CorD Magazine 104 by CorD Magazine

Friend and Partner

H.E. Mrs Hana Hubáčková

Constructing the South Stream is the Priority

We Don’t Have a Value System

Managing Director of Public Enterprise Srbijagas

Actress

Dušan Bajatović

Mirjana Karanović

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may ‘13 / ISSUE No. 104

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interviews opinions news comments events PRICE 300 RSD

Ivar Rusdal, President of the European Newspaper Publishers’ Association (ENPA) and Chairman, Nordsjø Media AS / Jærbladet AS

Free Press: Cornerstone of Democratic Society The Tenth Night of Museums

The Beauty of Masses, Night and Culture Annual Survey of Trends in the Professional Use of Social Media in Serbia

Communicating with Social Media

Bojan Pajtić Prime Minister of Vojvodina

Consensus on Most

Important Issues

COVER Bojan Pajtić, Prime Minister of Vojvodina

Declaration Could be Amended

contents

Page 10

The Declaration is still an open document, and the Parliament has received a draft version of it. With regard to the Democratic Party and myself, as the Prime Minister, the Declaration could be amended in a way to improve the citizens’ lives as outlined in the Constitution and relevant laws

What Happens After the agreement?

Consensus on Most Important Issues

Global diary

a fter work

onstructing the South C Stream is the Priority

W orld’s Markets and Opportunities

Petar Miljković, Director of Zorka Keramika

Jovana Gligorijević, Editor

Bojan Pajtić, Prime Minister of Vojvodina

Free Press: Cornerstone of Democratic Society

Ivar Rusdal, President of the European Newspaper Publishers’ Association (EN PA) and Chairman, Nordsjø Media AS / Jærbladet AS

D eveloping Inquiring Minds International School of Belgrade

Dušan Bajatović, Managing Director of Public Enterprise Srbijagas

Life in Soft Colours

Israel

faces & places

T he Beauty of Masses, Night and Culture

The Tenth Night of Museums

Friend and Partner

H.E. Mrs Hana Hubáčková, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Serbia and Montenegro

e Don’t W Have a Value System

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

lector: Christen Bradley Farmer c.farmer@aim.rs CONTRIBUTORS: Rob Dugdale, Mirjana Jovanović, Radmila Stanković, Steve MacKenzie, Zorica Todorović Mirković, Sonja Ćirić PHOTOS: Zoran Petrović, Časlav Vukojičić TRANSLATION: Snežana Bjelotomić PROJECT MANAGERS: Biljana Dević, b.devic@aim.rs Svetlana Okanović, s.okanovic@aim.rs Sandra Bandović, s.bandovic@aim.rs EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Ruža Ristanović r.ristanovic@aim.rs

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR: Ana Besedić a.besedic@aim.rs editorial MANAGER: Tanja Banković t.bankovic@aim.rs

Comment page 8

Business Dialogue

Profile page 94

Communicating with Social Media

Annual Survey of Trends in the Professional Use of Social Media in Serbia

W ines and Wineries in Serbia

Feature

M obile gadgets & mobile telephony

Techno talk

Making New out of Old

Vujadin Šćekić, Director of Jugo-Impex Niš Company

EDITOR: Saša Marić s.maric@aim.rs

GENERAL MANAGER: Ivan Novčić i.novcic@aim.rs

Mirjana Karanović, actress

May 2013

S uccess is a Big Puzzle

Elizabeta Penić, PR manager of Falkensteiner Hotels & Residences

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comment

What Happens After

the agreement?

The fact that Belgrade and Priština have reached an agreement doesn’t matter any longer, both psychologically and historically. The issue now is pragmatic politics. Both sides will have to deal with the realistic problems in their respective societies, with poverty being the single biggest problem in both of them

Jovana Gligorijević Editor

ndoubtedly, April 19, the day when the Serbian governPolitical philosopher Žarko Puhovski commented on the agreement by quoting Winston Churchill: “Now this is not the ment signed an agreement with Priština in Brussels, is end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, a historic day. Politically speaking, the agreement puts the end of the beginning.” At the same time, he recalled what an end to a decade and a half of agony of all the participants in was next on the agenda for Serbia and Kosovo. The fact that the Kosovo drama – from the Kosovo citizens, irrespective of the agreement has been reached doesn’t matter any longer, their nationality, to Serbian and Kosovar officials, the regionboth psychologically and historically. The issue now is pragal political stage, which views this agreement as a possible format for resolving other issues too, and the international commatic politics. After the agreement, both sides will have to deal with the realistic problems in their respective societies, munity which now has a realistic foundation for settling the bigwith poverty being the single biggest problem in both of them. gest problem in the West Balkans. There are no more excuses for Kosovo and Serbia looking at In the context of regional stability, the importance of the each other while, at the same time, turning their heads away Brussels agreement could be best illustrated with a statefrom themselves. ment made by Macedonian Defense Minister Talat Xhaferi Facing your own reflection in the mirror is something who said that the Belgrade-Priština agreement was excepthat will have to come up once they start implementing the tionally important for the region and that a similar agreeagreement. High EU Representative Catherine Ashton ofment could be used in settling issues between Greece and Macedonia: “The Agreement will reduce tension in the region. fered her help to both sides and has put herself at Belgrade Also, as a practical example of how negotiation could be used and Priština’s disposal, while unofficial sources say that there to resolve bilateral problems, it can be used as a tool in hanwill be several more rounds of negotiations, this time about the practical implementation of the agreement. By signing the dling the issue that Macedonia has with Greece,” Xhaferi said, and he added that if Kosovo and Serbia hadn’t reached an agreement, it would surely have had Facing your own reflection in the mirror is a domino effect on Macedonia and all neighboursomething that will have to come up once ing countries. the agreement is implemented One of the most important achievements of this agreement, therefore, is that it has made it agreement, Serbian and Kosovar officials actually admitted to possible for Kosovo, Serbia and the region to avoid a potenthe nature of the relations between Serbia and Kosovo. There tially bad scenario. It will take a lot of wisdom and political skill is something else that they will have to admit – they are geonot to narrow down the benefits of this agreement to only negative things that were circumvented, but to go a step further graphically inclined towards each other and they are imporand to make actual headway. The prevailing tone in the retant trade partners. This is the same phase that Serbia had to go through with the other regional countries with which it actions following the agreement was that the agreement had had been at war in the past. Today, 20 years after those conjust formalized and acknowledged what had been the realistic situation for the past 14 years. This reality shows that, since flicts, reality has taught us that myths and phrases like “nathe Kumanovo Agreement, the Serbian authorities have had tional humiliation” or “historical injustice” are politically marno real influence over a part of their territory they considered ginalized, and that insisting on using such phrases will martheir own, and that the Kosovo authorities could not continue ginalize us even further. The course of events and the proignoring the fact that the Serbs constituted a majority in a cercesses that await us require pragmatism, humility and hard work on improving ourselves. ■ tain part of Kosovo. 8 |

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

interview

■ By Jovana gligorijević

■ Photos: Zoran PETROVIĆ

Bojan Pajtić, Prime Minister of Vojvodina

Consensus on Most

Important Issues

Both democratic and civilization standards have been trampled underfoot by the fact that when it comes to Vojvodina’s jurisdiction, assets and funding, the Constitution and numerous laws have been broken in most instances. If the government allows itself to ignore the derogation of law in this country, as in the case of two million citizens in Vojvodina, it will do the same against somebody else too

I 10 |

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

n the last few months, the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina has been the subject of many political and economic controversies – from the closure of the Development Bank of Vojvodina and establishment of a new Development Fund of Vojvodina, which took over some of the bank’s competences, to the recent events surrounding the Declaration on the Protection of Constitutional and Legal Rights of Vojvodina. Notwithstanding all of this, Vojvodina remains the most developed part of Serbia with its FDI influx exceeding the rest of the country. Also, the distribution of political power in the Vojvodinian Parliament

DECLARATION

Most of the citizens support the Declaration, and no one is allowed to trample on their will since if they do, they would be working against themselves.

AGREEMENT

The support that most of the parliamentary parties gave to the agreement is a reflection of political responsibility.

is different to that in the Serbian parliament. We talk to Vojvodina Prime Minister Bojan Pajtić about these topics, as well as about the EU integration process in Serbia, the agreement with Priština, the future of key political and economic processes in the country and relations within the Democratic Party. ■ In respect to the Declaration on the Protection of Constitutional and Legal Rights of Vojvodina, and regardless of possible disputes that its contents might cause, what would the Declaration’s real effects be?

- We need to provide mechanisms for our citizens to have normal lives – the institutions need to function properly, and the Constitution and the laws need to be obeyed. The only intention of the Vojvodinian government, as a proponent of this Declaration, is to generate enough pressure, so that Vojvodina can use the constitutionally and legally guaranteed mechanisms to achieve the normal functioning of the system upon which people depend. The bad thing is that this intention was misused by some to solidify their political positions, which, on the other hand, is predictable. The governing coalition at the state level has been disrespecting a series of laws that regulate the lives of people in Vojvodina, and such behaviour prevents establishing the rule of the law in this country.

ECONOMY

In the last four years, we have found jobs for 24,000 people, and, this year, we are going to do the same for 4,000 more people.

■ Tentatively speaking, why does Vojvodina need to protect itself with this kind of document at this particular time?

- The reasons are very simple: both democratic and civilization standards have been trampled underfoot by the fact that when it comes to Vojvodina’s jurisdiction, assets and funding, the Constitution and numerous laws have been broken in most instances. If the government allows itself to ignore the derogation of law in this country, as in the case of two million citizens in Vojvodina, it will do the same against somebody else too. The proposed Declaration only formally applies to Vojvodina, but, essentially, it is an act that demands from Serbia to become a modern, law-abiding European state.

■ What will happen next if your political partners from the Vojvodinian government refuse to support the Declaration?

The Declaration is still an open document, and

- According to the statements made so far, the majority of members of the Vojvodinian Parlia- the Parliament has received a draft version of it. ment support the Declaration, as do the citi- With regard to the Democratic Party and myself, zens. No one is allowed to trample on their will as the Prime Minister, the Declaration could be since, if they do, they would be working against themselves. It is important to mention that the amended in a way to improve the citizens’ lives as Declaration has been unanimously adopted at a outlined in the Constitution and relevant laws Vojvodinian government session, and that our coalition partners LSV and SVM have both voted in favour of it. ■ When you talk about the urgency and importance of changing ■ The latest, but still uncorroborated information, says that the Declaration will be getting a new text. Could you verify that and tell us something about the timeline of talks about the new text?

- Parliamentary procedure allows for changes in the text. The Declaration is still an open document, and the Parliament has received a draft version of it. With regard to the Democratic Party and myself, as the Prime Minister, the Declaration could be amended in a way to improve the citizens’ lives as outlined in the Constitution and relevant laws. If the dates, words, and sentences pose a problem, then they can be corrected, but the bottom line is that the Constitution needs to be respected, as should the resolve to provide our citizens with the best lives possible.

the Constitution, do you think that it is realistic to expect for the Constitution to be changed, considering the previous experience with the amendments to this document and the absence of any real results of these amendments?

- I am afraid that, at this moment, most of the political factors in the country are not in favour of changing the Serbian Constitution.

■ The most frequently asked question about the Declaration is probably why that issue was brought up at a time when talks with Priština were deadlocked and when all odds were against the talks’ succeeding? - Truth be told, every single moment in Serbia is a politically sensitive one. For months, tensions in Serbia have been intencordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 11

tionally provoked. The entire public in Serbia was harassed by the statements like “we are in for hell,” or “D-day is coming,” which has been postponed several times. The tense atmosphere of uneasiness has been created and stirred up. The bottom line is that these tensions are used to conceal the anticonstitutional nature of the work that the state authorities do which, contrary to the law, have been curbing the authority of Vojvodina in areas like healthcare, social protection and economy. They have been illegally disposing of the Province’s assets. It is unheard of in European legal theory and practice that somebody disposes of somebody else’s assets and subsequently assigns these assets to a third party. Even Vojvodina’s funding is not carried out in line with the Constitution. Furthermore, the provincial funds are several times smaller than guaranteed in the Constitution.

■ On April 10, it seemed that you were standing alone in endorsing the Declaration, without real and clear support from even your own party. Do you agree?

- No, I don’t agree. The Democratic Party (DS) advocates the rule of the law, and, in that light, the Declaration, which wants the Constitution and laws to be respected, is fully in accordance with the party’s core ideas and principles. The DS has voiced its opinion about the Declaration on several occasions. The party’s president spoke about it and publicly supported the document. He also said that the Declaration was absolutely undeniable, so I really don’t know who should speak up in order to become unequivocally clear that the DS supports the Declaration on Vojvodina. The party has repeatedly issued statements in the same tone. The problem with this state is not only in the censorship, but also in strong self-censorship

Even in the past, the Democratic Party in Vojvodina has been one of the better organized branches of the party, and has managed win at the May election

in the media. The media always try to guess what the people in power actually want and thus create an image that has nothing to do with reality. Among other things, the media have been implying that there are disagreements within the DS about the Declaration.

■ How different is the Democratic Party in Vojvodina compared to the Democratic Party in the rest of the country considering the obvious difference in political power and constituent support?

12 |

These are the reasons why the provincial government has submitted the Declaration to the parliament, demanding from the state authorities to adhere to the Constitution and the laws of this country. It is not natural for the Constitution and laws to protect everyone else except the citizens of Vojvodina. Unfortunately, once this initiative became public, we had to deal with insults and a lynch-mob mentality the likes of which have not been seen since the 1990s. The people who are the representatives of the provincial government and, as such, responsible for protecting the citizens of Vojvodina were branded as separatists and ‘Ustasha’ because they wanted the constitutionally guaranteed authority of the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina to be respected. I would like to underline that there isn’t a hint of separatism in the Declaration and that the only thing that the Declaration is endorsing is the respect of Vojvodina’s constitutional and legal position. The Declaration’s text focuses on the Vojvodinian and the Serbian governments. We have not nor shall we address Brussels, Moscow, Washington or Pyongjang. This concerns Serbia and Serbia alone. Any moment for such outcry would be considered wrong. 104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

- Even in the past, the Democratic Party in Vojvodina has been one of the better organized branches of the party, and has managed win at the May election. We won not only on the provincial level, but the Democratic Party’s list of parliamentary candidates won in Vojvodina too. Presidential candidate Boris Tadić took more votes in Vojvodina than his counterpart, Tomislav Nikolić. We won at the local elections in 35 out of 42 towns and municipalities. This is one of the indicators that people here responded better to the Democratic Party’s policy than in the rest of Serbia.

■ Once the Serbian government reached an agreement with Priština on April 19, the tension surrounding the Vojvodina issue suddenly dropped. How do you explain that?

- I wouldn’t link the two, except insofar as the parties that make up the state’s government drummed up a lot of noise about the Declaration, which only endorses the Constitution and the law, for the purpose of putting the negotiation issues on the back burner. Although what we are seeing here is a historical precedent, with a state government staging a protest in front of the Vojvodina Parliament while hurling terrible insults at us, we still

think that the Belgrade-Priština agreement is needed, and we support it. The agreement is a prerequisite for Serbia’s continuing with the European integration process, developing and becoming a part of the civilized world. ■ In the same week, significant head-

way and even the clarification of two key processes in Serbia, around which Serbian politics and economy had been revolving for almost a decade, were made – an agreement with Priština and the European Commission giving a positive opinion about Serbia. In such historically important times for our country, it is customary for all political segments to rally around the country’s best interests. Considering the latest events, do you think that is possible?

- At this particular time, I think that we have reached the maximum of political consensus about the implementation of the agreement with Priština and the continuation of the European integration process. There is only one party in the Serbian Parliament – the Democratic Party of Serbia (DSS) – which is against the agreement. The agreement enjoys the support of the parties that make up the Serbian government and most of the opposition parties, from the Democratic Party, as the strongest opposition party, to other parliamentary opposition parties. I think that the widest possible consensus is reachable. Even the parliaments in EU countries haven’t reached an

ties should both the state and provincial governments have in these new and improved circumstances?

- Apart from implementing the agreement, which is very important and needed for the agreement to actually work, the Serbian government should consider the country’s economic development as its priority. I am afraid that a reduced FDI influx, lower purchasing power, deteriorating living standards, and a higher unemployment rate are all trends that are going to hinder the economic and social status of our citizens, and the government should seriously look into this. We are willing to put our rather modest authority to good use and contribute to all development programmes and fulfil our own development potential. Through the Secretariat of Economy, we have found jobs for 24,000 people in the last four years. This year, we are going to do the same for 4,000 more people, but this number would have been much higher if Vojvodina’s constitutionally guaranteed rights had been respected. ■ Apart from President Nikolić, the President of the Republic of Srpska, Milorad Dodik also expressed his views of the Declara-

there is a moral obligation or political vision and awareness that should prevent Serbia from hitting a dead end and jeopardizing its future in the EU

absolute consensus about the future of the European Union. Simply put, what we have now is a reflection of responsibility of political factors, primarily those in the opposition, which support an agreement signed by the government, despite the risks this agreement entails. By taking certain responsibility, the government also takes on the risks, while the opposition parties are not formally required to do so. However, there is a moral obligation or political vision and awareness that should prevent Serbia from hitting a dead end and jeopardizing its future in the EU. ■ What is your vision of the period between the European Com-

mission’s recommendation and Serbia actually being given the date of the beginning of accession negotiations? What prioricordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 13

tion and emphasized “the need for unity.” Don’t you think that his stance is rather controversial, knowing that some of the objections that Vojvodina has about its status in Serbia mirror those that Dodik has about the status of the Republic of Srpska in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

- I could agree with such an assessment.

■ You have been advocating Vojvodina’s pro-European stance, which coincides with that of the Serbian government. Despite that, conflicts and disagreements between the two governments are ongoing. How would you explain that?

- The paradigm of the state government’s attitude towards Vojvodina is the Serbian President calling the legitimately appointed Vojvodinian government – “the ‘so-called’ Government of Vojvodina.” Our ordeals have forced us to make the moves we made. We have been constantly pointing out problems as they emerge, but it seems that the results of our vigour have been dismal.

- Because of the desire to take power at all levels, the ruling clique used all available instruments and the media to politicize and discredit those who have been leading the province for two terms without any scandals, and who, very easily, have won the trust of the citizens to continue leading the province. In nine years, this is the first time that one, out of a hundred provincial institutions, had to deal with such accusations. In the last twenty or so years, hundreds of scandals have plagued the state authorities, but never has the entire government been accused of something that is based on the suspicion that someone in a provincial institution broke the law. ■ What is the role of the Develop-

ment Fund of Vojvodina, and in which way is the Fund going to provide assistance to development projects? What kind of development projects do you have in mind?

- Through the Fund, the Government of the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina will continue co-funding development projects and provide loans which are more favourable than those granted by commercial banks.

■ You are still firmly convinced that new provincial election will take place after 2016. Have you been given guarantees that the majority in the Vojvodinian Parliament won’t change its mind?

■ How is the current situation about the Declaration, the laws that guarantee the Province’s authority and the RVB case going to affect the FDI influx in Vojvodina?

- The reason for scheduling new elections is a valid request from the Vojvodinian government or the government’s losing its majority support. Bearing in mind that the current government of Vojvodina enjoys the support of two-thirds of the provincial MPs, the provincial election can take place only after 2016.

- For years, the Government of Vojvodina has been thoroughly and Through the Fund, the ambitiously engaged in attracting foreign investors. The concrete reGovernment of the sults of these efforts are 241 forAutonomous Province of eign companies that operate in Vojvodina will continue co- Vojvodina, €6.7 billion worth of funding development project investments and 67,911 citizens of Vojvodina finding jobs in those and provide loans which are companies. We are going to con■ The decision about the future of more favourable than those tinue doing the same. Our best adthe Development Bank of Vojvodina (RVB) was made last year. In the granted by commercial banks vertising is the fact that investors meantime, this issue developed into have not left Vojvodina and that, a huge affair. Why is that so? last year, the Financial Times ranked Vojvodina fourth in Eu- Unfortunately, the issue of the Development Bank of Vojvodina rope in terms of investment efficiency. On top of that, the VIP has become too political. No bank could survive if subjected to Fund, which is engaged in digital marketing, has been ranked politicization and constant attacks. the third in the world.

■ For instance, if you had to explain to a potential foreign investor who has a superficial knowledge of Serbian politics and economy what actually happened with RVB, how would you do that? 14 |

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

■ What do you think of the way in which the government handles investments?

- A significant drop in FDIs in the last year and a half, compared to the past period, is evident. ■

Agreement “The agreement today is historic and marks an important moment in the relationship between Serbia and Kosovo as well as in their relations with the European Union.” — Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council

global diary

successor and had been ahead in pre-election polls. A 50-year-old former bus driver and union leader, Maduro served as foreign minister and vice president under Chavez.

07.04.2013.

Presidential Election in Montenegro

08.04.2013.

Montenegrins have voted in a presidential election that is widely expected to return incumbent Filip Vujanovic for a third term in office Vujanovic, 58, has held the largely ceremonial post since 2003. The country of 680,000 people became independent in 2006 when it narrowly voted to end an 88-year union with Serbia.

15.04.2013.

Two Bombs Rock Boston Marathon

Margaret Thatcher dead at 87

Miodrag Lekic (left) and Filip Vujanovic

His main challenger was Miodrag Lekic, 65, a former diplomat backed by an opposition bloc that accuses the ruling Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS), of which Vujanovic is a member, of monopolising power in the interests of a corrupt elite. The DPS, led by Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic, has been in power since the collapse of federal Yugoslavia in the early 1990s. It was re-elected in an election in October, despite an economic slump triggered by falling foreign investment. According to the final results, which the DIK has ascertained, Vujanović received 51.21 percent of the vote, while Miodrag Lekić received 48.79 percent. This means that 161,940 citizens voted for Vujanović, and 154,289 for Lekić. The turnout was 63.90 percent.”

16 |

The first woman elected to lead a major western state changed way Britons viewed politics and economics. Margaret Thatcher, the most dominant British prime minister since Winston Churchill in 1940 and a global champion of the late 20th-century free market economic revival, has died. “ I believe she will go down as the greatest British peacetime prime minister. We’ve lost a great leader, a great prime minister and a great Briton,” said David Cameron, UK Prime Minister. Mrs. Thatcher, who was 87, had been in declining health for some years. After a series of mini-strokes in 2002 Thatcher withdrew from public life. Britain’s public and senior political leaders, joined by foreign dignitaries, gathered to pay final respects to Margaret Thatcher and thousands of people lined the streets to watch Mrs. Thatcher’s flag-draped coffin, set on a horse-drawn gun carriage, make its way to 300-year old St. Paul’s Cathedral, where her funeral service was held. 14.04.2013.

Maduro Wins Venezuela Presidential Election The Venezuelan election authority has reported that Nicolas Maduro has won the presidential election in a tighter-than-expected vote Maduro was named winner with 51 percent of the votes, the election authority said. “These are the irreversible results that the people have decid-

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

ed,” National Electoral Council president Tibisay Lucena told a news conference, Miranda state Governor Henrique Capriles was Maduro’s main challenger. He took 49 percent of the ballots. Maduro was named as deceased former President Hugo Chavez’s

Two bombs ripped through the crowd at the finish line of the Boston Marathon on April 15, killing three people, maiming others and injuring more than 150 in what a White House official said would be treated as an “act of terror”. Ambulances, fire trucks and dozens of police vehicles con-

verged at the scene, and spectators could be seen crying and consoling each other. The dead included an 8-year-old boy Many runners were heading for the finish when a fireball and smoke rose from behind cheering spectators and a row of flags representing the countries of participants, video from the scene showed. President Barack Obama promised to hunt down whoever was responsible for the attack on a day when tens of thousands of spectators pack the streets to watch the world-famous race. The Boston Marathon has been held on Patriots’ Day, the third Monday of April, since 1897. The event, which starts in Hopkinton, Massachusetts and ends in Boston’s Copley Square, attracts an estimated half-million spectators and some 20,000 participants every year.

Congratulation "I applaud the breakthrough by Serbia and Kosovo in their EU-facilitated dialogue. This is a historic agreement, which must now be implemented quickly. I congratulate the leaders of both sides on their commitment, courage and vision." — José Manuel Barroso, President of the EU Commission 15.03.2013.

North Korea Marks Birthday of Kim Il-Sung Despite tensions over the nuclear programme and threats to attack South Korea, Japan and US bases in the region, North Korea has marked the 101st anniversary of the birth of founding father Kim Il-sung peacefully.

sides had initialled the agreement, making it possible to leave their past behind. She congratulated Serbia’s Prime Minister Ivica Dacic and his Kosovo counterpart Hasim Taci on their courage, adding that the decision to initial the

played. She stressed it was important for both sides to leave the past behind now and move closer to Europe. The talks are finished and both prime ministers have initialled the agreement, she noted. Ashton and both delegations have gone to a meeting with NATO, where Belgrade will try to make sure Kosovo’s armed forces stay out of northern Kosovo and get guarantees for the safety of the Serbs there. 22.03.2013.

agreement was an important step closer to Europe. Ashton congratulated both sides on their determination during the months of the negotions and on the courage they had dis-

Oblivious to international tensions, Pyongyang residents spilled into the streets on April 15 to celebrate a major national holiday, the birthday of their first leader, Kim Il-sung. Early in the morning Mr Kim was at the Kumsusan mausoleum to pay “high tribute and humblest reverence” to the country’s former leaders. Girls in red and pink jackets skipped along streets festooned with celebratory banners and flags and parents pushed strollers with babies bundled up against the spring chill as residents of the isolated, impoverished nation began observing a three-day holiday. 19.03.2013.

Serbia, Kosovo: Talks Ended, Agreement Reached EU High Representative Catherine Ashton, who facilitated the 10 rounds of the talks between Belgrade and Pristina, said in Brussels on Friday the talks were completed and that both

EC Recommends Start of Accession Talks With Serbia

The European Commission and the EU High Representative

Devastating Earthquake Hits China 20.04.2013.

A strong earthquake struck the southwestern Chinese province of Sichuan on April 20 killing over 200 people, sent nearly 8,200 to hospitals and as many as 11,200 people were injured. The quake struck just after 8 a.m. local time, about 115 kilometers from the provincial capital, Chengdu, at a depth of around 12 kilometers. There was conflicting information about the earthquake’s strength, with the USGS putting the magnitude at 6.6 and the China Earthquake Networks Center gauging it at 7.0. It was followed by a series of aftershocks, some of them as strong as magnitude 5.1. Authorities have sent rescue workers to the area around the epicenter, briefly halting flights at the airport in Chengdu and suspending high-speed rail operations, state media reported. The emergency response appeared to be substantial. Soldiers were seen heading into the area, while the government and Red Cross set up triage centers. The event stirred memories of the devastating earthquake that hit Sichuan in 2008, killing more than 87,000 people.

for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy issued today joint reports on the progress in European integration made by Serbia and Kosovo, three days after Belgrade and Pristina struck a landmark deal in the EUfacilitated dialogue. Given the progress achieved, the Commission recommends to EU member states that negotiations be opened with Serbia on EU accession, and with Kosovo on a Stabilisation and Association Agreement with the EU. “The recommendations to open negotiations for EU membership with Serbia and to open negotiations for an SAA with Kosovo mark a decisive break with the past and a common step towards a European future. I would like to pay tribute to the leaders of Serbia and Kosovo for their courage and vision. I

am honoured to have been able to contribute to this process. “ said Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice President of the Commission. ‘Serbia and Kosovo have proved they can both focus on the future rather than staying entangled in the past. Our recommendations today are therefore clear: both Serbia and Kosovo deserve to move on decisively in their EU perspectives. This is good news for the people in Serbia and Kosovo, and in the whole region’ added Štefan Füle, EU Commissioner for Enlargement and Neighbourhood Policy.

cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 17

interview DuĹĄan BajatoviÄ&#x2021;, Managing Director of Public Enterprise Srbijagas

Constructing the South Stream is

the Priority This year, the project and technical documentation will be drafted and the permit for construction of the South Stream will be obtained. The preliminary project has been completed and submitted to the ordering party. We are currently putting together documents for a tender for acquisition of equipment with long delivery terms. The construction is planned to begin in late 2013 18 |

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

Management

The company’s management is absolutely dedicated to accomplishing the best results possible under the current circumstances.

Pipeline

With the construction of the gas pipeline, Srbijagas gave its contribution to the process of attracting foreign investors to the Republic of Serbia.

rbijagas is the gas leader in Serbia. The public enterprise was established on October 1, 2005 following a government decision. However, despite the company’s being successful, it shares the destiny of the entire Serbian market and industry. Today’s Srbijagas is the result of a restructuring process carried out at Petroleum Industry of Serbia (NIS), when the company split into three segments – NIS Gas, NIS Energogas and NIS Jugopetrol (Plinara and RJ Gas, Pančevo). These companies have been developing the country’s gas sector for over 50 years. Judging by the Ministry of Energy, Development and Environment, an initiative has been launched about restructuring Srbijagas to become a closed-end shareholding company. We spoke with Managing Director of Srbijagas Dušan Bajatović about the possible restructuring, construction of the South Stream gas pipeline, the gas system installation in Serbia and other relevant topics.

Opinion

We agree with the ministry (Minister of Energy, Development and Environmental Protection) on certain things, but there are also irreconcilable differences between our opinions.

- They provide us with several very important elements. Mainly, there is the safety of supply and delivery of adequate quantities of gas. Bear in mind that these quantities will facilitate the implementation of the gas power plant projects. On the other hand, it is important to mention that those two agreements stipulate additional price discounts for Serbia. ■ At the Kopaonik Business Forum, you were very critical of the National Energy Strategy, calling it “obsolete.” What kind of energy strategy does Serbia need?

■ According to certain Serbian media, Srbijagas has found a strategic partner for Pančevo-based Azotara (Nitrogen Plant). Could you verify this and tell us something about the future plans for the plant?

- Srbijagas has had several meetings with interested investors which were initiated by them. These companies have expressed willingness to make investments and provide sufficient quantities of natural gas at affordable prices. The plan for the plant’s reorganization is about to be approved. According to the plan, Srbijagas would become the majority co-owner of the plant which is one of the prerequisites for bringing in the strategic partner. ■ Speaking about Azotara, last year was record breaking in terms of fertilizer production. What can you tell us about the plant’s operations in 2012?

- In addition to 2012 being a record breaking year in fertilizer production, it was also a very special year particularly in one segment – business results. After many years, Azotara recorded profit, giving us a reason to be optimistic. The company’s management is absolutely dedicated to accomplishing the best results possible under the current circumstances. Of course, if we manage to select a strategic partner, the company will go regional.

■ Two agreements on delivery of Russian gas to Serbia until 2021 were signed in March. What do they bring to our country, and how is the country going to benefit from them?

Srbijagas has two basic problems. The first problem stems from an inadequate retail price of the gas, and the second problem is the overall illiquidity in our economy - The national strategy, which focuses only on the energy sector, does not take into consideration the current situation in the gas sector, bearing in mind the construction of the South Stream gas pipeline which, once finished, will definitely change Serbia and the entire region’s energy map. This project will create many opportunities for construction of new energy facilities like gas-fired thermal power plants or industrial parks. The strategic plans of Srbijagas call for installing gas systems on the entire territory of the Republic of Serbia by the time the South Stream is constructed. In cooperation with the line ministry and other energy actors, we need to urgently draft a new national strategy that will provide a framework for development of the Serbian energy sector. cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 19

■ You will have a lot to do on the implementation of the South Stream project. Have you put together a list of priorities and what does it look like?

- The South Stream project is being simultaneously implemented in several different segments. The first segment concerns difficulties with temporary land expropriation. We have experts from Srbijagas working on this problem, and they are regularly patrolling the gas pipeline route. The second segment is drafting projects in order to obtain a construction permit. Lastly, there is a third segment which is about project funding. For now, all segments are progressing nicely and we expect the construction of the Serbian arm of the gas pipeline to begin by late 2013.

to build a 450-million cubic metre storage for just under €60 million, much less than what other European companies spend on similar projects. On the other hand, working on preventing layoffs was our day-to-day project. We have managed to save SFS Paraćin (Serbian Glass Factory Paraćin), and I hope that we will be able to find a business partner for Agroživ, MSK and Azotara soon. With the construction of the gas pipeline, Srbijagas gave its contribution to the process of attracting foreign investors to the Republic of Serbia. In addition to the aforementioned projects, the most important investments that will mark the following period are the construction of gas-fired thermal power plants and the construction of a gas storage facility in Banatski Itebej, which, coupled with the storage in Banatski Dvor, will be able store over 2 billion cubic metres of gas - an important fact in the implementation of the South Stream project.

We are going to suggest our own restructuring programme on which we have been working with one of the biggest energy consultancy companies in the world – BCG. If the current ministry’s initiative does not change, then we would be categorically against it

Our only priority in 2013 is to begin with the construction. All other activities serve this purpose.

■ What other activities on the South Stream project are you planning to carry out in 2013?

- This year, the project and technical documentation will be drafted and the construction permit will be obtained. The preliminary project has been completed and submitted to the ordering party, while the main project will be finished in late June. We are currently putting together documents for a tender for the acquisition of equipment (pipes and compressors) with long delivery terms. The contractor, which will take part in the construction of the linear segments of this gas pipeline, will have been selected by October. Construction is planned to begin in late 2013. ■ Apart from the South Stream, Srbijagas is engaged

in 200 other projects. Which of these are the most important and have the biggest strategic importance for Serbia?

20 |

- That must be the Banatski Dvor project. We are all very proud of it, particularly because we have managed

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

Also, there are plans to build a pipeline that would connect the two storage facilities with the biggest industrial gas consumers in Pančevo and Belgrade, which has the biggest number of gas users. Additionally, we plan to build a high pressure gas pipeline along the Aleksandrovac-Novi Pazar- Tutin route which will supply gas to Raška County. ■ What do you think of the cooperation with local authorities on gas system installation in municipalities?

- Regardless of who has been in power in the previous period, the projects on construction of gas distribution networks were always considered a priority by local authorities, and the result of that is that we now have gas systems installed in over twenty municipalities in Serbia. As a socially responsible company, and regardless of struggles with settling our financial claims, Srbijagas has continued investing in the projects. If coal, electricity and oil marked the 19th and 20th centuries, natural gas will mark the future and, as the energy of the future, should be available to all people. ■ How far along are you in talks about Srbijagas’ activi-

ties in Montenegro and the Republic of Srpska?

- Srbijagas has been constantly in touch with the governments of Montenegro and the Republic of Srpska. Our experience has helped the gas sectors of the two countries to constantly develop. Montenegro is embarking on the EU accession process and will have to implement the European directives and recommendations for gas, so the cooperation in this area would significantly contribute to the implementation of those directives and the development of the country’s energy sector on the whole. Considering the special ties and obligations that Serbia has under the Dayton Agreement, cooperation with the Republic of Srpska picked up pace after a decision was made to build a South Stream arm in the direction of the Srpska. Srbijagas has shown its willingness to participate in this project on the territory of the Republic of Srpska through technical and professional assistance in order to contribute to the faster implementation of this project and all other projects in the gas sector. To this end, joint task forces have been set up which are developing project assignments and the required parameters for drafting the preliminary feasibility study. ■ How are you dealing with the

problem of gas consumers not paying their gas bills considering that Srbijags has to pay for gas even before you sell it to the consumers?

have recently signed long-term gas supply contracts with them?

- Srbijagas was not consulted when this document was drafted. We agree with the ministry on certain things, but there are also irreconcilable differences between our opinions. On our part, we are going to suggest our own restructuring programme on which we have been working with one of the biggest energy consultancy companies in the world – BCG. If the current ministry’s initiative does not change, then we would be categorically against it. In case the restructuring is carried out according to the ministry’s scenario, the Russian partner would probably look for another partner in Serbia which would entail changing the contract, for which

Srbijagas needs to be financially restructured first, and then split into several companies. Due to the rather chaotic accounting records dating back to the time of JP NIS, this process will take a long time to complete. This is the reason why we shouldn’t rush into anything

- Srbijagas has two basic problems. The first problem stems from an inadequate retail price of the gas, which is still lower than the purchase price. The second problem is the overall illiquidity in our economy, and especially in companies that provide long distance heating. Up until recently, we had to take out loans to deal with these problems. But that is no longer possible, which means that Srbijagas will have to insist on gas consumers paying their bills even if that means using very unpopular methods to settle our claims. This is the only way to have an uninterrupted supply of gas. ■ The Ministry of Energy, Development and Environ-

ment has launched an initiative about restructuring Srbijagas into a closed-end shareholding company. What do you think of this initiative and what do your Russian partners think of it, bearing in mind that you

both contractual parties must consent. The Russians are waiting for our government to make a final decision. ■ Is it realistic to expect that Srbijagas will be restructured before the South Stream project is properly defined?

- Srbijagas needs to be financially restructured first, and then split into several companies. Due to the rather chaotic accounting records dating back to the time of JP NIS, this process will take a long time to complete. This is the reason why we shouldn’t rush into anything. Our contractual obligations toward the Russian partner, in respect to jointly investing in the South Stream arm in Serbia, would be most definitely jeopardized if Srbijagas were to be restructured, and the very implementation of the project itself would be in question. ■ cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 21

interview Ivar Rusdal, President of the European Newspaper Publishers’ Association (ENPA) and Chairman, Nordsjø Media AS / Jærbladet AS

Free Press:

Cornerstone of

Democratic Society Without the ability of a free press to hold the powersthat-be - be they political, financial or others - to account, and without a free press acting both as provider of news and facts, as well as a forum for free debate and discussion, democracy is an illusion

“I 22 |

f the press is to fulfil its role in a democratic society, the activities of the press cannot at the same time be regulated or controlled by political bodies.” said Ivar Rusdal, President of the European Newspaper Publishers’ Association (ENPA) exclusively for CorD. Self-regulation, media freedom, super-reduced or reduced VAT rates for printed press, copyrights and data protection will be some of the major topics on the General Assembly of the European Newspaper Publishers’ Association (ENPA), which will take place in Bel-

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

Exclusive grade on May 23 and 24, hosted by the Serbian Media Association. ■ The European Newspaper Publishers Association

(ENPA) will hold its annual conference in Belgrade this month (May). What are the most important topics on the agenda?

- In addition to the normal affairs of the association - accounts, budget and similar - we will focus on the major political issues that are the “hot topics” in the EU at the moment. The most important subject is what we re-

Digital

The rapid increase in digital readership means that never before have so many people been interested in and active users of our news products.

Regulation

gard as a possibly serious threat: the drive from political bodies, both on EU and national levels, to regulate or “set standards” for a free and independent press. In connection with our General Assembly we will organize a seminar on the May 23 entitled “Free Press under fire: the push for media regulation at EU and national level”. Other important issues for our meeting will be VAT, copyright and data protection. ■ What does the ENPA predict in terms of the future of the print media and their sustainability on the media market?

- We realise, of course, that the circulation of printed newspapers is in decline in some territories - although the trends differ very much from country to country. In many European countries, print is still very strong. We believe that printed newspapers will be around for a long time to come, but we will certainly see many changes in product formats and frequency. In addition, the rapid increase in digital readership means that never before have so many people been interested in and active users of our news products. The challenge of the digital transition is to ensure that these millions of readers and users contribute the revenue necessary to sustain the independent news publishing that is the core of our business. ■ Freedom of the media,

Media Associations

If the press is to fulfil its role in a democratic society, the activities of the press cannot at the same time be regulated or controlled by political bodies.

In most countries, this role of the Media Associations is respected by political bodies, and even seen as an advantage, as it establishes a clear counterpart in any negotiations.

established by our constitution of 1814. As you indicate, the situation is much more difficult in some of the countries in transition. Europe - meaning the EU - has in some instances spoken up when limitations or violations of public freedoms constituted violations of the Fundamental Charter of Rights, most recently in the case of Hungary. The Council of Europe and the Court of Human Rights are the main bodies dealing with such issues. Unfortunately, apart from specific sanctions against the country in question, which can happen in exceptional circumstances, there are not many other alternatives than resolutions,

We believe that printed newspapers will be around for a long time to come, but we will certainly see many changes in product formats and frequency

including print media, is still a popular issue, particularly in transition countries where the media must deal with a lot of pressure both from the political and financial elite. How does Europe deal with such problems and what does the ENPA recommend in that respect?

- The position of ENPA is very clear: We represent independent newspaper and news publishers, and we firmly believe that a free press is one of the cornerstones of a democratic society. Without the ability of a free press to hold the powers-that-be - be they political, financial or others - to account, and without a free press acting both as provider of news and facts, as well as a forum for free debate and discussion, democracy is an illusion. These are core values in most of the “established” European countries, fortunately. In my own country, Norway, for example, the basic freedom of the press was

discussion and persuasion open to the EU.

■ A substantial number

of media laws are currently undergoing the adoption process in Serbia with self-regulation being one of the points of contention between the state authorities and the publishers. Why is self-regulation in the media sector so important for freedom of the media?

- If the press is to fulfil its role in a democratic society, the activities of the press cannot at the same time be regulated or controlled by political bodies. Self-regulation, performed in a serious and transparent way, is the best guarantee that the democratic role of newspapers and news media will be filled according to best practice codes of conduct. It needs to be said here, however, that “freedom” of course means freedom under the law. Publishers, as any other citizens, are responsible for their actions accordcordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 23

ing to the penal code and other laws. But it is only the publisher/editor who can decide what to publish; this can never be an issue for a political body, for, in such a system, democracy is lost. ■ Also, a debate has been going on about funding of

public service broadcasting and the relation between public service and private broadcasters in Serbia’s media sector. What are the ENPA’s recommendations in regard to these issues?

- I would hesitate to offer advice on the situation in your country as I do not know the facts well enough. Generally, however, I can assure you that ENPA is very active in these discussions on the European level. We published a comprehensive report on Public Service Broadcasters

- It should be made very clear what the “public service” remit means, and that public funds are not used to establish unfair competition with commercial players. We are not afraid of competition, but it has to be on a level playing field. ■ The economic crisis has put many media outlets into

a very unfavourable position, particularly print media since their survival mainly depends on ad revenue. Many countries have various subsidies for print media, while the ENPA has been advocating total VAT exemption for these media. How did the EU countries react to this suggestion?

- We strongly believe that the existing zero, super-reduced or reduces VAT rates for printed press in many European countries should be maintained. These rates have been in existence for many years, reflecting the

Fighting for copyright protection is one of ENPAs major areas of activity. We believe that copyright, the publishers’ rights to protect the value of the contents of their publications, is fundamental to the future of our business

José Manuel Barroso, President of the EC addressing members of the ENPA congress

(PBS) in Europe in 2011. We believe that PSBs and newspapers can co-exist and contribute to promoting democracy and media diversity, but only if there is effective enforcement of the state aid and competition rules. Newspaper publishers warn against the blurring of lines between the public service and the commercial activities of the PSBs. We are currently competing with “free” news on PSB news sites, while PSBs are increasingly supplying text-based services and application for tablets. Many PSBs compete unfairly with newspapers for crucial advertising revenue. Public money is being used to create attractive offers to advertisers which distort the advertising market. Therefore, the dealings between the public service and commercial elements of PSBs need to be urgently clarified. ■ What do you think are the most im-

portant content, funding and status criteria that a public service broadcaster should adhere to in relation to other media? 24 |

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fundamental belief across the political spectrum that the news and debate functions of the press are the foundations of a democratic society. In addition to this, it is also crucially important that the existing VAT rates for printed press can also be made applicable to digital publications. The press is undergoing an enormous transition from the well-established paper products into digital publishing. This development is, as you know, of vital importance to the future of our business. The present situation, where digital

newspapers in most countries are treated differently from paper ones - with full VAT on digital and zero/ reduced-rate on paper - is a serious obstacle to digital product development and new sources of revenue. VAT rates for print and digital press should therefore be aligned at the lower rate. The VAT system is presently undergoing a thorough evaluation within the EU Commission. In a communication from the EU in December, 2011, the principle of equal VAT treatment of equal products, regardless of distribution channels (in our case: paper or digital) was established. The VAT evaluation process is expected to be finished late this year or in early 2014. And to remind you of the complexity of the matter, decisions on taxation within the EU require the unanimous vote of all 27 EU Finance Ministers (soon to be 28!).

are the Association’s suggestions on this issue?

- We have seen many political initiatives in the EU to put restrictions or mandatory information requirements on advertising, for number of initially good reasons such as tobacco, alcohol, car emissions, sugar, fat and other dangerous substances. On the other hand, advertising revenues are vital to the media business, not least in this time of transition from analogue to digital products, and any restriction will immediately have an effect on revenues. Therefore, we argue that as long as a product can be marketed and sold legally, it should also be legal to advertise it. ■ The Serbian Media Association is the host of the ENPA Conference in Belgrade. In your opinion, what

■ Print media in digital form is one of the options that could bring additional revenue to the press. However,

We strongly believe that the existing zero, super-reduced or reduced VAT rates for printed press in many European countries should be maintained this involves serious copyright regulation. What has been the EU’s experience in protecting media’s copyright? What are the main principles in this segment?

- Fighting for copyright protection is one of ENPAs major areas of activity. We believe that copyright, the publishers’ rights to protect the value of the contents of their publications, is fundamental to the future of our business. Therefore, we have been continuously active in all political processes where there is a risk that publishers’ rights could be at risk. Most recently, we have seen a strong push from some stakeholders to “modernize copyright,” by which they too often mean weakening copyright with new exceptions. In this context, the European Commission has launched a 10-month consultation, “Licences for Europe,” to examine whether there are indeed any problems in the current EU copyright legislation that need to be addressed. The ENPA is participating actively in this process which aims to find solutions within the existing framework and identify any real obstacles. Our focus is on practical channels to combine public (or commercial) interest in using our material and publishers’ rights (and needs) to receive fair remuneration. ■ In its documents, the ENPA has been often underlin-

ing the need for having a free advertising market. What

EU Culture Commissioner Androulla Vassiliou (second left) supports reduced VAT on digital press

role do media associations play in EU countries, what is their status and what kind of relation do the state authorities and media associations have in Europe?

- In most countries, we find that our member associations play an important role for their members, the publishers or publishing houses, acting as the common voice of the business on the issues that are of importance at any given time. This is important to give the general public a clear view of what the independent press stands for, but even more so to have negotiating leverage with parliaments and governments. On the other hand, we also find that in most countries, this role of the Media Associations is respected by political bodies, and even seen as an advantage, as it establishes a clear counterpart in any negotiations. Furthermore, the associations in many countries also work to promote other common interests of the press, such as market research and statistics, labour agreement negotiations, media literacy/media in schools, international development projects, or research projects. The extent of these activities varies from country to country, according to the interests of the members. ■ cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 25

interview H.E. Mrs Hana Hubáčková, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Serbia and Montenegro

Friend and

Partner

The opening of negotiations will confirm that Serbia is firmly on the path to EU. The business community wants to have clarity as to what the rules of the game are in any country it operates. Serbia’s harmonising its business environment with that of the EU means that it is becoming a country even safer for investments and business in general, that it is a country where entrepreneurs will not be surprised by nonstandard decisions

he Czech Republic, as a good friend and neighbour to Serbia, has already been down the long and winding road to EU accession. According to H.E. Mrs Hana Hubáčková, her country stands ready to assist and guide Serbia through this process. Many projects supporting Serbia’s economy and reforms are already being implemented by the Czech Republic here in Serbia. Such support is likely to continue and grow, according to the ambassador, as it is both needed and has been well received by their Serbian counterparts. In this exclusive interview for CorD, Mrs. Hubáčková speaks about the many ongoing projects and what they mean for the longterm and friendly relations between the two countries. ■ From the position of an ambassador of a country that is close to

the Balkan region, what do you think about the current situation in the region? 26 |

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- I have spent almost half a decade as an ambassador to Serbia and to Montenegro but that does not give me any special privilege to know better than others. I am perhaps only to a certain degree advantaged by this longer personal experience here in the region. For me, it is very encouraging to see that Western Balkan countries have all been working hard to move their respective countries forward, searching for ways of cooperation both in the region and beyond and looking for solutions that would help all the nations live in peace and mutual respect. The shared memory of the tragedies of the past acts as a strong motivator. Even though it may not always seem easy, concrete results are visible. I have seen in the last five years a number of efforts by a lot of people here in Serbia and in the other Western Balkan countries intended to deepen the reconciliation process, widen the cooperation, and strengthen the people-to-people contacts. I also feel there is an understanding of the need to undertake the complex reform processes that

Achievement

The agreement concluded by Belgrade and Pristina representatives is a truly historic achievement.

Cooperation

Serbia does belong among the priority countries of the Czech Development Cooperation.

will enable these societies to better use their overall capacities and improve their economic performances. I have met a lot of very capable and professional people here in Serbia and in the region, determined to get over the difficulties, sometimes still connected with the past, that occasionally resurface as a burden. In this context, the agreement concluded by Belgrade and Pristina representatives on April 19 is a truly historic achievement. Again, it was not achieved easily, but mutual interest in opening ways for future stable relations clearly prevailed. This is a very positive message for the region as well as for the EU whose membership is a shared strategic goal for all Balkan countries. ■ Naturally, it is very difficult to

even talk about the stability in the West Balkans without Kosovo. In your opinion, what could an agreement between Serbia and Kosovo bring to the respective sides and to the rest of the region?

Business

The business community wants to have clarity as to what the rules of the game are in any country it operates.

■ If Serbia obtains the date of the beginning of the EU accession negotiations, how much will that improve Serbia’s economic rating?

- The opening of negotiations will confirm that Serbia is firmly on the path to EU. Clarity as to where the country´s heading and under what rules it operates is important for any entrepreneur that may be considering doing business in or with Serbia. The business community wants to have clarity as to what the rules of the game are in any country it operates. Serbia’s harmonising its business environment with that of the EU means that it is becoming a country even safer for investments and business in general, that it is a country where entrepreneurs will not be surprised by nonstandard decisions, that their business plans are based on transparent market conditions. Under such an understanding, the impact of the negotiation process should boost also Serbia’s economic rating.

- The agreement is a common suc■ How important is it for Serbia to obtain a date for accession negotiacess of Belgrade, Pristina and the EU. Its conclusion provides conditions to tions in the context of the entire reopen not only a new phase of relagion, given that Croatia is about to join the EU, Bosnia and Herzegovina tions between Belgrade and Pristina might be given the candidate status but also a new phase of European and Montenegro is about to embark integration for both. I would expect on the accession negotiations? now a fast transfer into the accession talk phase in the case of Serbia The 10 rounds of negotiations in - The date is symbolic, but it is also and the conclusion of Stabilisation Brussels, complex in character, important in real terms for at least and Association Agreement in the concrete reasons. First, it will showed that Serbia and Kosovo two case of Kosovo. confirm that all the conditions ascan handle together even the sociated with the start of the negoThe 10 rounds of negotiations in Brussels, complex in character, tiations have been met by Serbia. most sensitive issues showed that Serbia and Kosovo can Second, it launches in real terms the handle together even the most sensitive issues. This is a good sighard work that will move Serbia ever closer to final accession. The speed of the work is up to the capacities of each and every country. nal for the forthcoming implementation of the agreement and an Serbia can therefore move at its own pace, given by its own rhythm encouraging factor also for the long term relationship between of work on reform agendas. The quality of the state administration Belgrade and Pristina. The quality of this relationship is fundawill matter most at this stage since it will conduct the mass of work mental for a peaceful coexistence of Serbs and Albanians in Kosovo involved in each opened chapter. I may recall in this context that my and, in a larger context, for the stability of a wider Balkan region. own country, the Czech Republic, opened negotiations on its acces■ Do you think that the current situation in Vojvodina could desion to EU in 1998 and concluded them in December 2002. Croavelop into a problem that could affect the neighbouring areas too, tia, which is the most recent example, conducted negotiations for or it will remain within the confines of Serbia? almost six years. The EU, by its own development, is getting more complex, and this is reflected also in the complexity of negotiations. - I am convinced that the situation will be handled through a standard political dialogue of all sides in Serbia and that the current rather heated discourse will take a calmer note soon. It is, ■ Serbia is one of so-called project countries in terms of interhowever, important to say that in a political debate, no matter how national development cooperation and one of the biggest recipiheated it is, there is no excuse for hate speech. ents of the Czech aid. Serbia is also at the very top in terms of cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 27

implemented projects. What does the status of a project country exactly entail?

- Serbia does belong among the priority countries of the Czech Development Cooperation. A Project country as a category means that there are individual projects carried out and financed from the means earmarked in the state budget of the Czech Republic for development cooperation without a need to work out a periodical (e.g. annual) programme of development assistance to that particular country. Here I would like to underscore that in practice the status of the country (be it project or programming) does not determine the total amount of money allocated for individual eligible countries. For your information, since 2000, Czech grants to Serbia have reached total amount of approximately €24 million.

■ What kind of projects has the Czech Embassy been supporting? Could you single out the most important one?

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■ Each year, the Czech Embassy receives proposals for Small Local Projects (SLPs) which are funded through foreign development cooperation. What kind of projects are these?

- SLPs are small projects in scale and value (the value of each around €10,000) carried out in the areas of education, environment protection, health and support to handicapped children. The aim of such projects is to provide direct support with a rather quick impact for the beneficiaries. SLPs target primarily less developed regions outside of Belgrade where the needs are more urgent. This year we have six such projects.

■ In which way does the Embassy mediate between and connect Serbian and Czech businesses? - Our Embassy, as one of the main information channels is providing the business community from both countries with a broad spectrum of relevant information and contacts necessary for the establishment of a long-term partnership with their business partners. We organise seminars and presentations, as well as provide support to the participation of Czech companies in the fairs in Serbia. We also assist them when there is a need to get into contact with state and local institutions. We also help to clarify various aspects of the business environment in our country as well as in Serbia. However, our Embassy is not the only provider of assistance to the business community. There is also a CzechTrade office in Belgrade that is in charge of direct business to business relations. On the top of that, financial support is granted through specific programmes like Aid for Trade,

Czech companies have been following very closely the development of the Serbian economy and especially the various aspects of the business environment on the basis of which they assess potential opportunities

- There are several project sectors open for Serbia: healthcare, environment (water treatment), energy savings and support to local small and medium enterprises. The available budgetary means are of course not sufficient to cover the whole proposed project. It is sometimes very hard to select those that will finally be carried out. To give you an example of recently completed projects in the sector of healthcare: we have completed a project in the hospital of Arandjelovac. In the course of three years, we helped to enhance the capacity of the hospital by donating equipment that was needed – an X-ray machine with electronic data storage equipment was delivered and malfunctioning sterilisation equipment was replaced by modern central units which enabled the hospital to provide more, better and essentially safer care to people. We currently are also preparing a large project of modernising a surgery unit in the Pirot hospital. As far as the water sector is concerned, a project of sewage and waste water treatment is underway in Kruščica. A project of usage of thermal renewable source of energy in the hospital of Valjevo belongs to the energy sector, while a project of 28 |

support to local producers of Sjenički cheese in the Pešter region falls into the category of support to SMEs.

targeting cooperation between the Chambers of Commerce or B2B Development Cooperation supporting technological cooperation between Czech and Serbian individual companies. All those activities are, of course, carried out in close cooperation with other institutions of the Czech Republic.

■ Speaking about Czech investors in Serbia, how interested are they in investing on this market?

- Czech companies have been following very closely the development of the Serbian economy and especially the various aspects of the business environment on the basis of which they assess potential opportunities. The Czech business community indicates an increased interest to invest in a number of sectors in Serbia. They study the possibilities in energy sector, including renewable energy sources such as biomass or small hydro power stations, food

can also have an important role in relation to the media, academia or public in general. When planning the activities of a Contact Point Embassy in a country, an individual approach is crucial. The embassy’s tasks and activities should be derived from the scope and intensity of the respective country´s partnership with NATO. Various aspects are taken into account and therefore the scope of a CPE activity ■ Bilateral cooperation between the two countries also innaturally differs depending on whether a particular country is a cludes security issues. What activities have been carried out partner to NATO or a membership candidate state. in this respect? The Czech Embassy served for two successive mandates as - The bilateral security cooperation between our two countries is the CPE. We have centred our activities on cooperation with all long term and rich in substance. There is a long tradition of regurelevant institutions in Serbia, trying to reflect their We concentrated our work on what particular needs at this stage. We also maintained very good contacts with the Serbian Delegation to the NATO Serbia found useful as a formal member Parliamentary Assembly, with media, academic instituof NATO´s Partnership for Peace while tions and a number of NGOs. Our Delegation to NATO respecting the country´s neutral status established regular working relations with the Serbian Delegation both on the working expert level as well as lar bilateral consultations between officials of Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Defence on all levels, including ministers and state secretaries. But our cooperation is not restricted only to security policy discussions. The Czech Republic has recent experience with the transformation of our armed forces into fully professional ones which has been of interest to Serbia and which we are happy to share. Moreover, there are numerous projects in the areas of military education, logistics and protection against weapons of mass destruction. An additional impetus to our bilateral security cooperation was the function of our Embassy for four years as the Contact Point Embassy for NATO. For instance, in the course of our two mandates as CPE, 132 members of the Serbian Armed Forces and Ministry of Defence, and 123 students of the Serbian Military Academy in Belgrade participated in working and study trips to the Czech Republic. There were 61 Czech lecturers participating in the educational courses organised by our CPE. And that is just a glimpse of all activities we undertook. on the level of our Ambassadors. Last but not least, we have inAs for the future, the Czech Republic and Serbia sign every year tensified our bilateral military cooperation at this period of time. an Annual Bilateral Working Plan between our Defence Ministries. The current one was signed on April 19 and contains 10 activi■ Serbia is very reserved towards NATO. Was that quite obvious in the daily work that a contact point embassy does? ties to be carried out in Serbia and eight in the Czech Republic in the areas of logistics, budgeting, military geography, protection - We concentrated our work on what Serbia found useful as a foragainst weapons of mass destruction, military education (coopmal member of NATO´s Partnership for Peace while respecting the country´s neutral status. We have provided the expertise of our seeration of Military Academies), standardisation and codification, as well as consultations between the General Staffs. curity policy and military colleagues from our Delegation to NATO, from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Ministry of Defence on a number of occasions. Consequently, we were enjoying a very good ■ The Czech Embassy has served as the NATO’s contact point level of cooperation with all our Serbian partners and worked in embassy for Serbia for four years. What does a contact point emmutual trust. bassy do exactly? The Partnership for Peace provides for a substantial flexibility, and - A Contact Point Embassy is an additional channel to all other every partner country can decide to what extent it wants to use the channels through which information on NATO and its activities PfP potential. Serbia is fully aware of this character and we could can be transferred and provided to all interested partners in nonsee in the course of our CPE mandates a continuously better and NATO countries. A CPE can in no way be a substitute for direct more concrete formulation of what Serbia intends to use from the communication between a state and NATO but it can, through its wide PfP menu. ■ activities, substantially contribute to such a communication. A CPE industry (including breweries and vineyards), and various kinds of industrial production. For the time being, the largest investment coming from the Czech Republic so far remains the tyre factory Mitas in Ruma whose production is highly successful in the international market.

cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 29

interview Mirjana Karanović, actress

We Don't Have a

Value System ■ By Radmila Stanković

She was only a student when she played Petrija in the film Petrijin Venac (Petrija’s Wreath). Dragoslav Mihailović wrote the screenplay for the film, Srđan Karanović directed it and it was a dream debut. At the tender age of 22, she won the Golden Arena award at the Yugoslav Film Festival in Pula, while, in 2006, she was nominated in the best actress category by the European Film Academy Award for her work in the film Grbavica, directed by Jasmila Žbanić, and Gospođica (Die Fraulein)

n the meantime, she made dozens of movies and TV features, and played in the theatre many times. She has been a member of the Yugoslav Drama Theatre since the beginning of her career. Currently, Mirjana is performing in two theatre plays and is also working as a professor of acting at the Art Academy. Together with her students, she has also been preparing a play that will be performed at the BITEF Theatre, which she will also direct. She modestly says that she only adapted Sarah Kane’s play. She acted in one of the films that made Emir Kusturica famous – Otac na Službenom Putu (When Father was Away on Business), she has been the recipient of every award imaginable in the former Yugoslavia and, following the civil war, she was the only Serbian actress that worked with a director from Bosnia and Herzegovina. She also had a leading role in Jasmila Žbanić’s film 30 |

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

Grbavica which won an award at the Berlin Festival. Additionally, Mirjana played in Ahmet Imamović’s film called Go West and Andrea Štaka’s film Gospođica (Das Fraulein). The latter won the Golden Leopard Award at the Locarno Film Festival and the main award at the Sarajevo Film Festival. For her performance in the theatre play Helverova Noć (Helver’s Night), Mirjana Karanovic (56) won the best actress award at the Rijeka International Theatre Festival. She still performs in this play at the Sarajevo Chamber Theatre. One of the awards that is very dear to her heart is Winning Freedom which she won in 2008. The award is given to women in memory of the Civil Alliance activist Maja Maršićević Tasić, which does sound logical since women need to win their freedom in this male dominated world: “There are different reasons and causes but, essentially, we

Politic

I deeply despise anything that has to do with politics and decisions made by the officials in this country.

Democracy

In our country, democracy has become something used to manipulate, to rearrange, or to steal.

are talking about the spiritual heritage that women receive at birth and during their upbringing in this part of the world. Unlike sons, daughters are brought up to always question themselves and their beliefs a little bit and not to engage in something unless they are absolutely sure. On the other hand, men are daredevils and their confidence is sky high. There are many things that men do that nobody finds fault with, from their private lives to social norms, while that’s not the case with women.”

■ When was the first time you “won freedom” for yourself? - I was in my first year of studies when I wanted to sleep over at my (then) boyfriend’s place. The summer before that, I had gone on a holiday by myself for the very first time. I called my house, and my father picked up the phone. I knew that my parents would not approve of my choice, but I did not want to lie to them. I wanted them to trust me, and this trust would have been lost if I had lied. My father did not say anything about my decision to sleep over at my friend’s place and, the next day, when I came home, we did not discuss it.

Society

I have no desire to be noticed in this system. And I really don't want to fight for any position in a society like ours.

those that deal with serious subjects, since we are actually not involved in our lives, and we don’t have any films where the main characters deal with such subjects. I won’t even go into what we went through in the 1990s. ■ After playing a Muslim woman in the film Grbavica, many people disapproved of you taking on such a role, putting aside the fact that you were excellent in it.

- Everything changed here after Jasmila Žbanić’s acceptance speech at the Berlin Film Festival when she received the Golden Bear Award. She talked about her political stances in the speech, which have nothing to do with the film since the film is not po-

■ You are getting ready to play in a Croatian film. Why did you make more films abroad than in Serbia in the last few years? - It just happened that way. There were no female roles that I could play here and no films about our reality. The Serbian film inMirjana Karanović won presigious award "Žanka Stokić" in 2011 dustry has simply taken off in another direction, and I did not belong there. Today, actresses of my age rarely get leading roles and the storylines usually We, in Serbia, are more focused on commercial don’t revolve around forty or fifty-year-old films, rather than those that deal with serious women. That’s why I am in awe of such subjects, since we are actually not involved in our films, and it is the same feeling I had when I was 20 years old and when I got to play lives, and we don’t have any films where the main Petrija. That experience was unique since it characters deal with such subjects was very rare for someone so young to get such a big role. Just like it is rare today when you see a young dilitical at all. Her political statement was equated with the film while the actual story about the film was sidetracked. The main rector making a film about a main character who is of the same purpose of Grbavica was to have more understanding between age as I am today. people, which was tainted by Jasmila’s speech. I support Jasmi■ Is that the reason why you decided to write a screenplay for la because I think people are entitled to express their political views freely, just as I did during Slobodan Milošević’s reign and a film in which you will have the leading role and co-direct toas did also many other artists who used their artistic credibility gether with Stevan Filipović in the spring of 2014? to say what they really thought about the regime. - You could say that. The film talks about our reality, which affects me personally, which provokes me. This is a story from my perspective. I think that there are so many themes in this country that ■ It seems that the Serbian theatre today is more in tune with haven’t been covered. I wouldn’t like to idolize the Bosnian or the reality than the film industry. Croatian film industry, but, look at, for instance, modern Roma- With more or less success. The Serbian theatre is far more serinian movies. In the last few years, the Romanians have produced ous about the times we live in than the film industry. several fantastic, smart, funny films that were not impossible to make financially and were very relevant at the European festivals. ■ What are you, as an actress, bothered about the most in Serbia We, in Serbia, are more focused on commercial films, rather than today? cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 31

- Until recently, I was bothered by the fact that there is no certainty. I am referring to certainty in the system. In well-regulated countries, there is this solid system in place, and you are free to rebel against it. But, as an ordinary person and a consumer you feel protected since you can rely on that system even when the system is wrong. You can also fight it if you want. I thought that our society would be like that too. Unfortunately, today’s situation is deteriorating, and I again feel that I am living in anguish. There is no value system any longer where you could create something and where we would raise our young generations. I deeply despise anything that has to do with politics and decisions made by the officials in this country. I cannot comment anymore about what is happening in this country on a daily basis, primarily in culture.

■ What can you realistically expect from culture in a country as small as Serbia?

- In our desire to get as close as possible to what we admire, we have been trying to change in order to resemble something to which we would like to adjust. In their desire to stand out in a crowd, teenagers have done exactly the opposite – instead of standing out, they all look like each other. They have the same hairstyles, and wear the same trainers, jeans, jackets... Only the “weirdos” are the ones who are authentic, who stand out and attract attention. We need to be what we really are, and, in doing so, become interesting to the rest of the world. The Romanian film industry became very popular in the last few years, and that is another story. The Romanian film is deeply embedded in the Romanian reality. It is not embellished so that it can resemble some prettier, better or wealthier reality. We are attracted to different persons in respect to their authenticity and originality. We are attracted by inner honesty. The same should be applied to the country too. We should not strive to look like somebody else. We should not be afraid to be who we really are or be ashamed of what we are. There are so many bad things around us and in us, but we should not deny them and pretend they don’t exist. We haven’t done anything to fight for our identity. We are not doing anything to make this country dignified enough to live in it. Everything that surrounds us has become unbelievably disgusting, like rubbish that you want avoid in passing. I have no desire to be noticed in this system. And I really don’t want to fight for any position in a society like ours.

Unfortunately, today’s situation is deteriorating, and I again feel that I am living in anguish. There is no value system any longer where you could create something and where we would raise our young generations. I deeply despise anything that has to do with politics and decisions made by the officials in this country Nonetheless, I cannot live in another country or another place since I see myself as a plant that can live only in one climate.

■ You leave, make a film and then come back. Have you ever wanted to leave for good?

- No, I haven’t. I made films in other countries because they needed an actress of my calibre. I didn’t have to adjust my personality much. I had to play myself, as I am. I cannot picture living anywhere else other than Belgrade. This part of the world is the inspiration behind my art; this is where I charge my artistic batteries, where I live an intense life. My life here is more introspective and less outward. Acting is the most important part of my life, and I enjoy what I do regardless of success or failure. I am the happiest person in the world since I make money doing what I love. I don’t know how long I am going to make money in this way since, judging the state of culture today, you cannot believe in or hope for anything. 32 |

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

■ Still, we have managed to have some elements of democracy in our society from 2000 onwards.

- I cannot see that. In our country, democracy has become something used to manipulate, to rearrange, or to steal. Democracy, in our case, was not a vessel of progress. This government is more interested in control and power than in prosperity and progress. If that were not true, Mlađan Dinkić would not have been finance minister in every single government since 2000 for nothing. He wouldn’t have made decisions about how much money culture needed while ignoring the civilization’s imperatives. I am sick and tired of reiterating about culture becoming the least important budget item and the politicians barely managing to utter the world “culture”. Sometimes I am embarrassed about seeing and listening to that. Lately, I don’t want to read the newspapers or watch TV. Everything has become so ugly and degrading for a human.

■ There is no intellectual elite that would raise its voice like the Hungarian intellectuals who raised their voices against their government which, true to their right-wing orientation, abolished cultural autonomy and integrity. - We can’t compare to Hungary at all. They had spent decades under Soviet rule, and they know danger when they see it. I don’t

think that we don’t have intellectual elite. We do: but it is weak, titles. If I were a director or a producer, I would definitely use the feeble and their scope of influence is very limited. Our thinking opportunity to choose an actor from a territory as large as the people are like guardians of a small fire. They cannot become former Yugoslavia had been. When I acted in a Vinko Brešan film, a serious opposition to the government. As a rule, the public some wondered why he chose a Serbian actress to play a Croadoesn’t hear that. Although, I don’t think that the situation is bettian woman. I don’t think that that is even worth asking. In the last few years, I have played a Croatian woman, a Bosnian woman ter in Bosnia, Bulgaria or Macedonia. I can only feel sorry that the and an Albanian woman, and I liked the opportunity to be able to situation in our country is not better. True, we are not organized test myself in these roles. in a way that we can rebel against certain government decisions about culture, but what can we do I think that subjects like when actors don’t even have their ■ What is your view of films about trade union? That is the basic prepolitical or social issues? friendship, love, trust, loyalty, requisite for having our freedom - I don’t think that our filmmakers and family are important for any and rights respected. have to make such films at all costs, society, including ours. However, but I think that subjects like friend■ Your film career in the last few our film industry has completely ship, love, trust, loyalty, and family years, and the work done by othforgotten about these subjects are important for any society, iner actors like Miki Manojlović or cluding ours. However, our film inSlavko Štimac, demonstrates that the film industry has again dustry has completely forgotten about these subjects, and I won’t become a gathering place for artists from the ex-Yugoslav reeven go into subjects like domestic violence, homosexuality, diseases, handicaps, or people with AIDS. I don’t think that polipublics. - This is not new to me and it did not come as a surprise. It is the tics is the only topic that we should discuss. I don’t believe that only thing that made sense. Even in a commercial sense, this is a society’s culture has a sound foundation if only commercial a profitable option, bearing in mind that the people from the exfilms are made. I also don’t think that commercial films should Yugoslav republics understand each other very well. Nominally, receive state funds. Good cultural policy means supporting films they speak different languages, but, in reality, we don’t need subthat stand a chance at international film festivals where they

cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 33

can represent Serbia in the best possible light. Today, the world knows of only two Serbian directors – Emir Kusturica and Goran Paskaljević. And that’s it. What about all the young, fresh, smart, zealous and positively aggressive directors who will demonstrate to the world a new sensibility and a new image of Serbia?!

■ You teach acting at the Art Academy. What would like to teach your students about, apart from acting, of course? - I would like them to realize that it is important to show that they care about something – acting, singing, love or friendship, it doesn’t matter, as long as they show it. Young people fear that because it is important to be cool, for goodness’ sake. That could be a good thing if you are in high school, but, in my opinion, it is very important to show to the people just how much you care about something. These young students of mine don’t have it easy. They should not sit and wait for life to come knocking on their door. They need to animate it and attract it to their acting fold. An actor stands alone, and all he has is passion and desire to do something. Essentially, it all boils down to one word – fight. And not hiding their dreams providing that they go after those dreams. ■ Be that as it may, life here is not

than in the past?

- I’ve never thought about that. I will always find a source of income, and I will always do something from which I can live. What I don’t want to do is something that I don’t want to and that disgusts me. I will never be a sell-out. There is no money for me in the play that I am currently working on at the BITEF Theatre, and I love that. I would have liked to be given a fee as any person, but I know that there won’t be any fee. However, that will not stop me from working. I am going to earn money somewhere else. I have my creative ideas, my imagination and my talent. I give them to the people to the extent that they appreciate and want them. However, these things are not so popular today. I don’t expect much from the state or the society either. Humankind has simply lost hope. In the early 1990s, I thought that my anti-war activism would stop the war. Following the 2000 political upheaval, I expected that dawn would break and that there wouldn’t be darkness any longer. It seems that those expectations of mine were naive and very human. I have shifted the focus of my interest to myself, and I am no longer interested on bettering myself in order to live the last third of my life better. ■ What other historical period would you compare to the present day?

- I think it would be the latter half Life is never fair, whether of the 1990s or late 1990s. I feel - Life is never fair, whether yesteryesterday, the day before pretty hopeless, as if nothing will day, the day before yesterday or yesterday or tomorrow. Growing change. Only yesterday, I lived in tomorrow. Growing up is not easy. false hope. Now, I live in reality Objective problems are somehow up is not easy. Objective easier to overcome than the subproblems are somehow easier where changes don’t happen overjective ones which are the toughest night, where we need to prepare for a person to resolve. That means to overcome than the subjective ourselves seriously and carefully taking responsibility, a moment ones which are the toughest for monitor what is happening in the when you have to make a decision world, where we are at the moa person to resolve for yourself. As long as our parents ment and where we can be. In that decide for us, we are fostering the illusion that one day we are respect, nothing serious is happening here. We don’t have a vigoing to show it them. When that moment comes, we shy away sion of the future or know what our next step should be. Not from responsibility. It is easy to rebel against authority, but only is the government short-sighted, but the nation is too. Towhen you need to become authority, that is a big step to make. day we are alive but nobody knows what will happen tomorWe often think that the best thing to do is to stay mummy and row. We shall see. We are actually not thinking about what we daddy’s child. are doing now, to what purpose and for what reason. Most of Sometimes I feel sorry for those kids since I can see just how us live unhealthy lives, we smoke as if there is no tomorrow, big their expectations are in the beginning, and how they soon bewe eat bad food and we are always chasing something without knowing what it really is. come discouraged. They are willing to invest a lot of effort, but they also want to see some results as a validation for their righteousness. If results do not come, and often they do not, they give up. ■ How do you stay away from that? - I get out of the way. I seek peace in what I do and I try to live through these times while remaining spiritually and physically ■ You have always said that you wanted to stay true to yourself healthy, so, if better days do come, I can enjoy them a little bit. ■ and that you paid the price for it. Is this exacerbated today more very fair to young people.

34 |

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

may 2013 business leader’s meeting point

Page 40

Vujadin Šćekić

Director of Jugo-Impex Niš Company

Making New out of Old Page 44

Executive Group: Annual Survey of Trends in the

Professional Use of Social Media in Serbia

Communicating with Social Media

Page 45

Petar Miljković Director of Zorka Keramika

Life in Soft Colours Page 48

International School of Belgrade

Developing Inquiring Minds cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 35

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local news

Business Dialogue 01

Mercedes-Benz

Solution “I expect that we will agree and find a solution with the Serbs from northern Kosovo and present a united front as we always did.” — Aleksandar Vučić, Serbia’s First Deputy Prime Minister

The Style Rebel The CLA is set to establish a new segment, with worldleading aerodynamics, avantgarde coupé design. As a new four-door coupé it follows the idea of the CLS, whose design concept has spawned more than its fair share of imitators since its debut in 2003

Tourism

MK Group Interested in Brezovica Ski Resort Five companies so far have shown interest in the renovation of the tourist ski resort in Kosovo, including Serbian MK Group 38 |

Telenor Serbia is Entering Mobile Financial Sector

Telenor Serbia has reached an agreement with KBC on the acquisition of KBC Banka. Under the agreement, Telenor will purchase 100% of shares in KBC Banka, while Societe Generale banka will acquire KBC Banka’s portfolio of 81.000 Individual, Small Business and SME customers

In keeping with its sporty positioning, the CLA is available with high-torque turbo engines rated at up to 155 kW (211 hp), sports suspension and 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The technical highlights of this new design icon include a new world record in aerodynamics for series production automobiles (Cd value: 0.22) and numerous driving assistance systems, including the further-developed COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST. Five lines and packages which vary greatly in character are available to individualize the striking compact mid-range coupé. In keeping with the digital lifestyle of the CLA’s social media-savvy target group, smartphones can additionally be fully integrated into the vehicle’s display and operating system. The exterior’s progressive, sporty appearance is continued inside the vehicle. The interior additionally derives a very special quality feel from the design idiom, the selection of highquality materials and the available combinations of materials. The CLA is fitted with integral seats in the front and rear, underscoring its sporty character. The rear bench seat emphasises the outer seats (2+1 seater). Ahead of the scheduled introduction of the Euro 6 regulation, all petrol-engine variants and the top diesel variant of the new Mercedes-Benz CLA already meet the future requirements of this European exhaust emissions standard. The petrol engines with a displacement of 1.6 and 2.0 litres cover an output spectrum ranging from 90 kW (122 hp) in the CLA 180 through 115 kW (156 hp) in the CLA 200 to 155 kW (211 hp) in the CLA 250. The two diesel engines combine dynamic low-end torque with the utmost efficiency: the CLA 200 CDI generates 100 kW (136 hp), with a maximum torque of 300 Nm The CLA 220 CDI has a displacement of 2.2 litres and delivers 125 kW (170 hp) and 350 Nm of torque, while emitting only 109 g of CO2 per kilometre.

finance

Purchasing KBC Banka is a crucial step in introducing advanced mobile financial services to customers in Serbia. This agreement also met the KBC Group decision with the European commision from 2009 to exit the Serbian market. “Among three potential strategic options, we decided to acquire a bank, as this is a solution that best fits our strategy and enables the fastest go-to market approach. We strongly believe that mobile financial services will bring new attractive banking solutions to citizens of Serbia and we want to take an active role in this process. Once we open the new Telenor bank, we will of-

Guy Libot (left) President, Executive Board, KBC Bank and Ove Fredheim, CEO of Telenor Serbia

fer innovative mobile banking services, hassle free, available anytime and from anywhere and with European quality standards,” stated Ove Fredheim, CEO of Telenor Serbia. In the transaction period, KBC will ensure the necessary staff levels are maintained to provide service and support to KBC Banka’s customers during the transition process. Once the transaction is closed and Telenor Serbia becomes the new owner of KBC Banka, Telenor will create new ways of doing business that will support its strategic ambitions in mobile financial services.

Investment

New Delhaize Distribution Center

The cornerstone of the new distribution center of Delhaize in Stara Pazova was officially set by President and CEO of Delhaize Group, Pierre-Olivier Beckers and CEO of Delhaize Serbia David Vander Schueren, in the presence of Rasim Ljajic, Minister of Foreign and Minister Rasim Ljajic (left) and Domestic Trade and Telecommunications and Pierre-Olivier Beckers, President and CEO of Delhaize Group, Djordje Radinović, Mayor of Stara Pazova The first phase of the distribution center of 70,000 sq/m will be completed by late 2014 and an extension of 50,000 sq/m will be started in coming years. The distribution center is linked with three key roads, and it will have 100 loading and unloading places from which 250 freight trucks will be able to distribute 6,500 pallets per day, which is enough to supply 450 stores. The use of modern construction materials will enable greater energy efficiency of buildings, making a 15 percent smaller carbon footprint. The investment is worth €50 million.

As reported on the website of the Pristina daily “Express”, the Commission for the Implementation of the project at the Brezovica tourist center received offers of investment from the Austrian-American company ATC Konsultants, MK Group, Bulgaria’s Rila Ski Resort, Greek Sivitel Hotels and Resorts, as well as Spanish PGI-French Corporations Management and MDP and Consulting. The Commission will decide on the received offers after taking into account all the criteria. Once chosen, the company will be required to submit detailed and specific projects for the expansion of the Brezovici tourist center. The Kosovo government announced a competition in the international media in January, inviting foreign companies to express their interest to participate in the expansion of the Brezovica tourist center.

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

Placements & Postings

Support

“Any political agreement constitutes a foundation for future peace and this is why I personally support the agreement.” — Boris Tadić, honorary president of the Democratic Party

appointments@cma.rs

www.cordmagazine.com/corporate/appointments.html

investments

Agreement on New NCR Investment

Minister of Finance and Economy Mladjan Dinkic signed an agreement on a €2.6 million worth investment and creation of 300 jobs with Vice President of National Cash Registers (NCR) Michael O'Laughlin

Željko Sertić new President of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce

Mladjan Dinkic, Serbian Minister of Finance and Economy (left) and Michael O'Laughlin, Vice

President of NCR

NCR opened its center in Belgrade last year which currently hires 300 people, and the company has decided to make additional investment and employ another 300 workers. NCR is a U.S. global technology company dealing with the production and distribution of automatic teller machines (cash machines). Dinkic pointed out that the development of the IT industry is one of the priorities in the national plan for reindustrialization of Serbia and called on young people to focus on technical sciences, adding that this is a recipe to get a job in Serbia in these difficult times. O’Laughlin said that NCR’s new investment shows that the company has strong confidence in the Serbian workforce and the system of the government’s support for investments. He also voiced belief that NCR will continue to make investments as Serbia makes progress on the path of economic development.

Ronald Seeliger

new President of the Board of Directors of DSW

The Serbian Chamber of Commerce (PKS) Assembly has appointed Novi Sad businessman Željko Sertić as its new president. Sertić is a manager by vocation, the proprietor of the Novi Sad-based company Konrad, a member of the Serbian Progressive Party and the head of the party’s economic office. He worked for many years in the private sector as the proprietor of Gotra Company from Novi Sad and Gotrex Company from Vienna. He was also Managing Director of Magma DOO and Executive Director of Foreks DOO from Belgrade. The German-Serbian Business Association (DSW) Board of Directors has appointed Dr. Ronald Seeliger as the new DSW President. Dr Seeliger is also the Chairman of DSW’s Board of Directors and Managing Director of Hemofarm. Ronald Seeliger (46) graduated from the Berlin Institute of Technology where he obtained his PhD. Dr. Seeliger also completed the London School of Economics (LSE). He gained his corporate experience by working in top management positions in many major industrial companies in Europe, Australia and Asia. He also worked for Bernie Eccleston for three years, as Formula 1 CFO. Seeliger was also Operations Management Director at the biggest German independent interactive service provider Pixelpark AG. Apart from that, he was Financial Director at Land of Ideas FC Deutschland GmbH which is a joint project of German government and the country’s business sector implemented under the patronage of the office of the German president. He has been a corporate executive at STADA Group since 2011, while, in 2012, he was appointed Managing Director and Chairman of the Board of Hemofarm. He speaks German, English.

Telecomunication

Russia, USA and UAE interested in Telekom Serbia

Serbia Government might soon announce international tender for the sale of the total package of the Telecom Serbia Until so far a companies from Russia and USA have shown interest to participate in the tender. It is possible that a state telecommunication company from Abu Dhabi also purchase the tender documentation. Talks about possible sale of the Telekom Serbia started mid April with the AFK (Shareholding Financial Corporation) from Moscow and one powerful company from the USA. The Russian AFK is among ten strongest companies in view of the total income and is occupying the 315th position in the Global 500 list. The company from the USA is also very powerful but its representatives are insisting that no details are given at the moment. There are great chances that the Etilalat from Abu Dhabi also compete for the Telekom Serbia, but as said at the Government, no official talks have been started with that company yet. Source: Blic

Christoph Till new Managing Director of Henkel Serbia and director of Laundry & Home Care Business Sector

Chris Woods new General Manager of JTI West Balkans

On April 1, Christoph Till (40) was appointed new Managing Director of Henkel Serbia and Director of Laundry & Home Care Business Sector. Apart from Serbia, he will manage the company’s business in Montenegro, Macedonia and Albania. Mr. Till was Director of Henkel’s Laundry & Home Care Business Sector for the Adriatic region (Croatia, Slovenia and Bosnia and Herzegovina). During his long career in Henkel, he was engaged in national and international marketing activities and sales in Austria, Germany, Turkey and the Adriatic region in the capacity of the key account director and strategic business manager. He graduated economics and business administration. Christoph Till succeeds Georg Grassl as managing director who has been appointed the head of the Laundry & Home Care division in Austria. Chris Woods joined JTI in April, 2000, as the head of Internal Audit at the company’s branch in the Netherlands. Two years later, he transferred to JTI’s headquarters in Geneva as corporate controller. In April 2006, Mr. Woods was appointed JTI’s Vice President of Finance for CIS, Romania, Bulgaria and West Balkans. He is now the new general manager of Japan Tobacco International for West Balkans. Mr. Woods graduated in chemical physics from Sheffield University and is a member of Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ACA). cordeditorial@cma.rs |

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interview

Making New out of Old Through regular campaigns involving NGOs, schools and other socially responsible companies, E-Reciklaža raises awareness in the local community and society as a whole about the importance of this problem Vujadin Šćekić, Director of Jugo-Impex Niš Company ■ Jugo-Impex E.E.R. ltd is the only company in Serbia that recycles refrigerators and cooling devices. How important is for the environment to recycle these products? - E-Reciklaža conforms to the ISO 9001 ■ Jugo-Impex E.E.R. has several and ISO 14001 standards, while our new daughter companies. Could you tell us facility is CE certified. Although our counsomething about them? try is still not implementing European leg- Our daughter companies are engaged islation that regulates this area, we have in collecting electronic and electrical been adhering to the relevant EU direcwaste. A total of 8 E-Reciklaža compatives. We are the first company in Serbia nies have been set up all over Serbia to recycle refrigerators, and we are not exthrough a project called Prisma which iš-based Jugo-Impex d.o.o. tracting Freon only from the refrigerator has been implemented in collaboration was founded 23 years ago, installations, but also from polyurethane with the Serbian Defence Ministry. Ten and has been in the business foam which is used as insulation. Our plant former military officers have been reof recycling of non-ferrous is based on an innovative German techtrained and given a job in the recycling metals for a long time. Its daughter comnology ensuring safe extraction of hazbusiness thanks to this project. pany Jugo-Impex E.E.R. has opened a new ardous substances from cooling appliancfacility, E-Reciklaža, which recycles eleces. It makes it possible to separate CFC ■ Apart from recycling, you also protronic and electrical waste. Equipment (Freon gas) from polyurethane foam and duce secondary raw-materials. What wise, this is one of the most modern fafiltrate the latter completely to get a fuel kind of products are these? cilities of this kind in Europe. Apart from of high calorific value, while the CFC (the - They are recyclates – iron, aluminiusing the latest technology in waste manFreon gas), extracted in this technologium, copper, brass, stainless steel and agement, Jugo-Impex also manufactures cal process, is stored in designated conplastic. Our recyclates are high quality products out of secondary raw-materitainers and destroyed in licensed facilities chemical compounds with a high degree als which, in turn, curbs the use of natural in Germany instead of being released raw-materials. Although our country is still not into the atmosphere. Freon irreversiimplementing European legislation bly destroys the ozone layer, while in■ Jugo-Impex E.E.R. ltd is in the creasing ozone depletion and causing business of recycling non-ferrous that regulates this area, we have been metals and EE waste. How do you adhering to the relevant EU directives climate change. Ammonia and carcinogenic oil from electrical engines operate in a situation where you devastate the land and water. of purity (98%) so they can be immediare the only company of this kind in The importance of our recycling for ately used as raw-materials instead of the entire former Yugoslavia? the environment is best validated by the new materials. - Jugo-Impex d.o.o. has been in the recyfact that we are the recipients of the Best The raw-materials that we produce in cling business for over 20 years. What moSocial Utility Award given by the E-Kapija this way have two basic added values: they tivated us to open a recycling facility was, business portal. are not excavated from a mine or extractbasically, social responsibility and the fact ed from a crude oil source, which saves that no such facility existed in the entire ■ In what ways do you collect electronboth the money and the time needed for former Yugoslavia. Recycling EE waste is ic waste and what are the benefits of production of these materials, and, on top something new for our economy and we recycling? of that, we prevent hazardous and carcinoare certainly proud of the fact that, in on- There are several ways of collecting elecgenic materials from EE waste from ending ly three years since the facility was set up, tronic waste. One of the collection chanup in water, food and air. we have become the leaders in this business. Only last year, Jugo-Impex E.E.R. collected over 6,000 tonnes and recycled more than 5,000 tonnes of hazardous electrical waste.

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104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

nels is small family companies which are licensed collectors. Other way to collect is replacing old with new. We have been cooperating with many home appliance retailers. Customers can bring their old electronic and electrical devices and exchange them for shopping vouchers used in purchasing new appliances. Because of its popularity, one of such campaigns has been extended to last until April 30. Customers who bring their old laptops or TV sets, regardless of their customers, will be given discounts when purchasing new Toshiba TV sets and laptops. The following retailers are involved in the campaign: Tehnomanija, ComTrade, Win-Win, Gigatron and Laptop Centre.

hazardous waste are intact after separation. The size of the final product depends on the preset speed. ■ Jugo-Impex is a member of the Hrabri Čistač Association of Industrial and Hazardous Waste Operators. What are the Association’s mission and activities?

tion and treatment companies work in, to submit proposals for setting up nationwide facilities for a contemporary and adequate treatment of all sorts of waste which is collected in Serbia and the region, and to advocate more efficient communication between interested companies which would result in higher competitiveness, and reducing unfair competition and the gray market. ■ Do you think that people have been becoming more aware of the importance and benefits of recycling in the last few years? - Through regular campaigns involving NGOs, schools and other socially responsible companies, E-Reciklaža raises awareness in local community and society on the whole about the importance of this problem. By constantly expanding our knowledge, and educating the workforce and the public, we are contributing to a better understanding and are encouraging useful ideas, innovation, campaigns and any sort of activities of interest. The importance of recycling industry keeps on growing day-on-day. Still, Serbia recycles only 200 gr of waste per capita which is far below the EU (40%) and the Japanese average (90%). The quantity of electrical and electronic waste grows by 5% each year, while close to 4% of all municipal waste is actually ewaste which is both a global and national problem. So, there is plenty of room for the recycling sector to grow.

■ Could you describe for us the process of recycling electronic and electrical waste and what happens to hazardous waste which is the by-prodSerbia recycles only 200 gr of waste per uct of the process? capita which is far below the EU (40%) - The recycling process starts with and the Japanese average (90%) forklifts loading electronic and electrical waste into a transport bunker. The waste is transported to a QZ machine where the excess dust is aspirated from the waste. An overband magnet picks the ferrous component out of the mixture. The remaining material is virtually dry and can be divided into an iron (Fe) and non-Fe (NFE) line by a magnetic separator. An eddy current separator then separates the waste into plastics and non-metals. The principle used here is based on the vertical or horizontal motion of kinetic energy which causes - This is a non-governmental and non-profdisintegration within 30 seconds. Two ro■ Do you think that you will be dealit association which was founded with the tors, with a specific number of movable ing with competition soon and is there sole purpose of fulfilling environmental hammers attached to the outside, turn in enough room on the market for more goals. The Association’s mission is to repa metal housing. Upon entering the range such companies? resent common interests of its members, of the rotors, the material to be crushed is - Competition is present in all economy to cooperate with legislative authorities in hit by the rotating hammers. Metal combranches, including ours. However, we are regional countries on improving existing ponents of the input material cut softer proud of the fact that our market share laws and their harmonization with the spematerials like plastic and wood, while the was 50% in the Q4 of 2012. ■ cial conditions that hazardous waste colleccomponents that fall into the category of INFO: www.jugo-impex.com • www.ereciklaza.com cordeditorial@cma.rs |

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regional news

Business Dialogue 01

Republika Srpska

Result “If I have lost even for a single vote, there is no one on the planet Earth who could convince me not to accept the result and thus respect the will of the majority of citizens.” — Filip Vujanović, President of Montenegro

First Oil Well

Albania Firms Support for TAP Project

Drilling for the first oil well in the Republika Srpska should begin in late May in the village Obudovac Željko Kovačević “At the end of the third quarMinister of Industry, Energy and Mining ter will begin the process of drilling other wells in the territory of Bijeljina,” said Željko Kovačević, Minister of Industry, Energy and Mining. Kovačević confirmed that previous seismic studies done by Jadran Naftagas are very encouraging. Based on these results, two potential zones have been defined for commercial oil and gas deposits in the region of Posavina and Semberije. According to Jadran Naftagas, drilling for the first well can be expected at the end of May in the village of Obudovac and by the end of the third quarter the process of drilling other wells in the territory of Bijeljina will begin,” said Kovacevic. The exploration and exploitation of oil and gas project estimates the need of a €345 million investment and the creation of about 500 new jobs in the process of exploitation, according to Kovacevic. The director of Jadran Naftagas, Predrag Radanović, said earlier that preliminary results show the total reserves of around ten million tons of oil on territory of Republika Srpska.

Macedonia

Azerbaijan, Macedonia Sign Two Agreements

Premier of Azerbaijan Artur Rasizade met the visiting Premier of Macedonia Nikola Nikola Gruevski, Gruevski Premier of Macedonia Azerbaijani Premier noted the high level of political relations between the two countries, also stressing that the economic relations are not adequate to the potential of the countries. At his words, the current visit of the Macedonian Premier will give an impetus to boost the bilateral relations even more. Prime Minister of Macedonia updated economic achievements of his country, underlining significance of reciprocal investments. He also suggested elimination of the visa regime to boost development of tourism and trade. The heads of governments have signed two agreements on elimination of double taxation for income and property, and tax avoidance, and mutual promotion and protection of investments.

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Albania

The Albanian Parliament ratified the host government agreement between the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) project consortium and the central government The agreement sets laws that will govern the project in the country, including land easements and environmental standards. The Albanian government has been checking measures last month to implement the project through its territory. TAP would stretch 210 kilometers overland and includes a 60-kilometres offshore section. “We are impressed by the quick progress with the ratification of the HGA,” TAP Managing Director Kjetil Tungland said in a

Croatia

Business Climate Croatian Prime Minister Zoran Milanović was asked by the press to comment on the proposal that was formally put forward by seven foreign Zoran Milanović Croatian Prime Minister chambers of commerce active in Croatia on how to improve the business climate in the country

Milanović said that he would have commented had the criticism come from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), but that he did not know at all “who those people were.” He stressed that his government was trying to improve the business and investment climate in the country and was successfully removing barriers to investment. Seven foreign chambers of commerce active in Croatia unveiled end of April their initiative to improve the business climate in Croatia, proposing five steps: to shorten deadlines for permit decisions, reduce parafiscal fees, ensure public procurement auctions online, introduce legally binding tax opinions and improve regulation. The seven organisations are: the American Chamber of Commerce, the Austrian Trade Commission, the British Croatian Chamber of Commerce, the Canadian-Croatian Business Network, the Consultative Committee of Italian Entrepreneurship, the German-Croatian Chamber of Industry and Commerce, and the Nordic Chamber of Commerce in Croatia. Zrinka Bozić of the German-Croatian Chamber of Industry and Commerce told a news conference in Zagreb that the five-point initiative was based on recommendations from 1,500 companies covered by the seven foreign chambers that represented 50% of total foreign investments in Croatia to date.

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

Kjetil Tungland, TAP Managing Director

statement. “TAP greatly appreciates the outstanding support Albania has given to our pipeline project, now again confirmed by the Albanian Parliament.” TAP is included as part of the Southern Corridor, a planned network of natural gas pipelines meant to break the Russian grip on the energy sector. It would rely on natural gas from Azerbaijan. The BP-led group controlling natural gas from the Shah Deniz II project offshore Azerbaijan is expected by June to pick between TAP and the larger Nabucco West pipeline for European delivery.

Hungary

Strategic Cooperation with Huawei Technologies Hungary's government signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Chinese ICT company Huawei Technologies in Beijing The agreement was signed by government commissioner for harmonising HungarianChinese bilateral ties Péter Szijjártó and Huawei Technologies vice president Philip Jiang. Szijjártó told MTI by telephone that Huawei would strive in the coming years to expand its production activity in Hungary and form business partnerships with more domestic suppliers. Hungary’s government has expressed its intention to support the implementation of the company’s EU business goals, he added. Since last summer, the government has signed strategic partnership agreements with the local units of Coca-Cola, Alcoa, Daimler, Suzuki, Hankook, General Electric, Microsoft, Stadler Rail, Tesco, IBM, Tata Consultancy Services, Nokia Siemens, National Instruments, Audi, Jabil Circuit, Continental, Dalkia and Lego, as well as with Hungarian drugmaker Gedeon Richter. It expects to sign about 40 such agreements.

Agreement

“The agreement with offers rights and competences for Serbs living in Kosovo confirms that Kosovo is a multi-ethnic, democratic and secular state.” — Enver Hoxhaj, Kosovo’s foreign minister

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Recruitment of BiH Citizens in Slovenia An agreement on employment of BiH citizens in Slovenia was signed between these two countries and entered into force on 1 March of this year This agreement regulates the terms and procedures of employment and seasonal employment of BiH citizens in Slovenia and sets the general principles of regulation of relations between the two countries in this area. Pursuant to this agreement, the operating protocol that governs the treatment to respect to employment of migrant workers, electronic data exchange between the competent authorities, data protection and deadlines for the implementation of the recruitment process. As one of the cornerstones of these activities the Federal Employment Office has so far received from the Agency for Labor and Employment of BiH 11 ads that Slovenian employers expressed the need for around 40 workers of various profiles from BiH.

Romania

Interex Leaves Romanian Market Romanian businessman Sorin Bonciu, has bought the French supermarket chain Interex in Romania

“Bomax Group” took over the supermarket chain Interex, owned by the French retailer with a turnover of €40 million. The intention is to rent or sell them to a food or a DoIt-Yourself retailer,” said Laura Hantari, Bomax Group representative, quoted by local newspaper Ziarul Financiar. With a turnover of just under €40 million on the local market in 2011, the French supermarket chain Interex has decided to close down its 10 stores in Romania and exit the local market last year. Interex’ losses in Romania have been widening year-on-year, reaching the value of €16 million in 2011. The first Interex store in Romania was opened in 2002, in Ploiesti. The network is owned by French Groupement des Mousquetaires, which runs the Intermarche, Brico Marche and Netto stores.

Balkan

Banks Remain Unprofitable The Hungarian, Slovenian and Romanian banking industries will remain unprofitable this year as owners cut spending to boost capital during the euro area's financial crisis, according to Moody's Investors Service

Lenders in Hungary and Romania are hurt by their reliance on funding from parent companies in western Europe, said Simone Zampa, a senior analyst for Moody’s, but Czech, Slovak and Polish banks fund themselves mainly with deposits and will keep reporting profits, he said. The biggest lenders in the European Union’s east, including UniCredit, Raiffeisen Bank International and Erste Group Bank, are cutting costs to offset charges on non-performing loans in the region and meet capital requirements. Romania’s banking industry has published losses for the past three years, while rising bad loans in Slovenia have prompted speculation the euro-area member state will need an international bailout. “The general operating environment for banks in central and eastern Europe is likely to remain challenging and will continue to be exposed to external risks mainly related to the euro area,” Zampa said. “We expect the banking industries in Hungary, Slovenia and Romania to continue to report losses.” Hungarians borrowed predominantly in Swiss francs to take advantage of lower interest rates until the forint’s weakening following the 2008 collapse of Lehman Brothers sent repayments soaring and boosted the ratio of unpaid debt. Hungarian prime minister, Viktor Orban’s, government imposed special taxes on banks to help cut the budget deficit and said it seeks to lift local bank-industry ownership to at least 50 per cent. Budapest-based OTP Bank, Hungary’s biggest lender, competes with banks including local units of Erste, Raiffeisen, Belgium’s KBC Groep and UniCredit. Italy-based Intesa Sanpaolo may curb its presence in Hungary, Chief Executive Officer Enrico Tommaso Cucchiani said in March, calling the country a “nightmare.” In Slovenia, bad debt stemming mostly from the construction industry’s collapse keeps rising after reaching 19 per cent of gross domestic product in October 2012, the Paris-based Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development said in an 9 April report. State-owned Nova Ljubljanska Banka, Nova Kreditna Banka Maribor and Abanka Vipa, the three largest banks, have been hit the most as the share of non-performing loans to companies rose to 30 percent, the OECD said.

Bulgaria

Russian VTB Bank Buys Stake from Corpbank

VTB Capital, the investment business of VTB group, the second largest Russian bank, has acquired 9.9% of the capital of the Bulgarian lender Corporate Commercial Bank from Dewa International Limited. The sides have sealed contracts for put and call options for the shares acquired by VTB Capital, to be applied no later than three years after the deal. Corporate Commercial Bank, CCB, is the fifth largest bank in Bulgaria, listed on the Bulgarian Stock Exchange. Corpbank manages 48% of the monies parked by state-controlled enterprises and 95% of the deposits of the energy holding, which adds up to more than BGN 76 M. VTB Capital opened offices in Bulgaria in March 2012. cordeditorial@cma.rs |

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Business Dialogue Digital

Crisis “The global crisis is taking an even more dangerous shape, which inevitably affects Russia as well.” — Vladimir Putin, Russian President

Annual Survey of Trends in the Professional Use of Social Media in Serbia

control of the brand message, the possible risk for reputation or potential negative comments by members of the online community were the main reasons for not using them. The survey showed that the use of social media by companies in Serbia is a new phenomenon, and that a very small number of companies have used them for the period over five years. Almost half of the surveyed companies have used social networks from one to three years, while 24.4% of those polled said that their companies have been present on social networks between three and five years. According to Digital Safari respondents, Facebook is currently the most important and the most used social network. In the next two years, 92% of the participants of the research plan to increase their use of social media in their own business. At the same time, respondents expect a significant increase in the use of YouTube and Twitter, while Facebook will maintain its leadership position.

Communicating with Social Media Integrated communications agency Executive Group conducted the Digital Safari survey, an annual survey on the use of social media in companies in Serbia. The results showed that more than 90% of companies use online tools and social networks in communication, while 88% communications experts believe that social media are important for the work they do, and that Facebook is currently the most significant social network

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ore than 100 company representatives took part in the survey, mostly professionals in the field of communications, in order to establish trends and tendencies in the use of social media. Among the surveyed experts, more than 90% indicate that their companies use online tools and social media, while those who do not use them said that fear of losing

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

Facebook is currently the most important and the most used social network. In the next two years, 92% of the participants of the research plan to increase their use of social media in their own business Social networks in Serbia are mainly used for the placement of news and information, while, in the area of communication, social networks are mostly used for brand promotion and online public relations. On the other hand, unlike developed countries in Europe and United States, social networks in Serbia are used to a lesser extent for CRM (Customer Relationship Management) and employment and thus there are significant opportunities for growth in these areas. Also, Digital Safari survey provides information that the application of social media for internal communication remains highly undervalued in Serbia. Digital Safari respondents say that the use of social media in Serbia has a positive effect on certain elements of business operations, mainly through increased brand visibility and awareness, improved customer relationships and building brand loyalty among consumers, while as many as half of them believe that social networks have a positive effect on increasing sales. An interesting fact is that the majority of respondents, about 71% believe that the use of social media in Serbia will not have a significant impact on traditional media, while 23% of respondents believe that online tools will lead to abandoning traditional media, even to the point of certain media becoming extinct. ■

Argument

Interview

I love argument. I love debate. I don’t expect anyone just to sit there and agree with me - that’s not their job. — Margaret Thatcher, former UK prime minister

Petar Miljković, Director of Zorka Keramika

Life in Soft Colours Zorka Keramika is a real multinational cocktail of domestic and foreign experts whose vast experience and energy are channelled into achieving top quality and efficiency

he leading ceramic tile manufacturer in Serbia, Zorka Keramika has recently presented its new collection in a rather unusual way. Instead of holding a presentation in the chaotic setting of a fair, its new products were showcased at a private product presentation at the Hotel Hyatt in Belgrade. Its six latest collections of floor and wall tiles, and several enhanced and extended tile ranges, were exclusively presented to resemble an art gallery exhibition.

ties. It is also very important for the sales strategy to be properly devised. Personally, I am exceptionally proud of our sales team which, in a situation when the entire construction industry is in a crisis, has been finding ways of not only keeping our existing customers but constantly finding new partners. There is no universal formula for success, but I think that success is a result of the teamwork and support provided by our parent company Asamer and our managing director, Mr. Markus Bogdanovic.

■ What are the main features of the latest Zorka Keramika ■ You have based the development and production of tiles collections? on constantly following technological innovations and cooperating with consultancies which specialize in this area. - In terms of new collections, our focus was on larger formats What does that cooperation entail? of wall tiles, 20 x 50 cm, while the 45x45 cm format prevails in - A few years ago, Zorka Keramika had a shift in its strategy by the floor tile series. In respect to design, imitations of natural creating a new marketing mix. Our new collections always have materials like stone, concrete and wood, dominate the series. a dose of originality, while close cooperation with the Italian The products exhibited at last year’s ceramics fair in Bologna – and Spanish suppliers allows us to be at the very epicentre of CERSAIE – were virtually colourless, and the emphasis was on their development. Of course, all of this needs to be coupled with the form and simplicity of natural materials. The colours that we new technology, particularly in terms of use are sophisticated and soft, as well Basic tiles are like a good suit, various applications used in production as totally different from the colours of our competitors. There is the Millenwhile listels and borders are like a of ceramic tiles. Listels and borders are nium series with unique design, luxury a special segment and they give tiles a belt, a wrist watch and a tie textures and metallic effect details. On certain character and power. The cooperation with our affiliates is very important for the power and the opposite side of the spectrum is the City collection – a minimalist imitation of concrete in five natural nuances which has the completeness of a series. So, basic tiles are like a good suit, been sold out in advance. while listels and borders are like a belt, a wrist watch and a tie which, all together, complete the look. ■ As a member of Austria-based Asamer Group, Zorka Keramika is a fusion of domestic and international entre■ What markets do you operate and which of those markets preneurial might. How does that translate to your business, were the most beneficial for you? creativity and success? - We don’t divide markets into big and small, and the same applies to our partners and distributors. Half of our products end - Zorka Keramika is a real multinational cocktail of domestic up abroad, and we aim to increase that. You have to know that, and foreign experts whose vast experience and energy are channelled into achieving top quality and efficiency. What sets our in some countries, ceramic tiles are a fashion statement and production of ceramic tiles apart is that we use natural rawwhen you are aiming at such markets you need to satisfy tastes materials, especially clay, in making the mass of which the body that are very different those in Serbia. That’s why it is so difficult of a tile is made. Adaptability is achieved through the creativity to form a sales portfolio which can please all clients. Our success of each employee within the scope of their work responsibililies in carefully listening to them and articulating their needs. ■ cordeditorial@cma.rs |

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world news

Business Dialogue 01

Cyprus “What was wrong with Cyprus’s economy does not stop being wrong if they are outside the euro. The fiscal stabilisation and restructuring of banks would be needed anyway, whether you are in or out.” — Mario Draghi, European Central Bank president

Russia

Digital ad Revenue - $36 bln in 2012

Rosneft Privatization Gets Green Light Russian Economic Development Minister Andrei Belousov announced privatization of 19-percent government stake in Rosneft this year

Otherwise, the fate of the ambitious privatization plan – by which the government hopes to raise 427 billion rubles ($13.5 billion) – might hang in the balance. The government controls Rosneft through the state-owned company Rosneftegaz – a holding that, until recently, owned 75.16 percent of the oil company’s shares.In late March, BP acquired 5.66 percent from Rosneftegaz for $4.8 billion, bringing its stake up to 69.5 percent. Belousov proposes selling another 19 percent. Under the On the Subsoil law, only companies that are more than 50-percent state-owned are allowed to work on the Russian continental shelf. If the Ministry for Economic Development’s idea is approved, the government share in Rosneft will drop to 50.5 percent. Belousov noted that Rosneft was technically ready for privatization and consultants were already working on this, but members of the government staff doubt that Rosneft shares could be sold this year. Even having enlisted the president’s support, the deal would need to be prepared; meanwhile, the markets now are not very good and competition for capital is stiff, they say.

Angola

Industrial Waste Management

Angola wants to extend strategic partnership with China in the field of industrial waste management and recycling in the Environment field, said the Angolan Secretary of State for Environment, Syanga Abilio Syanga Abilio Angolan Secretary of State for Environment According to the Angolan official, China has developed programmes that will ensure the sustainability of growth, and this experience can be shared with Angola. Syanga Abilio was speaking at the end of a meeting to promote the “Angola Environment” event that will run in its third edition, in Luanda from 31 May to 2 June 2013, under the theme “Promotion of Environmental Technologies in Waste Management”. “Currently, Angola is undergoing growth and development stage and there is need to introduce better environmental practices” - Syanga Abilio said. Angola and China established diplomatic relations in 1983. Thirty years later, Angola is the second largest oil supplier to China, after Saudi Arabia.

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U.S.

Digital advertising revenue in the United States increased 15 percent to $36.6 billion hitting a record, according to the organization that tracks digital spending

Advertisers turned mostly to search ads, the format that dominated almost half of total spending representing 46.3 percent at $16.9 billion. The latest report released mid last month was from the Interactive Advertising Bureau, which members include more than 500 media and technology companies responsible for 86 percent of online advertising in the U.S., and consulting firm PwC US.

Mobile advertising - a form of revenue many companies from Facebook to Yahoo to Google are trying to increase as more people use smartphones and tablets - represented 9.2 percent of the total U.S. digital ad revenue at $3.4 billion. Display advertising, including video, rose 33 percent to $12 billion and represented almost 33 percent of total revenue. Source: Reuters

Burberry Beats Forecasts Store sales rise 8% as luxury brand focuses on fastest growing markets with opening of 25 new stores and 10 new concessions in China and Hong Kong

Strong demand for handbags and high fashion in China and Hong Kong helped Burberry to deliver better than expected sales in the first three months of this year. The brand famous for its raincoats, said wholesale sales in Europe had slumped as its stores experienced a drop in visitor numbers amid the ongoing economic crisis. But underlying sales in its stores rose 8% in the three months to the end of March, with double-digit increases in China and Hong Kong.

Global

Ratings agencies Fitch and Moody’s have both cut their outlook for the country’s debt rating from positive to stable in the last few weeks.Analysts said Burberry was outperforming rivals such as Louis Vuitton in Asian markets as it continued to deliver attractive items. The company plans to open 25 new stores and 10 new concessions, mainly in China and Latin America, while closing outlets elsewhere as it focuses on its fastest growing markets.

Keeping Compensation Costs “Under Control” Goldman Sachs (GS) is fighting to keep compensation costs under control. But “under control” is a relative concept

According to its earnings statement released in April, the company set aside $4.34 billion to pay employees in the first three months of 2013. As Bloomberg’s Michael J. Moore reports, that sum amounts to an average of $135,594 per person in salaries, bonuses, and benefits in a firm with 32,000 employees. Multiply that quarterly amount by four and you get better than half a million dollars in annual compensation, per worker. A figure, by the way, that’s dragged down by the secretaries, clerks, and other support staff who make far less.

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

Job “If the European job had been offered to me, I would have taken it. But it wasn’t.” — Tony Blair, former UK prime minister

Algeria

Sonatrach Make New Algeria Oil Finds Algiers - Thailand's PTT Exploration and Production PcL(PTTEP) , China's CNOOC Ltd and Algeria's Sonatrach found oil at three exploration wells in Algeria The new wells mark the completion of a plan to drill nine wells by the three companies at the Hassi Bir Rekaiz project. Sonatrach and its partners “honored the contractual obligations of the first phase of research consisting of drilling nine exploration wells,” Sonatrach said in a statement. First drilling operations started in late 2011.The sixth well was drilled in December 2012. Tests showed a flow rate of 15.3 cubic metre per hour, 3.2 cubic metre per hour and 3.16 cubic metre per hour for the last three wells,the stateowned firm added. Sonatrach holds a 51 percent stake in the project, while PTTEP and CNOOC each own 24.5 percent. The project was awarded by the Algerian government in a license round in December 2008.

France

Liberia

Ibm Mulling up President Suspends to 1,400 Job Cuts 46 Government Officials

Daimler Sells Remaining Stake in EADS German car firm says it will use cash from sale of 7.5% share in Airbus owner to invest in auto business and pay dividend

German carmaker Daimler has sold its remaining stake in EADS, the owner of Airbus, for €2.2bn, ending more than a decade of involvement in the Franco-German industrial conglomerate. Daimler, whose products include Mercedes-Benz cars, has said it will use the proceeds from the sale of 7.5% stake to focus on its auto business and pay out dividends to shareholders. Daimler was one of the prime movers in launching EADS in 2000, as European firms joined forces to create an aerospace gi-

10 Technology company IBM is mulling up to 1,400 job cuts in France over the next two years IBM, a bellwether for the IT industry, is in the midst of a drive to boost profits by 2015 against an uncertain global economic backdrop. Local management has yet to officially outline whether there will be a formal job-cuts plan approved by U.S. headquarters, French union representatives said, but said the numbers had already been communicated. “Management is set to present a plan to cut between 1,200 and 1,400 staff over the next two years,” said Pierry Poquet, secretary general of the UNSA union The CFE-CGC union’s representative, Evelyne Heurtaux, confirmed the figures. “We’ve been told a figure of around 1,300 jobs cut over two years,” she said. IBM currently employs around 8,000 people in France.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Liberian President

Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has, with immediate effect, suspended 46 government officials, including her own son, for failing to declare their assets to the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission,” said a press release. Charles Sirleaf, son of the president and deputy governor of the Central Bank, and David Anderson, chief of protocol at the executive mansion, are among those suspended. The list also includes several deputy ministers and provincial superintendents. When appointed to their respective positions, the officials were given 14 days to declare their assets. “The suspension will remain in force until President Sirleaf receives confirmation from the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission that they have met the assets declaration requirements,” according to the press release.

Germany

ant to rival Boeing in the US. But the German carmaker has seen its core business outpaced by rivals, such as Volkswagen’s Audi and BMW, leading it to reduce its original 30% stake in EADS. “The EADS stake sale secures a stable dividend payment for 2013,” Sascha Gommel, a Frankfurt-based analyst with Commerzbank, told Bloomberg news agency. “It’s better for Daimler to invest the money in the company’s core business or to spend it to the benefit of the shareholders in the form of a dividend payment.

South Korea

Wireless Data Traffic Almost Doubles

South Korea's wireless data traffic almost doubled in January from a year earlier in line with explosive growth in the country's smartphone-using population According to the data compiled by the Ministry of Science, wireless data traffic totaled 58,262 terabytes in January, compared with 29,748 terabytes a year earlier (1 terabyte = 1,024 gigabytes). The data comes amid rapid growth in the number of local smartphone subscribers. South Korea’s smartphone population topped the 30 million mark in August last year. Also, the sharp increase in wireless data traffic was boosted by a surge in the number of smartphone users who opted to connect their smartphones to the faster mobile network, called “long-term evolution” (LTE). The country’s LTE subscriber base topped the 20-million mark in just 20 months after the service was introduced in the country. LTE traffic accounted for 52.1 percent of total wireless traffic in January, a whopping increase from 9.54 percent a year earlier. The corresponding figure for February was even higher, coming in at Source: Yonhap News 56.67 percent, according to the ministry. cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 47

ISB The International School of Belgrade (ISB) is a collaborative learning community that inspires and empowers its members to discover their passions to be global innovators.

corporate

International School of Belgrade

Learning spaces may include: • Pre-reading • Pre-writing • Arts • Construction • Imaginative play • Science • Technology

Developing Inquiring Minds At the core of our philosophy is play; an essential part of a child’s first years in a school environment where inquiry is the foundation for future social and academic success

48 |

mpowering and inspiring students begins with our youngest learners here at the International School of Belgrade (ISB). We follow the Primary Years Programme (PYP), part of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). The PYP describes five early years’ domains: Physical, Social, Emotional, Intellectual and Aesthetic. ISB is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NAESC). CIS is the accrediting agency of the European Council of International School (ECIS). ISB is also authorized by the IBO and by the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Serbia. Young children need extended periods of time and as much indoor and outdoor space as possible in clearly defined areas to explore, investigate, and play with a variety of materials and resources.

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

Children need to learn about themselves, other people, and the world around them. As children interact in and with these spaces, they become active learners through: • making choices and decisions • working collaboratively with others • using materials in flexible or imaginative ways • initiating inquiry and asking questions • sustaining interests and extending their knowledge • developing new understandings Starting in August 2013, ISB will welcome students beginning at age three. The Early Years Program is designed for children between the ages of three and five. ISB refers to these groups of children in the following way: PreK 3, PreK 4, and Kindergarten. Our PreK 3 and PreK 4 class is combined and our Kindergarten is designed for students that will be five years old as of September 1 of each school year. For many children, these years also mark the first transition from home to a group experience. ISB is committed to assuring this adjustment is as successful as possible by encouraging the development of secure and trusting relationships with new adults and students. At the International School of Belgrade, the administrators, teachers, parents, and students work as a coop-

ISB is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NAESC)

erative team to promote maximum individual achievement of each student. At the core of our philosophy is play; an essential part of a child’s first years in a school environment where inquiry is the foundation for future social and academic success. Our program is designed to encourage a balance of child-initiated and teacherfacilitated activities, taking into account the individuality and diversity of each learner. Our program creates learning opportunities and individual inquiries which spark children’s natural curiosities, interests, and enthusiasm.

CONTACT The International School of Belgrade, Temisvarska 19, Belgrade; Web: www.isb.rs; Phone: +381 (0) 11 206 99 99

Students enrolled in our Early Years Program work within four Units of Inquiry as part of the PYP. These units are trans-disciplinary by nature, meaning our single subject teachers work to connect with classroom teachers to deepen learning. The units students learn through are entitled; Who We Are, How We Express Ourselves, How The World Works, and Sharing

The Planet. It is through these trans-disciplinary units that our students grow socially and emotionally, cognitively, and develop language skills.

ours at ISB, provide developmentally appropriate curricula and enable children to develop specific cognitive skills at the appropriate age. A developmentally appropriate curriculum helps children foster cognitive skills through a progressive continuum, meaning the curriculum builds on childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s existing skills and knowledge to help them acquire new skills and deeper understanding.

Children who experience consistency in their early childhood education program demonstrate the ability to interact peacefully with others and use their language skills to resolve conflicts

Social and Emotional Development Having your child attend the same preschool program throughout his or her early years allows him or her to develop relationships with the adults and children in that environment, which provides a sense of security. A child who is comfortable with the people in his or her life is more likely to participate in learning engagements and in advanced cooperative play, such as role playing with others, playing games with rules, and working with others to accomplish goals. Children who experience consistency in their early childhood education program demonstrate the ability to interact peacefully with others and use their language skills to resolve conflicts. For young children, the knowledge that teachers, other children, and daily routines will be consistent over time fosters confidence and competency in a variety of social settings. Cognitive Development Consistency in an Early Years Program can significantly impact a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cognitive development. High-quality Early Year Programs, like

Language Development Language development occurs at a rapid pace in children between the ages of one and five years. Children who are secure in their environment and comfortable with the people around them are more likely to engage in frequent, age-appropriate conversations. These daily interactions lead to more advanced language skills by promoting vocabulary development and conversational skills. Through our activities such as daily group discussions, group inquiries, and read-aloud sessions, children develop the fundamental language skills they will continue to build on throughout their lifetimes. ISB offers an internationally minded, worldclass education designed to develop the innovators of the future. We are excited to share and welcome you to our Early Years Program where inquiring minds are always welcome. â&#x2013;

cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 49

after work atlas group

Atlas Bank is Back to Serbian Market After eight years of absence, Montenegro-based Atlas Bank will return to the Serbian market by acquiring a Serbian bank. “We are still researching. JUBMES Bank is our top choice, but we are also considering six or seven other banks. We are probably going to carry out the acquisition with one of our partners from the United Arab Emirates,” said Dr Duško Knežević at the formal promotion of services rendered by Atlas Group which took place at a restaurant on Dorćol tennis courts. Atlas Group owns three banks – Invest Bank Montenegro, Atlas Bank Montenegro, Atlas Bank Moscow, two

Duško knežević (left) Mrs. jovović and h.e. Mr. igor jovović Ambassador of Montenegro

Duško knežević

President Atlas Group

branch offices (one in Serbia and one in Cyprus) and an investment fund. For now, Atlas Bank has only a representative office in Serbia.

ZORKA KERAMIKA

construction

Reception and Promotion of the New Collection In the pleasant atmosphere of the Foccacia restaurant at the Hotel Hyatt, Zorka Keramika promoted its new 2013 range of ceramic tiles. Just like the leading Italian, Spanish or German trendsetters, the biggest producer of ceramic tiles in Serbia presented its products in a brand new format. The presentation took place in an exclusive ambiance of the prestigious Belgrade Hotel Hyatt. The event was attended by many of Zorka Keramika’s business partners and distributors from over 15 countries. Guests were greeted by the company’s Managing Director Petar Miljković followed by Marketing Manager Predrag. Janković.

50 |

Petar Miljković

Director of Zorka Keramika

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

German, Serbian and French Builders Meet

The first bilateral business meeting between the German-Serbian Business Association (DSW), which has been closely cooperating with the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Serbia, and the French-Serbian Chamber of Commerce (CCFS), entitled “Speed Business Meeting,” took place at the International Building Trade Fair. The meeting was attended by representatives of 24 construction companies with the goal of getting to know each other and initiating cooperation among companies that are chamber members. A cocktail party was held after the official segment which exceeded the organizer’s expectations. The general impression was that this kind of meeting, dedicated to networking between foreign and Serbian business people, should take place in other economy branches more often in order to facilitate the further growth of Serbian economy. The first meeting of this kind was held under the auspices of two companies: CERESIT, a leading manufacturer of materials used in construction and SADE, a member of Veolia Environment Group and a European leader in the construction of water networks.

SPECIAL EDITION

"World's Markets and Opportunities"

ISRAEL 65th anniversary

2013

Despite limited natural resources, intensive development of the agricultural and industrial sectors over the past decades has made Israel largely self-sufficient in food production

Israel is considered one of the most advanced countries in Southwest Asia in economic and industrial development

Israel's Independence Day in 2013 was on Monday, the 15th of April. However, according to the Jewish calendar, a holiday begins on the sunset of the previous day on Sunday, the 14th of April. At sundown Monday, the country abruptly shifts its mood to mark its Independence Day with fireworks, military processions and picnics. The transformation from grief to joy is an annual ritual meant to show the link between the sacrifices and the accomplishments. In 65 years, Israel has surpassed the dreams of its founders, emerging as the global high-tech powerhouse and a prosperous homeland for the Jewish people.

Days of working time in Israel are Sunday through Thursday (for a five-day workweek), or Friday (for a six-day workweek)

The Israeli economy was ranked as the world's most durable economy in the face of crises, and was also ranked first in the rate of research and development center investments

Over 90% of Israeli homes use solar energy for hot water, the highest per capita in the world

Israel is one of the world's technological leaders in water technology

Israel is also ranked 1st in the world in expenditure on Research and Development (R&D) as a percentage of GDP

interview

H.E. Mr. Yossef Levy, Israeli Ambassador to the Republic of Serbia

Believing in Miracles

In Israel we believe in miracles. We turned the arid desert into a blooming field from which we are exporting sweet cherry tomatoes, mangoes, and flowers to every corner on the globe. If it was achieved in Israel, trust me – through implementing Israeli knowledge and experience, Serbia can be a leader in the European agricultural market

ccording to H.E. Mr. Yossef Levy, Israeli Ambassador to the Republic of Serbia, Israel and Serbia are two countries hat face a lot of similar issues and have a similarly large amount of potential to develop together. Speaking to CorD in an exclusive interview, Ambassador Levy cites initiative and entrepreneurship as the two keys to Israel’s economic success. In this way, the ambassador sees those same qualities as being very present in Serbia, in some cases they already being developed, and in still more cases they only await realization. The importance of three segments in particular, real estate, agriculture, and IT, are underlined by the ambassador and his resilient optimism for the future growth of the Serbian economy is uncommonly refreshing.

“economic wonder” has attracted a lot of attention both from the public and the media. Could you please elaborate on your opinion? - The story of the Serbian economy is, in my eyes, a story of a huge unfulfilled potential. As a true admirer of Serbia, I said it before and I will repeat it over and over again. The potential is in all possible fields. Let’s start with high-

I believe with all my heart that Serbia can become a big European hub for sophisticated industries. Whether this dream will be fulfilled or not depends not only on external reasons (an idea that many people are in love with) but primarily on you

• Your statement that Serbia has enough potential to become an World's Markets and Opportunities | iSRAEL

tech. You have amazing engineers and skilled people. Your faculties are producing the best experts in many fields - academic, technological, medical, and others. I believe

with all my heart that Serbia can become a big European hub for sophisticated industries. Whether this dream will be fulfilled or not depends not only on external reasons (an idea that many people are in love with) but primarily on you. Every nation navigates its way on the high waves of time by its own will and force. Regarding agriculture, Serbia can easily turn into the “food basket of Europe”. God blessed you with fertile soil, rivers, a great geopolitical location and a fair climate. All the preconditions are there. But still, in dry years, with little rain, you have bad crops. I am not criticizing anyone but describing a gloomy situation which you all know from your own backyards. There is no reason that crops should be dependent on rain. The old system of agriculture has bankrupted everywhere. “Smart Agriculture” is the name of the game today. Intensive

irrigation, treatment of wastewater, water recycling and modern greenhouses are the alphabet in the new language of agriculture. Israel, as friend of Serbia, can offer you its assistance: knowledge, experience and of course good will. • Israeli investors have already recognized some of these segments like real estate. Which other segments, of those mentioned, could be appealing to the Israeli investors? - Considering the IT sector, Serbia can be, I think, a superpower. Every visitor to Serbia is immediately impressed by the amazing young generation you have - highly skilled and motivated people who should be the locomotive of the Serbian economy. Unemployment among young educated boys and girls is a tragedy for your future. The sad fact that the salaries in Serbia are relatively low could also be, and I apologize for saying that, another attractive element for foreign investors. You mentioned real estate. Although we are a small country, we are one of the biggest investors in Serbia. The overall Israeli investment in real estate is estimated more than €1.3 billion. That figure speaks loudly for itself: Israeli firms foresee a future rise in the value of real estate in your country. Several successful projects have been already realized in Belgrade, and some are still in the pipeline. You all know for sure ‘Airport City,’ which is one of the most modern office compounds in the capital. Soon new big projects will be implemented in Belgrade: a residential area with approximately 700 flats not far from Tašmajdan, another luxurious project near Kalemegdan Park and a commercial centre in Zemun. Investors from my country are not only present in the capital. In Novi Sad, Israeli investors have recently opened the beautiful Big CEE centre which is the largest retail

park in Vojvodina. Another pearl is the Kragujevac Plaza Center which was opened more than a year ago and attracts thousands of visitors daily. The retail park in Pančevo is another example of a smart and successful business initiative.

political changes. Since first day, the fathers of the nation realised that the key for our economic independence is not natural, but human assets. Initiative and entrepreneurship are values that my country encourages.

Alongside the long-term planning, Israelis have their famous ‘chutzpa’ which is in a way similar to the Serbian ‘inat’. ‘Chutzpa’ can be described as the notion of never accepting no for an answer

Therefore the government supports start-ups, forms technological incubators, and provides incentives for foreign hi-tech investors in opening of research and development (R&D) facilities. Israel has the highest percentage of GDP invested in R&D among all OECD member states. Alongside the long-term planning, Israelis have their famous ‘chutzpa’ which is in a way similar to the Serbian ‘inat’. ‘Chutzpa’ can be described as the notion of never accepting no for an answer. Used in a positive way, it calls for creative action which brings about changes, questions the status-quo and praises diversity. The on-going decision, supported by all of Israel’s governments in the last 65 years, is to invest in R&D, technological sectors, science and to focus on our added values, by considering a challenge as an opportunity. ⇢

• Only 65 years ago, Israel was all desert and wetland, but, today, it is the first and foremost country in terms of technological innovation, medical accomplishments and other advancements. Could you tell us something about the timeline of such development? - Israel was born out of a dream. The land itself is not rich with minerals and natural assets. It is small, arid and imbued with spiritual and historical memories which are not always a guarantee for economic success. However, since its birth, Israel defines its national priorities and sets the course of its economic development which has been independent regardless of

iSRAEL | World's Markets and Opportunities

• Israel is on its way to become an energy independent country for the first time ever thanks to gas exploitation in the Mediterranean Sea. How significant is this for your country's economy? - Energy is a top issue for any country, and even more so for Israel due to its specific geopolitical environment. Unfortunately Israel can’t import energy from its neighbours, so we have to be self-sufficient. In this regard, natural gas explorations add to stability of our energy supply and create possibilities for long-term planning in the field of energy. For many years, Israel and Israeli entrepreneurs are leading the world with solar, wind, and other renewable energy technologies, and the combination of these achievements with the new discovery of natural gas is really good news for Israel and its friends in the Mediterranean. • You cooperated with the previous Serbian government on agricultural development. Is the agreement you reached with that government still in place, and what are the plans in this respect? - Israel and the Israeli Embassy in Belgrade cooperate constantly, with every government of Serbia, in order to realise the immense potential that lies in all the mentioned fields. Agriculture in Serbia was identified by us as one of the leading sectors worth exploring, and the embassy has invested a lot of resources throughout the years in order to create favourable conditions for reaching the desired positive outcome. In Israel we believe in miracles. We turned the arid desert into a blooming field from which we are exporting sweet cherry tomatoes, mangoes, and flowers to every corner on the globe. If it was achieved in Israel, trust me – through implementing Israeli knowledge and experience, Serbia can be a leader in the European agricultural market. The agreement is still in place.

agreements. Recently, we launched an initiative to start bilateral negotiations between the two governments on a free trade agreement, which elsewhere proved to be an effective tool for enlarging the trade exchange, commerce and a great catalyst for attracting Israeli investors.

Agriculture in Serbia was identified by us as one of the leading sectors worth exploring, and the embassy has invested a lot of resources throughout the years in order to create favourable conditions for reaching the desired positive outcome We are in constant contacts with Serbian institutional partners, such as the Ministry of Agriculture, looking for ways to upgrade the existing

Israel turned the arid desert into a blooming field

World's Markets and Opportunities | iSRAEL

• Can you share with us an example of an Israeli business success story in Serbia? - Luckily, most of the Israeli investments in Serbia turned out to be success stories. One recent, great example is of the company “Veriest” from the hi-tech field which deals with a very specific, chip verification technology. Namely, the owner of the company, which has offices in Tel Aviv, came and fell in love with Serbia. Impressed with the highly educated engineers, he registered a company in New Belgrade and currently employs 30 Serbian programmers. His idea and wish, if the business climate will allow, is to hire few hundred more of them. That is a classic example of a win-win situation. The technology is Israeli; implementers are Serbian, while the products are being sold around the globe. I know that this is only the tip of the iceberg. Once Israelis will get to know the Serbian hi-tech potentials, we will all be on the fast track to success. ■

interview

Lidija Marusic Rako, Director Teva Serbia

Applying Global Knowledge As a multinational company present in 60 countries, Teva also brings together different cultures and philosophies. In our daily interactions with colleagues from all over the world, we expand our knowledge and skills and do our best to implement them in the Serbian market

harmaceuticals mean big business all over the world. At Teva Serbia, part of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, it also means great responsibility. Leaders in this industry must be very aware of the needs of the market, but also on how their products affect their end-users. Teva has a long tradition of producing a wide variety of therapies and OTC medications and they are very aware of the impact of each and every product which gets their stamp. With a portfolio as large as Teva’s the potential for growth and development in this market is significant. Teva, working primarily in respiratory, oncology, and the women’s health segment, brings all their experience to bear when dealing with this market. Speaking with CorD, Teva Serbia Director Lidija Marusic Rako speaks candidly about the development of the company, the good which it is doing around the world, and how this vast international knowledge is applied here on the Serbian market. • What does it mean for Teva Serbia to be a member of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, the leading global pharmaceutical company? - Being a part of one of the largest global pharmaceutical companies means to have a strong foundation and a unique

Although we are new here, we have already positioned ourselves as a highquality and reliable business partner bringing new energy to the Serbian market

opportunity to distribute safe and efficient medicines from Teva’s extensive portfolio, which comprises of more than 1,000 molecules. With over 111 years of successful operations, 70 billion tablets and capsules manufactured annually at 73 sites and over 46,000 employees, Teva holds a strong position in more than 120 markets worldwide. As a multinational company present in 60 countries, Teva also brings together different cultures and philosophies. In our daily interactions with colleagues from all over the world, we expand our knowledge and skills and do our best to implement them in the Serbian market. The wellbeing of patients and their needs are always our primary concern, and we continuously invest maximum efforts to provide them with the best available therapies and respond to the requirements of the healthcare systems on individual markets. • Which medicinal products and diseases are currently in the focus of Teva’s R&D activities? - Along with a large number of generics covering almost all therapeutic areas, Teva has a rich innovative portfolio, including Copaxone, a multiple-sclerosis therapy available since last year to neurologists and patients in Serbia. In addition to the CNS segment, Teva is also active in respiratory, oncology and women’s health segments, focusing its R&D activities on combination of drugs, developing new routes of administration, and improving the dosing schedules of drugs that can bring many and varied benefits to patients in terms of efficacy, side-effect profile and easier dosing. Our product portfolio also includes OTC products, which are also marketed in Serbia.

• How do you see your cooperation with other healthcare companies? - Each market is specific and therefore Teva’s management and its medical representatives have to familiarize themselves in detail with the healthcare system of the country where they work and with its regulatory and market supply requirements. Before 2011, when Teva opened its subsidiary Teva Serbia, it was present in the Serbian market thanks to its cooperation with a local wholesaler. Although we are new here, we have already positioned ourselves as a high-quality and reliable business partner bringing new energy to the Serbian market. • Teva is deeply committed to corporate social responsibility (“CSR”). Which goals does it pursue? - Teva Serbia follows Teva’s global CRS guidelines, but the responsibility for their implementation lies with the local management who is best acquainted with the communities where Teva operates and may therefore initiate various projects. We cooperate with a number of local non-profit organisations on different projects in order to improve the quality of life, and our charitable donations directly contribute to the quality of healthcare in Serbia. In January 2012 Teva Serbia donated a high frequency oscillatory ventilation device (“artificial lungs”), the first of this type in Serbia, to the Belgrade’s Mother and Child Institute “Dr. V. Čupić”. To further promote its CSR philosophy, improve early diagnosis and help young doctors expand their knowledge and skills, it also donated a state-of-the-art bronchoscope to the Clinical Centre of Serbia in Belgrade only a few days ago. ■

iSRAEL | World's Markets and Opportunities

interview

Yehuda Sarid, Director of Ludan Group

Global Experience Local Approach Trying to plan for the near future, we analyzed the status of the industry at that time in Serbia. We were sure we could align with the market needs in a way that will suit our expectations and for the benefit of our shareholders petences into defined organs forming together the group. By that we allowed independent development still under one umbrella. The main division is the EPCM provider fulfilling TK projects as well as providing services. On this platform, the niche divisions of energy, process control and environmental are complementary, though they offer a variety of solutions of their own. The process control group is dealing with new and upgraded control systems, calling it "modernization". LRE, for example, is active in the renewable energy field. Here we initiate the concern, form

udan offers integrated solutions for industrial development, plant optimization and environmental protection. The group of companies is proud of its ability to provide clients with total and comprehensive solutions to their arrays of development and revamping projects. “Being part of the ‘Process Industry’ we are confronted with a variety of challenges,” says Yehuda Sarid, Director of Ludan Group. “In order to serve our faithful and traditional clients we have to assure them we maintain the competences required to cover all topics which create an integrated service like a one stop shop.”

The divergence of the group and its scattered locations enables us to deal with market off sets

• Your business is actually a mix of several different disciplines such as software, engineering, energy, environmental protection. How difficult is to consolidate all of them? - Our sector involves technological and engineering skills right from the outset of any initiation in the industry. First we have to advise our clients as to which technological solution is the appropriate for their need or desire. After that, we have to engage the engineering disciplines. Each one out of the group portfolio is contributing its experience and know-how. Along with Ludan's growth during the years we categorized specific com-

World's Markets and Opportunities | iSRAEL

partnership with farmers and consumers, design supply and erect local units. This method is known as Build Own and Operate (BOO). The group structure ensures close control of the division managers of their divisions and at the same time reporting to the group management

which, in its turn, reports to the board of directors. The engineering activities are carried out in a traditional matrix structure whereas a project manager is nominated and he creates teams from the various engineering disciplines. This formation secures direct contact with the client, based on the resources of the group. The slogan "global experience local approach" is realized on a routine basis. The divergence of the group and its scattered locations enables us to deal with market off sets. • How has the global economic downturn, that also gripped industry, reflected on your business activities and how are you managing to deal with it? - As we deal with the process industry providing the public and nations with products essential for human lives, such as food, pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, energy environmental, we have to cope with slowdowns but never with a total shutdown. • What is your view of the Serbian market in respect to your business? - Upon a board decision, Ludan entered the Serbian market in November 2009. Trying to plan for the near future, we analyzed the status of the industry at that time in Serbia. We were sure we could align with the market needs in a way that will suit our expectations and for the benefit of our shareholders. This motto is still valid. We were well accepted by the oil and gas industry, and we are on a growing path strengthening our local office and widening our competences. Our establishment will continue serving the local market faithfully for more years to come. ■

interview

Aleksandar Mišković, Director of Ada Precision Casting Foundry

Successful Privatization is Possible

The technology that we use is one-of-a-kind in Southeast Europe. It is this technology that prompted the foundry’s current owner to make a decision to invest in our production facility

he Precision Casting Foundry Ada (LPO) is the first Serbian company in the aerospace segment to be privatized and to position itself on the Western markets. “We have proven that successful privatization is possible and conceivable with a lot of hard work and effort from all of our employees,” says Aleksandar Mišković, Director of LPO. The foundry produces castings for the aircraft industry.

• What sets LPO apart from other companies in Serbia? - The technology that we use is one-of-a-kind in Southeast Europe. It is this technology that prompted the foundry’s current owner to make a decision to invest in our production facility. Of course, none of this would be possible without the Israeli company Bet Shemesh Engines Ltd. (BSEL) which started out with a 70% share in LPO, only to subsequently become the sole proprietor of the company while continuing to invest. • What are LPO’s production capacities and what technology does the foundry use?

Our equipment enables bigger production volume and, with the new workers, we can increase our production by 40% - This year, LPO will produce over 140,000 castings. Our 55 employees work full capacity six days a week. Our equipment enables bigger production volume and, with the new workers, we can increase our production by 40%. We pay special attention to our employees and because of that we are awarded with high efficiency, dedication to work and high employee morale. • What are your plans in terms of increasing production and business operations? - BSEL has made the decision to invest close to US $4 million in new machining and special heat treatment (HIP) facilities in the following two years which will make LPO one of the very few companies in Europe that have a foundry, machining and HIP facility. This new investment will create 50 new jobs and LPO has already begun cooperating with the local Technical High School in training students to one day work in our company. ■

iSRAEL | World's Markets and Opportunities

Economic Cooperation Between Serbia and Israel

Better than the Statistics

Israel is a leading country in the development of solar energy

Israel has been mostly investing in the Serbian real estate sector. In the past few years, the country's investments were mostly concentrated in Belgrade, but, now they are dispersed all over Serbia

or years, Serbia has been recording a deficit in trading with Israel. According to the Serbian Chamber of Commerce, this deficit reached its highest value in 2009 $42 million. In 2012, Israel took 38th and 47th place on the list of the biggest export and import partners of Serbia respectively. The highest trade exchange between Serbia and Israel, amounting to $74.1 million, was in 2008. Out of that amount, Serbian exports to Israel were worth $20.4 million, while the country’s import from Israel stood at $53.7 million. In 2009, the value of the trade ex-

change between the two countries was $63.7 million, while, in 2010, Serbia exported to Israel $15.3 million worth of goods and imported from Israel $28.5 million worth of goods. In 2011, Serbian exports to Israel were valued at $17.8 million while the country’s imports from Israel stood at $30.2 million. In 2012, the trade exchange amounted to $44.1 million with Serbian exports standing at $15.6 million and imports at $28.5 million.

The construction of the Airport City Business Centre in New Belgrade has been declared the most successful greenfield investment in the region

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The lowest export to import ratio was recorded in 2009, while this indicator grew the following two years. Last year, the ratio dropped again. In 2011, Serbia mostly exported to Israel cattle, digital cameras, treated

beech wood, and parts of turbojets or turbo-propeller engines. In 2012, Serbian exports to Israel stood at $15.6 million with the country mostly exporting parts of turbojets or turbo-propeller engines, digital cameras, treated beech, gunpowder, cat and dog food and concrete and mortar mixers. The Serbian companies that exported the most to Israel that year were: LPO-Ada, Josipović DOO-New Belgrade, Milan Blagojević – Namenska Lučani, Jugohemija Belgrade, Nivim Belgrade, Farmina Pet Foods, Goša FSO Simićevo, Jugodrvo ST Belgrade, Merkantex Belgrade, Sojaprotein Bečej, Rakić Kom DOO Duvanište. Serbia mostly imports herbicides, base stations for wireless networks, medicines and fungicides. In 2011, Serbia imported the following goods from Israel the most: unpowered aircrafts, herbicides, switching devices for telephony and telegraphy, fungicides and aluminium foil.

Leading SITC segments in exporting to Israel

Leading SITC segments in importing from Israel Inorganic chemical products

Cork and wood

Chemical substances and products, not mentioned elsewhere Various finished products, not mentioned elsewhere

42%

9% 10% 13%

39%

10%

Chemical substances and products, not mentioned elsewhere

11%

Animal feed (grains other than wheat)

18%

Medical and pharmaceutical products

11%

General purpose industrial machinery

20%

Specialized industrial machinery

Crude fertilizers and minerals Other

Other

In 2012, Serbian imports from Israel stood at $28.5 million with the country mostly importing herbicides, switching devices for telephony and telegraphy, bromides, fungicides, pharmaceuticals, stabilizers for rubber or plastics, denatured salt for de-icing roads, insecticides and other goods. The Serbian companies that imported the most from Israel that year were: Magan Agrochemicals Subotica, Targo Telekom Belgrade, NIS Novi Sad, Kristal So Belgrade, Zdravlje Leskovac, Austroterm Valjevo and Zeleni Hit Zemun. The Agreement between the governments of Serbia and Israel on Trade and Economic Cooperation, by which the two countries were given the status of the most favoured nations (in trading) was signed in 2006, while, in 2009, the two countries signed a cooperation agreement in the field of agriculture with the aim of boosting the exchange of agricultural and food products. The agreement also stipulates cooperation

in agricultural education. According to the National Bank of Serbia, Israel holds the 45th place on the list of the largest foreign investors in Serbia. But, this is what the official statistics says, while estimates have shown that, in reality, the investments were much higher. Many companies from Israel are registered in the Neth-

The Agreement on Trade and Economic Cooperation between Serbia and Israel, by which the two countries were given the status of the most favoured nations (in trading) was signed in 2006 erlands and that is why they are considered as investments from that country in the statistics. In reality, there were several successful acquisitions such as Doncafe by Strauss Elite, “Autoprevoz Cacak” and three more transport companies by Kavim and Livnica preciznih

odlivaka by Bet Shemesh Engines. Israel has been mostly investing in the Serbian real estate sector. In the past few years, the country's investments were mostly concentrated in Belgrade, but, now they are dispersed all over Serbia. One of the first bigger investments made was that of Africa Israel and Tidhar which jointly constructed the Airport City Business Centre in New Belgrade. This project was declared the most successful greenfield investment in the region. There are many other projects in the pipeline or at various stages of implementation (Aviv Arlon Group – retail park in Pančevo and residential complex in Belgrade quarter of Zvezdara, Big CEE – shopping malls in Novi Sad and other Serbian towns, Plaza Centres Serbia – a hotel in Belgrade, a shopping mall in Kragujevac – the construction was completed in March 2012 - and a project in Višnjička Banja – Belgrade). ■

Export to import ratio, in %

Trade exchange between Serbia and Israel, in USD millions 100

82.29

57.35

0 -20

58.87

38.03

53.98

54.95

53.78

-40 20

-60 2005

2006 2007 2008

Export in USD

2009

Import in USD

2010 2011

2012

Balance in USD

19.49 0 2005

2006

2007

2008 2009 2010 2011

2012

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Culture

Searching for Identity Four thousand years of Jewish heritage and over a half a century of modern statehood have contributed to the culture that has already created an identity of its own

srael is an old/new country; small in size, but with a culturally active heterogeneous population. Four thousand years of Jewish heritage and over a half a century of modern statehood have contributed to the culture that has already created an identity of its own, while preserving the idiosyncrasy of 70 different communities. The creative expression of a mostly immigrant society like Israel’s has absorbed different cultural and social influences while combining tradition with innovation. The constant search for cultural identity is expressed through creativity in a wide range of art forms, appreciated and enjoyed by a many people every day. Education and creativity in the fine arts in Israel began with one of the pioneers – Professor Boris Schatz (1867-1932) - establishing the Bezalel Academy of Arts in Jerusalem. His national-oriental style was subsequently challenged by young artists who had been searching for a new definition of cultural identity with roots in the daily reality of life in the Middle East. Many of the period’s artists like Nachum Gutman, Reuven Rubin, Mordechai Ardon and Yosef Zaritsky received international recognition.

The Israel Museum in Jerusalem

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The Islamic Art Museum

Following the formation of the State of Israel in 1948, new artistic movements emerged with probably the most significant one being ’New Horizons’ which used a narrative very close to the contemporary European art while trying to eliminate local character from Israeli painting. Avigdor Stematsky, Yehezkel Streichman and Marcel Janko, one of the founders of Dadaism, were the movement’s key figures. The second generation of New Horizons artists, like Raffi Lavi, Uri Lifschitz and Aviva Uri, brought an amazing sense of individuality to the Israeli contemporary art which blazed the trail for the innovative, conceptual and minimalist

work of Joshua Neustein, Pinhas CohenGan and other artists in the 1970s, a decade that is often viewed as the most interesting period in artistic development in Israel. This decade was also important for Israeli sculptors Dov Feigin, Yigal Tumarkin and Dani Karavan. Current trends, seen in the work of Deganit Beresht, Tsibi Geva and Tzvi Goldstein, have been striving towards broadening the definition of Israeli’s art beyond its traditional concepts and materials as a one-of-a-kind expression of the indigenous culture and a dynamic component of contemporary Western art. The Israel Museum in Jerusalem is the biggest and the most important museum in the country, dedicated to archaeology, Jewish artistic tradition, history, 20th century art, impressionism and new artistic tendencies. The Museum’s special wing, called the

Shrine of the Book, houses the legendary Dead Sea Scrolls. The Eretz Israel Museum has a comprehensive collection of visual, cultural and historical findings. The Museum also has sections dedicated to glassware, ceramics, coins, philately, Jewish art, ethnography and folklore. The Janco Dada Museum was established in honour of Dadaist Marcel Janco, and is located near the town of Haifa, in the village of Ein Hod, the birthplace of Janco. The Islamic Art Museum is considered one of the most significant museums of Islamic art which houses artefacts from Israel, Egypt, Syria, Iraq, Turkey, India, Afghanistan, Spain and Iran with the earliest pieces originating from 7th century. Another renowned museum is the Museum of the Jewish People or the Diaspora Museum (Beit Hatefutsoth) which displays the history of Jewish diaspora. Contemporary Hebrew prose in Israel was first written by immigrant authors. Yosef Haim Brenner (1881-1921) and Shmuel Yosef Agnon (1888-1970) are considered the fathers of modern Hebrew literature. In 1966, Agnon received the Nobel Prize for Literature. The Israeli born writers began publishing in the 1940s and 1950s. They brought a different kind of mentality and cultural background primarily because Hebrew was their mother tongue and their life experience was completely rooted in Israel. Authors like S. Yizhar, Moshe Shamir and Benjamin Tammuz drastically swung between individualism and commitment to society and country, while presenting a model of

The Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra was established in 1936

Shmuel Yosef Agnon (1888-1970) is considered the fathers of modern Hebrew literature. In 1966, he received the Nobel Prize for Literature

social realism based on local and international influences. In the 1960s, a new approach to writing Hebrew prose was explored by a group of younger and very influential writers - A.B. Yehoshua, Amos Oz, Yoram Kaniuk and Yaakov Shabtai. They symbolized a departure from ideological patterns while focusing on the world of the individual. After them, a new generation of poets emerged, with Hebrew as their mother tongue, spearheaded by Yehuda Amichai, Natan Zach, and David Avidan. What followed was an explosion of literary activity. Israel became one of the countries with the highest number of published books per capita, while Israeli writers achieved international recognition, particularly Oz, Yehoshua, Kaniuk, David Shahar, David Grossman and Meir Shalev. Israel’s music is a combination of Jewish and non-Jewish musical tradition that have fused over the period of one century to create a distinctive musical tradition. Israeli musicians have made a significant contribution to various musical genres like classical, jazz, pop, rock and other. From the 1920s to present day, four generations of Israeli composers have created a unique tradition and style that could be called ’Israeli classical music’. The music composed by Yosef Tal, Mordechai Seter and Paul Ben-Haim is performed all over the world. Israeli concert-goers are expressive and enthusiastic, and these attributes are very much appreciated by guest musicians and world-famous Israeli soloists like Pinchas Zuckerman, Shlomo Mintz, Daniel

Barenboim and Itzhak Perlman, who are part of Israel’s music scene every year. The Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra has been a national orchestra since its establishment in 1936. Its musical director – Indian born Zubin Mehta – is considered one of the most distinguished conductors and musicians in the world. The orchestra is often home to renowned conductors and musicians and has been performing both in Israel and abroad. Israel has hundreds of music bands who play all sorts of contemporary music including new-age folk music called ’Shirei Eretz Israel’ (The Songs of Israel), as well as modern Israeli rock and ethno music ’Musica Mizrahit’. Israeli singers who achieved global popularity are Ofra Haza, Etti Ankri, David D'Or and Dana International who won the Eurovision song contest in 1998 with the song ’Diva’. Filmmaking in Israel has undergone major changes since its beginnings in the 1950s. The first Israeli films like Hill 24 Does Not Answer and They Were Ten depicted acts of heroism. In the 1960s and 1970s, Israeli films gained on popularity with commercial production companies emerging. Filmmakers such as Menahem, Ephraim Kishon and Uri Zohar made names for themselves in international film. Some of more recent films are deeply rooted in Israeli experience, covering such subjects as Holocaust survivors or their children (The Summer of Aviya) and the suffering of new immigrants (Sh'hur and Turn Left At The End of The World). In the last few years, Israeli films have won quite a few awards at international festivals. Yoseph Cedar won the best director and 11 other awards at the Berlin Film Festival for his film about the first Lebanon war, Beaufort. The Spielberg Film Archive at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem is the world's biggest film archive on Jewish subjects, as well as on Jewish and Israeli life. The Archive is managed by the university and the Central Zionist Archives which main activity is collecting, preserving and cataloguing Jewish films, and making the material available to researchers, film and television writers and producers all over the world. ■

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religion

Christianity in the Holy Land Christianity is linked to Israel in the same way that Israel is linked to Christianity. This connection dates back to the time when Jesus Christ was born in what is today the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, thought to be the oldest church in the world and the ultimate destination for Christian pilgrims

ccording to the Bible, Jesus came to Jerusalem immediately after his birth, and this is where he grew up. Accordingly, some of the most sacred places in the Christian world are located in Jerusalem. There is Golgotha, the historic place where Jesus was crucified. Golgotha is also the site of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which is also said to contain the place where Jesus was buried. This is one of the holiest pilgrimage destinations for Christians. Biblical sources say that the town of Nazareth, in northern Israel, is the childhood home of Jesus. It is also thought that Joseph and Mary lived in Nazareth and that Joseph had his carpentry workshop there. Today, this is where St. Joseph’s Church sits. Nazareth is also the site of the Basilica of the Annunciation, where, according to the Roman Catholic tradition, Archangel Gabriel announced to the young Mary that she would be giving birth to the Son of God, Jesus Christ. The Basilica of Annunciation is the biggest church in the Middle East. However, according to the Eastern Orthodox tradition, Archangel Gabriel told Mary that she would give birth to Jesus in another place, also in Nazareth, where today the Church of St. Gabriel stands. Other important religious places in Nazareth are the Mensa Christi Church, where, according to the Bible,

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Nazareth

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Jesus dined with the disciples after his resurrection, the Synagogue Church and the Basilica of the Jesus the Adolescent. There are many momentous places of worship scattered all over Israel including St. Michael’s Church, the Endowment of King Milutin Nemanjic in the Holy Land, Monastery of the Ascension, St. Mary Magdalene’s Church, the Church of the Sepulchre of the Virgin Mary, the Church of Saint Stephen the Archdeacon and Protomartyr, the Palm Sunday Church (or the Church of Bethphage), the Tomb of St. Lazarus Resurrected, the Church of the Holy Cross, and the Church of the Holy Trinity, located in Jerusalem. The monastery of the Holy Prophet Elijah is situated on Mount Tabor. The Church of the Twelve Apostles is located on the Mount of Transfigurantion near the Sea of Galilee. Caesarea by the Sea was one of the first centres of Christian learning. Today, this is a national park on the Israeli coastline. Elijah’s Cave is located in the town of Haifa, while the town of Lot is home to the Church of St. George. Mar Elias, which dates back to the 6th century, is situated south of Jeru-

salem, on the outskirts of the Judean desert. The place is named after Prophet Elijah who, according to tradition, stopped here on his way to the south while fleeing the wrath of Queen Jezebel (1 Kings 19:3). Mar Elias has a great view of Bethlehem, Herodion and the wilderness of the desert. The monasteries Saint Sabbas the Sanctified, Saint John Chrysostom and Karantal (on Mt. Temptation, overlooking Jericho) are all located east of Bethlehem. The latter monastery can be reached only by a four-wheel-drive vehicle and is one of the oldest active monasteries. The Saint Sabbas Monastery started as a place of seclusion of few monks in the caves, led by Sabbas. Visitors can reach this monastery, built on the cliffs, by foot. Women can view the monastery only from Women’s Tower, since they are forbidden from entering the complex, while men are allowed to enter it and see the wellpreserved relics of St. Sabbas. Just like in many other countries, the monasteries in Israel have opened their doors to Christian pilgrims who are welcome to stay, spend the night and experience the ambience of spirituality. The monks, who are known for their ascetic life and humility, spend most of their time in studying, praying and spiritual activities, but are also earning a living and engaging in other activities, such as art, agriculture and hosting guests. They are also known for their pleasant manner and hospitality and for creating a warm homely atmosphere for their guests. Monastery accommodation is modest, simple, clean and tidy. These places are a mixture of pastoral panorama, well cultivated gardens, beautiful architecture and spiritual experience. ■

TOURISM

Israel - Amazing Beauty and Diversity

A visit to Israel is a totally unique experience. No other country has so much diversity in such a small area – Israel really does have it all

Whilst it only takes six hours to drive from north to south, and, in places, 20 minutes from east to west, Israel is a fantastic travel destination with great diversity developing an international reputation as a cool tourist destination. From visiting the holy city of Jerusalem, holy to Jews, Christians and Muslims, to visiting the cool, progressive, modern, and lively Mediterranean city of Tel Aviv, less than an hour away, Israel is a land of

contrast like no other. There are more museums in Israel per person, than anywhere else in the world, and archaeological sites which date back millenia. From swimming in the Mediterranean and diving in the Red Sea in Eilat, to skiing in the Golan Heights and floating in the magical waters of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth, Israel is saturated by active persuits to suit all tastes.

Jerusalem Jerusalem is a city of overwhelming emotions, a city that offers religious and spiritual experience, excitement and pleasure, interesting tours and fun adventures. Alongside Jerusalem’s fascinating historic and archaeological sites, there are wonderful tourist attractions for people who appreciate culture, the arts, theatre, music, architecture and gastronomic delights. The Old City is situated at the very heart of Jerusalem, surrounded by walls and divided into four quarters – Jewish, Armenian, Christian, and Muslim. Inside the walls, the three major religions have their important sites – the Western Wall, which the Jews consider holy, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Dome of the Rock on the Mount Temple. The square in front of the Western Wall is visited by millions of worshipers. At the base of this huge wall, a remnant of the Holy Temple, worshipers pray and leave notes with their innermost wishes in the Wall’s crevices. There are other important Jewish sites surrounding the Western Wall: the Western Wall tunnels, the unique Davidson Centre, the Jewish quarter with majestic Cardo and David’s Citadel which proudly towers in its beauty.

There are close to 40 religious sites (churches, monasteries and pilgrim hostels) in the Christian quarter of Jerusalim alone

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Jerusalem is also important for Christians. This is the place where Jesus Christ was born and where he died. There are close to 40 religious sites (churches, monasteries and pilgrim hostels) in the Christian quarter alone. One of the most prominent and important sites in this quarter is Via Dolorosa, also known as the “Street of Sorrows”. This is the final path that Jesus took which, according to tradition, leading from

the court to Golgotha Hill where Jesus was crucified and buried. Many pilgrims come to Jerusalem to retrace Jesus’ last footsteps on the road that starts in the Muslim Quarter, near the Lion’s Gate, and passes through the 14 Stations of the Cross, ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The Church itself contains several of very important Christian relics, including the anointing stone (on which Jesus’ body was laid before he

Haifa The third biggest and one of the most beautiful cities in Israel – Haifa - has a lot to offer to visitors.

was buried) and Jesus’ grave. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is also a meaningful site for millions of Christians all over the world. The St. Michael (Archangel) Church, which is an endowment of King Milutin Nemanjić in the Holy Land, is yet another important place for Orthodox believers in Jerusalem. Apart from holy places, Jerusalem also has a green market which is a tourist attraction in itself. Here you can buy ceramics decorated in the Armenian style, beautiful strings of beads, authentic folk clothing, embroidered cushions, colourful carpets, candles, marvellous glassware and many other souvenirs. From the top of the Old City walls, you can see both the Old and the New City. www.gojerusalem.com

Old City of Jerusalim

Haifa’s residents belong to the three major and several minority religions, which makes the city a symbol of co-existence and tolerance

The city has the largest port in Israel, a beautiful beach and is the home to the World Centre of the Bahai Religion. Surrounded by many natural sites, the city is an interesting mix of modern and old quarters, as well as churches and mosques, mountains and sea. Haifa is a multi-faceted town with several unique features like the proximity to the sea and a dynamic port which just enhance its attractiveness. On weekends, beaches are bustling with visitors. Because of the excellent conditions for surfing and sailing, the beaches here are also known for their sailing competitions. Haifa’s residents belong to the three major and several minority religions, which makes the city a symbol of coexistence and tolerance. Arabs (Muslims and Christians) make up 9% of the city’s population, and they mostly reside in three quarters: Khalisa, Abas and the famous Wadi Nisnas whose alleys have made it a tourist attraction. The annual Holiday of Holidays celebrates Haifa’s special lifestyle. The Christian presence in Haifa and many Christian churches also enhance

the town’s unique image. A Maronite Church is situated close to Kikar Paris (The Paris Square) which is adjacent to the Carmelite Church dedicated to Prophet Elijah. The Greek Orthodox Parish Church St. Mary’s is nearby. A Catholic school, ‘The Sacre Coeur,” on Allenby Street has a garden with a statue of Virgin Mary. The Stella Maris Carmelite Monastery sits on top of Mount Carmel. The monastery’s Baroque-style church has a cave which, according to Christian tradition, contains the burial site of the Prophet Elijah. Also, there is a small museum dedicated to the Prophet’s life in the monastery. Haifa’s reputation for tolerance also extends to the Bahai Religion. This re-

Haifa's beaches are known for their sailing competitions

ligion originated in the Bab cult which branched out from the Iranian Shi’ite Islam in 1844. The Bahai World Centre, located on the slopes of the Mount Carmel, is famous for its beautiful gardens. There are picturesque ‘Hanging Gardens’, which span a kilometre across in length, and have a gold-domed Bab Shrine – the burial site of the cult’s founder, Bab. Special evening lighting provides for a lovely romantic atmosphere. Haifa has many cultural, art and science institutions, as well as numerous festivals and other events. The town also has several museums like the Dagon Grain Silo, the National Maritime Museum, the National Museum of Science and Technology, the Museum of Art, the Clandestine Immigration and Naval Museum, the Railway Museum, the Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art, the Reuben and Edit Hecht Museum and the Israeli Oil Industry Museum. ⇢

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tiful beaches and a romantic waterfront promenade. Tel Aviv has been recently declared one of the ten most beautiful beach cities in the world. The city also has eleven churches, monasteries and mosques, like the St. Peter’s Church and the Franciscan Monastery located in Yafo. www.visit-tlv.com

Eilat

Tel Aviv-Yafo Tel Aviv is often called “the city that never sleeps”. This is the first modern city built in Israel. The city is also the country’s economic and cultural centre. This is a vibrant town, with entertainment, culture, arts, festivals and lively nightlife.

Beautiful beaches of Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is located on a 14-km-long Mediterranean strip. It extends beyond the Yarkon River in the north and the Ayalon River in the east. Hundreds of thousands of visitors and tourists come to the city on a daily basis, searching for nightclubs, restaurants and entertainment venues until early morning hours. The history of Tel Aviv starts in Yafo – an ancient 3,000-year-old adjacent town in the southwest. Today’s Old City of Yafo was built during the Ottoman Empire and its old houses and narrow alleys are now an artist corner and tourist centre. Sixty six Jewish families, who lived in Yafo in 1909, formed the first quarter of what would later become Tel Aviv. The Akhuzat Bayit quarter was origi-

nally built inside city of Yafo. In 1910, it changed its name to Tel Aviv and began to expand. Other new quarters were added until the town became the centre of the Yishuv – a Jewish settlement in the then Palestine. On May 14, 1948, David Ben Gurion declared independence of the State of Israel. There are many different architectural styles, influenced by various architecture schools, in Tel Aviv including the International Bauhaus style. The central part of Tel Aviv – also known as the White City – has the largest group of International Bauhaus buildings in the world. For this reason, the White City was inscribed upon the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Bauhaus style originated in Germany and is known for its clean geometric shapes and asymmetry. There are over 20 museums in Tel Aviv, the most important being the HaAretz Museum and the Tel Aviv Art Museum. The city is also home to the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra and the Israeli Opera, as well as to most of the national dance and theatre companies. This Mediterranean city has beau-

Port of Eilat

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Over the years, Eilat has become the ultimate holiday resort. The hotels and beaches here are often frequented by the Israelis who, along with foreign tourists, have chosen to spend their holidays in this southernmost town in Israel, situated on the Red Sea coastline. Eilat is one of the few locations where you can enjoy the sunrise over the Moab Mountains or the sunset on the Eilat Mountains. The Red Sea here is known for the most beautiful coral reefs in the world. Its labyrinths, deep canyons and many species of tropical fish have made this place the top favourite among divers. Eilat’s location has made it strategically important throughout many historical periods. The town served as a port in the days of King Solomon, the Nabataeans, the Romans, the Arabs and the Crusaders who, all in their time, ruled over the Land of Israel. Thanks to its beautiful beaches, the Eilat bay has become one of the most attractive diving locations. The bay has the Coral Reserve, with an underwater observatory and a maritime museum. Close by, there is the Dolphin Reef with

the resident flock of dolphins. The town’s many restaurants suit all tastes, and there are also clubs, picturesque shops and a promenade that holds a summer bazaar. Eilat also has attractions for families and youngsters, like a hi-tech amusement park based on the Bible and Bible stories.

The Coral Reserve in Eilat

Sea of Galilee The Sea of Galilee, also known as the Genisareth Lake, the Kineret and the Tiberian Sea, is located at the foot of the Golan Heights. This is the biggest lake in Israel, lying at 209 metres below the sea level and, as such, is the lowest fresh water lake or body of water in the world, after the Dead Sea. The Galilee area served as a link between Egypt and various northern empires – the Greek, the Roman and the Hashmonean – which influenced the formation of various types of settlements on the lake shore. Jesus Christ preached in the area

The Sea of Galilee

The Negev Desert

around the lake, where many settlements were formed. The Sermon on the Mount, a well-known event in his life took place on a hill overlooking the Sea of Galilee. It is believed that Jesus did most of his work and miracles in the vicinity of the lake which is why the Galilee is a popular destination for pilgrims. The Jerusalem Talmud originates from the Galilee and it was written during the Jewish rebellion against the Romans. During the course of the Byzantine Empire, the lake was a major destination for Christian pilgrims, having played such a significant role in the life of Jesus. The travel industry flourished in and around the Galilee area even after the fall of the Byzantine Empire but to a lesser extent. In 1909, Jewish settlers rebuilt the villages in the Galilee and the Sea of Galilee re-established its significance. Thanks to many historic and spiritual locations, the tourism in the Kineret

region is the most important branch of economy here. The place where the Kineret meets the Jordan River is considered holy and is the location where many pilgrims all of the world come to be baptized. The famous Eastern Orthodox Church of the Twelve Apostles is nearby. ekinneret.co.il/site/eng/eng.asp

The Negev Desert The Negev spans across Israel’s southern region and covers over a half of the country’s territory. Due to its desert nature, this region is sparsely populated. Even so, the Negev has had its share of history. Abraham built his home in Be’er Sheva, and the Nbateans passed through this area with their camel caravans loaded with precious goods. For these and other reasons, the Negev has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Israel. ■

MARINA DORĆOL D.O.O. Beograd, Goce Delčeva 29 Tel. +381 11 2696 486 e-mail: office@marina-dorcol.com www.marina-dorcol.com iSRAEL | World's Markets and Opportunities

faces & places 27.03. 2013

The German – Serbian Business Association Board of Directors meets At the regular annual meeting of the German Business Association (DSW) Board of Directors in Belgrade, which currently brings together 250 companies from Serbia and Germany, important decisions have been made about the guidelines for the Association’s future work and its numerous activities. The DSW also appointed a new president – Dr Ronald Seeliger, the current Chairman of BoD and Managing Director of Hemofarm.

Dr Ronald Seeliger 28.03.2013

“The Serbia We Want” The results of the ”The Serbia We Want” project, been launched by the UN office in Serbia with the aim of defining ”The Serbia We Want” and ”The World We Want” after 2015, presented its results at the Vuk Karadžić Culture Centre. The project reached over 250,000 people while over 10,000 people were involved in national consultations via the web portal. Also, 1,000 people from Serbia participated in workshops and discussions. The consultations took place all over the world and, in Serbia, they started in mid-January 2013. Once the consultation process in Serbia is finished, a report will be produced and presented to the UN Secretary General as an integral part of the global report.

72 |

28.03.2013

The Ana and Vlade Divac Foundation

Mr. William Infante, UNDP Resident Representative

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

The 2012 results of the work carried out by the Ana and Vlade Divac Foundation were presented at a cocktail party at the Zira Hotel in the presence of the Foundation’s friends and long-standing partners. Also, a new, comprehensive project called “One in a Million” was launched. Last year, the Foundation implemented a number of campaigns and projects in four areas: supporting refugees and internally displaced persons; creating better living conditions for children and young people; developing social entrepreneurship; and encouraging philanthropy.

Vlade and Ana Divac

29.03.2013

Blue Center – the First ”Green” Building in Serbia Bluehouse Capital Company celebrated the Blue Center business complex obtaining the BREEAM certificate and thus making the Center officially the first “green building” in Serbia that meets the highest energy efficiency standards. By being BREEAM certified, Blue Center is one of only 3% of buildings in Europe owning this British certificate.

Stevan Lojović, Director Bluehouse Capital

H.E. Mr. Dimosthenis Stoidis, Greek Ambassador

03.04.2013

International Diplomatic Corps Cuisine Dinner at the White Palace Their Royal Highnesses Crown Prince Alexander II and Crown Princess Katherine hosted an International Cuisine Dinner for members of diplomatic corps in Serbia at the White Palace. HRH Princess Elizabeth and Mrs. Alison Andrews, daughter of the royal couple, were among the guests.

04.04.2013

Belgrade Dance Festival Canadian Ambassador to Serbia H.E. Mr. Roman Waschuk and Mrs. Oxana Waschuk hosted a reception at the Embassy’s residence in Dedinje to celebrate Canada’s participating in this year’s Belgrade Dance Festival. Apart from the festival’s organizers, the reception was also attended by members of diplomatic corps in Serbia, prominent guests from the Serbian cultural life and public figures.

H.E. Mr. Roman Waschuk and Aja Yung, the organizer of Belgrade Dance Festival. cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 73

faces & places 09.04.2013

Captain Miša Anastasijević Award MK Group CEO Miodrag Kostić was the recipient of this year’s Captain Miša Anastasijević Award in the ”Best Industrialist” category at a ceremony held in the Matica Srpska in Novi Sad. The Award is given by the Vojvodina

Chamber of Commerce, the Regional Serbian Chamber of Commerce, the Novi Sad Faculty of Technical Science and Media Invent. The aim of this award is promoting social and entrepreneurial values, creativity and socially responsible behaviour.

11.04.2013

US donation to Dr Dragisa Misovic Hospital US Ambassador to Serbia H.E. Mr. Michael Kirby attended an official completion of the renovation of a surgical wing of the Dr Dragisa Misovic Hospital. The US Army Corps of Engineers invested over US $700,000 in the renovation of the hospital’s wing via the US Embassy’s Office of Defence Cooperation. The ceremony was also attended by Serbian Health Minister Slavica Djukic Dejanovic and the President of the Belgrade Assembly Aleksandar Antic.

11.04.2013

Professional Orientation in Serbia

Slavica Djukic Dejanović, Serbian Health Minister, Aleksandar Antić, President of the Belgrade Assembly, H.E. Mr. Michael Kirby and Director of Dr Dragisa Misovic hospital Radisav Šćepanović

The Belgrade Assembly, the German Organization for Technical Cooperation (GIZ) and its partner organizations from Serbia hosted the first meeting between the business community and young people involved in the project ’Professional Orientation in Serbia’. The project was launched in 2011 and it involves 734 primary schools in Serbia with 64,000 pupils. The project’s goal is setting up a functional and sustainable professional orientation system for final year pupils.

Christof Eichen, First Secretary of German Embassy in Serbia

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Uwe Stumpf, Director of GIZ office in Serbia

18.04. 2013

Serbo-Arab-African Cultural Days The Serbo-Arab-African Cultural Days cultural event was opened by Serbian President Tomislav Nikolic in Zemun, noting that Serbia and the countries of the world connect equal libertarian values, and share some common history from the Non-Aligned Movement. The cultural heritage of 14 Middle Eastern and African countries was on display at different locations. The exhibition included Algeria, Angola, Egypt, Guinea, Iraq, Congo, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Palestine, Syria and Tunisia. 25.04. 2013

Birthday of Queen Beatrix of The Netherlands The Ambassador of the Kingdom of The Netherlands, H.E. Mr. Laurent Louis Stokvis, held a reception in celebration of the birthday of Queen Beatrix of The Netherlands’ which took place in the beautiful garden of his Dedinje residence. The reception was attended by many members of the diplomatic corps and political figures, including Serbian President Mr. Tomislav Nikolić and his wife.

Mrs. Odilia Stokvis, Mr. and Mrs. Nikolić and H.E. Mr. Laurent Louis Stokvis

22.04. 2013

Serbian Army Day On the occasion of Serbian Army Day, a reception was organized in the House of Guards, and the hosts were Defense Minister and Deputy to Prime Minister Aleksandar Vucić and Ljubiša Diković Chief of the General Staff of Serbian Armed Forces. The reception was an opportunity to meet former and present representatives of the Serbian army, presidents and defense ministers. This event at the House of Guards was attended by Serbian President Tomislav Nikolić, Prime Minister Ivica Dačić, Serbian MPs, representatives of the diplomatic corps, the media and other distinguish guests. cordeditorial@cma.rs |

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culture calendar CONCERTS Mariza Sava Center, 9 May @ 20.00 Fado singer Marisa dos Reis Nunes, better known under her stage name Mariza, has said on numerous occasions that she loved to perform in front of Belgrade audience, which always fill up halls where she sings. Mariza learned to sing fado at a very young

age and dedicated herself thereafter to this music full of emotion, passion, sadness, life, jealousy and grief. An attractive blonde singer with unique voice, Mariza has achieved worldwide fame combining traditional fado with modern elements on her albums “Fado en mim” (Fado u meni - 2001), “Fado Curvo” (2003) and “Transparente” (2005). Depeche Mode Ušće, 19 May @ 21.00 The procession of fans from all over the world, from the United States, through Norway to Serbia and neighbouring countries, are ready for the Depeche Mode concert, to be held on May 19th at Belgrade’s Ušće. This will be the sixth stop on a big tour of this famous electronic band, which begins in early May in Tel Aviv.

European cities, including Belgrade, are looking forward to enjoy music of this legendary band that proved they are here to stay after 20 years of performing. Depeche Mode promises a great show, with a performance of new songs, and famous hits like Enjoy the Silence, Personal Jesus, Just Cannot Get Enough, It’s No Good, and Dream On.

Đorđe Balašević Kalemegdan 24 May @20.00 Đorđe Balašević, the greatest Balkan singersongwriter of all time, will perform in Belgrade at Kalemegdan Fortress on May 24th. After nearly four decades of his career during which he has held nearly 150 concerts traditionally in the Sava Centar, this will be the first major open-air concert in Belgrade for Balašević. Tickets will be on sale throughout Serbia and the region at the Eventim locations, with prices starting at 1,990 and 2,590 RSD. The concert is announced under the slogan ‘’A smile is back in town’’, and also it will be his first show in the Serbian capital together with his band “Pannonian Navy”, which, in addition to virtuoso playing, is characterized by skillful and elegant white sailor suits. This concert is certainly highly recommended.

Kafana Fest Belexpo Center 22 May @ 21.00 The first Kafana Fest will be held on May 22nd at the Belexpo Centre. This unique festival of folk music will gather some of the best known performers of folk and traditional Serbian music with the atmosphere of the real ‘kafana’. Visitors will enjoy performances by Vesna Zmijanac, Mira Skorić Novica Zdravković who will apart from their own songs, perform songs of some legendary singers like Toma Zdravković, Black Panthers, “Millennium Band,” “Peđa I Endzi”, “Četori za Groš”, “Mala Noćna Muzika” and “ Trista Čuda”. Joe Satriani Sava Center 24 May @ 20.00 Virtuoso on the guitar, Satriani was nominated 14 times for a Grammy award, and during his career he has sold 10 million copies of his albums. Belgrade fans of Satriani will have the pleasure to enjoy a night of his music on May 24th in the Sava Centar.

Green Day Kalemegdan Fortress 27 May @ 18.00 One of the greatest rock bands of today, Green Day, will perform on May 27th as a part of the grand spectacle ‘Calling’. It will be their only and first appearance in this part of the world on the current tour, which promotes their triple album ¡Uno!, ¡Dos!, ¡Tre! A marathon guitar party in the park under the tower shows a few other great bands Novi Sad punk rockers 76 |

Andrea Bocelli Kombank Arena 10 May @ 20.00

After many successful seasons, albums and sold-out performances at the major opera stages and in venues around the world, Andrea Bocelli returns once again to the Belgrade Arena stage. Bocelli has expressed a wish for a Serbian orchestra to follow him on stage in the Arena and with a special local performer as a guest whom he will choose himself. Andrea Bocelli is rightly called a legend of the new millennium, like Caruso, Del Monaco, and Corelli. From the moment when he appeared at the festival in San Remo in 1994, Bocelli began his whirlwind success. At the recently held event, Classic Brit Awards, the famous tenor was awarded with the special “International Artist of the Year” in honour of his 20year career. The melody of “Con Te Partiro,” which he recorded Satriani was born in 1956 in New York, and when 14 he started playing guitar, influenced by Jimi Hendrix. During his career he taught other musicians who later became some of the most respected guitarists themselves: Steve Wai, Kirk Hammett from the band “Metallica”, Ler Lalonde (“Primus”), David Bryson (“Counting Crows), Kevin Kedogan (“The Third Eyed Blind”) and more.

During in 1993 Satriani joined the band Deep Purple on their tour through Japan replacing Ritchie Blackmore. The concerts were very successful, which is why they offered him to stay in the band, but he refused due to wish to pursue his solo career. His discography includes 13 albums. CLASSICAL MUSIC

Atheist Rap and Skopje iconic skapunk band Superhiks will open the Calling spectacle.

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

Vanja Đorđević Guarnerius 10 May @ 20.00 Graduate and post-graduate student from the Faculty of Music in Belgrade, flautist Vanja

in 1996 (and later as a duet with Sarah Brightman titled “Time to say Goodbye”) was heard around the world by millions. With the album “Romanza,” Bocelli made an explosion, breaking all sales records. Bocelli has released over 30 albums with performances of his operatic works and pop ballads that are sold out at 75 million copies worldwide. Tickets are priced at: 4,500, 5,500, 5,900, 6,500, 7,900, 8,900, 9,500, 15,000 and 20,000 RSD at all authorized outlets. Buy tickets at the box office as well: Belgrade Arena, Belgrade Ticket Centre, Youth Centre, and USCE Shopping Centre. Online ticket sales and reservations at www.kombankarena.com, www. eventim.rs, www.tickets.rs.

Djordjević, has been the recipient of awards from the fund “Bruno Brun” of FMU for the best master’s exam in 2009/10. The same year, the Orchestral Artists Association of Serbia awarded her with the annual prize for outstanding contribution to the music composition of the National Theatre’s Orchestra for the Opera and Ballet, where Vanja is leading flautist-soloist. Program: Bach, Ganne, Schubert, Poulenc, Faure, Taffanel Ivana Zavišić Guarnerius 15 May @ 20.00 Violinist Ivana Zavišić has won numerous awards at prestigious competitions and as the best violin student of the third year of study at the Faculty of Music in Belgrade, she has received an award from the Fun Mary Žeželj Majer. Program: Bach, Franck, Sarasate Aleksandar Stojanović Guarnerius 21 May @ 20.00 This year’s winner of the International Competition “Davorin Jenko” Belgrade’s young clarinetist Aleksandar Stojanović is a second year student of the Faculty of Music, and has won several times prizes in competitions, either as a soloist or as a member of the chamber ensemble. Program: Saint-Saens, Stockhauzen, Crusell

culture news Dragana Jovanović Guarnerius 24 May @ 20.00 Young flautist, student of the Faculty of Music in the class of Prof. Ljubiša Jovanović, is winner of numerous awards at prestigious competitions,

among which are the first prize and the title of laureate of the International Competition “Davorin Jenko” 2010 and 2011. Program: Telemann, Bach, Nielsen, Martin Sanja Prgonjić Guarnerius, 29 May @ 20.00 After countless awards and performances at Serbia’s prestigious concert halls and one of the best students of the Faculty of Music and also the winner of the Katarina Aćimović Fund, young Belgrade pianist Sanja Prgonjić will perform for the first time in Guarnerius on May 29th. Program: Chopin, Schumann, Gershwin THEATRE Gospođica Yugoslav Drama Theatre May @ 20.00 Theatre play Gospođica will be performed with English subtitles in Yugoslav Drama Theatre on May 7th, 13th, 21st and 29th. OPERA European Opera Days Madlenianum 11-13 May @ 11.00 ‘Kopriva, Kopriva’, opera for children @ 12.30 ‘Dodirnimo Prirodu’ exhibition @ 13.30 Workshop on ecology and music ‘Instruments from Nature’ @ 16.00 ‘Alice in Wonderland’, musical @ 17.00 Workshop ‘Bojanka’, drawings from opera ‘The Magic Flute’ @ 19.00 ‘The Magic Flute’, opera For more information, please visit www. madlenianum.rs

OTHER Velika Pobeda nad Fašizmom Sava Center, 8 May @ 20.00 The musical spectacle ‘Velika Pobeda nad Fašizmom’ (Great victory over fascism), will be held in the Sava Centar on May 8th and includes performances from more than 200 participants. Contemporary dance, combined with elements of Russian and Serbian folklore, as well as youthful hip-hop, is designed to introduce the struggle between good and evil, black and white, Mephistopheles and White Cranes: Hitler’s Army and the Soviet and Yugoslav partisans. With the dance ensemble ‘Dream Team’, KUD ‘Nikola Tesla’ with their 70 members, the most beautiful Russian and Serbian songs will be performed by their Belarusian counterparts - the famous singer Dmitri Sergeev, actors Nebojša Kundačima, Miloš Biković, Jelena and Ivana Zigon and opera singer Marijana Šovran. 11th Belgrade Festival ‘Vitezovo Proleće’ Sava Center, 11 May @ 12.00

At the ‘Vitezovo Proleće’ festival for kids, writers of children’s books will present their readings. Well know Serbian writers such as Dobrica Eric, Radomir Andrić, Milovan Vitezović, Rasa Popov, Nedeljko Popadić, Miodrag Jaksic, Ljubomir Ćorilić, Slobodan Stanisic, Svetislav Vukovic and others. In addition to the forty of our most important writers for children, there will be an entertaining program with famous actors, and singers: Dejan Pantelić- Pedjolino, Bora Đorđević, Goca Trzan, Tijana Dapčević, prima donna Aleksandra Angelov, Dara Đuričin, Minja Subota, Boda Ninković as well as the Children’s Choir of RTS and many others. At the Festival, the Lifetime Achievement Award for outstanding contribution for children will be awarded. 1,000 prizes at the Festival are awaiting to be given to the most talented children in arts.

10th Night of Museums 18 May @ 12.00 Artistic Production Group ‘Night of Museums’ announces the 10th annual Night of Museum to be held on Saturday 18th May. In Serbia, so far, 68 cities and towns, 55 museums, galleries and exhibition spaces Belgrade and altogether nearly 150 cultural institutions will participate in the 10th Night of Museums. This Jubilee Museum Night will be joined by a larger but younger, European Night of Museums, in which 40

countries and more than 3,000 museums will participate this year. For further info, please visit www. nocmuzeja.rs

Days of Belgrade 16-19 April

The traditional the ‘Days of Belgrade’ program was this year held, in addition to the city centre, in other city districts as well. The program in Belgrade’s downtown took place at Kalemegdan, the Music Pavilion, in front of the Belgrade City Library, at the corner of Knez Mihailova and Vuka Karadžića Street, on the plateau in front of the Cultural Centre of Belgrade, and on Nikola Pašić Square. The traditional 6th Festival of Russian & Serbian Culture RKB Gallery Stari Grad 15-22 April The Festival of Russian-Serbian culture ‘Пасхальная неделя (Easter Week)’ was held from April 15th to 22nd at the RKB Gallery Stari Grad in Knez Mihailova. The works of decorative and applied arts and national crafts from Russia, as well as traditional art, crafts and handicrafts from Serbia were presented. This was the sixth edition of the festival of Russian folk crafts held in Serbia, organized with aim to make Serbian people more familiar with the richness of Russian artistic skills.

music program featuring talented students of Belgrade’s music schools was enriched by attractive street entertainers this year. The Tourist Organization of Belgrade this year again hosted a number of attractive strolls through the capital - “The Ancient Singidunum”, “The footsteps of Ivo Andrić”, “Panoramic view of Belgrade in an open bus” and others.

Josip Broz Tito for 27 years and is remembered as a photographer who was accredited in his Cabinet. However, he also captured with his camera various community, social, cultural and sporting events. At the exhibition which is titled “Živorad Vučić - time witness”, only a small part of what this sharp-eyed photographer captured with his lens will be represented. Aside from the famous Sophia Loren, photographs of this Tanjug photojournalist also feature Carlo Ponti, Mira Sanjina, Mira Stupica, Fidel Castro, Josip Broz Tito, Jovanka Broz, Louis Armstrong, Che Guevara, Leonid Brezhnev and others. The exhibition will also feature Vučić’s portrait of Tito which, after the death of Josip Broz, was in all the newspapers, buses, and was a photo which the citizens of former Yugoslavia held in their hands and hung on the walls while mourning the death of the president. Easter Book Fair Vaznesenjska Church 15-28 April

The organizers are the Association of Folk Arts and Crafts of St. Petersburg and the Leningrad region and the NGO ‘Hall of Crafts’, with the support of the ‘Good Hosts’ Association. Exhibition of Tito’s photographer O3one Gallery 19 April A retrospective exhibition of works by legendary Tanjug photojournalist Živorad Vučić Žika opened at the O3one gallery. Vučić accompanied then-president of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia

Bishop Atanasije opened the Easter Book Fair, organized by the Publishing Foundation of the Serbian Orthodox Church. The event, which was held from April 15th until 28th, also gave the opportunity to visitors to purchase items showing the artistic and spiritual creativity of the Serbian Orthodox Church and to attend lectures and workshops of calligraphy. The fair is dedicated to the Emperor Constantine, Cyril and Methodius, since this year two anniversaries are celebrated - 1700 years of the Edict of Milan and 1150 years since the beginning of the mission of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius.

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feature

■ By Sonja Ćirić

The Tenth Night of Museums

The Beauty of Masses,

Night and Culture The tenth jubilee of Night of Museums in Serbia, which is the third biggest Night of Museums event in Europe, after France and Russia, will be celebrated with a surreal spectacle above the Sava and Danube rivers In 2006, the Night of Museums in Belgrade became a member of the European Association of the Night of Museums. The 4th Night of Museums was also the first nationwide event Mladen Petrović Ana Jovanović that took place in Belgrade, Novi Sad, Niš, Valjevo, Šabac, Sombor, Zrenjanin, Sirogojno and Kikinda. While the rest of Serbia was warmhe 10th Night of Museums, which is the biggest cultural ing up to join the museum euphoria, Belgrade audiences, who had alevent in Serbia, will be held on May 18 this year. The Night ready experienced nocturnal museum tours, were given the special of Museums is a European event which first took place in access tickets which were also valid for public transport. Berlin in 1997. Back then, it was called “Lange Nacht der The 5th Night of Museums took place in 23 towns. A collective Museen” and its goal was to make museum and gallery visits affordtrance spread across Serbia, while the Night of Museums joined an able. Since then, close to 50 towns from all over Europe have joined elite society of the most significant cultural events. The media were this initiative. eager to cover the exceptional atmosphere of this event. The famous The first Night of Museums in Belgrade happened on April 16, Belgrade Mummy was the star of the night. This was the first time in 2005, following a private initiative launched by Mladen Petrović and 100 years that the Mummy was publicly exhibited. Ana Jovanović. The 6th Night of Museums was about historical gastronomic ad“I saw the Night of Museums for the first time when I was in a ventures all over Serbia. The dishes on the menu were once served graduate school in Berlin and Amsterdam. I suggested to Ana to try to knights and outlaws. There were old-fashioned pastries and remito organize a similar event in Belgrade,” says Mladen Petrović. “We niscing of turn of the century cuisine. A recipe or two were displayed drafted a project, sent it to the Serbian too. “The Museum Feast for Half a Million There were many instances of People, “Factory of Good Spirits in 190 loCulture Ministry and Belgrade’s Culture Secretariat, and received good news from people falling in love and even cations, “Prince Lazar Joins the Feast to”,” the Secretariat the very next day.” marrying someone they met Wine, Cakes and Outlaws”… These are just The first Night of Museums in some of the headlines in the press that during the Night of Museums were the “icing on the cake”. Belgrade took place during the Belgrade Days event. It started with fireworks in front of the Cvijeta Zuzoric Art A record breaking number of towns in Serbia participated in the Pavillion in Kalemegdan. Over 20,000 people visited five museums seventh Night of Museums which made it the most popular cultural on foot during the night. The Night of Museums organization was in event in Serbia. Regardless of the rain, half a million people showed up. charge of the producing all the exhibits staged that night. With the help of many cultural institutions coming on board, the After a hugely successful premiere, the 2nd Night of Museums 8th Night of Museums in 2011 became a truly big night for culture. was officially opened in September of the same year by a paraFamous actors, standing in front of the National Theatre, created a spechute jumper landing on the plateau in front of “The Victor” statue cial atmosphere, while costume balls, mintages, pop and rock concerts, on Kalemegdan. The Roman Well at Kalemegdan was opened for one toys and theatrical costumes made this night perfect. It was only benight only. The rain fell, and this will remain a constant throughout fitting for the 8th Night of Museums to become the third biggest such the succeeding Nights of Museums. The 3rd Night of Museums had event in Europe, right after the French and Russian Night of Museums. exhibitions that were sweet (chocolate tasting), reserved only for the Men were outnumbered by women in visitors last year. The reason brave (the vampire exhibition), instructive (the exhibition about hiscould be that the final match of the Champions League (in football) fell tory of the Internet) or intriguing (the exhibition about underwear). on the same night. Or maybe it was because there were numerous ex-

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hibitions about royal courts, royal collections and royal residents. in front of Stambol Gate. The organizers say that these special effects What makes the Night of Museums so popular? “People are atwill be very real; they will be performed in real space, while the auditracted to something that is different. A different way of exhibiting ences will be taken from the confluence of the Sava and Danube to new and taking in regular museum content in a rather informal way,” Ana shores of conscience. They claim that playing with fire, water, fog and Jovanović explains and adds: “They are attracted to night which gives light will leave a long-lasting impression on audience changing their a magical aura to the whole event. They are also attracted to crowds. perception of reality into a surreal experience of dreams through latest There were many instances of people falling in love and even marrytechnological achievements. Especially for this jubilee, there will be an ing someone they met during the Night of Museums. People love to be installation made of wicker and hazelnut tree twigs which will form the in a good atmosphere and, overall, this is a totally different approach shape of the Sava and Danube rivers. The spectacle will culminate with to showcasing museum heritage.” Mladen Petrović interjects and says the colours of German and Serbian flags blending in the light of mist. that the time of event is important, as is “the more communicative Also on Kalemegdan’s Cvijeta Zuzorić Art Pavilion, an exhibicontent adapted to nightlife.” tion of modern Brazilian art will be staged in cooperation with the What is the goal of the Night of Museums? Number one: making Brazilian Embassy. This exhibition has toured the world and has trips to museums a habit, raising awareness that museums are placeven been staged in the Louvre. Audiences will be given an oppores ideal for informal learning, and that they are venues favoured by tunity to dance with Capoeira dancers, and try real Brazilian coffee young people who feel good in them. Also, the aim of this event is to and the Brazilian national drink that is popular all over the world inspire museums to find a different way of attracting visitors. As we – Caipirinha. Over 40 works of Brazilian contemporary artists will all know, there are many “rivals” to showcase the passion and the richmuseums, competing for occupyness of this country. ing people’s spare time. In the era Cvijeta Zuzorić Pavilion will of the Internet, it is very easy to also host exhibition called ‘New find something good to do in your Reality’. Sixty renowned French free time. That’s why it is imporartists have created pieces that retant for museums to be up-to-date, flect their individual reality. This is and to communicate better with one of the most significant internayoung people by convincing them tional exhibitions by French artists that they can be a popular, contemknown for its imaginative drawporary and pleasant place to meet. ings, paintings and prints, dreamy A huge number of people are in- This year’s Night of the Museums photographs and impressive sculpvolved in producing the Night of tures. Their work is considered by will involve 150 cultural Museums, an event that lasts only a many as the pinnacle of aesthetics. institutions from 68 towns single night. Mladen Petrović says that The Goethe Institute and the French event is usually prepared nine months in advance involving severCultural Centre have prepared an exhibition called “Intertwined al thousand people. All of them are trying to appeal to the visitors Stories – French-German Couples” in honour of the 50th anniversary of the Night of Museums to come during the day too, any day. Has of the Élysée Treaty or the Treaty of Friendship between Germany and the number of museum and gallery visitors gone up thanks to the France. “Intertwined Stories” is an exhibition of digital photographs Night of Museums? “I cannot tell you whether we have managed to by Cordula Treml. Each photograph depicts two persons – one from accomplish that goal since we, as people who instigated a different France and one from Germany. These are anonymous people, famous approach to museums, haven’t been enjoying support from the other people, family members, friends and co-workers. Apart from coming side,” Ana Jovanović explains. “We should be happy with the fact that from two different nations, these intertwined couples have their own even the taxi drivers now know where certain museums are and that unique stories and are a model of a greater European family. high school students know what they can see in their hometown muThe Cervantes Institute is preparing an exhibition called “Tipos seums,” Mladen Petrović adds. Latinos” or “Latino Fonts” – the art of creating letters which will showThis year’s Night of the Museums will involve 150 cultural institutions case Latin American typography. The exhibition is made of posters writfrom 68 towns. Mladen Petrović says that “many of those towns don’t have ten in fonts that have been created in Latin America for the past two museums at all, but will participate with the collections of their distinct feayears and became the favourite of graphic designers all over the world. tures while hoping that what they showcase during the Night of Museums Visitors will be able to try an African mind game called Mankala will turn into a regular cultural offering in their respective towns.” at the Museum of African Art. This game has been played at four conTo illustrate just how special this year’s Night of Museums is gotinents for centuries and, back in the day, it was used by African tribes ing to be, we should mention the exhibitions staged by foreign culin selection of their new king. tural centres. In the last few years, the Night of Museums has become a night of In collaboration with the German Embassy, an artistic performance culture because many cultural institutions, which are not museums or in the shape of spatial installation called “A Little Factory of Effects: galleries, have joined the event. Ana Jovanović and Mladen Petrović Playing with Fire, Water, Fog and Light” will take place on Kalemegdan, say that this is where the future of the Night of Museums lies. ■ cordeditorial@cma.rs |

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chill out

Estonia's Capital Gives Free Ride

Finland's Ice Hotel An iconic snow castle in the northern Finnish city of Kemi has hosted visitors from more than 32 countries since it opened its icy doors back in January. Within one month of declaring itself open for business, the hotel has welcomed guests from China, the Netherlands and Italy, among other countries. According to its proprietors, the Kemi snow castle accommodates between 1,000 and 1,400 overnight guests every year. This year, the hotel has 21 rooms for overnight stays, including a luxury suite. Visitors who intend to brave the arctic fairytale castle are informed that the temperature in the hotel rooms is around minus-5 Celsius. However the hotel provides its guests with rugged fleece-lined sleeping bags made especially for arctic conditions, along with a fleece sheet for extra warmth. Guests are advised to place their outerwear between their beds and lambskin provided to ensure that they are toasty warm the next morning. Getting into the sleeping bag once undressed however, is another matter

Estonia’s capital has become the world’s first to introduce free public transport for all of its residents. All that’s required is a transit pass showing you’re a registered Tallinner - and the city’s buses, streetcars and trams are yours for free. Three months after launching the initiative, city officials are hailing the experiment as a success, though sceptics say it’s an expensive, populist trick ahead of local elections. Passenger numbers are up 10 per cent, while the number of cars on city streets has fallen by as much as 15 per cent, according to Tallinn’s transport authority. On the other hand, critics say the experiment is doomed and will bankrupt Tallinn.

Jamaica Enters in Hi-tech

The Digicel Smartphone DL600, which features a 3.5-inch display, uses the Android Jellybean 4.1 operating system and has a 1Ghz processor. In a release, the company said its sights were “firmly set on ensuring that everyone can benefit from access to superfast internet speeds at affordable prices.”The phone has a starting price of “well under $100,” the company said. “This is all about bringing the amazing experience of 4G to as many people as possible,” said Brian Finn, commercial director at Digicel Group. “It’s about accessibility, style and affordability. Ideally suited to the youth market who want to be connected via messaging, social media and other lifestyle and information apps, the Digicel Smartphone DL600 is a fun, fully loaded Android smartphone which empowers people to do more, play more, listen more and share more.” The phone will be available in Caribbean Digicel stores beginning in May.

Mahvavir Jayanti Celebration

Railroad Museum

Paraguay’s old steam locomotives and workshops, relics of what was a state-of-theart company at the end of the 19th century, are now a draw for tourists in a country that lacks rail service. A giant steam locomotive welcomes tourists and other visitors to the Living Railroad Workshop Museum in Sapucai, a city located about 90 kilometers southeast of Asuncion. The museum is home to the still-operational steam locomotives that went into service in this South American country in 1894. The workshops were used to maintain, manufacture and repair the locomotives, a symbol of past prosperity. Paraguay, one of the first countries in South America to have railroads, does not currently have a railway network.

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Mahavir Jayanti is the most auspicious day in India for the followers of Jainism and particularly the Digambars. On Mahavir Jayanthi, Jain temples are decorated with flags. In the morning the idol of Mahavira is given a ceremonial bath called the ‘Abhishek’. It is then placed in a cradle and carried in a procession around the neighborhood. The devotees make offerings of milk, rice, fruit, incense, lamps and water to the Tirthankar. Some sections of the community even participate in a grand procession. Lectures are held to preach the path of virtue. People meditate and offer prayers. Donations are collected to save the cows from slaughter. Pilgrims from all parts of the country visit the ancient Jain Temples at Girnar and Palitana in Gujarat on this day.

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

chill out

‘Gates of Hell’ Found in Turkey

Pay by Weight Charges A Samoan airline is the world’s first carrier to charge passengers by their weight rather than per seat Samoa Air asks passengers to declare their personal weight during booking, which is then charged per kilogram at a rate dependent on flight length. The customers will also be weighed at the checkin counter.

doorway filled with foul and noxious gasses. A team led by Italian archaeologist Francesco D’Andria, professor of classic ar-

This house-shaped tomb is near the spring where the ‘Gates of Hell’ once stood

The mythical ‘Gates of Hell’ have been discovered in the ancient Phrygian city of Hierapolis, now Pamukkale in south-western Turkey. It is said to closely match historical descriptions of what was known as Ploutonion in Greek and Plutonium in Latin. In its heyday, a small temple with traditional Greco-Roman pillars was said to have stood next to a wall with steps leading down to a cave

“There is no doubt in my mind that this is the concept of the future. This is the fairest way of you traveling with your family, or yourself,” said Samoa Air CEO Chris Langton According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Pacific Islands contain some of the world’s most prevalent countries for obesity and Samoa is ranked number four, with 59.6 percent of the population considered obese. The airline charges up to $0.57 per kg for domestic flights and $1.03 per kg for its only international flight to American Samoa, around 402 km. A 150 kg person flying one-way internationally would be charged $154.50. Any overweight baggage is calculated at the same rate as the passenger’s personal weight. The plan could actually prove cheaper in some cases, such as for families traveling with small children, and Langton said customer feedback has mainly been “amazingly positive.”

chaeology at the University of Salento, has discovered what they believe to be the ruins of the site. Announcing the discovery at a conference on Italian archaeology in Istanbul, Prof D’Andria said he and his team had managed to pinpoint the location by reconstructing the route of a thermal spring. Archaeologists now believe that a large statue found at the Phrygian city, previously believed to depict Apollo, is actually of Hades, Greek god of the underworld. Among the ruins the archaeologists found a cave with Ionic semi columns on which were inscriptions with dedications to the gods of the underworld, Pluto and Kore.

Magic Johnson's Gay Son Goes Public Earvin Johnson III, one of the best ever basketball player Magic Johnosn’s three children, stepped out hand-in-hand with his unidentified boyfriend on Los Angeles’s Sunset Strip. Although this is reportedly the first time Earvin, also known as EJ, and his boyxxx friend have been seen together publicly, there is nothing to suggest that he was not open about his sexuality prior to this. EJ is a 20-year-old student at New York University and Magic and his wife, Earlitha “Cookie” Kelly, couldn’t be prouder of him. “Cookie and I love EJ and support him in every way,” Magic told TMZ. “We’re very proud of him.” When Magic revealed he was HIV-positive in 1991, rumors about his sexuality arose. Instead of recoiling from the spotlight and the speculation, the former Los Angeles Lakers player used his celebrity to spread awareness and tolerance. Back in 2008, Magic opposed California’s Proposition 8 -- a clause that banned same-sex marriage in the state. Magic is not alone in his stance. More and more athletes are speaking out in support of equality as of late.

xxx

cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 81

feature

Wines and

Wineries in Serbia A

82 |

s we have always been prone to exaggeration, we often say that we, in Serbia, have been drinking wine “since the beginning of time.” Truth to be told, the facts indicate that people drank wine in Serbia even before the new era and that the first vineyards were planted during the reign of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius Probus who planted the first grapevines on the slopes of the Fruška Gora. Ever since the first Serbian state was established, great care and attention has been given to viticulture and winemaking, especially during the rule of the Nemanjić Family. The first ever law to define winemaking methods closely was enacted by Emperor Dušan who had contributed a great deal to the development of viticulture and winemaking. During his reign, Dušan made a 25-kilometre-long wine-line which transported the wine from the cellars in Velika Hoča to his court in Prizren without the use of pumps and only with the help of gravity. During the Ottoman Empire, only a handful of monasteries were engaged in winemaking since vineyards were mostly destroyed. After the Turkish departure, winemaking began to flourish mostly thanks to the

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

Austro-Hungarian Empire. For the first time ever, Serbia emerged as a serious winemaker at a time when phylloxera led to the demise of many European vineyards. Back then, Serbian wines were exported all the way to France. King Peter I Karadjordjevic and King Alexander I did so much on advancing viticulture and winemaking in Central Serbia. The exquisite wines from the Oplenac cellars travelled the world, while the Venčac Winemaking Cooperative was considered one of the biggest in the Balkans. This period, which lasted until the end of the 1930s, is thought to be one of the most successful in wine production in Serbia. Today, we are witnessing a new wave in production of high quality wine in smaller series which, we hope, are going to continue in their ancestors’ footsteps. Today, close to 25,000 hectares of land are covered in vineyards while 50 or so wineries produce 120 sorts of wine with geographical indication. The best wines in Serbia are produced in the Palić, Vršac, Smederevo, Venčac (Topola), Negotin, Knjaževac and Župa wine regions. In this issue of CorD, we present a few of those wineries.

1/9 Zvonko Bogdan Winery The distinguished singer of traditional folk songs, Zvonko Bogdan, has opened a modern winery in the northernmost part of Serbia, on the eastern shore of Lake Palić, where vine growing is a centuries-old tradition. Here, thanks to high quality grapes, the wines have a smooth taste, very intense flavour and soft tannins. The Zvonko Bogdan Winery chose to grow the very best clones of Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc Barrique, Cuvée, Merlot and Cuvée No.1. You can tour Zvonko Bogdan’s vineyards, wine cellars and grange, as well as taste some of his wines. Contact: Gordana Pavković, Mob.: +381 62 789 971; Tel: +381 24 4150 275; e-mail: gordana@vinarijazvonkobogdan.com; www.vinarijazvonkobogdan.com

2/9 Dulka Winery

3/9 Kovačević Winery The Kovačević Winery is over 100 years old and it has 10 acres of vineyards located in municipality of Irig, on the southern slopes of the Fruška Gora, in Srem County. The winery is known for its dry white wines like Rhine Riesling, Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Chardonnay Barrique, as well as dry rosé and red wines Rosetto and Aurelius Barrique. The Kovačević Winery also produces special aromatized wine called Bermet and, as of recently, sparkling wines. The winery hosts tasting tours, serves great meals and offers excellent accommodation. Contact at Kovačević Winery: Irig 22406, Đoke Šundukovića 85, tel: 022 461 192; fax 022 462 472; vinarijakovacevic@kti.rs; www. vinarijakovacevic.co.rs. Contact at Kovačević Wine House: Irig 22406, Krstašica bb, tel: 022 463-137; 022 463 138; vinskakucakovacevic@gmail. com; vinskakucakovacevic@ gmail.com

This is one of the oldest wineries in Vojvodina, as well as the first registered winery in Sremski Karlovci in the new era of viticulture and winemaking. The winery dates back to 1920. Today, Dulka has ten hectares of the world’s leading vineyard varieties, and top-of-the-line grape processing and wine storing systems. The Dulka Winery produces aromatized red and white Bermet, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon (dry red wines), Cabernet Sauvignon, Italian Riesling, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc (dry white wines), and Rosé. The winery has a traditional-style wine house where you can take a break and do some tasting. Contact: Vojvode Bojovića 9, 21000 Novi Sad, Tel +381(0)63 882 6675; Tel. +381(0)21 571 711; fax +381 (0)21 571 711; www. dulka-vinarija.com

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104 May 2013 | 83

4/9 Selecta Winery Family-run wine cellar Selecta is situated in the famous wine-making village of Gudurica, 15 km from Vršac (100 km from Belgrade), on the slopes of the Vršac Mountains. Since 2000, the winery’s production capacity has been 100,000 litres of wine. Its brand ‘Selecta’ was launched in 2004. The winery produces Selecta Imperial Wine, White Burgundy, Rhine Riesling, Red Burgundy, Cabernet Sauvignion and Imperial Rosé. Apart from wine tasting sessions and local culinary delights, the winery, which is located in a traditional Banat style house, also offers accommodation. Contact: Otona Župančića 73, 26335 Gudurica, Tel +381(0)13 805 359, +381 (0) 881 067; E-mail: vinarijaselecta@gmail.com; www. vinarijaselecta.rs

5/9 Jović Winery

6/9 Do Kraja Sveta Winery The Do Kraja Sveta Winery was founded in 2006 with the idea of providing wine lovers with carefully selected high quality wine. The winery is known for nurturing traditional grape processing skills combined with modern technology. It was established with the aim of providing final profile wines, while implementing all available technical and technological solutions as the basis for the highest quality production. The winery uses traditional grape varieties for production of outstanding wines like Mlad Mesec White, Mlad Mesec Red, Šansa, Aura, Sauvignon Blanc – selection, Merlot – selection, Cabernet and Sauvignon – selection. Contact: 21243 Kovilj, Žarka Zrenjanina 13, Tel. +381 (0)21 29 89 977; podrum@dokrajasveta.com; www.dokrajasveta.com 84 |

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The Jović Winery is a family-run wine business that goes back for several generations of the famous wine growing and winemaking Jović family. The winery is located in Eastern Serbia, in the village of Potrkanje, which is five kilometres from Knjaževac. This area was once known as the famous Džervinsko wine region, and is surrounded by mountains Tupižnica and Stara Planina which provide excellent conditions for growing white and red grape varieties. The winery’s vineyard spans across 15 hectares of land with Vranac, Cabernet Sauvignon, Muscat Hambur, Chardonnay, Rhine Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc grown here. The winery fosters traditional production of wine combined with the latest technology. The records of the previous harvests are preserved in the winery’s archives in the family’s old cellars. The Jović Winery produces following wines – Vranac Potrkanjski, Rhine Riesling, Rosé Dionysius, Chardonnay and special fruit wine called Višnjica. Contact: 19350 Knjaževac, Spasoja Milkića 32, Tel: +381 (0)19 732 770; +381(0)63 409 006; info@vinarijajovic.rs; www.vinarijajovic.rs

7/9 Ivanović Winery The Ivanović Winery is located in one of the greatest wine regions in Serbia – Župa. This is a small valley surrounded by the Goč Mountain in the north, the Kopaonik Mountain in the south and the Zeljina Mountain in the west which is considered the valley’s protector. Wine growing and winemaking here date back to ancient Roman times, while the first records of wine production in Župa can be found in the 12th century Charter of Stefan Nemanja in which Stefan Nemanja donated the Župa wine cellars and vineyards to the Studenica Monastery. In 1814, the Ivanović family moved to what is today the town of Aleksandrovac and, to this day, the family has been engaged in viticulture and winemaking. After returning home from World War I in 1919, Dragoslav I. Ivanović opened a wine and brandy shop. The winery prides itself in its red and rosé wines Prokupac and Petite Rose, as well as the famous Tamnjanika and Riesling white wine. Contact: Dragoslav I. Ivanović, 37230 Aleksandrovac, 10 avgusta 18, Tel +381(0) 37 555 033; Mobilni + 381 (0) 63 528 246; e-maill: kontakt@ivanovicvino.com; www. ivanovicvino.com

8/9 Radovanović Winery This winery is located in the heart of Šumadija, in the village Krnjevo. It is a modern winery that strives to be extraordinary and unique. A great love for wine and a sincere desire to continue with a long family tradition was the reason behind the family’s deciding to start growing Rhine Riesling in 1990 in the restored vineyard of the their grandfathers. This is where the history of the Radovanović Winery begins. Today, the Radovanović Winery has close to 22 hectares of its own vineyards and 25 hectares of cooperative vineyards, while producing about 200,000 bottles of wine. The winery has modern equipment, a young team of workers and has earned numerous recognitions and awards for the superior quality of its wines at national and international competitions. The Radovanović Winery produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Réserve, Cabernet Sauvignon Barrique, Cabernet Sauvignon Réserve, Sauvignon Blanc, Rhine Riesling, Chardonnay, Chardonnay Selection, Pino As, and Rose. Contact: Dositejeva 10, 11319 Krnjevo, Serbia; Tel. +381 26 821 085; Fax +381 26 821 211; e-mail: podrumradovanovic@ neobee.net; www.podrumradovanovic.rs

9/9 Aleksić Winery This winery is located in Southern Serbia, in the Vranje area, known for its winemaking since ancient times. The Vranje Valley has a climate that is ideal for vine growing. The perfect number of sunny days and fresh air make for a healthy and abundant yield. And, of course, there is the tradition of winemaking which, coupled with the traditional winemaking techniques, distinguish the wines made by the Aleksić family who originates from Dalmatia. The names given to their wines reflect the warmth and kindness of the local population. The name given to the red wine, Kardaš (Cabernet Sauvignon), means ‘blood brother,’ while the white wine, Arno, is made solely from Sauvignon Blanc. Contact: Podrum Vina Aleksić, Industrijski blok 9/1, 17501 Vranje, Tel: +381 (0)17 446 243; Fax: +381 (0) 17 446 972; www.podrumaleksic.rs cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 85

techno talk The Best From BARCELONA 2013

Mobile gadgets & mobile telephony Although Mobile World Congress 2013 in Barcelona has moved this year to a new location, its concept has stayed the same – mobile gadgets and mobile telephony – which are becoming increasingly applicable in everyday practical life. Unlike the Las Vegas conference (CES), which is the world's largest annual global consumer technology trade show, Mobile World Congress 2013 in Barcelona is, by far, the biggest global show dedicated to the latest mobile applications and trends. Here is our choice.

PayPal Here tba

NEC's dual-screen Medias tba NEC's upcoming dual screen smart phone has large screens, 4G LTE connectivity and the latest version of Android 4.1 Jelly Bean. Each screen on NEC's Medias W N-05E is 4.3-inches (diagonally) and have a 960 x 540 resolution When joined, the two screens fold together into a larger 5.6-inch one and give users more pixels when it's needed. Apps can either run separately on each screen or take advantage of the extra screen estate. Media can also be shared between screens. While the 12.2mm thick N-05E isn't particularly thin, the N-05E is still way more pocketable than trying to fit a Samsung Galaxy Note II or Huawei's upcoming 6.1-inch Ascend Mate into your pocket. Inside of the N-05E is a 1.5GHz dual-core processor, 1GB of RAM, 16GB of internal flash storage, an 8-megapixel rear camera with LED flash, microSDHC card slot and 2,100mAh battery. 86 |

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

PayPal Here is designed to make it possible to accept payments for those businesses that traditionally rely on cash or cheque. The portable Chip and PIN device will connect with the retailer’s mobile device to provide a secure data connection to enable the services, in collaboration with the PayPal Here app. PayPal has announced that it’s bringing its PayPal Here service to the UK and Europe, allowing simple payments by Chip and PIN through existing cards, or through a customer’s PayPal account. PayPal Here has no monthly fee. It’s card reader is shipped to the customer free of charge and you just pay a per transaction fee only.

LG Optimus G Pro tba

The G Pro has a 5.5in 1,920x1,080 display, and it's a classy item. It's an IPS model, and is hugely bright with vibrant colours. The screen's resolution gives it a pixel density of 400ppi, so no pixels are visible. LG has equipped the G Pro with a large 3,140mAh battery to power the huge screen, and 4G LTE support for superfast wireless data. The LG Optimus G Pro is undoubtedly an impressive handset, which should provide some serious competition for high-end phones such as the Sony Xperia Z, HTC One and upcoming Samsung Galaxy S4.

Samsung Galaxy Xcover 2 tba The Xcover 2 is basically the Samsung Galaxy S3 Mini in a rugged shell. It's IP67-certified, which is a fancy way of saying it's dust-proof and waterproof up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. It'll survive a dunking in your drink or the bathroom, and it'll survive you washing it afterward. It has a chunky dual-core 1GHz processor with 1GB of RAM and Android 4.1 Jelly Bean. The display is a 4-inch, 800x480-pixel touch screen -- respectable midrange stuff. Xcover 2 is endowed with a 1,700mAh battery to keep it running even as you trek far into the forest. With its tough exterior, the Xcover 2 will appeal to the outdoors type, as well as anyone who works on site.

Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 tba

1/3

A day before the MWC show began Samsung quietly announced the Samsung Galaxy Note 8 . The 8-inch slate has a resolution of 1,280Ă&#x2014;800, which is slightly recommended by better than the iPad mini's 1,024x768, and come with 2GB of memory and either 16GB or 32GB of storage. It also run Android 4.2, the latest version of Jelly Bean. Like other Galaxy Notes, Galaxy Note 8 include a stylus, which may or may not be a draw for buyers, depending on how useful they find using the digital pen.

best choice

cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 87

techno talk

Nokia Lumia 720 Price:

€290.oo

The Lumia 720 follows the design trend set by previous Nokia Windows phones like the Lumia 620. It has a relatively slim profile at 9mm and uses a polycarbonate, unibody design that weighs just 128g. The phone comes in five bright colours — white, red, yellow, cyan and black. It has a 4.3in 'Clear Black' display with a resolution of 480x800, the 6.7-megapixel rear-facing camera with Carl Zeiss lens and an f/1.9 aperture. It also includes a 1.3-megapixel camera with a wide-angle lens. The phone comes preloaded with a number of Nokia's existing digital camera lens apps, including the Cinemagraph, Smart Shoot, and Panorama lens, and comes with new 'Glam Me' and 'Place Tag' lenses.

HTC One Price:

€600.oo

The phone was named "Best New Mobile Handset, Device or Tablet at Mobile World Congress 2013 held in Barcelona," beating other nominees from big brand names, such as the Sony Xperia Z, the LG Optimus G Pro, the Nokia 105 and the Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0. It has a 4.7-inch display with full-HD resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, a 1.7-gigahertz quad-core processor and a new "UltraPixel" camera that enables ultrasharp photo shooting and video recording, according to the company. The Android-powered model also features a cutting-edge audio technology called "HTC BoomSound" that offers dual frontal stereo speakers with built-in amplifiers, used in a mobile phone for the first time, HTC said.

Sony's Xperia Z Tablet Price:

2/3

best choice

recommended by

88 |

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

€499.oo

This robust waterproof tablet runs on the Andorid 4.1 Jelly Bean operating system, has a 8 megapixel camera, rear camera and a 2.2 megapixel front camera. According to Sony the full HD display has a superior colour reproduction compared to Apple's iPad. The 10-inch tablet is Sony's thinnest and lightest yet, weighing in at around 1.09 pounds, and at 6.9mm it's just a whisker thinner than the iPad Mini. The Xperia Z tablet will be released worldwide in the second quarter of 2013.

3/3

best choice

Stick-N-Find Price:

recommended by

€60.oo

The system uses little Bluetooth-enabled stickers that you can adhere to just about anything from your keys to your smartphone to your notebook allowing you to find it if you lose it. The system also has a number of other functionalities allowing you to perform other tasks. At Mobile World Congress 2013, the company behind Stick-N-Find announced that it had updated system making it more precise and more useful. The radar display will show every stickered item in your vicinity. The system has an extended range that now reaches up to 500 metres.

Cat B15 tba The Caterpillar CAT B15, a ruggedized Android smartphone bearing the name of the famous tractor manufacturer, is dustproof, impact-resistant for drops of up to 6 feet, waterproof, and scratch resistant. It may not be the prettiest phone around, but if you've ever dropped your shiny new smartphone and watched it shatter, the CAT B15 may be for you.

ZTE Grand Memo tba ZTE has announced a “very big monster” at MWC 2013, with its Grand Memo and huge 5.7" display set to launch in the second quarter of 2013. The new Android phone runs on Qualcomm’s quad-core Snapdragon 800 chipset, alongside 2GB of RAM and Android 4.1 as its launch OS. You also get a 13megapixel camera and 1MP front-facing secondary cam, 720 x 1280 display resolution output, a decent if not quite enormous 3,200mAh capacity battery, 16GB of onboard storage and support for LTE networks. And it’s only 8.5mm thick. cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 89

fashion

Suit for Every Business Woman’s Wardrobe

In the business world, a perfectly tailored suit is a fail-safe gold standard. But it has appeal beyond the workplace: When you show up anywhere dressed in a well-fitted jacket and skirt, you look proper, polished, and modern. That’s why it is important to invest in the bestconstructed suit you can afford, even if it means spending more than usual. Not only will you rely on this fashion overachiever as an ensemble but you can also really get your money’s worth by wearing the skirt and the jacket as separates.

BOSS Stretch-Wool Black Skirt Suit • Stretch-Wool Blazer €445.00 • Cotton Blend Elbow Length Sleeve Blouse €145.00 • Slim Fit, Stretch-Wool Skirt €195.00 • Patent Leather Open-Toe Pump €165.00

price:

St. John Jacket & Dress

price:

€290

€1,090

Hammered buttons modernize a soft jacket designed in a sumptuous, irregular knit that adds dimension to the lovely pink hue. Notched lapels, three-quarter sleeves and low-slung patch pockets further the contemporary look.

Armani Silk Scarf Designed with an elegant contrast trim, Armani Collezioni’s pure silk scarf is the perfect finishing touch to monochromatic day-to-night ensembles.

price:

€725

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Casadei

price:

€280

A glossy patent leather upper and slender silver-tone heel. Versatile and ultra-feminine, this luxurious shoe is the finishing touch for your every look.

104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

Bex Rox Cuff Made from gunmetal and 18karat gold plated chain, this cuff is ideal for bringing a touch of free spirited, rock glamour to both day and evening ensembles.

The Kooples Leather and Steel Belt

price:

€95

Put a chic spin on any look with this leather and metal belt by The Kooples. Featuring a goldtoned body and snakeskin-embossed buckle, it’s a stylish addition to your accessories collection.

Ralph Lauren Easy Fit V-Neck Sweater Ralph Lauren Black Label’s Easy Fit sweater is a short, loosefitting piece that is perfect for layering. Knitted in featherweight cashmere, it provides unmatched comfort as well as style. Wear yours with softly tailored trousers for an effortlessly chic new season look.

price:

€160

Balmain Tailored Jacket

price:

€1,685

Rendered in a luxe cotton-silk blend, it comes styled with the brand’s signature, ultra-structured silhouette. Team its ice-cream hue with neutral layers and bleached denim for a sweet daytime look.

price:

€555 price: €555

Armani Straight Diane von Furstenberg Leg Trousers Washed Silk Scarf Face the day in bold patterned style with the washed silk scarf by DVF. The scarf features an all over fern leaf pattern and is the perfect way to add interest to any outfit.

price:

€290

Upgrade your professional portfolio with these classic straight leg trousers from Armani Collezioni. A timeless wardrobe staple, pair with a crisp cotton blouse and patent high heels for a sophisticated everyday aesthetic.

price:

€710

Givenchy Croc Bowling Bag Perfect for work-to-weekend dressing, this spacious carryall features an embossed crocodile printed lambskin leather exterior. It comes complete with a practical shoulder strap, sleek gold-tone hardware, and protective feet at the base.

price:

€290

Stella McCartney Triple Lapel Jacket

price:

€1,565

This grey wool single-breasted jacket has a single hook front fastening, two flapped front pockets and a triple layer shawl lapel with a black grosgrain contrasting top layer.

Chie Mihara Obanai Leather Courts With a metallic trim and contrasting patent heel and toe, these courts offer a contemporary route to ladylike dressing.

CK Minimal Watch price:

€177

Simple in design, big on style, CK Calvin Klein’s Minimalist watch exudes timeless luxury. A versatile timepiece that will add an elegant finishing touch to your every look, it has been crafted from stainless steel and boasts an eyecatching textured strap.

cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 91

fashion

Back to Classical Menswear continues to push the boundaries of fashion with designers experimenting with bolder colors, silhouettes, and material choices bringing menswear into an exciting fashion arena. However, we at CorD are still in favor of classical tailoring with materials that are traditional favorite fabrics. In this issue, we recommend some of the fine tailoring to which designers have finally returned. Using traditional sartorial techniques, which serve to give a new look of refinement and proportion to the for spring 2013. For the spring/summer of 2013, the colors rely heavily on navy, deep black and bright white to create a very classic strong line of men's spring fashions.

Armani Metropolitan three-piece suit Full of subtle sophistication and tailored for a flattering fit, the jacket features a single-breasted, two-button fastening and classic straight-leg trousers. price:

€ 1,145

price:

€ 690

Z Zegna Grey Striped Wool Blend suit A suit from Z Zegna offers all the expert tailoring and quality you’ve come to expect with a nice touch of modern style.

Paul Smith Leather Briefcase The rugged exterior features gunmetal lock fastening, top handle and roomy compartments. It also includes a built in padded sleeve for your tablet or any small sized gadgets.

Church's Black London Oxford Brogues

price:

€ 425

Black leather Church’s Oxford brogue shoes with a toe cap and patterned detail throughout. A classic, elegant shoe, wear with a crisp suit for effortless formal flair.

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104 May 2013 | www.cordmagazine.com

price:

€ 475

Richard James Silk Tie

price:

€ 100

A suit and crisp shirt are not complete without a tie, Richard James’ handmade silk tie gives his look the extra special touch with fine Italian craftsmanship.

Alexander Mcqueen harness blazer

Gucci grey stretch wool blend suit

price:

€1353

Sharp tailoring and modern details are a hallmark of Alexander McQueen, and this slim-fitting single-breasted blazer is an excellent example of both. Crafted from a wool and mohair-blend, this streamlined piece is updated with a tonal harness at the shoulder and lined with skulls and polka dots.

price:

€ 1,065

Nothing brings Italian luxury to mind quite like Gucci. Carry on the tradition of superior goods with s leek suit from the legendary Italian fashion hous.

price:

€ 750

price:

€ 215

Christophe Lemaire Bean Pole Wool Check Jacket Wool Christophe Lemaire for Beanpole single breasted checked jacket with two button fastening and three forward facing pockets. This jacket also features two inside pockets.

A contemporary addition to your formal wear collection, this Lanvin blazer features laser-cut edges and two large patch pockets. Sure to impress, it benefits from the label’s rich experience in ultra-sharp tailoring.

Paul Smith Jeans Pima Cotton Polo Shirt

price:

€ 95

Soft pima cotton crafted into a timeless basic he can wear all year round. Wear this polo with tailored chinos or casual shorts, either way he will look charming in this Paul Smith Jeans design.

Mulberry Oak Anthony Satchel price:

€ 530

Lanvin Laser Cut Blazer

Exquisitely crafted from textured oak leather, the bag features Mulberry’s signature Postman’s lock closure and a practical adjustable shoulder strap.

BOSS Black Man Logo Polo Shirt

price:

€ 95

With a button-up collar and embroidered logo, this smartcasual design is the ultimate in off-duty cool.

price:

€ 395

Bottega Veneta iPad case Bottega Veneta black leather iPad case is a classic designed item which will stand the test of time. cordeditorial@cma.rs |

104 May 2013 | 93

profile

Success is a

Big Puzzle I can say that I really enjoy this job. One of the big perks is certainly the fact that in my last job, as a PR manager at the Falkensteiner Hotels & Residences, this client was my account for over two years so I managed to skip the initial and the most difficult phase of getting to know the industry. Now, I can finally commit myself 100% to my job

Elizabeta Penić PR manager of Falkensteiner Hotels & Residences

efore I entered the PR world, I worked as a journalist.

worked with clients like Pernod Ricard, Miele, Avenue Malla,

As a graduate of Croatian studies, I hopped onto the

P&G, Zlatarna Celje, CROATA, and, my favourite, Falkensteiner

TV carousel which relentlessly spins around. The work-

Hotels & Residences.

ing hours are impossible to handle, you are always under the

Today, my main responsibility is maintaining creative qual-

deadline pressure, and you usually work as a freelancer for a

ity communication with the key public groups, primarily the

whole decade, on average. But if you fall in love with the job,

media. I provide information on strategic decisions made by

you are toast. I have been very lucky to start off as a TV report-

Falkensteiner Hotels & Residences Group, as well as work in

er which, in my opinion, is by far the best and the most crea-

media planning, conceptualising creative stories and events,

tive TV format. I learned from fantastic journalists like Denis

conducting press conferences, or organizing press trips.

Latin, Tihomir Ladišić and Oliver Dražić, with all three of them

Falkensteiner Hotels & Residences is a very relaxed client,

being my former editors. I worked as a reporter for exceptional

and I can say that I really enjoy my job. One of the big perks

shows like Špijunka (Spyhole), Nova Runda (The New Round),

is certainly the fact that in my last job, as a PR manager at the

Forum and Latinica. Then RTL came to Croatia and I crossed

Abrakadabra Agency, this client was my account for over two

over from the state run TV station to become the editor of an

years so I managed to skip the initial and the most difficult

RTL show called Explosive.

phase of getting to know the industry. Unlike the agency work,

I remember that moment, when RTL came, as the begin-

where you go back and forth between many clients and sales

ning of the end of ‘real’ journalism. Suddenly, tabloids took

pitches, now, I can finally commit 100% to what I do, while be-

over both TV and press. There was a lot to do, the salaries grew rapidly, but the overall situation was utterly absurd – what started off as the final victory over media monopoly and the beginning of the real creative democracy, soon turned in-

Today, my main responsibility is maintaining creative quality communication with the key public groups, primarily the media

to tabloidism, copy/paste formats and cajoling the powerful local businessmen. Finally, the recession came

ing mindful of every detail which I consider quite important. I

knocking on the door which was the last blow. I don’t regret at

am currently focusing on the Iadera Hotel & Spa in Petrčane

all not working on TV.

near Zadar. This is a real ‘diva’ in the hospitality industry - a

I learned the PR craft at Abrakadabra which gave me a job

five-star-hotel, architecturally polished to the last detail, with a

in the same way as my previous employer did – through a pub-

beautiful spa, a traditional Turkish bath, and unbelievable inte-

lished ad. I started learning from the very beginning, with a lot of

rior and exterior. The hotel is located in the environmental re-

effort and hard work. Soon after, I was given a free rein to man-

sort called Punta Skala which is the only resort of this kind in

age my own accounts and come up with creative campaign

Croatia because of its sustainable environmental concept. A

concepts. I was delighted. It was like a big puzzle that you need

real PR treat! I expect to learn a lot from this job, in addition to

to make real with a lot of thinking in advance and creativity. I

working harder and accomplishing better results. ■

94 |

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