “walking the walk”, in other words TV promotions and campaigns alone are not sufficient if the underlying product is not continuously improved to match the image to legal questions and troubleshooting. We organise meetings between companies on a regular basis and in various formats, ranging from our Austrian Business Circle which attracts up to 200 company representatives, to bilateral meetings together with the Serbian Chamber of Commerce, both in Serbia as well as in Austria. I would like to use this opportunity to thank the Serbian Chamber of Commerce for the good cooperation we have been enjoying – for us they are an important partner in this country. ■

We Secure Your Future. Ми имамо један циљ: Да дизајнирамо Вашу приватну будућност као пријатну, обезбеђену и као финансијски независну што је више могуће. А ви, у међувремену, један од више од милион клијената са спектром очекивања и сновима о животу. Породични људи који не само да желе да обезбеде себи живот, већ то желе и наредној генерацији. То су предузетници, менаџери, креативни људи, марљиви радници и успешни спортисти са амбицијом обезбеђивања будућности након година напора и ризика. SAFE•INVEST AG, његове регионалне организације и кћерке фирме сматрају себе као пружаоца финансијских услуга, као професионалног, услужно-оријентисаног и компетентног партнера са освртом на анализе и савете ради ваше добробити у будућности. Решења и производи које Вам нудимо су дизајнирани на основу дугогодишњег искуства заједно са посебно одабраним продукт-партнером, Wiener Städtische осигурањем, у домену оптималног односа трошкова и вредности.

15 година на страни клијента ● 2013 ● www.safe-invest.com

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 27

interview

Aleksandra Potkonjak, general manager of Lagermax AED

Proud to be Reliable Partner Lagermax is privately owned and managed group and represents reliability and continuity with its entrepreneurial personalities.

Through personal commitments, the objective is to achieve logistics services that are economically successful and offer high customer benefits

L

agermax AED has represented professional transport and logistics solutions for decades.

An unlimited partner when you need to get the right products to the right place at the right time. The employees develop customized concepts based on their expertise and the support of modern information technology. The new freight terminal at the Šimanovci headquarters, constructed in 2012, gave the company an excellent technological advantage for the future.

foundation that secures a successful position in the Serbian market.

Lagermax is privately owned and managed group and represents reliability and continuity with its entrepreneurial personalities. Through personal commitments, the objective is to achieve logistics services that are economically successful and offer high customer benefits. As an internationally operating corporate group, Lagermax is in a position to offer logistics system services with great competence. The company considers itself to be the customers’

■ What sets Lagermax apart from other companies?

- Lagermax is now one of the largest and the leading company in Serbia in the areas of freight forwarding and logistics. Company locations are in Šimanovci, near Belgrade, Novi Sad, Niš and Čačak in Serbia, and also in many others countries Europe-wide, qualifying us as transport and logistics specialists covering the whole of Europe.

The company philosophy, “Together in Motion,” means working together and sharing.

By acknowledging the company guidelines, the Lagermax Corporate Group is working on establishing a

All through Europe, Lagermax’s general cargo network offers the best economical and ecological truck solutions cooperative partner and contributes to environmentally safe, reliable and cost-efficient task fulfilment along the supply chain.

■ What are your main aims and ambitions in Serbia?

- Our top goal is to have a permanent, partnership-based relationship with satisfied customers. We meet our customers’ requirements and expectations. We are a reliable partner and implement agreed-on

28 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

measures with excellent quality, cost efficiency, environmental consideration, and timeliness.

Supporting the fulfilment of our employees’ tasks by providing objectives in defined areas along with functional information, we work in teams, based on openness and honesty, and acknowledge our employees’ competences. We support and sponsor our employees concerning special development and advancement programs. The continuous improvement of our company and employees creates the conditions for being a future-oriented partner for our customers.

Our management is created in results-oriented manner while valuing social responsibility and competence. The dignity, freedom, and rights of each individual are respected. We are committed to the permanent improvement of our management tools and always remain open towards new ideas and changes.

■ Lagermax values communication highly. Is good communication the key to success?

- Communication and information are essential components of our work. Achieving our goals greatly depends on dialogue-oriented and

functioning communication among the company areas, departments, and their employees, as well as our customers and partners. Internal communication is expected to make the goals and decision-making processes transparent to the employees and promote quality through the availability of information.

We continuously improve our services and results through the continuous optimization of work processes, and then we measure the improvements.

We treat resources with great responsibility and dedicate ourselves to protecting our environment actively, avoiding environmental pollution and complying with legal regulations.

By carefully selecting our suppliers, we are creating the ideal conditions for our quality and environmental principles. We strive for long-term, partnership-based relationships with suppliers.

We consider the quality and environmental management to be each employee’s responsibility. This is associated with the knowledge of and compliance with the internal processes as well as the laws, regulations and agency specifications applicable for the company.

■ What products and services Lagermax provides?

- Lagermax offers entire storage logistics, giving you more room to breathe. Lagermax warehousing offers individual supply chain solutions and cost-efficient outsourcing.

Lagermax always has an intelligent idea “in store”.

We offer innovative, futureoriented solutions that are based on decades-long experience, an extensive specialization in the areas of logistics and outsourcing for a wide range of industries. Step by step, our specialists will develop the right service to meet your individual needs, from the solution to the realization. To make sure your merchandise is at the right place at

the right time – world-wide.

Client benefits are labeling, packing, pulling samples, repacking, forming different sets, automatic stock inventory lists.

Lagermax Forwarding offers truck transport throughout Europe with optimal runtimes and economic routes. We guarantee an efficient transport time and comprehensive service within Serbia through the regional state depots by Lagermax.

■ How does the Lagermax transport network in Europe operate?

- All through Europe, Lagermax’s general cargo network offers the

Achieving our goals greatly depends on dialogue-oriented and functioning communication among the company areas, departments, and their employees, as well as our customers and partners best economical and ecological truck solutions, from house to house through the integration of the wellestablished partner network. Each and every time, Lagermax general cargo specialists will find the most suitable transport route. Combined transports and trailer shipments may be used depending on the relation and competitive capacity.

Client benefits are optimal runtime, economical transport route, partner network, combined transports and trailer shipments, general cargo – consolidation of goods shipments.

■ How do you manage to respond to clients' demands and needs so quickly?

- Quick and precise handling of returned merchandise means that you can react to the customers' wishes easily and without complications.

By quickly returning the merchandise to the sender after an incorrect order, the expiration of warranties, or other reasons, Lagermax offers the possibility of turning this situation into a competitive advantage, easily and conveniently. For partial and full loads, Lagermax truck transports provide comprehensive, Europe-wide service with optimally coordinated runtimes. The FTL (“full truck load”) freight service consists of complete loads, meaning an individual freight shipment fills the entire truck and the cargo is picked up from one sender and delivered to one recipient without any transfers.

Customs specialists will advise you in the areas of customs fees, tariff quotas, tariff ceilings, or import restrictions. Lagermax professionally handles all of the required formalities and takes care of the necessary documents. Whether in Europe or internationally - whether for trucks, rail, air, or ocean freight transports. Working in this way, whether for imports or exports, goods reach their destinations without problems or delays.

■ Do you also provide transport insurance and storage services?

- Safety and damage prevention are a top priority for Lagermax in all matters concerning transport and logistics. It can still happen sometimes that the merchandise is damaged during transport. International transport law accommodates a variety of insurance modules for all kinds of transports. To make sure that your legal needs are taken care of, in case anything happens, our insurance specialists will be ready to assist you concerning information and insurance options. ■

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 29

Economy of Austria

Among Most Stable in the World

The Austrian Parliament building in Vienna

Austria’s economic freedom score is 71.8, putting its economy 25th in the 2013 Index. Its score is 1.5 points better than last year due to improved scores for government spending, business freedom and investment freedom. Ranked 14th out of 43 countries in the Europe region, Austria’s overall score is well above the regional and world averages

I

n the context of economic development in Europe, Austria can boast above average growth and one of the highest employment rates. Austria is among the most stable countries in the world. Inflation rates are low, the increase in national debt has been successfully reduced and the target of a balanced budget is within reach. An array of measures have been implemented to stimulate growth through liberalisation and privatisation, and to secure the country’s future through social system reforms.

Many of the country’s largest firms were nationalised in the early post-World War II period to protect them from Soviet takeover as part

Austria joined the European Union in 1995, and the EU is the destination of 80% of Austria’s exports

of war reparations. For many years, the government and a conglomerate of state-owned industries played a hugely important role in the Austrian economy. However, starting in the early 1990s, that group was broken apart and state-owned firms began to operate largely as private businesses, with a great number of these firms wholly or partially privatised. Although the government’s privatisation work during this period has been successful, it still operates some firms, state monopolies, utilities and services. The new government has now presented an ambitious privatisation program, which, if implemented, will reduce government participation in the

30 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

economy considerably. Austria enjoys well-developed industry, banking, transportation, services and commercial facilities.

Austria has a strong labour movement. The Austrian Trade Union Federation (ÖGB) comprises constituent unions with a total membership of about 1.5 million – more than half the country’s wage and salary earners. Since 1945, the ÖGB has pursued a moderate, consensusoriented wage policy, cooperating with industry, agriculture and the government on a broad range of social and economic issues in what is known as Austria’s “social partnership”. The ÖGB has often opposed the Schüssel government’s program for budget consolidation, social reform and improving the business climate, and there are increasing indications that Austria’s peaceful social climate could become more confrontational.

Austria has been a member of the European Union since 1995 and is fully integrated into the common market. GDP per capita is at €35,710 (2011 nominal), putting Austria just outside the top ten within the EU as well as worldwide.

Austria’s economic freedom score is 71.8, putting its economy 25th in the 2013 Index. Its score is

Austrian GDP 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

EUR 282.09 billion EUR 273.49 billion EUR 285.73 billion EUR 299.69 billion EUR 307.004 billion

Source: Statistik Austria; EU-Commission, EUROSTAT, OECD

1.5 points better than last year due to improved scores for government spending, business freedom and investment freedom. Ranked 14th out of 43 countries in the Europe region, Austria’s overall score is well above the regional and world averages.

Although comparatively small, the Austrian economy is highly globalised and resilient. It recovered quickly from the recent global financial crisis and continues to support high levels of prosperity. Openness to global trade and investment is firmly institutionalised and supported by a relatively efficient entrepreneurial framework. Austria has a strong tradition of reliable property rights protection, and the legal system is transparent and balanced. Effective anti-corruption measures are in force.

The greatest hindrance to Austria’s entrepreneurial vitality continues to be the disregard, even dismissal, of the concept of limited government. Although the corporate tax rate is comparatively low, highearners face a burdensome income tax rate of 50% as well as various other indirect taxes. Austria’s fiscal conditions compare favourably to its eurozone neighbours, but public spending has become excessive and unsustainable.

After the 2008 parliamentary elections, the centre-left Social Democrats formed a governing coalition with the centre-right Austrian People’s Party, and Social Democrat Werner Faymann became chancellor. The Austrian govern-

ment has gradually relinquished control of formerly nationalised oil, gas, steel and engineering companies, and has deregulated telecommunications and electricity. The economy has large service and industrial sectors and a small but highly developed agricultural industry. The EU is the destination

Austrians enjoy Europe’s lowest unemployment rate and were named among the happiest people in the world by a United Nations study

of 80% of Austria’s exports. With such a large percentage of exports dependent on the EU, the eurozone crisis has affected the Austrian economy, which continues to grow albeit at a slow pace.

The rule of law is respected, and the judiciary is independent. Contractual agreements are enforced effectively and the protection of intellectual property is strong. Instances of corruption have been prosecuted capably. A high degree of transparency is a key institutional strength, and revamped criminal regulations against corruption have permitted the continued effective enforcement of rules against bribery.

The top income tax rate is 50% and the top corporate tax rate is

Vaš odmor počinje već tokom leta za Beč.

Letite kompanijom Austrian Airlines za Beč i uživajte u austrijskoj gostoljubivosti.

25%. Other taxes include VAT and a tax on real estate transfers. The overall tax burden is 42% of total domestic income. Government spending amounts to 50.5% of total domestic output, leading to a higher budget deficit of 4.6% of GDP and public debt equivalent to 72.2% of GDP. An efficient regulatory framework facilitates business innovation and productivity growth.

Nonetheless, the absence of major regulatory reforms in recent years has undermined Austria’s international competitiveness. There is no nationally mandated minimum wage, but the cost of fringe benefits is among the highest in the world. Average inflation has risen slightly but remains below eurozone and EU averages.

The Austrian economy is dominated by small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The most important industrial sectors in Austria are the food and drink industry; mechanical and steel engineering; the chemical and automotive industry; electrics and electronics; and the wood, pulp and paper industry. The majority of Austrian goods exports come from these industrial sectors.

Tourism plays an extremely important economic role in Austria also: in 2011, around 23 million foreign visitors came to Austria, with almost 90.7 million overnight stays (3/4 of total overnight stays; in total there were almost 126 million overnight stays).

Austria’s trade policy is the

Beč od

€ 119

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 31

Sakupljajte milje uz Miles & More. Informacije i rezervacije: www.austrian.com, + 381 11 3248 077 ili u Vašoj turističkoj agenciji. Cena povratne karte sa svim uključenim taksama za kupovinu preko interneta. Plaćanje u dinarskoj protivvrednosti.

same as that of other European Union members, with the common EU weighted average tariff rate standing at 1.6%. However, myriad nontariff barriers increase the cost of trade. The investment regime is efficient and there are no controls on currency transfers, access to foreign exchange or repatriation of profits.

The financial sector remains competitive and stable, offering a wide range of financial services.

Austria’s most important trade partners are Germany, Italy, Switzerland, USA and France.

The country’s proximity to Central and Eastern European states is a key factor in the increasing significance of trade and the economic networking with these countries.

The share of Austrian exports in these regions reached 17.8% in 2011. The most important product groups for export are mechanical engineering and terotechnology; vehicles and automotive parts; medical and pharmaceutical products; iron, steel and metal goods; and paper and cardboard. Austrian exports are also heavily influenced by service exports, with tourism taking first place in this sector.

The economic model of Austria is based on the principles of: - political stability; - social harmony; - cooperation between employer and

employee organisations; - stable homeland security; and - full integration into the global economy.

An especially productive atmosphere of cooperation between various interest groups and political par-

The investment regime is efficient, and there are no controls on currency transfers, access to foreign exchange or repatriation of profits ties prevails in Austria.

The social partnership is distinct to Austria and in practice extends to all areas of economic and social politics.

Austria sets an example for the comprehensive and coordinated coopera-

REPRESENTATION OF INTERESTS ⇢ These chambers are the legal representatives with mandatory membership for entrepreneurs or employees. The Austrian Trade Union Association offers optional membership.

The Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKÖ) Austrian Chamber of Agriculture (LK) Austrian Federal Chamber of Labour Austrian Trade Union Association

KEY REGIONAL SECTORS Upper Austria Salzburg Vorarlberg Carinthia Styria Tyrol Vienna

Iron, steel, chemical and mechanical engineering Electrics, wood and paper, national services in wholesale and transport Textiles, clothing Wood, pulp and paper industry Automobiles, iron and steel, manufacturing Glass, wood Financial services

32 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

tion between different interest groups.

Prognoses for the next year are very good. Austria’s economy, driven by exports and buoyed by government spending, is set to beat analyst expectations in 2014, according to the statesupported WIFO research institute.

The Alpine country’s GDP, the sum of all goods and services, will expand by 1.7% in 2014 after 0.4% growth this year, the Vienna-based group said in a report. Analysts are predicting 0.4% growth this year followed by a 1.5% expansion in 2014, according to 13 estimates compiled by Bloomberg.

“The uncertainties in the financial markets have eased somewhat, and companies are more optimistic about future developments,” WIFO said in the report.

It’s the second time that the institute has adjusted its projections.

In March, WIFO predicted 1.8% in 2014 growth before cutting its forecast to 1.6% in June.

Austrians, who enjoy Europe’s lowest unemployment rate and were named among the happiest people in the world by a United Nations study, elected a new parliament last month. WIFO says that exports will climb 5.5% in 2014 after a 2.5% rise this year. Private consumption will recover, growing 0.9% in 2014 after stagnating this year. ■ Sources: Advantage Austria, Heritage.org, Bloomberg

interview

Christof Papousek, Managing Partner, Cineplexx International GmbH

Extraordinary Cinema Experience As leading innovators in the field of cinemas, Cineplexx is always focused on being the first in introducing the latest technologies to the market

system and 4K resolution, to name a few. Could you elaborate on each of these innovations, and could you tell us about the innovations you plan to implement in the future?

- As leading innovators in the field of cinema exhibition, Cineplexx is always fo■ Early in this decade, the cused on being the first in introducing the company started to ex- latest technologies to the market. IMAX ineplexx, established in 1967, pand to Serbia, Croatia, Montenegro, is a digital projection and sound system has roots that can be traced back and Macedonia. How important are which brings even brighter and better projection quality and immersive sound to 1948. Constantin Film-Hold- these markets for Cineplexx? ing GmbH is an independent film - The West-Balkan region is a territory with to the audience. D-Box seats are moving distributor founded in 1951 as subsidiary of huge potential and population of around chairs which can be seen as an additional the Munich-based Constantin Film Produc- 25 million people. Last year we opened five attraction. The chairs can move accordtion Company. The first cinema was opened cinemas in Slovenia and with adding Alba- ing to the action scenes of a movie. Dolby Atmos is a kind of 3 dimensional in 1967 as a subsidiary of Constansound system with implemented tin Film, but the first big Cineplexx Cineplexx network has 35 multiplexes speakers in the ceiling of a cincinema as a multiscreen area with ema hall. That makes people feel 12 projection halls was opened in and 6 traditional cinemas in Austria, Vienna in 1993. At that time, a Serbia, Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia, like being a part of the movie. Finally, 4K resolution is the newest large number of traditional cinemas Macedonia and Italy, and offers 267 state-of-the-art projection standwere closed in Austria, due to the cinemas halls with around 60,000 seats ard. These projectors are capable of market entry of multiplex cinemas. high frame-rate projection which is Constantin Film has reacted to these changes, and in a short time we established nia to the list of the countries, we will be a needed for special movies which are made a group of 20 cinemas with 157 movie regional market leader in the cinema busi- for this format (e.g., The Hobbit).

Apart from these innovations that are screens in Austria. In 2008, Cineplexx In- ness. Most of these countries only had traternational was founded in partnership ditional cinemas, with out of date technol- available in Austria, Cineplexx Internawith the Langhammer family with plans to ogy that is no longer in use. The situation tional had implemented the most widely open cinemas in Southeast Europe, start- is very challenging, because a lot of people used technology for watching 3D movies in ing from Northern Italy a year later. The lost the habit of going to the cinema. With cinemas – RealD Cinema. RealD 3D cinema first expansion step was completed in 2013 Cineplexx on the market, people have an technology is a polarized 3D system that with a network of 15 cinemas and more opportunity to experience the movies in the uses circularly polarized light to produce stereoscopic image projection. Cineplexx best cinema halls in the region. than 100 halls outside of Austria. is always trying to be among the first pio■ How many cinemas does Cineplexx ■ Apart from converting from ana- neers at the time, and we are very open to logue to digital, Cineplexx is known technology innovations. Our goal in the have in Europe?

- Cineplexx network has 35 multiplexes and for applying other technical innova- region is to bring most modern and inno6 traditional cinemas in Austria, Serbia, tions to the cinema experience like vative technologies and to offer our visitors Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia, Macedo- Imax, D-Box seats, Dolby Atmos sound extraordinary cinema experience. ■ nia and Italy, and offers 267 cinemas halls with around 60,000 seats. By the end of this year, we would add to this list a new open cinema in Tirana, Albania.

C

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 33

corporate

Assessment Systems Serbia

Predicting Employee Performance with Austrian Precision

I

Assessment Systems Serbia, a member of Assessment Systems International, is an exclusive representative of reputable publishers of top-quality psychometric tools for measuring employee performance

n modern business, where every investment is carefully considered and measured, and its profitability evaluated with a tendency of predicting the success of the entire project, the utilization of standardized employee performance measuring and predictability tools has become both a common and ubiquitous occurrence in Serbian companies. A great deal of scientific research has proven that intelligence and personality are the two critical predictors of employee performance.

Assessment Systems Serbia, a member of Assessment Systems International, is an exclusive representative of Hogan Assessments (U.S.) and Schuhfried (Austria), reputable publishers of topquality psychometric tools for measuring employee performance which are used by over half of Fortune 500 companies on all continents for the aforementioned purposes.

Schuhfried GmbH is a family-run Austrian company, established in 1947. The company is the global leader in computerbased psychological assessment of personal abilities and traits of a job candidate for performing various work tasks. The Vienna Test System (VTS) is the company’s most renowned product which is comprised of 120 different IQ, ability, and personality tests widely used in neuropsychology, sports psychology, traffic psychology, and business psychology, specifically in selecting and developing human resources. The VTS proved to be especially predictive in identifying drivers who are prone to taking unnecessary risks in traffic, which made Schuhfried the global leader in this segment of traffic psychology. Hence, it comes as no surprise that some of the most successful companies in Serbia have already begun to use these tools in deciding what kind of person to entrust with driving a vehicle. ■

For more information please go to our website www.asystems.as. You can also write to use at info@a-systems.rs or visit us at our offices in Belgrade and Subotica.

corporate

Goran Reljić

Director of the Austrian company Dkfm. L. Tenczer GmbH

Succeeding Together

D

Despite many difficulties, and with the help of Serbian economy professionals, we have managed to raise the quality of the packaging industry to a higher level

kfm. L. Tenczer GmbH was founded with the aim of combining innovation and Western product offer with the needs and development of Balkan countries.

General manager of this Vienna-based company, Goran Reljić, thinks that the company has accomplished its mission. “Serbia is a country with great potential since it can provide educated people who are eager to prove themselves. If we improved our infrastructure and simplified our administrative procedures, a miracle would happen in this country.

Despite many difficulties, and with the help of Serbian economy professionals, we have managed to raise the quality of the packaging industry to a level higher than a decade ago. If the Serbian government would be willing to support export orientated companies substantially, as in Austria, the results would be visible quite soon.

We are proud of how much we have contributed to the development of packaging industry in Serbia.”

Our advantage is that we are always providing new technological solutions in order for Serbian products to have the best possible packaging when marketed abroad ■ What sets your products apart from the competition?

- As an Austrian company with 41 years of experience in the packaging industry, we offer high-quality products and safe applications to our Serbian partners. We are familiar with the needs of demanding markets, and our advantage is that we are always providing new technological solutions in order for Serbian products to have the best possible packaging when marketed abroad. We are also a reliable partner since we provide professional and innovative support which is invaluable in the huge product offer in the world.

■ Which future direction should the economic cooperation between Serbia and Austria take?

- My own Serbian origins and Austria, the country where I live and work, are telling me that these two countries are focused on strong economic development. Serbia can learn a lot from Austria, while Austria can and wants to increase its economic activities in this, the most important part of the Balkans. The two countries’ governments and economic representatives have great determination. We have a lot to do, and it won’t be easy. So everybody who believes in our joint success should contribute. ■

34 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

qualityaustria

Training, certification and evaluation

Certification of Organizations and Persons MORE SPACE FOR YOUR IDEAS! A Company of Soravia Group • www.soravia.rs

Quality Austria Center represents regional office of Austrian certification body Quality Austria - Trainings, Zertifizierungs und Begutachtungs GmbH which operates in more than 40 countries. Quality Austria has 7,500 active certified organizations, more than 60,000 certificates issued to individuals and more than 500 trainers, auditors and technical experts.

Quality Austria Center in Serbia was founded in the year of 2008 and its main services are certification of management systems in organizations according to the requirements of international standards and offering of courses, open and in-house trainings and certification of persons, both from the organizations or individuals.

Quality Austria is a member of the international network of partner certification bodies (IQNet) and it is authorized to issue European Organization for Quality (EOQ) certificates for persons.

Training and Certification of Persons Quality Systems Manager Environmental Systems Manager Occupational Health and Safety Systems Manager Food Safety Manager (ISO 22000, HACCP) Information Security Manager (ISO 27001) Energy Management (ISO 50001) Internal and Lead Auditors (ISO 19011)

Megaboard Soravia d.o.o. • Svetog Nauma 1, 11000 Beograd +381 11 264 8399 • office@megaboard.rs

Prodaja stambenog i poslovnog prostora u poslovno-stambenom objektu SENIOR System Certification

ISO 9001, ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001, HACCP, ISO 22000, IFS, FSSC 22000, GLOBALG.A.P., etc.

Contact

Pejak-Handel d.o.o.

Banja Koviljaca, M. Tita 146, 015/815-635 biro@pejak.net; www.pejak-handel.net

Quality Austria Center d.o.o.

Dravska 11 11000 Belgrade Serbia e-mail: office@qa-center.net tel. / fax: +381 11 380 71 60 www.qa-center.net quality.austria.center @QACenter quality-austria-center

Partners

corporate

THE BEST A SMARTPHONE CAN OFFER

corporate

Knauf

LG G2 in Vip mobile Comfort of Living

F

or a number of years, Knauf has been the company to go to in Serbia when a large-scale project has to be implemented. This is because we offer complete systems and complete solutions. Owing to our developed production, logistics, sales and technical support system, we are able to respond to all demands of an increasingly developing and demanding market. Knauf's systems provide modern, top quality solutions for your home, whether you are building, renovating or adapting it. By using natural materials like gypsum, and limeand cement-based products, we provide security and comfort in your living and working space.

In 2008, Knauf opened a state-of-the-art production facility, unparalleled in Serbia. This was a greenfield investment worth €15 million. Our product range is comprehensive and includes machine mortars, cement screeds, smoothing products, bathroom finishing products (tile adhesive, grout, silicone and hydro-

LG’s latest premium smartphone G2 is available in Vip mobile offer to business and residential users. The LG G2 brings everything together in a device with comfortable, functional, convenient and beautiful design. It shifts the paradigm in smartphone design by placing all the buttons on the rear of the device, making this the first smartphone to be completely devoid of side buttons.

G2 features 5.2-inch Full HD display, the largest display designed for one-handed operation.And with proven IPS technology, G2 offers superior graphics, accurate colors and clear images without any distortion. High-res13MP camera comes equipped with Optical Image Stabilizer technology to prevent blurring, allowing for clearer, brighter and sharper images even when in motion or shooting in dim environments. Device runs on the industry’s most advanced mobile chipset, the Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 800 Processor and redefines the smartphone experience through stunning performance and outstanding battery efficiency. LG G2 is available as of 1 RSD with BizPartnerZauvek 4000, Smart MAX and Standard MAX tariffs. ■

www.vipmobile.rs

Our product range is comprehensive and includes machine mortars, cement screeds, smoothing products, bathroom finishing products (tile adhesive, grout, silicone and hydro-insulation), and facade systems insulation), and facade systems. By constantly innovating and developing new products, this year we have added new types of facade mortars (acrylic, silicone and silicone-silicate) to our product range, which are available in 270 different tones. Together with facade glues and surfaces, this rounds off our facade system product range.

The latest brand from the Knauf product family – Sheetrock – is a revolutionary innovation in the ready mix surface smoothing product range.

We are especially proud of the cooperation with our architects, designers and contractors. By providing continuous education through professional lectures given by the Knauf Academy, and gathering many contractors at our Contractor Day events, we are contributing to the development of the construction industry in Serbia and the region. ■

36 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

corporate

berry frost doo

corporate

Your Fruit Partner

Raiffeisen Banka

Farewell Party for Oliver Roegl

We buy, process, grow and sell fruit (mainly berries) to foreign markets. The Loznica area is where our raspberries, blackberries, sour cherries and plums are grown

B

erry Frost d.o.o. is a company active in the cultivating and trading of fruits and vegetables. The company was registered by the Business Registry Agency in February 2007. The company’s founder is K.A. Trading Agrarprodukte-HandelsgesmbH, based in the Republic of Austria.

Berry Frost has its own refrigeration facility with a 2,500 tonne capacity. Our experienced and trained staff guarantees the high quality of our products, their consumption safety, and the possibility of determining the origin of goods. We buy, process, grow and sell fruit (mainly berries) to foreign markets. The Loznica area is where our raspberries, blackberries, sour cherries and plums are grown. The close proximity of orchards, shortening the time spent in transporting the goods to be processed, maintains the freshness and quality of our fruit. Berry Frost d.o.o. is certified for growing and processing organic fruit. We implement our organic fruit production project together with over 100 individual fruit growers, with the help of our trained professional staff, and through regularly controls and analyses of our goods for processing in order to guarantee high quality standard and consumption safety of our organically grown produce.

Oliver Roegl

A

Zoran Petrović

fter a full twelve years in Serbia, Oliver Roegl accepted the position of CEO of Raiffeisen banka in Bulgaria, starting from August 1st. Mr. Roegl played a key role in founding Raiffeisen banka in Serbia, and he was its Chairman since 2005. Zoran Petrović, his long-year deputy, a renowned economics expert and one of the most distinguished bankers in Serbia, succeeded him as Chairman of the Managing Board of Raiffeisen banka.

Wishing to say goodbye to Mr. Roegl and to gather all those with whom he was cooperating during the past twelve years, the bank organized a farewell party for him.

The celebration was attended by a great number of invitees, the most important clients and associates of the bank, government representatives, as well as Oliver's colleagues, his closest associates from the past 12 years. Mr. Peter Lennkh, Chairman of Raiffeisen banka's Supervisory Board honoured the party with his presence.

The vibrant evening atmosphere was enhanced by the excellent music of Jovan Maljoković's well-known band, supported by the extravagant vocals of renowned actress Ana Sofrenović. ■

The sound management policy in Berry Frost d.o.o. and the quality of our products are underscored by numerous certificates which we have received, including HACCP, IFS (the International Food Standard), BRC (the Global Standard for Food Safety), and SGF. Berry Frost d.o.o. has developed and has been implementing a food management safety system which is supervised by the most renowned global certification companies. ■

BERRY FROST doo; Prvog maja bb, 15300 Loznica/Serbia Tel. +381-15-871-823; Fax +381-15-871-817 berry.frost.loznica@gmail.com; www.berryfrost.rs Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 37

Economic Cooperation

Dynamic at All Levels In the period between 2000 and 2010, Austria was the leading investor in Serbia.

Since 2000, the Austrian government has been providing substantial financial assistance for the implementation of regional and local projects and programmes

S

ince 2000, bilateral relations between Serbia and Austria have become very dynamic at all levels. Substantial Austrian business investments are a reflection of this overall elevation in relations.

The prevailing format of trade cooperation between Serbia and Austria is a regular buy-sell arrangement, while finishing services, as well as post-finishing activities and trading in free zones, dominate the export segment. Trading between the two countries has been continuously growing year-on-year, but this still doesn’t reflect the real needs of the two markets.

In the period between 2000 and 2010, Austria was the leading investor in Serbia. Since 2000, the Austrian government has been providing substantial financial assistance for the implementation of regional and local projects and programmes.

The Republic of Serbia has signed ten bilateral treaties with Austria with the aim of further developing bilateral economic relations (treaties covering areas like scientific and technological cooperation, double taxation in terms of income and property tax, development cooperation, cooperation in agriculture and forestry, mutual protection and promotion of investments, and others).

Serbia and Austria recorded the biggest trade figures in 2008.

In 2011, trade between the two countries was similar to that of 2008. However, imports grew faster than exports, so, in 2011, exports reached the record-breaking figure of US $645.7 million. Relative to the overall trading between the two countries in 2011, the 2012 figures recorded a 13% decline with Serbia having a US $305.9 million deficit in trading with Austria.

In the first seven months of 2013, the trading between the two countries was valued at US $512.4 million with Serbia recording a deficit in the amount of US $ 139.2 million In the first seven months of 2013, trade between the two countries was valued at US $512.4 million with Serbia recording a deficit in the amount of US $ 139.2 million.

The export to import ratio has been growing since 2008, with imports growing faster than exports. In 2012, the ratio was 48.9%.

In the first seven months of

38 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

2013, this parameter did improve (up to 52.27%) which means that this year has seen the structure of Serbian exports adapting better to Austrian imports.

Also, in the same period in 2013, Serbia mostly exported the following products to Austria: electrical machinery, appliances and devices (19.20 per cent), road vehicles (11.27 per cent), metal products (8.22 per cent), vegetables and fruits (7 per cent), telecommunications devices and equipment (5.47 per cent), and raw hides and skins (5.39 per cent).

In the observed period, Austria mostly exported the following products to Serbia: electrical machinery, appliances and devices (11.5 per cent), iron and steel (7.39 per cent), paper, cardboard and paper pulp articles (6.7 per cent), plastics in primary forms (6.04 per cent), chemical materials and products (5.47 per cent) and fertilizers, other than raw (5.21 per cent).

Serbian companies that exported the most to Austria in 2013 are the

Leading SITC segments in exporting to Austria

Leading SITC segments in importing from Austria Electric machinery, devices and appliances

Electric machinery, devices and appliances Road vehicles

44%

4% 5% 6%

Metal-based products, not specified elsewhere

16%

Non-ferrous metals Operating machinery and devices Other

25%

following: Eaton Electric, Fiat Automobili Srbija, Roaming Electronics, Sevojno Copper Mill, Motorenwerke, Henkel, Nokekožar, HIP-Azotara Pančevo, Almex, and Victoriaoil.

These companies’ exports had a 45.03% share in the overall Serbian exports to Austria.

Serbian companies that imported the most from Austria in 2013 are the following: Eaton Electric, Fiat Automobili Srbija, Linzer Agro Trade, OMV Serbia, Henkel, CT Computers, Knežević Petrol, Gorenje, Pharmaswiss, and iTarkett.

These companies’ imports made 34.44% of in the overall Serbian imports from Austria.

With the total investments amounting to close US $3.15 billion, Austria is the leading foreign investor in the Serbian economy in the period from 2000 to 2010. The high investment tendency was particularly pronounced in 2007 (Austrian investments totalled US $1.1 billion).

According to the National Bank

Plastic materials in primary form

57%

Paper, cardboard and cellulosebased products

4% 7% 9%

Iron and steel

11%

11%

of Serbia’s data, Austrian (cash) investments in Serbia in 2011 reached €154.7 million. In 2012, they stood at €55.28 (the fifth biggest FDI in the country), while in the first half of the current year, Austrian invest-

According to the National Bank of Serbia’s data, Austrian (cash) investments in Serbia in 2011 reached €154.7 million, in 2012, they stood at €55.28, and in the first half of the current year, Austrian investments were worth €28.80 million ments were worth €28.80 million (Austria is ranked 4th out of 74 countries that invested in Serbia).

The main characteristic of Austrian investments in Serbia is that Austrian investors are strategically orientated with the view of improving technology, and increasing production and export.

The most important Austrian

Metal-based products, not specified elsewhere Other

investors in Serbia come from banking and insurance (Raiffeissen International, Hypo Alpe Adria Austria, Oesterr.Volksbanken, BA-CA (HvB), Erste Bank, Wiener Stadtische ,Uniqa, Grawe), and telecommunciations (Mobilkom Austria which came to Serbia in 2006, as the third mobile telephony operator in Serbia under the name Vip Serbia).

In energy sector, it is worth mentioning OMV Austria which came to Serbia in 2001. Austrian companies have also made investments in machine building, chemical and food industry, namely companies like Henkel, ATB, Tondach, Knauf, Wienerberger, Asamer Wietersdorfer/ Lafarge, and Rauch Saefte. In the retail sector, we have Austrian companies like Metro Cash&Carry and furniture retailer KIKA. In the commercial sector, Austrian insurance company Vienna Insurance Group (VIG) has made a substantial investment in constructing VIG PLAZA business centre. ■

Export to import ratio, in %

Trade between Serbia and Austria, in million USD 800

100

600

79.47

80

400

48.57

200

60

0

40

50.04 45.13

-200

66.14

65.21

57.27 58.70 48.90

20

-400 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013-VII

Export in USD

Import in USD

Balance in USD

0 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013-VII

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 39

interview

Nicolaus Keller, Austrian Cultural Attaché

Kindred Cultures I believe that Serbia has a lot to offer, and I still think every effort should be made to present its culture to its neighbours and to the world. But culture should most importantly be presented to its own citizens, by making culture more accessible all across the country

I

n many ways, a national culture is the backbone of a national identity. While economy and politics are vital for a country’s progress, it is the advancement and promotion of its culture that creates a great nation. In the case of Austria and Serbia, it would appear that that the two cultures have developed along similar lines, although with a gap of 100 years intervening. In this exclusive interview with CorD, Austrian Cultural Attaché Nicolaus Keller gives his view of the development of culture in both countries and the unique ties and kinships which exist between Serbia and Austria in terms of culture.

■ What is your view of the cultural environment in Serbia?

- When you asked a similar question last year, I told you how impressed I was with the fact that Serbian artists and cultural institutions accomplish great things with limited funds. I saw potential in that ability to be creative under precarious conditions. Some even assume that difficult times are a very fruitful environment for culture. However, the Austrian Cultural Forum Belgrade

is constantly involved in common projects with our Serbian partners and I am aware of the hard times they have. The level of uncertainty that they have to face has become increasingly hard to tackle. We even had to cancel some of our partner projects because local institutions

There is a myth that cultural institutions can be self-sustainable. That is rarely the case. Some of the most important Austrian cultural institutions have not been self-sustainable did not receive any or enough support. I believe that Serbia has a lot to offer, and I still think every effort should be made to present its culture to its neighbours and to the world.

40 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

But culture should most importantly be presented to its own citizens, by making culture more accessible all across the country.

■ Do you think that the main problem with culture in Serbia is lack of money, or maybe lack of ideas, as recently pointed out by Culture Minister Ivan Tasovac?

- I hope that the new minister of culture will succeed to implement the reforms that he has started.

By bringing more transparency when it comes to funding, by professionalization when it comes to heads of cultural institutions and by relying more on public-private partnerships, even small funds could find a optimum use and have rewarding results. There is a myth

that cultural institutions can be self-sustainable. That is rarely the case. Some of the most important Austrian cultural institutions have not been self-sustainable, like the famous State Opera and even the world famous Philharmonic orchestra, neither of which could do without some subsidies. In addition to that, the partial privatization of our big museums and the establishment of major private museums has greatly reduced the amount of subsidies and at the same time greatly improved the diversity and number of ex-

inatory when it comes to quality, though. It should make sure to have good mechanisms of quality control and evaluation. At the end of the day, public success is often a good benchmark for quality, but not the only one.

VaĹĄi PAKETI u sigurnim rukama

â– Austria is geographically small, but a cultural giant. Is it possible to draw a parallel between the situation in Austrian culture in 1918 and Serbian culture from early 1990s? How much are they reflected in the spirit of the times and the culture today?

Jedan poziv:

0 800 30 93 000

www.cityexpress.rs

hibitions presented to the public, due to the heightened competition among them. â– How much should the government be involved in culture?

- The government should make sure that those who have chosen art and culture as their profession can follow their vocations without being concerned with (at least) basic existential problems. This goes for institutions as well. They have to be able to rely on a basic support from the government when it comes to their work and programs. That helps them to maintain quality as a primary condition in programming.

Governmental support should not be excessive or non-discrim-

The government should make sure that those who have chosen art and culture as their profession can follow their vocations without being concerned with (at least) basic existential problems - There is the evident parallel between the collapse of AustriaHungary in 1918 and the collapse of Yugoslavia and what happened to Serbia at the end of the 20th century. It is even truer if we compare the capitals Belgrade and Vienna at the time.

Both Vienna and Belgrade were disconnected from most of the territories with which they had been integrated for long periods.

For Austria, one of the most difAustria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 41

ficult times economically and politically in its history had started back then. The same thing could apply to Serbia, with the big difference being that Serbia can freely direct its way and will hopefully find its place in the big European family.

There, without borders and with the all the freedoms, it can again "reconnect and reintegrate" in the framework of the European family.

■ Next year will be the centennial of the Sarajevo assassinations. The European cultural elite have been debating about the true character of this act for some time now. What kind of stance should we take on this event from today’s perspective?

- I must admit that I find it quite puzzling that such media hype has broken out in Serbia regarding the assessment of the Sarajevo assassinations. In the rest of Europe and actually the entire academic world, there is a widespread consensus that the Sarajevo assassination was nothing more than a spark, not the reason, for the outbreak of World War I. Discussions and analyses in the rest of the world therefore focus on the underlying reasons of the war, such as the militarised societies and the system of secret alliances. In any case, I think that now, one hundred years after the outbreak of the war, it is time to leave the discussions to the academic world and focus on the lessons that we can learn for today and the future. In this sense, the activities of the Austrian Cultural Forum Belgrade will focus on activities for Serbian youth, such as exchange programmes, regional youth initiatives and concerts. We will also organise a big exhibition, which will however look far beyond the war itself and deal with the long history of the close Austrian-Serbian relations.

■ Austria and Serbia share a lot of history. How does that reflect

on the cultural ties between the two countries?

- While it is widely known today that the Austrian-Serbian conflict in 1914 led to the outbreak of the First World War, it is much less known how interwoven and close the relations of these two countries were throughout the 19th century. Like in a marriage, the relations had their ups and downs, but were, in the long run, characterised by mutual interdependence and closeness between the two countries.

Diplomatic relations between

There is the evident parallel between the collapse of Austria-Hungary in 1918 and the collapse of Yugoslavia and what happened to Serbia at the end of the 20th century the then Austrian Empire and Serbia began as early as 1836 with the opening of an Austrian Consulate in Belgrade. When it comes to influences, you have the phenomenon of Serbian intellectuals studying and working in Vienna and Graz (such as Vuk Karadzic and Nikola Tesla) and the influence that the Austrian legal system had on the establishment of the judiciary system in

42 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

Serbia. One can also mention the significance of Serbian-Austrian trade relations in the 19th century.

The relations between Vienna and Belgrade have become nowadays closer than ever.

■ There are many people of Serbian origin living in Austria. In which way have they been involved in Austrian culture, and how visible is Serbian culture in Austria?

- There are many people of Serbian origin that live in Austria and are

involved in Austrian culture. If you could be present at the annual meeting of the cultural section of our foreign ministry, you would be able to notice that all the presentations by our renowned experts from the fields of culture and science included mentions of Serbian names related to some of the most prominent projects.

Although geographically we are not exactly neighbours, there is a feeling that we are. Another wonderful example of the common cultural heritage that we share was an exhibition “A Wonder World of Secession – Architectural Elements from the Danube Region” that we have shown this year in Subotica,

support projects developed by our local Serbian partners.

This year we had a very successful second EU Day of Languages at the Faculty of Philology in Belgrade. It was a conference aiming at language teacher, and it gathered around 400 participants from all over Serbia. We are proud that our conference was accredited by the Ministry of Education.

Sombor and in Vrnjacka banja.

Nevertheless, I think that among the larger population of Austrians there still is a psychological distance due to the image of Serbia that remains from the 1990s. That is why it is essential to present Serbia and its arts and culture in Austria. This is, however, not exactly the task of the Austrian Cultural Forum Belgrade, which has to promote Austrian artists in Serbia, not vice versa.

■ Which are the most significant results accomplished by the Austrian Cultural Forum in Serbia?

- I think the most important task and achievement of our Forum is that we have managed to fight the clichés that existed about Austrian art and culture and being primarily seen as a land of classical music. I am convinced that we have managed to provide the Serbian public with a new perspective of Austria as a land of contemporary art and innovative science.

I would also like to take this opportunity to mention that we have carried out numerous successful projects within the framework of the EUNIC - the network of the European national institutes for culture. This year Austria has taken over the presidency of the EUNIC cluster in Serbia. In addition to all EU cultural centres represented in Serbia, the cluster also involves most of the EU embassies and other representations.

We have managed to provide the Serbian public with a new perspective of Austria as a land of contemporary art and innovative science We also cooperate closely with the office of the European Commission, with the EU Delegation and with the EUIC. EUNIC Serbia has accomplished numerous successful projects since it was founded in January 2007. We already traditionally take part at the Belgrade Book Fair, organize EUNIC film weeks throughout Serbia and

■ What are your project goals and could you single out some of them?

- As mentioned above, the focus of next year will be the commemoration of 100 years since outbreak of World War I. Our activities can be summarized with the slogan “Commemorating History – Creating a Future”. As for the commemorative projects, we are planning an exhibition “Zajedno i u dobru i u slu – Austrian-Serbian relations from independence to the First World War”. The exhibition will be realized in close cooperation of both Austrian and Serbian experts and historians. Along with the exhibition, there will be roundtables, book presentations, and debates.

We also plan several contemporary music events that will focus on young audiences. We are also working hard to make it possible to bring two “stars” of the Austrian visual arts – Hermann Nitsch and Gottfried Helnwein to the Museum of modern art in Belgrade. ■

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 43

Customs and Tradition

Trans-cultural Hospitality Austrians are very hospitable and encourage visitors to join in their celebrations. In the countryside you’ll find many traditions and customs are still actively celebrated, some of which date back to Celtic and Roman times, while others were introduced by Bavarian and Slavic people

A

ustrian customs and traditions vary according to the region you’re in. Not everyone in Austria walks around in lederhosen or a dirndl (a close fitting bodice combined with a different-coloured apron), although various traditions and celebrations still remain an integral part of Austrian culture. Go outside of the main cities such as Vienna, Graz and Salzburg, and the country becomes fairly rural, with small communities that traditionally have resisted cultural change. As a result, many old traditions and customs survive. Over the centuries, Austrians have developed a strong affinity for celebrations, rituals and symbolism, and throughout the year you will encounter many interesting ceremonies and traditions.

Austrians are very hospitable and encourage visitors to join in their celebrations (with the exception of religious processions). In the countryside you’ll find many traditions and customs are still actively celebrated, some of which date back to Celtic and Roman times, while others were introduced by Bavarian and Slavic people.

A major influencing factor was

Charlemagne’s rule over the area and the introduction of Christianity to the region. This evolved with the Church’s inclusion of old Pagan customs into its own mythology, which ensured the preservation of older customs and traditions, and has allowed Austrians to retain a strong sense of celebration, ritual and symbolism, resulting in many colourful and varied festivities.

An area rich with such traditions is eastern Tyrol and the Salzkammergut, a picturesque region shared

Older rituals carried over from Pagan times have become intertwined with others that originated with the Catholic Church

by Salzburg, a good portion of Upper Austria and Styria. One of the most colourful of these customs is the Glöcklerlauf Parade, which occurs every year on the 5th of January.

Groups of men dressed in white meet at nightfall wearing broad leather belts with heavy bells, and colourful, elaborate lanterns on their heads, each of which is a work of art in itself.

44 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

The men proceed to tour the streets of the villages, a procession held to shed light on the dark winter months and bring luck for the New Year.

These older rituals carried over from Pagan times are intertwined with others that originated with the Catholic Church to celebrate the goodness of Christ and of giving.

Another tradition you’ll find on show, especially in these rural communities, is the local “tracht” (costume), which may be worn on occasions such as weddings, festivals and celebrations. In earlier times, the tracht identified a person as belonging to a particular group in terms of social and legal status (married, single), origin or trade. Today you will still see the tracht being worn with pride in many places, particularly the Salzkammergut and other rural communities, although perhaps without some of the same meanings as it had in the past.

Variations by region are pronounced, with different colour combinations, accessories and sometimes the inclusion of unique hats for men and women. For men the typical dress includes lederhosen (leather

pants), wool socks and rustic shoes, while for women it is the dirndl.

Another popular celebration is Fasching (carnival time), which happens in the period between Epiphany and the beginning of Lent.

There is also the Christmas season, which is celebrated with much pageantry, glitter and light, especially in the larger cities.

Austrians enter the New Year with massive firework displays, church bells and waltzing in the street. In the countryside you can hear shots being fired off in the distance, a tradition known as the “Neujahrsschiessen” (New Year’s Salute). During the Neujahrsschiessen you can see the squads of historical rifle associations, all in traditional costumes. Lined up in rows, they shoot with 17th-century-style guns to complete the traditional look. In the capital, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra plays the “Neujahrskonzert” (New Year’s Concert). Five days later, “Glöcklers” are seen walking from door to door in Salzkammergut.

They consist of “star singers” dressed as the three kings, whose purpose is

to announce the birth of Jesus and leave a mark on every house. This tradition is also known as the “Glöcklerlaufen” in the Alpine regions.

Also based on ancient Pagan belief is the celebration of Frau Perchta and the “Perchten”, who protect those who are good in spirit and punish those who aren’t so good.

Young men dress up as evil spirits – the Perchten – to banish Frau Perchta’s dark companions. Another

practice is the protective smoking of the house, cattle and food stocks, which takes place around the winter solstice and is achieved by burning a certain kind of herb. Doing this is believed to awaken the spirits of the New Year, which have been resting in the soil underneath the snow. On these Smoke Nights, painted wooden masks are worn. The masks are

In addition to native traditions, Austrian food has been influenced by Hungarian, Czech, Jewish, Italian and Bavarian cuisine devilish looking, with tusks, teeth or horns, at times resembling bears, wolves or eagles, and are worn to pierce the souls of haunted people.

Horse or cow tails are also carried around like whips, while the masks do not have ears, so no screams of victims may be heard.

The “Schönperchten”, meanwhile, are the more charming version of the Perchten, delivering luck and happiness for the New Year.

Found among the different regions are the Tresterer of Pinzgau, the Beak Perchta of Rauris, the Wild Chase from the Untersberg region and the Glöckler from Ausseerland, a region of about 5,000 residents, most of whom live in the town of Bad Aussee in the state of Styria. Unlike their devilish counterparts, the Schönperchten are not entirely female, meaning you’ll find male or female Schönperchten wearing white flower ornaments, little bells and

small mirrors. Whether performing a dance or delivering blessings from house to house, you will see them stomping on the ground to awaken the seeds in the soil ahead of spring.

Now, you may already know Austria for its spectacular scenery, skiing, music, old-world charm, the River Danube, the friendly people and its delicious pastries, but did

you know that Austria has a thriving wine industry, some of the best coffee around and other delicious foods? Much of that comes from the past, when Austria was an empire that reached far and wide into Eastern Europe and south into northern Italy. In addition to native regional traditions such as Viennese cuisine, Austrian food has been influenced

by Hungarian, Czech, Jewish, Italian and Bavarian tastes.

Austrian cuisine is among the most trans-cultural in Europe. If you’ve never enjoyed a Wiener schnitzel meal, you are missing out.

And afterwards you can finish it off with a slice of apfelstrüdel (apple strudel) and a cup of Viennese coffee.

You’ll surely need to walk it all off, but you’ll be purring contentedly as you go. For a mid-afternoon snack, a slice of sachertorte (heavy on the chocolate) with that Viennese coffee is heavenly, although admittedly even more taxing on the waistline.

Wine, too, should be of great interest to visitors, given you seldom hear about Austrian wines. ■

Source: Advantage Austria, AllThingsAustria.com.

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 45

Culture

A World Created by Man

Arts and culture are highly regarded in Austria, while the city of Vienna has been the world capital of arts, especially music, for centuries

“G

od created the world, but man created another world for himself: art.” This is what the great Austrian actor and director Max Reinhardt (1873–1943) said about art. It’s no wonder that an Austrian is the author of such quote. Arts and culture are highly regarded in Austria, while the city of Vienna has been the world capital of arts, especially music, for centuries MUSIC Even to this day, “The Vienna Classics” or the famous “Viennese Triumvirate” – Joseph Haydn, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Ludwig

van Beethoven – are the most important representatives of the European cultural heritage. There is a saying that goes Haydn created the rules in classical music, Mozart followed them, and Beethoven broke them.

Just as these three composers are

“The Vienna Classics” or the famous “Viennese Triumvirate” – Joseph Haydn, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Ludwig van Beethoven – are the most important representatives of the European cultural heritage

Ludwig van Beethoven

Joseph Haydn

46 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

considered the “Gods of Classicism,” Franz Schubert and his chamber music are the epitome of the Romanticism. We should also mention Schubert’s contemporaries, who are equally important to the history of music – Johannes Brahms, Anton Bruckner, and Hugo Wolf.

The great Gustav Mahler has been often considered the link between the 19th century AustroHungarian tradition and early 20th century Modernism. While celebrated as a great conductor during his lifetime, Mahler achieved popularity as composer only in death.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

During the Nazi era, his music was banned in the better part of Europe, and re-discovered after 1945. Today, he is one of the most widely performed composers in the world, a position he firmly holds in the 21st century too.

Johann Strauss II is the embodiment of the classical Viennese Waltz.

He was nicknamed ‘the King of the Waltz’, and is considered one of the key figures in classical Viennese operetta. He composed 168 waltzes, 117 polkas, a string of quadrilles, marches, mazurkas, and gallops, and 16 operettas. Strauss perfected the classical Viennese Waltz to the level of orchestral music. With their playful melodies, his waltzes captivated the world, and have remained popular for over a century even to this day, particularly the waltzes “On the Beautiful Blue Danube,” “Tales from the Vienna Woods”, “Viennese Blood”, “Morning Journals”, “Voices of Spring”, “Emperor Jubilation”, “Pizzicato Polka”, and “Trisch-Trasch polka”. His operettas – “The Bat” and “The Gypsy Baron” – are the highlights of the classical Viennese operettas and trailblazers for the two future directions of this musical expression. Strauss’ other operettas like – “A Night in Venice”

and “Viennese Blood” – also became widely popular, as did operetta “The Apple Festival”.

FOLK MUSIC Folk music (german ”Volksmusik”) is the common umbrella designation of a number of related styles of traditional music from the Alpine regions of Austria, Germany, Switzerland and the province of Bolzano-Bozen (Italy). It tends to be

Because of the language in which it was written, Austrian literature has often been associated with German literature.

Still, Austrian literature should be viewed as a separate entity dialect-heavy and invokes local and regional lifestyles and traditions, particularly those of the Alpine farmers and peasants.

Typical instruments range from Alpenhorns to Zithers and acoustic guitars, and even violas and harmonicas. Harmonized singing is frequent, but other pieces may require yodeling, while instrumental arrangements are particularly frequent for fast dances or brass pieces.

Folk music continues to be per-

formed by many local groups and orchestras throughout the European Alps and should not be confused with folksy music, which is largely to be found in broadcasting media and on ancillary merchandise.

LITERATURE Because of the language in which it was written, Austrian literature has often been associated with German literature. Still, Austrian literature should be viewed as a separate entity. In the Middle Ages, spiritual lyric folklore, aristocratic and folk troubadour poetry started to evolve in what is today’s Austria.

In the 13th century, an anonymous poet wrote the epic poem, “The Song of the Nibelungs”, about the same time as epic poem “Kudrun” was written in Styria. In the 14th century, Heinrich der Teichner wrote satirical poetry, while anticlerical parody prose, written by Philipp Frankfurter, thrived in the pre-Renaissance period. The key figure of the Renaissance literature, Konrad Celtis established several academies in Vienna and wrote poetry in Latin.

In the 17th century, Jesuit drama emerged, while Baroque was the era of satirical prose and Viennese folk drama, which will continue to dominate literature in the following two centuries.

In parallel with the collapse of the monarchy, Viennese modern literature blossomed. Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalysis had a great impact on turn of the century literature.

One of the first modern Austrian writers is Hermann Bahr, an author known for his the use of different literary styles, while Peter Altenberg, Arthur Schnitzler and Stefan Zweig emerged as leading impressionists.

The poetic opus of Rainer Maria Rilke and Hugo von Hofmannsthal, and fictional writer Karl Kraus had a strong impact on the period’s culture. The Prague Circle of Austrian writers is represented by novelist and poet Franz Werfel, author of intriguing fiction with elements of

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 47

Franz Kafka

Rainer Maria Rilke

expressionism and existentialism, Franz Kafka, and the famous writer of literary reportage, Egon Erwin Kisch.

The most noted post-World War II Austrian writers are Franz Theodor Csokor, Ödön von Horvath, Franz Nabl, Richard Billinger, Heimito von Doderer, Alexander LernetHolenia, Fritz Habeck, Ernst Fischer, and Hugo Huppert. The prose of Hans Lebert, Hanelore Valencak, Franz Innerhofer, Gernot Wolfgruber, Felixa Mitterer, and Michael Scharang gives a critical overview of contemporary society. Thomas Bernhardt writes psychological novels, Ilse Aichinger, Herbert Zand, Peter Handke, Nobel Prize laureate Elfriede Jelinek, Andreas Okopenko, and Gerhard Roth are considered avant-garde, while Gert Friedrich Jonke, Barbara Frischmuth, Friederike Mayrocker, Ernst Jandl, Helmut Eisendle, Peter Rosei, and Gerhard Roth turned to experimental literary work.

Stefan Zweig

most beautiful achievements of the Age of Enlightenment in Europe, are many and with extensive collections of artifacts. The museums in Tirol have amazing Stone and Bronze Age archeological artifacts on display, the exhibition of restored farmhouses and art collections from the Imperial period. The small federal state of Vorarlberg is known for its contemporary architecture, as well as the the biggest collection of Rolls-Royce cars in the world.

Austrian museums, one of the most beautiful achievements of the Age of Enlightenment in Europe, are many and with extensive collections of artefacts The museums in Upper Austria are thematically diverse, from prehistoric remnants to the latest technology and digital worlds of the future. The amalgamation of the past

ART AND PAINTING In painting, Gustav Klimt heralded the legendary Jugendstil movement. It is worth mentioning other notable Austrian painters Egon Schiele, Oskar Kokoschka, Anton Lehmden, Ernst Fuchs, Friedensreich Hundertwasse, Hermann Nitsch, Günter Brus, and Arnulf Reiner. The best known Austrian sculptors are Fritz Wotruba and Alfred Hrdlicka. The most renowned Austrian architects from the early 20th century are Otto Wagner, Josef Hoffmann and Adolf Loos.

Austrian museums, one of the

48 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

and the present is especially evident in Styria. Kunsthaus Graz, situated amidst the old historical part of Graz, is a combination of classic and avant-garde.

Mozart is not the only artist that dominates the museums in Salzburg. They also exhibit modern art pieces, and the history of trade in salt (considered ‘the white gold’ in this part of the world) which dates back to Celtic times, in addition to the folk tradition of the federal state of Salzburg. Apart from the national and international artefacts, the museums in Carinthia illustrate the life and the work of the people living in the Alps, as well as the cultures from distant countries (the Heinrich Harrer Museum in Hüttenberg).

The Viennese museums showcase artefacts from almost all historical periods. The museums are known all over the world for their eclectic mixture of different style collections. The Museum Quarter (MuseumsQuartier) is not only the biggest museum zone in Europe, but also has an array of other quality features. The Leopold Museum exhibits one of the most important collections of Austrian modern art from Klimt, Kokoschka and Gerstle to Böckl, Böhler and Kubin, including the biggest collection of Schiele’s work in the world.

Egon Schiele

Friedensreich Hundertwasser

Although Austria is a geographically small country, it has a vast and impressive cultural heritage, worthy of the former European empire. The fact that Austria was a formidable empire and super-power for many centuries left its mark on the development of cultures in other countries too. Many great Serbian artists have been heavily influenced

by Austrian culture and Vienna, as the hub of cultural events.

The reformer of Serbian language, Vuk Karadžić came to Vienna in 1813 and continued living there almost until his death. It was in Vienna that he wrote his most important work. Dositej Obradović spent six years in Vienna, studying Austrian culture and the German language. A great Serbian scientist, Milutin Milanković, studied at the Vienna University of Technology where he graduated in civil engineering in 1902 as one of the best students of his generation. He also got his doctorate from the University in 1904, making him the first Serb to have a PhD in technical science.

Branko Radičević, Đura Daničić, Josif Pančić, Jovan Cvijić, and Nikola Tesla are just a few of the Serbian literary, science and art greats who studied or did their most important work in Vienna.

Gustav Klimt

Danube"), the most famous Vienna Waltz of Johann Strauss. It is broadcasted countrywide just after midnight, but also part of the New Year's concert by the Wiener Phil-

Although Austria is geographically a small country, it has a vast and impressive cultural heritage, worthy of the former European empire harmonika (Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra).

It hasn't always been that popular. Originally, it was considered to be a very naughty dance and too indecent to be danced by young girls.

Only married women were allowed to waltz in the up-tight years before the French Revolution. Waltzes in the modern sense are danced in pairs and are considered to be a relatively fast dance for ballroom. It was developed from the Deutscher Tanz ("Ger-

man Dance") and first mentioned in a comedy by Felix von Kurtz in the 1770s.

Within a few years, it was more common than the previously popular French minuet that was danced in rotation. It is unclear if the "Ländler" dance is an ancestor of the waltz (as stated in many sources) or if it developed at the same time. In any case, the rapid pace of the waltz and the fact that you could see the legs of the ladies at times hindered its spread.

Only through the endless balls, receptions and "rendoutes" (less formal balls) during the time of the Vienna Congress in 1814 and 1815 did the Vienna Waltz start to become socially respectable. Several reputable composers picked the dance up and created endless variations.

These are most notably Josef Lanner and his rivals Johann Strauss the Elder and Johann Strauss the Younger.

The roots of the modern Vienna Waltz go back to the Vienna Congress. Especially the latter is regarded to be something like "Mr Vienna Waltz" and worshipped by the Viennese like Mozart is by the Salzburgians. When the operetta developed towards the end of the 19th century, the waltz was an obligatory feature to make it a success. ■

VIENNA WALTZ If the Vienna Opera Ball is the national ball of Austria, the most important dance at the event, the Vienna Waltz, is the national dance.

Most Austrians dance into the new year with "An der schönen blauen Donau" ("By the beautiful, blue Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 49

Tourism

Tourism Superpower For years, Austria has been ranked among the first ten countries in the world by tourism revenue and among the first fifteen by number of tourists that visit the country each year. Thirty million tourists come to Austria every year, generating US $20 billion in revenue, which makes Austria a tourism superpower

T

ourism is an important segment of the Austrian economy which has a 9% share in the national GDP. In 2007, the number of overnight stays in Austria was the same during summer and winter. The peak of the winter tourist season is in February, while July and August are the busiest months in the summer season. For years, Austria has been ranked among the first ten countries in the world by tourism revenue and among the first fifteen by number of tourists that visit the country each year.

Thirty million tourists visit Austria every year, generating US $20 billion revenue, which makes Austria a tourism superpower. Austrian towns have increasingly become a favourite destination, not only for living, but also as a tourist attraction. This is the main message of the publication called ‘Austrian Towns and Cities in Figures,” published by the Statistik Austria Institute once a year.

The positive balance of overnight stays in Austria in the last

two years is mainly attributed to tourist overnight stays in the capital cities of Austrian federal provinces, and in Vienna. In 2011, 17.61 million overnight stays were

Austrian cities have been developing into venues for various events and favourite tourist destinations registered in the capital cities of the federal provinces, including Vienna. 75.5% of those stays are attributed to foreign guests. Austrian cities have been developing into venues for various events and favourite tourist destinations. The increasingly popular city tourism has also benefitted from large-scale infrastructure investment.

50 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

VIENNA Vienna is, by far, the most attractive summer tourist destination in Austria. Salzburg, ranking second in terms of number of visits, receives five times fewer tourists annually than Vienna. In winter, towns in Western Austria report more overnight tourist stays than Salzburg.

The most popular winter resorts here are Sölden, Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Ischgl, Sankt Anton am Arlber, and Obertauern.

The global centre of music and museums, Vienna is considered both old and new at the same time.

The former imperial capital is brimming with architectural gems from Baroque castles, like Schönbrunn and Belvedere, and post modern buildings like Hashaus, to Gothic ca-

thedral of St. Stephen. Concerts and opera nights, with world-class musicians, make Vienna the centre of classical music. The annual revenue of Vienna State Opera is close to €30 million, 98.7% of the seats in the Opera house are sold out, and close to 350 plays, operas, ballets, children’s operas and matinees are performed every year. Over 100 Viennese museums exhibit not only the artefacts from all art history periods, but also many curiosities.

SALZBURG Salzburg, the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, is the essence of Austria’s tourist attraction since it has everything that a tourist can wish for – from culture to beautiful nature. Mountain climbers can enjoy gentle slopes of the mountains surrounding Salzburg Lakes in the north, hills covered in pastures, and the steep rocks and mountain lakes in the south. This is also home to Hohe Tauern, the biggest national park in Austria. Almost one third of the territory surrounding Salzburg is a protected area. If you enjoy culture and history more than the countryside, you can visit fortresses like Hohensalzburg, castles like Hellbrunn and numerous museums.

INNSBRUCK Innsbruck is the capital city of the federal state of Tyrol and the centre of Austrian Medieval herit-

Salzburg

Schonbrunn palace, Vienna

age. The old part of the city is still very much reminiscent of the Middle Ages. Visitors are fascinated by the Golden Roof which was built on the orders of Emperor Maximilian in Herzog Friedrich Street. The roof is made of 2,657 gold-plated copper

The annual revenue of Vienna State Opera is close to €30 million, 98.7% of the seats in the Opera house are sold out, and close to 350 plays, operas, ballets, children’s operas and matinees are performed every year shingles which cover the late Gothicstyle bay. The fascinating Ambras Castle is home to a collection of paintings by the Renaissance painter Titian, and Baroque painters Anthony van Dyck and Diego Velázquez. The Gothic style Ottoburg tower, which belongs to the Innsbruck citadel, is

surrounded today by modern corporate buildings. The Hofburg Palace, built in 1460, and its courtyard were converted by Empress Maria Theresa into a monumental dance and concert hall. The Empress left the people of Tyrol with a real gem of Viennese Rococo. Surrounded by the Alps, Innsbruck is known for its unusual rock formations with some of them so out of ordinary that many tourists have to be convinced that they are not man-made but shaped by nature. Access to this popular winter resort is now much easier thanks to the Brenner Pass. The capital city of Tyrol is famous for hosting winter sport competitions. Innsbruck was twice the host of the Winter Olympic Games (in 1964 and 1976).

It is famous for many ski slopes, a bobsleigh track and the Olympic ski jumping track which hosts the New Year's Ski Jump Masters.

innsbruck

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 51

new architectural landmark was erected in Graz, on the right bank of the Mur, the Kunsthaus Museum, which resembles a huge glittery blue balloon. The Gothic cathedral dates back to imperial times. Next to it is the Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II. 32,000 pieces of weaponry are displayed over five floors of Landeszughaus (The Styrian Armoury), while a summer house with a Renaissance-style courtyard resembles a Venetian palace.

villgraten valley

VILLGRATEN VALLEY Wherever you go in Austria, you can find a mountain resort to stay in, be it a bare wooden shack ideal for hermits or a honeymoon suite in a chalet (a traditional Alpine wooden lodge) with a sauna and breakfast with champagne. The Villgraten Valley lies in the secluded mountains of East Tyrol, at 1,400 metres in altitude, and is one of the last remaining untouched valleys in the Alpine region. Far from noise and city traffic, this spacious oasis of fresh air is an ideal place for anybody craving peace and quiet. It looks like the term ‘rural tourism’ was invented here. The shepherds’ wooden lodges are today converted for tourism purposes and the only modernday amenities you can find here are cold running water and a fireplace.

GRAZ The capital city of Styria, Graz dates back to the Roman period.

The town lies on the River Mur and is known for its historic buildings

The shepherds’ wooden lodges are today converted for tourism purposes and the only modern-day amenities you can find here are cold running water and a fireplace and creative culture scene. In 2003, Graz was declared European capital of culture. A tree-clad hill called Schlossberg stands amidst the town and is ideal for long walks. There was a fortress on top of the hill, but the only part of it that stands to this day is the clock tower, which is also the town’s symbol. In 2003, a

graz

52 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

alberg

ARLBERG The Arlberg region is considered the birthplace of modern-day alpine skiing, and it offers 340 km of marked runs, 200 km for offpiste skiers, and 94 ski lifts and ski rails. The average snowfall between November and May is close to 7 metres which definitely makes Arlberg the place to be in winter.

Considered one of the best skiing areas in the world, there are five resorts in the Arlberg region: Lech, Zürs, Stuben, St. Christoph and St. Anton. Arlberg is a regular meeting place for skiers from all over the world who crave deep crisp snow, as well as for cross country skiers, snowshoe walkers and anyone who enjoys the pleasures of snow.

The Arlberg Pass links Austrian federal states of Tyrol and Vorarlberg. The altitudes here range from 1,300 to 2,800 metres which is ideal for alpine skiing.

Rogner Bad Blumau Spa

STYRIAN THERmAL SPRINGS Artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser has really transformed the buildings in the Rogner Bad Blumau Spa into something special thanks to its signature style. The springs span close to 2,700 square metres and they have two water sources which supply water to both indoor and outdoor pools. Melchior is a gentle hot spring with healing properties where the water reaches a temperature of 47.2°C, while the temperature of the water at the Vulkania hot spring goes up to 110°C. Vulkania’s water is rich in minerals, and this spring is considered the strongest spring in the spa. You will be dazzled by the blue lights of the AlphaSphere salt room where a meaningful composition of light, sounds, heat and vibrations will energize you and awaken your senses. Apart from relaxing in saunas, the Dead Sea Salt

Cave and a marine climate cabin, guests can also enjoy massages and Ayurveda treatments.

You can swim outdoors with snowy mountains around you and go skiing right next to the spa later that day.

The spas have become an important factor for tourism

HOT SPRINGS & THERmAL SPAS On a cold and grim winter day, if you live in the mountains and there is snow all over the place, it comes in handy to live in a country that has hot springs. Austria is blessed with a whole range of formerly volcanic zones. Hot springs feed mineral water companies and spas with the affiliated wellness tourism industries. Mostly in the 1990s, Austria shifted from mass tourism to high-quality, and that included the construction of several spas, mostly in the South-East of the Alps, but also in Southern Salzburg and Upper Austria.

Today, you can choose to swim in steaming hot water all year round.

In fact, some spas are in major ski re-

Alpentherme Gastein spa

sorts. You can swim outdoors with snowy mountains around you and go skiing right next to the spa later that day. The spas have become an important factor for tourism.

Most spas offer massages, saunas and other wellness and beauty treatments. Others specialise in an "adventure" approach with wave pools and target younger people. Yet other spas maintain longstanding traditions of therapeutic treatments and are more popular with elderly people and people on rehabilitation programs.

Here is a list of some of spas to ensure a relaxing stay in Austria : Kneipp thermal spa of the Sisters of Mary of Carmel in Upper Austria; Alpentherme Gastein, one of the most modern thermal spas in the Alps; Therme Laa located in Lower Austria; Bad Waltersdorf in Styria boasts a spaciously designed thermal and sauna complex; Warmbad Villach, located in Carinthia... ■

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 53

company register ADVANCE POLJOOPSKRBA d.o.o.

Johann KARALL, Director Maršala Tita 64, 24323 Feketić Tel: +381 21 714 346 Fax: +381 21 714 582 hans.karall@advanceagrifood.com www.visina-centar.com Advokatska kancelarija JANKOVIĆ, POPOVIĆ & MITIĆ Nikola JANKOVIĆ, Miloš MITIĆ , Nenad POPOVIĆ Vladimira Popovica 6 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 207-6850 office@jpm.rs www.jpm.rs Advokatsko ortačko društvo Živković Samardžić Miloš ŽIVKOVIĆ Makedonska 30 /II 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 112636636 office@zslaw.rs www.zslaw.rs AGRANA-STUDEN SERBIA d.o.o.

Nenad Korica Milentija Popovica 5V/2/7 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 6555856 info@agrana-studen.com www.sco-group.com AGENCY FOR CERTIFIED QUALITY ACQ Milos DANILOVIC, Director Rumenacka 51 21000 Novi Sad Tel: +381 212700244 m.danilovic@abg.at www.abgrs.com Alas Holding A.D. Peter Hammerschmid, Generalni director Dunavska 4, 21207 Ledinci Tel: +381 21 886 324 m.arlov@alas-holding.rs www.alas-holding.rs Alba Invest coo / Falkensteiner Hotel Belgrade Aleksandar Vasilijevic, Director Bulevar Mihaila Pupina 10k 11070 New Belgrade Tel. +381 11 225 0000 dina.veljovic@falkensteiner.com www.falkensteiner.com www.belgrade.falkensteiner.com ALCA TRGOVINA d.o.o Mitja Janežič, Iva Markota Beogradska 7, 11272 Dobanovci Tel: +381 11 2054400 Fax: +381 11 2054460 info@rs.alcagroup.com www.alca.rs

ALMA QUATTRO BELGRADE Kosanče Dimitrijević Dositejeva 20/III, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2028900 Fax: +381 11 2028916 office@aqyu.com www.almaquattro.rs ALMI-A-ACK d.o.o.

Vasilije Avramovic, Director Laze Savatica 16 11080 Zemun Tel: +381 11 2199130 Fax: +381 113161 005 almiaack@ikom.rs www.almi.at Alphaset d.o.o.

Olivera Ranković, Director Miska Jovanovica 16-18 11000 Beograd Tel: +381 113910024 Fax: +381 113910042 office@alphaset.rs www.alphaset.rs ALPINE d.o.o.

Zoran Kostić, Smiljana Stojanov 27. marta 17 11120 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 30 37 680 Fax: +381 11 3345-769 office@alpine.rs www.alpine.at Alufix d.o.o.

Petar Komad Gregorčićeva 8/1, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 630-40-10 prodaja@alufix.co.rs ALUKÖNIGSTAHL d.o.o.

Sasa Knezevic, Director Vladimira Popovića 6, A 306 11070 Novi Beograd Tel.: 381 11 222 32 72, 711 10 51Fax: 381 11 711 11 65 office@alukoenigstahl.rs s.knezevic@alukoenigstahl.rs www.alukoenigstahl.rs ALUPLAST BGD DOO Alma Kapetanovic, Director Batajnicki put 23, 11080 Zemun Tel: +381 11 3070328 Fax: +381 11 3070441 a.plast@eunet.rs www.aluplast.co.rs/ Amex Export-Import D.O.O. Desimir Stijaković, Director Sedište: Gospodar Jevremova 59, Kancelarija: Vladislava Bajcevica 29/19 11160 Beograd – Mirijevo Tel: +381 11 4124956 Fax: +381 11 3421789 Mob: +381 63346-861 amexbeograd@beotel.rs www.amex.co.rs

ATB SEVER HOLDING INTERNATIONAL Savo Mitrovic, Member of the Board Magnetna polja 6, 24000 Subotica Tel: +381 24 665100 Fax: +381 24 665125 savo.mitrovic@rs.atb-motors.com www.sever.rs Atos IT Solutions and Services d.o.o.

Dragan STOKIĆ, General direktor Pariske komune 22 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 113012200 Fax: +381 113012250 info.it-solutions.cs@siemens.com AUSTRIAN AIRLINES Hannes STEINACKER- Contry Manager Natalija Milić, Director Terazije 3/VII11000 Belgrade Tel:+381 11 30 34 944, Fax:+381 11 32 48 783 office.belgrade@austrian.com www.austrian.com AUSTROTHERM d.o.o.

Dragomir Ilic, Director Mirka Obradovića b.b.

14000 Valjevo Tel: +381 14 29 13 10 Fax: +381 14 29 13 13 office@austrotherm.rs www.austrotherm.rs/ Austrotherm –Marketingbüro Belgrad Vladimir Cujic,Marketing-Leiter in Belgrad Arcibalda Rajsa 27, 11030 Belgrade Mob: +381 64 8234701 Tel: +381 11 2369280 vladimir.cujic@austrotherm.rs office- Belgrade@austrotherm.rs ARDEX Baustoff GmbH Hr.Ernst BIEBER(Sitz in Österreich) Hürmerstr. 40 A-3382 Loosdorf , AUSTRIA Tel:+43 2 754 7021 Fax:+43 2 754 2490 bieber@ardex.at www.ardex.at A.S.A. EKO d.o.o.

Bojan Marković, Director Bul. Mihaila Pupina 5/21 11070 New Belgrade Tel. +381 11 612-13-10 Fax +381 11 612-83-33 info@asa-yu.eu www.asa-group.com AWT International d.o.o.

Nevenka Kovac, Miho GLAVIĆ Batajnički drum 283f

11080 Beograd Tel:+381 11 330 4600 Fax:+381 11 330 4611 awtbgd@awt.rs www.awt.rs BAUER Spezialtiefbau GmbH – ogranak Belgrade Peter Ausserlechner Knez Mihailova 22 11000 Belgrade Tel: +43 1 76022 20 Fax: +43 1 76022 22 sekretariat@bauer-spezialtiefbau.at www.bauer-spezialtiefbau.at BAUMIT SERBIAd.o.o.

Dušan Blagojević, Director Smederevski put 25k, 11113 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3475082 Fax: +381 11 3475079 office@baumit.rs www.wietersdorfer.com/ www.baumit.rs BAUSTOFF + METALL RITAM Veselin Despotović, Director Ugrinovacka 171 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 37 77 700 Fax: +381 11 37 77 717 desk@bm-ritam.co.rs www.baustoff-metall.com BEIERSDORF d.o.o. Belgrade Peter KOYS, Director Omladinskih brigada 88a, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2220660 Fax: +381 11 2220663 BDFBelgrade@beiersdorf.com BERRY FROST doo Milica Simić, Director 1.maja bb 15300 Loznica Tel: +381 15871823 Fax: +381 15871 817 berry.frost.loznica@gmail.com www.katrading.at BINDER + Co Zoran Banovic Milana Tankosica 11/5, 11120 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3293-749 z.banovic@scnet.rs www.binder-co.com BIOMEDICA MP d.o.o.

Damir Kovaček, Director Cara Dusana 214, 11080 Zemun Tel:+381 11 6301 882 Fax:+381 11 6301 883 office@biomedicamp.com BLUEWATERS-Project Development and Environmental Engineering Mila Tanasković, Director Beogradsi kej 33 21000 Novi Sad Tel: +381 21 4804600

54 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

Fax: +381 21 4804602 office@bluewaters.co.rs www.bluewaters.rs BRAMAC KROVNI SISTEMI d.o.o.

Biljana Tomovic Bul. Mihajla Pupina 10v, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2129555 Fax: +381 11 2129567 officesrb@bramac.com bramac.com/ Brantner otpadna privreda d.o.o.

Danijel Beronja, Director Ul. Basaidski put b.b 23272 Novi Becej Tel.: +381/23 771 150 Fax: +381/23 775 842 Mobilni : +381 (0)62 80 85 338 danijel.beronja@brantner.com www.brantner.com PREDSTAVNIŠTVO BRENNTAG CEE GMBH Branko Mitrović, General Manager Sokobanjska 1, 11000 Belgrade Tel:+381 11 6650 050,6650 059 Fax: +381 11 3676 084 office@brenntag.co.rs www.brenntag.co.rs BRUCHA GesmbH Zoran Dikovic, Director Fr. Odreda 4, 21132 Petrovaradin Mob: +381 66 439 494 z.dikovic@brucha.at www.brucha.com CA IMMO d.o.o.

Radivoje Karadzic, Director Milentija Popovica 5a, 11070 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 6555555 Fax: + 381 11 6555560 office@caimmo.rs Cargo-partner Mirko Ilic, Director Bulevar Arsenija Carnojevica 95A, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3108040 Fax: + 381 11 2286390 mirko.ilic@cargo-partner.com www.cargo-partner.com CARGO T. WEISS d.o.o.

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www.cpl.rs CHAPTER 4 COMMUNICATIONS Tamara Bekcic, General Manager Beogradska 54 / V sprat 11070 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3862539 Fax: + 381 11 3862 541 office-srb@chapter4.at www.chapter4.rs CHEMOPHARMA CHEMIKALIENUND PHARMAZEUTIKA Nenad Grujicic, Director Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 10g/323 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3115363 Fax: +381 11 3116088 chemopha@eunet.rs CINEPLEX SRB doo Enver Hadžiabdić, Director Jurija Gagarina 16-16A 11070 Belgrade Tel.: +381 112203400 info@cineplexx.rs www.cineplexx.rs CITY EXPRESS d.o.o.

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Svetlana Šarčević Cincar Jankova 3 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3208900 Fax: +381 11 3208930 office@cms-rrhs.com www.cms-rrhs.com COFACE SRBIJA Djordje ZIVANOVIC, Director Bulevar Oslobodjenja 111, 11000 Belgrade Tel:+381 11 3976 051 Fax:+381 11 3976 051 orders@coface.rs www.coface.rs COMPRESS VERLAGSGESELLSCHAFT M.B.H. & CO KG (Kontaktni biro grada Beča) Miloš Bogunović Makedonska 17 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3373 673 Fax: +381 113373 661 office@compresspr.rs www.compresspr.rs CONFIDA CONSULTING d.o.o.

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GrECo provides security for corporations and their employees, buildings, facilities and finances.”

Predrag Tomić • 011/329-1867 • p.tomic@greco.rs Dejan Papuga • 011/329-1867 • d.papuga@greco.rs www.greco.eu Fax: +381 11 303910 office@confida.rs www.confida.rs CONFIDE & PARTNERS DOO Andre Gregor Unterfurtner, Director Jovana Boskovica 14 21000 Novi Sad Tel: +381 21 423 543 jelcic@confidepartners.com www.confide.at www.confidepartners.com DELIKOMAT doo Vladimir BOJOVIC, Director Preljinska Baluga bb 32000 Cacak Tel: +381 32 5482 082 Mob: +381 60 5888 888 www.delikomat.rs DIALAB DOO Danijela Jovanović , Director Carigradska 1, 11008 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3238-745 Fax:+381 11 3242-777 dialab@sbb.rs www.dialab.at DIE PRESSE Thomas Roser, Director Koste Glavinica 25a, 11040 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 306-5253 Fax: +381 11 306-5254 roser.thomas@gmail.com DIGICARD-CO Prof. Dr.Pavle Bogetic Cara Nikolaja II 59, 11000 Belgrade Tel/Fax: +381 11 244 8928 psb@eunet.rs office@digicard.co.rs DM - DROGERIE MARKT DOO Manfred Kuhner, Director Alehandra Olivera Korichi, Zamenik direktora Bul. Mihajla Pupina 181, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2062900, Fax: +381 11 2062935 dmbgd@dm-drogeriemarkt.rs www.dm-drogeriemarkt.rs Doka Serb d.o.o.

Paolo Zumaglini, Managing Director Branko Dobričanin, Director Surčinska 17, 11070 New Belgrade Tel:+381 11 22 66 111 Fax:+381 11 22 66 122 serb@doka.com www.doka.com/rs DOPPELMAYR SEILBAHNEN GMBH Andrea KOČOVSKI, Director 3.oktobar 294/10, 19210 Bor Tel:+381 30 434-932 Fax:+38130 456-410 andreakoyu@yahoo.com www.doppelmayr.com Dr. RANTASA CONSULTING/ ACCORD GROUP ECE Danijela Vujisic ,Director Dr. Milutina Ivkovica 11A/5, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2669971 Fax: +381 11 3672047 Belgrade@rantasa.eu d.vujisic@rantasa.eu www.rantasa-consulting.at DURST d.o.o.

Klaus Durst Bulevar Mihaila Pupina 165g, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 220 58 10 Fax: +381 11 220 58 31 office@durst.rs www.atrium.rs/investor.html E.W.E. "ECOSYSTEMS" d.o.o.

Predrag Kukolj ,Director Partiznaske vode 4, 11030 Belgrade Tel: + 381 11 2500 113 Fax: + 381 11 2512 024 ewe-es@beotel.net www.ecosystems.co.rs ECOREC d.o.o.

Goran Vasić, Director Popovac BB 35254 Paraćin Tel: +381 35 572203 Fax: +381 35 572233 info_scg@ecorec.net www.ecorec.co.rs

ECOVIS ConFidas d.o.o Alexander Samoning, Director Imotska 1, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3956 800 Fax: +381 11 3956888 Belgrade@ecovis.com www.ecovis.com/belgrade ECOLAB HYGIENE d.o.o.

Marianne VUKOVIĆ-PAL, Director Milana Tankosića 8, 11000 Belgrade Tel:+381 11 2076-800 Fax: +381 11 2076-802 office.belgrade@ecolab.com www.rs.ecolab.eu Eglo Rasveta d.o.o.

Suzana Jovanovic, General Manager Stefana Prvovencanog 28, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3981389 Fax: +381 11 3981366 eglo@eglorasveta.com www.eglorasveta.com EINHELL d.o.o. Belgrade Ivan KUZMANOSKI, Director Vojvodjanska 386, 11271 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2269161 Fax: +381 11 2269161 info.serbia@einhell.com EJOT Tehnika spajanja d.o.o.

Jürgen Hauer, Director Oliver Đurić, Director Autoput Beograd-Novi Sad 296X 11080 Zemun Tel: +381 11 8486082 Fax: +381 11 8480056 info@ejot.rs www.ejot.co.rs ELSNER d.o.o.

Ignaz Mascha, Director Dušanka KANDIJA Darko VUCKOVIC Djordja Stanojevica 16 11070 New Belgrade Tel. +381 11 4049 681 Fax:+381 11 4049 680 ignaz.mascha@elsner.at www.elsner.at natasa.ivanovic@elsner.at

EURO LOGISTIK SERVICE d.o.o.

Sasa ORLOV, Direktor Vladimira Popovica 6/ A307 , 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 7856 412 sasa.orlov@els.co.rs www.els.at EMC2 COMPUTER SYSTEMS Mladen Jevtic, Director Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 6 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2200-165 Fax: +381 11 2200-167 Mob: +381 60 72 737 10 mladen.jevtic@emc.com ENERGO PET d.o.o.

Miroslav Popović, Directro Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 12 11070 Novi Beograd Partizanska bb 22314 Krnjesevci Tel: +381 22391257; 391334 Fax: +381 22 391336 office@energopet.net www.energopet.com EPIC d.o.o.-European Privatization & Investment Corporation Bobo Ristic, Director Dositejeva 26, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2622673 Fax: +381 11 2628975 dragana.markovic@epicinvest. com ERSTE GROUP IMMORENT Claus Graggaber, Director Milutina Milankovica 11a 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 22 87 480 Fax: +381 11 22 87 482 office.rs@immorent. com www.erstegroupimmorent.rs ERSTE BANK a.d.

Slavko Caric, Director Milutina Milankovica 11b 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2015015 Fax: +381 11 2015095 info@erstebank.rs www.erstebank.rs/rs ESTO RASVETA

Petar Drča, Director Cara Dušana 205a 11080 Zemun Tel: +381 11 3072502 Fax: +381 11 3166603 office@estorasveta.com www.esto.at ESW Eisenwerk Sulzau Werfen (Handelsvertretung) Ljuban Vasic Mira Popare 19, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3559506 Fax: +381 11 3544978 vljuban@sbb.rs wassbgd@ptt.rs EUROFOAM-SUNDERI d.o.o Milena Urbancok,, Director Karadordeva bb, 22300 Stara Pazova Tel: +381 22 310 032 Fax: +381 22 310 0311 office@eurofoam.co.rs EUROPAPIER SRBIJA doo Dragutin Ilić, Director Primož Tasič, zamenik direktora Batajnički drum 6f 11080 Zemun Tel: +381 11 7150 840 Fax: +381 11 7150 850 office@europapier.rs www.europapier.com CS Eventim.rs d.o.o.

Pavle Leverda , Generalni direktor Andreas Egger, Director Bulevar Mihaila Pupina 10z/4 11070 Beograd Tel: +381 11 214 43 84 office@eventim.rs www.eventim.rs Felbermayr Transport and Lifting d.o.o.

Wolfgang Schellerer, Director Peter Stöttinger, Director Imotska 1, 11000 Belgrad Tel: +385 1 6626018 Fax: +385 1 6626041 Belgrade@felbermayr.cc www.felbermayr.cc First facility d.o.o.

Radivoje NIJEMCEVIC, Director

Milentija Popovica 5a, 11070 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 6149106 Fax: + 381 11 6149107 office.serbia@firstfacility.net www.firstfacility.net FEIX NUTRITION doo Bernhard Feix, Director Željko Maksimović, Director Đorđa Servickog 17 21000 Novi Sad Mob: + 381 64 6616427 feixnutrition@neobee.net zeljkomax@yahoo.com FERIT d.o.o.

Mirjana Kukoljac, Director Oblakovska 8 11000 Belgrad Tel: +381 112651 888 dragos@beotel.rs Festo GmbH Ogranak Belgrade Ivan Zekavica Omladinskih brigada 90v 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 7853 900 info@festo.rs www.festo.rs FOOD LOGISTIC AUSTRIA Predrag Djeric Dimitrija Tucovica bb 31000 Uzice Tel/ Fax: +381 31 513539 predrag.djeric@foodlogisticaustria.co.rs FREY WILLE Belgrade doo Lina Vodopivec, Director Jelena Stojanović Terazije 26, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3626 296 Fax: +381 11 3622348 belgrade@frey-wille.com www.frey-wille.com GEA Farm Technologies Serbia d.o.o.

Petar PETROVIĆ, Managing Director Konstantina Jovanovića 10 11080 Zemun office@westfalia.co.rs www.gea-farmtechnologies.com

Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013 | 55

GEBRUEDER WEISS d.o.o.

Dragan Simovic, Director Beogradska bb 11272 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3715235 Fax: +381 11 3715201 office.Belgrade@gw-world.com www.gw-world.rs GeoArt d.o.o.

Goran Davidovic, Director Jurija Gagarina 48/69 11070 Belgrade Tel: + 381 11 311-3228, 311-3470 Fax:+381 11 220-6454 geoart@eunet.rs GFK BELGRADE D.O.O. Marijana Agic-MolnarBulevar Mihajla Pupina 10 b/II 11070 New Belgrade Tel./Fax +381 11 7155888 info.serbia@gfk.com www.gfk.rs GIA Technology d.o.o.

Oliver Maric, direktor Primorska 86, 21000 Novi Sad Tel: +381 21 3101250 Fax: +381 21 3101253 office@gia.co.rs www.gia.co.rs GLOBO d.o.o.

Judit Beker,Director Bajci Zilinskog 16, 21000 Novi Sad Tel: +381 21 424357 judit.beker@globo-lightning.com office_serbia@globo-lightning.com GP PORR d.o.o. Belgrade Boban Veličković, Director Milutina Milankovica 11a, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3642200 Fax: +381 11 3642201 office. Belgrade@porr.at GRAWE osiguranje A. D. O Christoph Czettl Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 115 D 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2092600 Fax: +381 11 2092661 office. Belgrade@grawe.rs GRECO JLT Predag Tomic, Director Dejan Papuga, Director Sterijina 15 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3291 867 Mobile +381 63 389 653 p.tomic@greco.rs d.papuga@greco.rs office@greco.rs www.greco.eu GRUNDFOS Serbia d.o.oProdaja Jim Toft Nielsen, Director Dusan DURKOVIC, Director Omladinskih brigada 90b ,

11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2258-740 Fax: +381 11 2281-769 Proizvodnja: Obilazni put Sever 21 22320 Inđija serbia@grundfos.com www.grundfos.rs Atelje Gruppa l´Ultima Zeljko Dobricic Cubrina 10.

11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2181566 gruppalultima@gmail.com www.gruppalultima.at/salons_cubrina.html HABERKORN d.o.o.

Vitomir Bodiroza, Director Kralja Petra I 59 21203 Veternik Tel: +381 21 3101 555 Fax: +381 21 3101 554 haberkorn@sezampro.rs info@haberkorn.rs www.haberkorn.rs HAGLEITNER d.o.o.

Dara Milojevic, General Manager Branko Milojević Kraljevackih zrtava 5, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2512-327 Fax: +381 11 2392-220 office@hagleitner.rs www.hagleitner.rs HAGLEITNER HYGIENE SRBIJA Bojko Gatarić, Director Vojvođanska 387 11271 Surčin Tel: +381 11 4142770 Fax: +381 112261303 beograd@hagleitner.com www.hagleitner.com/ HANSA-FLEX Hidraulika d.o.o.

Frank Schmidt Ratarski put 39d 11080 Zemun Tel: +381 11 2193284 Fax: +381 11 2193284 srb@hansa-flex.com www.hansa-flex.com HAUZMAJSTOR Bojan Stevanovic, Director Dunavska 57a 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3034034 www.hauzmajstor.rs Henkel Srbija Krusevac AD Christoph Till, Director Bulevar oslobodjenja 383 11030 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2072200 info@rs.henkel.com www.henkel.rs HD EVROPSKA KONSALTING GRUPA Danijel Pantic ,Director Francuska 5,

11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3286368 Fax: +381 11 32 88 661 info@hd-ecg.com HERZ Armaturen d.o.o.

Nemanja Tubic Industrijska zona bb, 22330 Nova Pazova Tel: +381 22 328898 Fax: +381 22 328098 office@herz.rs www.herz.rs HILL International Natasa Savic, Director Ruzveltova 45, 11000 Belgrade Tel/Fax: +381 11 3294500 hill@hill.rs www.hill.rs HIPP predstavništvo Dr Branka TRISIC, Director Kneza Milosa 51, 11000 Belgrade Tel/Fax: +381 11 3612944 hipp@tehnicom.net www.hipp.rs HÖDLMAYR –ZASTAVA d.o.o.

Markus Waeger, Dusan Marjanovic Trg Topolivaca 4, 34000 Kragujevac Tel: +381 34 323239 Fax: +381 34 335916 serbia@hoedlmayr.com HUBER d.o.o.

Aleksandar Majkanović, Direktor Djerdapski put bb 19320 Kladovo Tel/Fax: +381 19800680 huber@kladovo.net.com Hypo Alpe-Adria-Bank ad Zoran Vojnović Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 6ª,PC Usce 11070 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 222-6713 Fax: +381 11 222-6799 office@hypo-alpe-adria.rs www.hypo-alpe-adria.rs HYPO ALPE-ADRIA-RENT doo Max Sebastian Winterfeldt Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 6a, 11070 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 222 7000 Fax: +381 11 222 6999 info@hypo-alpe-adria.rs www.hypo-alpe-adria.rs/ Hypo Alpe-Adria-Leasing d.o.o.

Bojan Baša Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 6a, 11070 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 222-6900 Fax: +381 11 222-6999 leasing.belgrade@hypo-alpeadria.rs www.hypo-alpe-adria.rs/ IB INTERBILANZ CONSULTING

d.o.o.

Marco Egger, Tatjana DRASKOVIC Milutina Milan Kovica 136ª, 11070 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 6557044 office@ibgroup.rs iC Consulenten Belgrade Peter Woetzinger, General Manager Irena BRAJOVIC, office manager Kneza Milosa 19/III, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3237690 Fax: +381 11 3348529 Belgrade@ic-group.org www.ic-group.org IMMO CLEAN Dejan Markovic, Zoran Simic Ace Joksimovica 58/1, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2390327 office@immoclean.org www.immoclean.org INTERDEAN Vesna Dragić, Izvršni director Zitna 28 11272 Beograd Tel:+381 11 3536350 Fax: +381 11 3536352 belgrade@interdean.com www.interdean.com INTER DOMPANELI d.o.o.

Johannes Walter Schaschl, Director Jelena Brajović Zrmanjska 2911030 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3548-671 Fax: +381 11 2542-267 office@parkettco.net www.interdompaneli.com/ ITO UNITED CHANGE Branko Vujadinović, Director Vojvode Milenka 52a 11000 Belgrade Tel.: +381 11 3621743 Fax: +381 11 2656127 office.beograd@united-change. com www.ito.co.at J.Christof doo Ing. Günther FRÜHWIRTH, Director Bul. Mihaila Pupina 10a, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 311 9969 g.fruehwirth@christof-group.com JUMO Mereni i regulacioni uredjaj Hans-Peter Hantich, zastupnik Petrovaradinska 20/II/8 11000 Beograd Tel:: +381 11 285 2279 Fax: +381 11 285 2360 milan.sipljanovic@jumo.net www.jumo.net/ KBA-MOEDLING SUED-OST Vladan Rakić, Chief executive

56 | Austria & Serbia: Serbia`s Reliable Partner for Europe 2013

officer Grcica Milenka 86 11000 Beograd Tel: +381 113441090 Fax: +381 3441099 vladan.rakic@kba.com office@kba.com KLACSKA Jugoslavija d.o.o.

Alexander Klacska, Gen. Director Stevan Jevtic, Director Head office Bulevar Mihaila Pupina 10g/ II VP 52 11070 Beograd Postal address Pancevacki put 47, 11210 Krnjaca Tel: +381 11 2711773 Fax: +381 11 2712378 stevan.jevtic@klacska.co.rs www.klacska.at/ KLINGSPOR d.o.o.

Božo Jovanovič, Director Kumodraška 260 11000 Beograd Tel: +381 11 2469453 Fax: +381 11 3099 199 office@klingspor.rs www.klingspor.com KLIMA DOP d.o.o.

Dragan Obradovic Autoput Beograd-Zagreb, Blok 52, GP "Novi Kolektiv" 11070 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3190177 Fax: +381 11 3190563 office@klimadop.com www.klimadop.com KNAUF ZEMUN d.o.o.

Todor DELOVSKI Batajnički drum 16b, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 207 45 00 Fax: +381 11 2074530 office@knauf.rs KONKAB doo Zeljko Nikolic, Director Prvomajska 32, 26210 Kovacica Tel/Fax: +381 13 660410 kontakt@konkab.com www.konkab.com KONVEX gasna i vodo tehnika d.o.o.

Miodrag DRAGUTINOVIC,Director Svetozara Miletića 37a , 11080 Zemun Tel: +381 11 2197 392 Fax: +381 11 3077 415 office@konvexgv.rs www.konvexgv.rs KROIS Food Technologies d.o.o Zoran CURLIC, Director Pere Cetkovica 60, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2772 366

zcurlic@sezampro.com www.krois.com KÜHNE & NAGEL d.o.o.

Sasa Radosavljevic, Director Partizanska 228, 11277 Ugrinovci Tel: +381 11 3715141 Fax: +381 11 3715191 info.belgrade@kuehne-nagel.com www.kn-portal.com/ KUNSTTRANS d.o.o.

Djordje Brankovic, Director Balkanska 32/IX, 11000Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3611947 kunstbgd@eunet.rs www.kunsttrans.rs LAGERMAX Aleksandra Potkonjak, Director Golubinacka bb, 22310 Simanovci Tel: +381 22 408861 Fax: +381 22 408-862 office@lagermax-aed.rs www.lagermax-aed.rs LeitnerLeitner doo Pavo DJEDOVIC Uzun Mirkova 3 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 6555105 Fax: +381 11 655 51 06 office.belgrad@leitnerleitner.com www.leitnerleitner.rs LINDE Viljuskari d.o.o.

Vesna Jovanović Moše Pijade 17/b 11224 Vrčin Tel: +381 11 80 55 706, 80 55 707 Fax: +381 11 80 55 708 info@linde-mh.rs www.linde-mh.rs LINZER AGRO TRADE DOO Vladan Popovik, General manager Bulevar Zorana Djindjica 64a 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 260 88 31, 2608832, 2608833 Fax: +381 11 2608920 vladan.popovic@borealisgroup. com www.borealisgroup.com LORENCIC d.o.o.

Jovan Vuckovic ,Director Batajnički drum b.b., 11080 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 787 0897, +381 787 0898 Fax: +381 11 787 0895 Belgrade@lorencic.rs LUKINTEHNIK d.o.o.

Ing. Slobodan Lukic, Director Indire Gandi 7/I, 11010 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 289 32 31 ltehnik@eunet.rs M. May Industrievertretungen GmbH

Zeljka Todic ,Director Waldmühlgasse 5 2380 Perchtoldsdorf Austrija Tel: +43/1/869 70 95-0 Fax: +43/1/869 70 95-40 info@mmay.at PREDSTAVNIŠTVO BEOGRAD M.Milankovica 138/13, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3086879 ztodic@vektor.net www.may-industrie.com MARAP organic fruits and nuts Bozidar MILIC, Director Nikolaja Gogolja 86/19, 11000 Belgrade Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 10z/ 144, 11070 New Belgrade bozidarmilic@gmail.com MEGABOARD SORAVIA Violetta Petrović, Svetog Nauma 1 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 264 8399 office@megaboard.rs www.megaboard.rs MEINL CAPITAL ADVISORS AG Gorica Obucina ,Director Alekse Nenadovica 15/III, 11000 Belgrade Tel/Fax: +381 11 3449907 Obucina@meinlbank.com MERKUR OSIGURANJE a.d.o.

Miodrag Kvrgic, Director Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 6, 11070 N. Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2201250 Fax: +381 11 2201251 office@merkur.rs www.merkurosiguranje.rs MIDES-MEDTEH doo Norbert Richard Minarik, Director Jovan Trivković, Sales manager Bulevar dr. Zorana Đinđića 205 11070 N. Belgrade Tel:+ 381 11 669 52 88 Fax: +381 11 669 33 04 mides@eunet.rs beograd@mides.com www.mides.com MLT Profy Machinery Marko Stojanović, Director Kumanacki put 5 23272 Novi Becej Tel:+381 23 771 755 Fax:+381 23 772 979 marko.stojanovic@mlt.rs Mersteel doo.

Branko Drofenik, Director Partizanske avijacije 4 11070 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2228964 Fax: +381 11 2228997 info@mersteel.eu www.mersteel.eu

CENTAR ZA RAZVOJ LJUDSKIH RESURSA I MENADŽMENT –MNG CENTAR doo Vladimir Ivanković Jevrejska 24 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3284-269, 3284-761 Fax: +381 11 3284-485 Mob.: 062 65-89-73, 063 70111-20 office@mngcentar.com www.mngcentar.com MPD TRADE (Jenbacher) Zoran Milosavljević , Director Čarli Čaplina 7 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 329-3794 Fax: +381 11 329-3600 biogas.srbija@gmail.com www.biogas.rs/ MORAVCEVIC, VOJINOVIC & ZDRAVKOVIC Matija Vojinovic, Slaven Moracevic Francuska 27, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3202600 Fax: +381 11 3202610 office@schoenherr.rs NALCO OSTERREICH GESELLSCHAFT M.B.H.-OGRANAK Günther Volarik, Director Veljko Konjević Milana Tankosića 8 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 20 76 801 Mob: +381 63 36 63 85 vkonjevic@nalco.com www.nalco.com Neofyton d.o.o.

Zoran Tadic, Director Danila Kisa 7a, 21000 Novi Sad Tel/Fax: +381 21 452642 info@neofyton.com www.neofyton.com NI MACO d.o.o.

Miroljub KRSTIC, Director Bulevar Dr. Zorana Djindjica 121a 18000 Nis Tel:+381 18 203 557 Mob: +381 63 45 83 69 m.krstic@nimaco.co.rs www.nimaco.co.rs Beo Maco doo Predrag Janković, Director Dobanovacki put 44 11080 Zemun Tel: +381 11 4122949 Mob: +381 63 48 20 99 p.jankovic@nimaco.co.rs www.nimaco.co.rs NITEA doo Vesna Jecmenica, Director Zorza Klemensoa 19, 11070 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3033050 Fax: +381 11 3033040

nitea@eunet.rs OMV Serbia d.o.o.

Karolj Lajko Director Omladinskih brigada 90a, 11070 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2071500 Fax:+381 11 2071530 office@omv.com www.omv.rs ORF Auslandsbüros Christian Wehrschütz Ul.Srpskih Vladara 15, 11000 Belgrad Fax: +38111 3345493 orf.belgrad@orf.at kundendienst.orf.at/ OTIS doo Vitomir Dobrić, Director Tosin Bunar 272 11070 N. Belgrade Tel: +381 11 7155260 Fax: +381 11 7155259 office_srb@otis.com www.otis.com/ PEJAK-HANDEL d.o.o.

Branko Pejak ,Director M. Tita 146, 15316 Banja Koviljaca Tel: +381 15 815635 Fax: +381 15 815636 biro@pejak.net www.pejak-handel.net PEDERSEN & PARTNERS Jelena Kralj, Country Manager Djušina 2/6 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 303 7432 Fax: +381 11 334 6170 jelena.kralj@pedersenandpartners.com www.pedersenandpartners.com PREDSTAVNIŠTVO PFT SYSTEMS VERTRIEBS GMBH Klaus Wratschko, Zastupnik Zoran Lazarevic, Director Bulevar Arsenija Čarnojevića 140/19, 11070 Belgrad Tel: +381 11 3164530 lazarevic.zoran@pft-systems.com www.pft.eu PODGORINA FRUCHT d.o.o.

Katarina Vucetic, General Manager Pere J. Komiricanca 27, 14253 Osecina Tel: +381 14 451165 Fax: +381 14 451452 info@podgorina.com PORSCHE LEASING SCG d.o.o.

Rudolf Walker Zrenjaninski put 11, 11210 Beograd Tel: +381 800 350 350, Fax: +381 11 3042 449 info@porscheleasing.rs www.porscheleasing.rs PORSCHE INTER AUTO S

Elmar Geisler, Director Zrenjaninski put 11, 11210 Beograd Tel: +381 11 3042400 Fax: +381 11 3042 409 infopult@porschescg.rs www.porschescg.rs PRIMEX doo Momčilo Kostić, Director Bul. Kralja Aleksandra 290 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 24 12 325, 24 17 362 Faks: +381 11 24 12 271 office@primex.rs www.primex.rs PRISMA Risk Services doo Marija Vujasinović direktor Toplicin venac 19-21, 11000 Belgrade Tel.: +381 11 2028 051 Fax: +381 11 2028 055 marija.vujasinovic@oekb-fss.rs www.oekb-fss.rs PROCHASKA doo Andreas Heger, Director Saša Perisic Marsala Tita 73, 11426 Belgrade Tel/Fax: +381 11 7871277 perisic@prochaska.rs www.prochaska.rs PROFINE d.o.o.

Bojan Predojević, Director Batajnicki drum bb 11080 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2101987 Fax: +38111 3076012 serbia@profine-group.com www.profine-group.com/ PREDSTAVNIŠTVO RAIFFEISEN INVESTMENT AG Dragoljub Parezanović, Managing Director Đorđa Stanojevića 16 11070 Novi Beograd Tel: : +381 11 2129 211 Fax: +381 11 2129 213 Mob: +381 63 370 301 d.parezanovic@raiffeiseninvestment.com www.rcb.at RAIFFEISEN INVEST AD Rade Bjelobaba, Director Đorđa Stanojevića 16 11070 Novi Beograd Tel: +381 11 220 7777 Fax: +381 11 220 7770 info@raiffeiseninvest.rs www.raiffeiseninvest.rs RAIFFEISEN LEASING d.o.o.

Ana Cvetković, predsednik IO Djordja Stanojevića 16, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 220 74 00 Fax: +381 11 228 90 07 info.leasing@raiffeisen-leasing.rs www.raiffeisen-leasing.rs

RAIFFEISEN RENT DOO Ana Cvetković, Director Djordja Stanojevića 16, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: + 381 11 201 77 02 Fax: +381 11 313 00 81 info.rent@raiffeisen-rent.rs www.raiffeisen-rent.rs/ Raiffeisen-Agro doo DUŠAN MEZULIĆ, Director Bulevar Zoran Djindjic 67/17 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2123035 Fax: +381 11 2123036 office@raiffeisen-agro.rs www.raiffeisen-agro.rs RAIFFEISEN BANKA a.d.

Zoran Petrović, Chairman of the Managing Board Djordja Stanojevića 16, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3202 100 Fax: +381 11 220 70 80 info@raiffeisenbank.rs www.raiffeisenbank.rs RE PROJECT DEVELOPMENT DOO Alfred Groinigg, Director Ženja Njegomir Dimitrijević Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 10 z/431, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 311 5776 Fax: +381 11 311 5778 serbia@raiffeisenevolution.com www.raiffeisenevolution.com RAPS ZAČINI d.o.o.

Thomas Neumayr, Director Dr. Zorana Djindjica 45b 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3110882 Fax: +381 11 3130285 office@raps.co.rs www.raps.co.rs RAUCH SERBIA Perica Aleksic, Director Šesta Lička 2 Koceljeva Baje Pivljanina 13, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2652-225 Fax: +381 11 2652-298 office.srb@rauch.cc www.rauch.cc/sr/kompanija RECA d.o.o.

Ernst Mag.Wiesinger, Director Vladan Ilic, Director Bul. Mihaila Pupina 10z/15 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3114426 Fax:+381 11 2134140 reca@reca.rs www.reca.rs REHAU d.o.o.

Rafael Daum, Director Strazilovacka 7 11272 Dobanovci Tel: +381 11 3770 301

Fax: +381 113770 319 Belgrade@rehau.com www.rehau.rs RÖFIX d.o.o.

Konrad Lampe, Director Thorsten Meinhard Biba,Director Popovac bb 35254 Paraćin Tel.: +381 35572 701 Fax: +381 35 572584 office.popovac@roefix.com www.roefix.rs/ ROGGENART doo Dragan VRANEŠ, Director Džordža Vašingtona 12/35, 11008 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2397093 Fax: +381 11 2396979 dragan.vranes@roggenart.com roggenart.com PREDSTAVNIŠTVO ROHDE & SCHWARZ-OSTERREICH GES.M.B.H. Petar Pavasovic, Director Španskih boraca 3 11070 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3122802 rs-srb@rohde-schwarz.com www.rohde-schwarz.com Rosler d.o.o.

Benno Allerbauer, Director Dr Ivana Ribara 32 11000 Beograd b.allerbauer@rosler.com office@rosler.at www.rosler.at ROTOGRAFIX d.o.o.

Mihailo Stankovic, Director Nehruova 129/III, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 1121 75 959 Fax: +381 1131 79 639 Belgrade@rotografix.com S & T Serbia d.o.o.

Predrag Vranes, Director Đorđa Stanojevića 14/III 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 7116221 Fax: +381 11 7117665 info@snt.rs www.snt.rs SAFE INVEST d.o.o.

Darko Bobesic, Director Milentija Popovića 5V/mezanine 11070 Novi Beograd Tel: +381 11 6149 333 office@safe-invest.rs www.safe-invest.eu Rigips, Saint-Gobain građevinski proizvodi d.o.o.

Aleksandar Grujic, Director Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 115d 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 6282444 Fax: +381 11 3149795 Mob: +381 63 282844 aleksandar.grujic@saint-gobain.com

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rigips.srb@saint-gobain.com www.rigips.rs/ SCHACHERMAYER d.o.o Josef Roland Heinz Schachermayer, Generalni Director Dusan BANDIN, Director Autoput za Novi Sad BB, 11080 Zemun Tel: +381 11 787-02-33 Fax: +381 11 7480 943 info@schachermayer.rs www.schachermayer.rs Schauer Agrotec d.o.o.

Martin Prissnitz, Director Miloslav MARCOK Rumenacki put 55a, 21000 Novi Sad Tel: +381 21 6397 800 Fax: +381 21 6397 800 serbia@schauer-agrotronic.com www.schauer-agrotronic.com SCHENKER d.o.o.

Neven Marcesku, Director Batajnicki drum 283d 11080 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3757717 Fax: +381 11 8488336 office@schenker.rs www.schenker.rs SCHILLER D.O.O. Berner Harald, Director Milan KRKOVIĆ, Director Sićevačka 1, 11000 Belgrade, Tel: +381 11 3979508 Fax: +381 11 3979518 milan.krkovic@schiller.rs SCHRACK TECHNIK DOO Krunoslav Ozanić, Director Nenad Rebic, Director Kumodraska 260, 11000 Belgrade Tel/Fax: +381 11 3092600 office@schrack.co.rs n.rebic@schrack.co.rs www.schrack.co.rs SHINE S doo Siniša Anđić, Director Bore Markovića 9 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 113573647 office@shine.rs www.shine.at SETEC E&C d.o.o.

Joachim KANZLER, Direktor Marko Stojčić, Director Sedište: Imotska 1, 11000 Belgrade Office: Kumodraška 237 11000 Beograd Tel:+381 11 395 63 30 Fax: +381 11 395 63 35 office-belgrade@setec.at jkanzler@setec-ec.com SIEMENS d.o.o.

Tihomir Rajlic, CEO Omladinskih brigada 21, 11070 New Belgrade

Tel: +381 11 2096305 Fax: +381 11 2096061 office.rs@siemens.com www.siemens.rs SIEMENS AG AUSTRIA Dušan Muškatirović, Director Radoja Dakića 7 11080 Zemun Tel: +381 11 3070121 SIMACEK FACILITY SERVICES SRB doo Radovan Kovač, Director Milentija Popovica 9/83 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 6149156 Fax: +381 11 6149107 office@simacek.rs S-LEASING d.o.o.

Bojan VRACEVIC, Director Djordja Stanojevica 12/3 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2010700 Fax: +381 11 2010702 office@s-leasing.rs www.s-leasing.rs Soravia Management d.o.o.

Bernhard Ebner Svetog Nauma 1, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3699 802 Fax: +381 11 3699 803 office@soravia.rs Specht Boehm Strategic Advisory doo Jelena Opsenica, Generalni director Dušan Rakitić, Director Nemanjina 40/III/8 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3650045 Fax: +381 11 3650084 belgrade@spechtboehm.com www.spechtboehm.com SPIEGELFELD INTERNATIONAL d.o.o.

Radivoje Nijemcevic, Director Milentija Popovica 5A 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 6603720 nijemcevic@spiegelfeld.eu STRABAG d.o.o.

Dipl. Ing. Dragan Pavelic, Director Antifasisticke Borbe 13A, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2221700 Fax: +381 11 2221940 dubravka.mrkovic@strabag.com SUN CHEMICAL PRINTING INK doo Igor Pušnik,Director Bulevar Arsenija Čarnojevića 61 11170 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3343350 Fax: +381 11 3343360 office@sunchemical.rs www.sunchemical.com/ SWAROVSKI SUBOTICA DOO Dejan Jovanović, Direktor

Vladimira Popovića 6, NBGP PROPERTIES APARTMANI I POSLOVNI PROSTORI B 01-04 11070 Beograd Mob: +381 63 1030 366 www.swarovski-subotica.ls.rs SWAROVSKI OPTIK Zoran Petronijević, Sales Manager West Balkan Rige od Fere 11 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 112030408 zoran.petronijevic@swarovskioptik.rs www.swarovskioptik.com/ 6. OKTOBAR DOO Goran Đorđević, Director Milutina Milankovica 1, lok 32 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 7113200 Fax: +381 11 7113211 office@6oktobar.com www.6oktobar.com TRANS CARGO LOGISTIC DOO Dr. Mihajlo Vukicevic, Director Jurija Gagarina 26, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3021700 Fax: +381 11 3021744 office@tcl.rs; mihajlo@tcl.rs www.tcl.rs Technik Design doo Dragan Glogovac, Director Pasterova 2, 21000 Novi Sad Tel: +381 21 510780 Fax: +381 21 510 781 office@technikdesign.rs www.technikdesign.rs TERRA SRBIJA d.o.o.

Stefan BAUER, General Manager Siniša Tomašić, Batajnički drum 8A, 11080 Zemun Telefon: +381 11 31 63 255 Fax: +381 11 31 61 707 office@terra-srbija.rs terra.world.com TERRANOVA d.o.o.PREDSTAVNIŠTVO LEMIS HANDELSGESELLSCHAFT MBH Strahinja Spasić, Zastupnik Slanacki put 87 B, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2757 486 office@lemis.biz www.lemis.biz TIPTEH d.o.o. Belgrade Damir Vecerka , Director Toplice Milana 14A 11050 Beograd Tel: +381 11 28 92 250 Fax: +381 11 30 18 326 damir.vecerka@tipteh.rs www.tipteh.rs TM Immo d.o.o.

Michael Rausch, Director Djordja Stanojevica 14

11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2287 243 tmimmo@beotel.rs www.tm-immo.ls.rs TONDACH - POTISJE KANJIZA Jenei Istvan, General Manager Subotički put 57, 24420 Kanjiža Tel: +381 24 873-303 Fax:+381 24 873-306 office@potisje-kanjiza.com www.potisje-kanjiza.com TPA Horwath Tax & Finance Bogdan Đurić, Director Terazije 5/IV 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 113223985 office@tpa-horwath.rs www.tpa-horwath.com TRANSPETROL AUSTRIA GMBH -(predstavnistvo Belgrade) Damir Klasnja , Director Cara Lazara 13, 11000 Belgrade Tel:+381 11 3033885 Fax:+381 11 2627848 damir.klasnja@transpetrol.rs www.transpetrol.rs TRENKWALDER KADROVSKE USLUGE d.o.o.

Malisa Grujic , Director Omladinskih brigada 86, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2129063 infoserbia@trenkwalder.com U.M.A.-ARCHITEKTEN DOO Branislav RADOJIČIĆ Generala Lesjanina 4 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 113228 278 Fax: +381 113340 657 office.serbia@uma-architects.com www.uma-architects.com UNICREDIT BANK SRBIJA a.d.

Claudio CESARIO, Direktor Rajiceva 27-29, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3204500 Fax: +381 11 3342200 office@unicreditgroup.rs www.unicreditbank.rs Unicredit LEASING d.o.o.

Emiliano Steinfl Tresnjinog cveta 1, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3093502, 3093500 Fax: +381 11 3093501 office@unicreditleasing.rs UNIQA osiguranje a.d.o.

Franz Weiler Milutina Milankovica 134 G 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2024-100 Fax: +381 11 2024-160 info@uniqa.rs VAMED & Partners Novi Sad Slavica Cosic

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Hajduk Veljkova 11, 21000 Novi Sad Tel: +381 21 424-888 Fax: +381 21 424-777 vamedns@nadlanu.com www.vmr-centar.com VB LEASING. Christoph Leitner, Klaus SPITZER Djordja Stanojevica 12, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2016500 Fax:+381 1120 16 560 office@vbleasing.rs VCA doo Zoran JOVANOVIC Nikolaja Gogolja 10 11030 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3571766 zoran.jovanovic@prosper-serbia. com zoran.jovanovic@vca.ag www.vca.ag www.prosper-serbia.com VICTORIA CONSULTINGDenkstatt Group Dragana PETROVIC, Director Gandijeva 196/119 11070 New Belgrade Tel:+381 11 2288688 info@victoriaconsulting.co.rs VIP MOBILE d.o.o.

Andreas Graf , Director Omladinskih brigada 21 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2253333 Fax: +381 11 2253002 komunikacije@vipmobile.rs VOESTALPINE d.o.o.

Stefan Kaspar Suszana KONSULOVSKI Vladimira Popovica 48/VII/371, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 311 8754, 311 83 38 Fax: +381 11 213 4108 snezana.konsulovski@voestalpine. com VAIT - VOEST-ALPINE INTERTRADING Srđan NINKOV Balzakova 31 21000 Novi Sad Tel: +381 213101505 Fax:+381 21459916 office@vait.co.rs www.vait.co.rs QUEHENBERGER LOGISTICS SRB d.o.o Vladimir VARIĆAK, Director Autoput za Novi Sad 211, 11273 Batajnica Tel: +381 11 78 70 598 info.rs@quehenberger.com W&P BAUMIT d.o.o. Arandjelovac Roland Hochholdin-Ger, Director Vencacki put bb,

34300 Arandjelovac Tel: +381 34 727 474 Fax: +381 34 727 400 arandjelovac@wup.baumit.com r.hochholdinger@wup.baumit.com www.baumit.com www.baumit.rs WELLBURY INFRASTRUKTURBERATUNGS GmbH Sladjana BRAJOVIĆ, Director Dečanska 12/VI 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3223329, 323 4133 Fax: +381 11 3037077 wellbury@eunet.rs wellbury@gmail.com Wacker Neuson Kragujevac d.o.o.

Markus Ries, Thomas Dreier Milice Milojkovic 13, 34000 Kragujevac Tel: +381 34 6170110 Fax: +381 34 6170396 info.srb@wackerneuson.com www.wackerneuson.com WIENER STÄDTISCHE OSIGURANJE a.d.

Branko Krstonosic, Svetlana SMILJANIC Trešnjinog cveta 1, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 2209900 Fax: +381 11 2209956 office@wiener.co.rs www.wiener.co.rs WOLF, THEISS & PARTNER d.o.o.

Miroslav Stojanovic ,Director Bul. Mihaila Pupina 6, 11070 New Belgrade Tel: +381 11 330-2900 Fax: +381 11 330-2925 miroslav.stojanovic@wolftheiss. com WATER POWER TECHNOLOGY Milos Velickovic, Director Ulofa Palmea 8a 11060 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 743 2422;743 velickovic.m@woma- Belgrade. co.rs WTE PROJEKTGESELLSCHAFT TRINKWASSERANLAGE Michael Fröschl, Director Resavska 23, www.wte.at ZUMTOBEL LICHT d.o.o.PREDSTAVNIŠTVO BEOGRAD Dietmar Zojer, Director Saša Pajdić Uzun Mirkova 3 11000 Beograd Tel: +381 69 5444 802 Tel: +381 11 65 67 658 welcome@zumtobel.rs www.zumtobel.com

Viennese Ball

Dance the Night Away

Belgrade hosts the traditional Viennese Ball, a glamorous meeting of high society and old European culture

Mrs. Eigner and H.E. Dr. Johannes Eigner, Austrian ambassador in Serbia

O

n Saturday October 12, Belgrade waltzed in the festive atmosphere of the Metropol Palace Hotel. Taking place successfully for a second time, the Viennese Ball is now becoming a tradition in the Serbian capital. For years this event has been a cultural mainstay of capitals around the world, and Belgrade has now proved itself to be a waltzing city in its own right.

Elegantly dressed couples opened the ball by dancing to the ‘Fan-Polonaise’. As well as the dancing, guests were treated to a music programme performed by the famous Opernball Orchestra and Jazz Band.

On behalf of the city of Vienna, the ball was opened by Anica Matzka-Dojder, a councillor in the Vienna town assembly, while other significant guests included Dr Johannes Eigner, Austrian Ambassador to Serbia, Michael D. Kirby, US Ambassador to Serbia, and Francois-Xavier Deniau, French Ambassador to Serbia. As he greeted guests, Serbian Minister of Transport Aleksandar Antić expressed his delight that Belgrade was hosting the ball for the sec-

Aleksandar Antic, Serbia Minister of Transport officially opened the Viennese Waltz

ond time, noting that the event put the Serbian capital on the map of world cities where this great tradition had taken place. He expressed his hope that the Viennese Ball would become a tradition in Belgrade, adding that the event had improved relations between Serbia and Austria. In turn, Austrian Ambassador Johannes Eigner noted that Vienna is one of three world cities where the Serbian kolo is danced, making it logical that the Viennese waltz should be danced in Belgrade.

Among the diplomats, over 250 attendees from the spheres of culture, sport, entertainment and politics enjoyed a pleasant Saturday evening, giving the impression that, even for a brief moment, the world had rediscovered old times in a modern and elegant way.

The ball also had a humanitarian element, with the money raised in this year’s raffle being donated to the “Battle for Maternity Wards” campaign. With this donation, the Viennese Ball’s organisers will help to fund better working conditions in a maternity ward in Serbia. ■

Mrs. Kirby and H.E. Mr. Michael Kirby, US ambassador in Serbia

HE. Mr. François Deniau and Mrs. Deniau

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