PEACE, DIALOGUE AND COOPERATION

The world belongs to optimists, pessimists are only spectators ~ Francois Guizot

In a year when it appeared as though one crisis – the one caused by the COVID-19 pandemic – was ending, war broke out in Ukraine. Europe has entered a new period of instability in 2022, marked by the devastating images of the casualties of war. The conflict in Ukraine also resulted in huge disruptions on the food and energy markets, the effects of which have also become evident far beyond the borders of the European continent. In preparing our first issue for 2023, CorD Magazine posed diplomatic interlocutors a single question: ‘taking into consideration the complex global situation, what provides us with reason for optimism as we enter 2023?’ Convinced that “it is always darkest before the dawn”, representatives of the diplomatic corps in Serbia remind us of the courage and resilience with which citizens hit by unprecedented crises are coping with the latest challenges. The unity and solidarity demonstrated in both the struggle against the pandemic and efforts to counter the consequences of armed conflict are cited as reasons to nonetheless enter this new year, which is certain to be another difficult one, with measured optimism, but also hope that 2023 will be a year when peace will be achieved through dialogue.

EU

H.E. EMANUELE GIAUFRET

EU DELEGATION HEAD

WATERSHED MOMENT IN EUROPEAN HISTORY

The EU once again proved resilient and able to adapt to the new challenges and respond to citizens’ needs, to me this is reason for great optimism for 2023…There is more clarity on the choices ahead of us and it is up to Serbia to use that clarity to make the right choices in 2023 ~ Emanuele Giaufret

Over the course of the year that’s coming to an end, the EU proved, once again, to be resilient and able to adapt to new challenges and respond to citizens’ needs, to me this is reason for great optimism for 2023, as in Europe we all need a solid anchor in the troubled waters of today’s world. After overcoming the COVID-19 crisis, in February we faced the unjustified and unprovoked Russian aggression against Ukraine that brought war back to the European continent. A watershed moment in European history. This war, which seeks to annex part of a neighbouring country, brought destruction and suffering in Ukraine and beyond, provoking worldwide energy and food crises and undermining European and global peace and security. The EU reacted firmly by sanctioning Russia to stop the war, providing humanitarian, financial and military assistance for Ukraine to defend itself against the Russian aggressor. The EU was united and effective, deepened its security cooperation, responded to the energy crisis by rapidly decreasing its energy dependence on Russia and accelerating the green transition, while continuing to disburse funds to Member States to recover from the COVID economic crisis. We are now much better prepared to face 2023. The new geopolitical context has also created new momentum for enlargement, which is also a source of optimism. Ukraine and Moldova were recognised as candidate countries in June, and we opened a path towards membership for Georgia; the first Intergovernmental Conferences to negotiate the membership of Albania and North Macedonia took place in July, and with the visa liberalisation decision on Kosovo*, the whole of the Western Balkans will soon be visa free, while roaming telecoms tariffs with the EU will start decreasing next year, to be eventually phased out entirely. All these key decisions clearly point to a new opportunity to accelerate enlargement, an opportunity that Serbia should not miss out on in 2023, and for this it must accelerate reforms and increase its policy alignment. There is more clarity on the choices ahead of us and it is up to Serbia to use that clarity to make the right choices in 2023. Let me wish everyone a happy and prosperous year! Srećna nova godina!

AUSTRIA

H.E. CHRISTIAN EBNER

AMBASSADOR OF AUSTRIA

LOOKING AHEAD WITH OPTIMISM YEAR OF COURAGE

We will succeed in making a breakthrough for peace, in developing new sources of energy to free ourselves of dependence on a few states, in realising new projects for economic recovery, climate protection, as well as in achieving the next steps for Serbia on the European path ~ Christian Ebner Just look at the Ukrainian people today, in their tenth month of resistance against Russian military aggression. Look at our joint efforts to overcome the inflationary pressures on our economies and the food crisis, and to guarantee the wellbeing of all our citizens ~ Cathy Buggenhout

Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, the energy crisis and inflation will continue to present us with major challenges in 2023. It will also be important to launch initiatives in the areas of climate and the environment, because we must not lose sight of climate protection either. Still, I am convinced that we should all look towards 2023 with optimism, because optimism is an attitude to life with the positive side effect of seizing new opportunities, by placing trust and hope in a positive outcome. And that’s why I trust that we will together succeed in making a breakthrough for peace, in developing new sources of energy to free ourselves of dependence on a few states, in realising new projects for economic recovery, climate protection, as well as in achieving the next steps for Serbia on the European path. All of this, however, requires not only optimism, but also political will and foresight, as well as the readiness of all stakeholders. We all have to contribute to this. Let us make 2023 the year of world courage! “Courage is the most important of the virtues, because without it, no other virtue can be practiced consistently,” once wrote great American writer, essayist and poet Maya Angelou. And human beings are courageous. Just look at the Ukrainian people today, in their tenth month of resistance against Russian military aggression. Look at our joint efforts to overcome the inflationary pressures on our economies and the food crisis, and to guarantee the wellbeing of all our citizens. Look at our global commitment to halt climate change, to find innovative green solutions in the diversification of our energy supply. May we all cooperate courageously in 2023, for humanity, respect and solidarity.

BELGIUM

H.E. CATHY BUGGENHOUT

AMBASSADOR OF BELGIUM

CANADA

H.E. GILES NORMAN

AMBASSADOR OF CANADA

REACHING TO OUR BETTER SELVES

Optimism and energy are words that are almost never found in the same sentence these days, but, if we take a step back, Serbia’s energy situation is set to improve... and maybe quite a bit ~ Giles Norman

For all the horror being visited on their land, and on the cusp of a dark, hard, winter, the Ukrainian people’s spirit, resolve and tenacity provide reason for optimism. I am also optimistic that – during this season when we reach to our better selves – we will succeed in muffling the noise of ‘positions’ and ‘power politics’ and see people in their full humanity. People who are not so very different from our own parents, brothers, daughters, neighbours: people who hope and dream; people who wonder what tomorrow will bring. The words “optimism” and “energy” are almost never found in the same sentence these days, but, if we take a step back, Serbia’s energy situation is set to improve... and maybe quite a bit. First, it has been made plain that no one can afford to put all their eggs in the Russian energy basket. Today, control of Serbia’s national oil company is in Russian hands, not Serbian. Serbia is today at the mercy of Russia for virtually all of its natural gas, and for the price it pays for it. This terrible energy insecurity and one-sided leverage has now been recognised for what it is, and the government is moving quickly to reduce this dependency. Serbians can thus be optimistic that, in the relatively short term, their country will be less beholden and vulnerable, and more independent and secure. Second, Serbia also appears to be seizing the moment to jump-start the transition to cleaner energy sources. This brings a number of linked advantages, including greater national energy self-sufficiency, decreased reliance on declining coal reserves, and cleaner air, all while making a powerful positive contribution to the world as a whole.

Behind the headlines of regional conflict, quiet, practical steps are being taken to build cooperation and integration between Western Balkan neighbours – through both the Open Balkan Initiative and the Common Regional Market / Berlin Process. Practical steps focused on delivering real benefits to citizens that create habits of cooperation and trust: what’s not to be optimistic about?

CYPRUS

H.E. DEMETRIOS THEOPHYLACTOU

AMBASSADOR OF CYPRUS

OPTIMISM FOR WAR TO END IN 2023

The optimistic outlook is that most countries – particularly in the EU – have become much better at managing global challenges. The not-so-optimistic outlook is that geopolitics is characterised by increased volatility. Subsequently, geopolitics has major negative consequences for the global economy ~ Demetrios Theophylactou

This brief assessment concerning optimism, or luck thereof, as we enter 2023, taking into account the war in Ukraine, as well as ongoing conflicts in the Western Balkans, the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean, focuses on the impact of the complex global situation on economies. The first part concerns the economy of Cyprus, while the second looks more broadly at global economic trends. The Cypriot economy grew by more than 6% of GDP by the end of 2022, surpassing the EU average. The annual growth rate was substantially higher than the EU average of 2.4% GDP and the eurozone’s 2.1%. Despite the serious challenges posed by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Cypriot economy proved resilient when other EU economies faced the risk of recession. Still, this optimistic outlook by no means ignores high inflation and rising energy prices. However, the negative effects of the ongoing war in Ukraine on economic activity appear to be unfolding slowly, inevitably impacting the outlook for 2023. Real GDP growth in 2023 is forecast at 2.4%, driven by several factors, including the deterioration of EU economic sentiment and weakening of business confidence. When we look at the global picture, higher energy prices and interest rates will cause growth to slow across most of Europe, and other parts of the world, with some countries falling into recession. The energy shock will impact countries differently, with some hit quite hard and some continuing to perform relatively well. In conclusion, the optimistic outlook is that most countries – particularly in the EU – have become much better at managing global challenges, such as the pandemic. The not-so-optimistic outlook is that geopolitics is characterised by increased volatility. Subsequently, geopolitics has major negative consequences on the global economy. Assuming that the war in Ukraine ends in 2023, a most optimistic scenario will prevail in respect to economic performance. Let us hope that this will be the case, for the benefit of the world.

CHINA

H.E. CHEN BO

AMBASSADOR OF CHINA

REPLACING DIVISION WITH UNITY

The forces in the world that long for peace, stability, development and cooperation have been strengthening constantly. The Cold War mentality and power politics have been increasingly discarded ~ Chen Bo

At present, the development of humankind is indeed facing major challenges, such as the dragging on of the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions and sluggish economic growth. However, with the rise of challenges and risks, the forces in the world that long for peace, stability, development and cooperation have also been strengthening constantly. The Cold War mentality and power politics have been increasingly discarded. Last November, the Communist Party of China held its 20th National Congress, which set China’s goals, tasks and major policies over the next five years or even longer. We will bring more new opportunities to the world with our own development, provide more certainty to the world with the continuity of domestic and foreign policies, and inject stronger impetus into international cooperation with Chinese-style modernisation. As President Xi Jinping put it, in the face of challenges, it is imperative that all countries embrace the vision of a community with a shared future for humankind, and advocate peace, development and win-win cooperation. All countries should replace division with unity, confrontation with cooperation, and exclusion with inclusiveness. The year 2023 is coming. It’s my sincere hope that the world will emerge from the haze of the pandemic and accelerate the pace of its economic development. I believe that China-Serbia cooperation, based on win-win cooperation, will achieve more results and promote the prosperity and development of our two countries.

DENMARK

H.E. SUSANNE SHINE

AMBASSADOR OF DENMARK

CELEBRATING HUMAN RIGHTS AND GENDER EQUALITY

In 2023 we will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states our rights regardless of origin, gender, religion, nationality, residence, or other status. Coming from Denmark, a country that strives to serve as a model of human rights and gender equality, I hope that we will see progressive steps in those fields in 2023 ~ Susanne SHINE

The previous 2021 and 2022 were indeed challenging years. The COVID pandemic kept us from our loved ones and prevented us from travelling and living normal lives. I’m happy that, through hard work and cooperation around the world – particularly among those who provide medical care, formulate public health policies and develop vaccines – we have made progress in protecting and improving lives. Although we have not eradicated COVID, we can be optimistic that, with continued care and diligence, the world will make further progress in 2023. As with COVID, we can be optimistic that 2023 will offer progress in the trajectories of many long-term global challenges. In 2023 we will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states our rights regardless of origin, gender, religion, nationality, residence or other status. Coming from Denmark, a country that strives to serve as a model of human rights and gender equality, I hope that we will see progressive steps in those fields in 2023. Here in Serbia, I hope that the coming year will provide opportunities for the government and people to move closer to the EU in key areas for accession, such as the rule of law and the fight against corruption and organised crime. Denmark looks forward to continuing to work directly with Serbia to help it successfully adopt measures that will benefit the Serbian people and address EU requirements. Denmark also looks forward to increasing mutually beneficial business development with Serbia. Ever more Danish companies are finding Serbia, with its highly competent and motivated workforce, to be a competitive business environment, and an advantageous geographic location, as an ideal partner for business ventures. These partnerships will continue to create jobs and further boost Serbian exports in 2023. Of course, 2023 does not offer a panacea for the world’s challenges. Many countries around the world will need to respond to the challenges and instability created by wars, extreme weather, economic recession and much more. I’m optimistic, however, that through planning and cooperation between countries and their citizens, we can all make necessary and beneficial progress in addressing many of these issues.

EGYPT

H.E. BASSEL SALAH MUSTAFA AHMED

AMBASSADOR OF EGYPT

THE IMPORTANCE OF DIVERSIFYING

The dependence of a number of world countries on wheat imports from Russia and Ukraine led to serious challenges and the threat of starvation for millions of people in Africa. That is the reason for the successful efforts of the international community to extend the Grain Export Deal ~ Bassel Salah Mustafa Ahmed

Despite the unprecedented consecutive crises confronting the world since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, no one should lose optimism in the ability of the countries and peoples of the world to address these challenges. In order to peacefully overcome the current crisis, the countries of the world need more mutual collaboration through the showing of solidarity and working in the interest of the people. Egypt, like many other countries, has been hit by the world crisis and has resorted to adopting monetary and economic countermeasures to the growing inflation and other consequences of the crisis, among them negotiations with the IMF. Egypt is also exerting efforts aimed at achieving security and stability in its regional surroundings and the world, as well as efforts to strengthen bridges of cooperation between African, Arab and European countries, among them Serbia, as the potential for economic cooperation is enormous. The Ukraine crisis showed the world the importance of diversifying sources of strategic resources. The dependence of a number of world countries on wheat imports from Russia and Ukraine led to serious challenges and the threat of starvation for millions of people in Africa, for example. That is the reason for the international community’s successful efforts to extend the Grain Export Deal. On the other hand, the energy supply crisis represented an incentive to accelerate the transition to sustainable, renewable and low-emission sources of energy, in conjunction with the latest Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework on Climate Change Convention COP27, which was held in Egypt in November 2022. COP27 contributed to putting the world on the right track to building a better future for coming generations. As we enter a new year, the whole world has aspirations to achieve peace and stability, and to solve the most serious challenges in the interest of all citizens of the world.

FINLAND

H.E. KIMMO LÄHDEVIRTA

AMBASSADOR OF FINLAND

RESILIENCE PROMPTS OPTIMISM SOLID BILATERAL RELATIONS

Reason for optimism today, in these fast-changing and challenging times, is provided by the resilience that the world has demonstrated, and our countries as part of it. Resilience means we have the capacity to withstand adversity and bounce back; it is the ability to be happy and successful again after difficult times ~ Kimmo Lähdevirta Our relationship is not only exceptional capital bequeathed by history, but also a relationship that’s more alive than ever before. The year 2023 will thus see the emergence of projects, particularly in the domain of infrastructure, and promises to be full of new opportunities for enterprises in France and Serbia ~ Pierre Cochard

The world has been facing difficult times since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020. All of us had to unite forces to fight the pandemic. We have not won this battle yet, but we are getting there. Some 10 months ago, the Russian invasion of Ukraine started. Russia has caused enormous damage and human suffering. The war has also led to a new global political, security and energy crisis. As Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin has said, for example, Finland will support Ukraine for as long as is needed and will participate in its reconstruction. Finland’s decision to apply for NATO membership was a response to the new circumstances. We have had to take steps towards strengthening our defence and regional security. At the same time, we need to think and work towards a green and sustainable future. We cannot leave these issues for some better times. Nordic countries have together decided on a vision to become the most sustainable and integrated region in the world by 2030. Green transition and sustainable growth are both a must and an opportunity. Going green is the only way to keep our planet liveable for future generations, without compromising on a high quality of life. The Nordic countries have ambitious national targets to switch to sustainable energy and are pioneers of green energy solutions. We work towards the same goals across the globe, and also partner with Serbia. Russian aggression against Ukraine has urged us to work much harder towards these goals. Tough times always generate solutions that shape our future in new ways. In my opinion, reason for optimism today, in these fast-changing and challenging times, is provided by the resilience that the world has demonstrated, and our countries as part of it. Resilience means that we have the capacity to withstand adversity and bounce back; it is the ability to be happy and successful again after difficult times. Belonging to the Finnish nation, which is the happiest nation according to the UN Happiness Index for consecutive years, I hope I am competent enough to claim that resilience is both our reality and reason for optimism.

FRANCE

H.E. PIERRE COCHARD

AMBASSADOR OF FRANCE

As an old French saying from the 19th century goes, “the world belongs to the optimists, the pessimists are only spectators”. The challenges facing the world – I’m referring to the war in Ukraine, the absolute necessity of peace and dialogue, climatic urgency – provide an incentive to further strengthen our ties, to mobilise our energies in order to be able to speak loudly and influence the course of events. Together with Serbia and the other Western Balkan countries, we belong to the same large European family, sharing values and a common historical and cultural heritage, illustrated on the ground by very concrete achievements in the service of the populations and young people. France, alongside its partners, wants 2023 to be an opportunity to advance much faster and further along the path of European integration! Another major factor of optimism is the solidity of the bilateral relationship between France and Serbia. Our relationship is not only exceptional capital bequeathed to us by history, but also a relationship that’s more alive than ever. The year 2023 will, thus, see the emergence of projects, particularly in the domain of infrastructure, and promises to be full of new opportunities for enterprises in our two countries. The “Green Agenda”, a priority for all, encourages us to move further ahead in developing our innovation potential. French-Serbian creativity will be expressed in many other areas of cooperation. As such, France will next autumn have the privilege of being the guest of honour at the Belgrade Book Fair, an unmissable must-attend event. May this new year also provide an incentive to beautiful and stimulating cultural discoveries!

IRAN

H.E. RASHID HASSAN POUR BAEI

AMBASSADOR OF IRAN

DIALOGUE, MEDIA AND MORE EFFECTIVE INSTITUTIONS

An optimist constructs aeroplanes, while a pessimist makes parachutes. Optimism and pessimism have been driving forces of mankind throughout history. Extreme optimism and pessimism can be harmful and dangerous ~ Rashid Hassan Pour Baei

Pessimism has always been, more or less, a dominant discourse, becoming the foundation of policies and decision-making, so it can even be said that a significant part of civilisation is based on pessimism. An optimist constructs aeroplanes, while a pessimist makes parachutes. Optimism and pessimism have been driving forces of mankind throughout history. Extreme optimism and pessimism can be harmful and dangerous. In the new period that started with the COVID crisis, the war in Ukraine etc., the countries of the world have their high politics strengthened and reinstated to their agendas. As a result of existential threats becoming more prominent, countries have opted to increase and improve armament, and thus the development of military industries and technologies has become a priority to maintain and continue survival. Extreme nationalist, conservative and protectionist policies have become the guidelines of countries. In such an atmosphere, which ensued from pessimism itself, pessimism has only intensified and strengthened. While some countries and actors possess weapons of mass destruction and thereby create immunity and a safe haven for themselves, at the same time, international institutions and authorities are deficient when it comes to minimum efficiency and the authority needed to control and manage global affairs. In this situation, the dynamics of optimism are more or less active, which are: 1. Interdependencies; 2. Openness to dialogue; 3. A decisive and key role of the media, especially in this era of communication and information; 4. Public awareness and the increasing role of this parameter and variable in decision-making; 5. Positive roles of regional and global organisations; 6. Arms deterrence (armed peace).

ITALY

H.E. LUCA GORI

AMBASSADOR OF ITALY

PEACE, FREEDOM AND PROSPERITY

It is now time to accelerate the EU accession process for Serbia. Regardless of the long procedures entailed by the enlargement process, EU Member States continue to demonstrate their willingness to advocate for Serbia’s accession path ~ Luca Gori

The international scenario is and will remain gloomy, but we have to use the optimism of willpower to oppose the pessimism of reason. Europe should remain united and loyal to its values: peace, freedom, prosperity. From this perspective, 2023 will undoubtedly be an even tougher year for Europe. We should approach the new year with a clear awareness of the uncertain times in which we live. Old and new challenges will surge: from securing energy supplies to tackling migratory flow, and guaranteeing overall peace and stability. But we cannot tackle these major, global issues in silos. Cooperation and dialogue are the key tools to overcoming challenges. On the EU Enlargement process, there are some positive signs that we have to encourage. The negotiation process with Albania and North Macedonia has started. Bosnia-Herzegovina could soon be granted candidate country status. It is now time to accelerate the EU accession process for Serbia. Regardless of the long procedures entailed by the enlargement process, EU Member States continue to demonstrate their willingness to advocate for Serbia’s accession path. The EU-Western Balkan Summit in Tirana was a case in point. For its part, Italy fully supports Serbia in fulfilling its accession requirements, acknowledging Belgrade’s efforts in progressing towards this common goal. Next year we will continue to develop the already excellent relationship between Rome and Belgrade. The friendship and partnership between our two countries remains an important reason for optimism as we enter 2023.

JAPAN

H.E. TAKAHIKO KATSUMATA

AMBASSADOR OF JAPAN

DIPLOMATIC ANNIVERSARY

Looking at the Western Balkans, the international community is carefully following the development of the EU-mediated Belgrade-Pristina dialogue. Japan supports this process and appreciates Serbia’s determination to reach a solution to this long-standing issue. We expect Serbia to play a constructive role for the peace and stability of the region ~ Takahiko Katsumata

Looking back over 2022, Japan and Serbia celebrated the 140th anniversary of the friendly relationship that was established between Emperor Meiji and King Milan Obrenović in 1882. We could confirm our wellestablished friendship and even promote JapanSerbia human networks through various cultural events and my visits throughout Serbia. Contrary to the bilateral goodwill circumstances, the world had to cope with extraordinary challenges that still confront us. Above all, Russian aggression against Ukraine started on 24th February 2022 and will have been ongoing for almost a year. We have witnessed the numerous victims and huge destruction of Ukraine. Millions of displaced people are now abandoning the country. There are even a few thousand Ukrainian people in Japan who fled their home country. It has also shaken the global order of security, and caused energy and food crises. I don’t believe that we can state optimistic views of 2023 without stopping the aggression. Looking around Japan, the security environment has become increasingly severe as a result of nuclear weapon and missile development by North Korea. Transnational threats grounded on technological progress, including international terrorism and cyberattacks, are also increasing their significance. In the current world, no nation can maintain its own peace and security alone. Japan has contributed, to the maximum possible extent, to efforts to maintain and restore international peace and security, such as UN peacekeeping operations. These efforts are made on the basis of the belief that Japan, as a “Proactive Contributor to Peace”, needs to contribute more actively to the peace and stability of the region and the international community, while coordinating with other countries. Looking at the Western Balkans, the international community is carefully following the development of the EU-mediated Belgrade-Pristina dialogue. Japan supports this process and appreciates Serbia’s determination to reach a solution to this long-standing issue. We expect Serbia to play a constructive role for the peace and stability of the region. On the eve of the beginning of 2023, I would like to express my belief that it’s now time for Japan and Serbia, as long-standing friendly countries, to work more closely to ensure a brighter future for the region and the world.

KOREA

H. E. LEE JAEWOONG

AMBASSADOR OF KOREA

ALWAYS DARKEST BEFORE THE DAWN

I believe that we may be able to see some positive happenings in 2023. Human beings learn lessons from their past mistakes and try to resolve problems through coordinated efforts ~ Lee Jaewoong

History books will most likely record 2022 as the year of war in Ukraine, economic turmoil and the final phase of efforts to end the pandemic. People may think that the next year will also be difficult for more or less the same reasons. However, it is always darkest before the dawn, and I believe that we may be able to see some positive happenings in 2023. Human beings learn lessons from their past mistakes and try to resolve problems through coordinated efforts. Personally, as ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Serbia, I have every reason to be optimistic about the bilateral relationship between Korea and Serbia. In the field of the economy, we may see more concrete projects moving ahead, as more Korean companies are interested in coming to Serbia for future new business and investment opportunities. The trade volume between our two countries will further increase, following the trends of the past several years. We can see more Korean products, such as cars and cosmetics, gaining popularity in Serbia. As for Serbia, the Korean market will be more open to import agricultural products and natural resources. Culturally, there are more chances that events related to Korea will take place in Serbia, as the pandemic restrictions disappear. The Korean embassy is planning to organise some events, such as concerts and exhibitions of traditional Korean printing in 2023. Many new Korean dramas, films and K-pop songs will also be produced to entertain global audiences. The travel industry will also return to the level of the pre-pandemic era, and more tourists from both countries will visit the other country respectively, promoting mutual interests and understanding between Koreans and Serbs. I believe that diplomats should be optimistic as they exert themselves to make the world a better place for human beings to live in. As a diplomat of Korea in Serbia, I will spare no effort in realising my optimism for our two countries in reality, together with my colleagues at the embassy.

NETHERLANDS

H.E. JOOST REINTJES

AMBASSADOR OF THE NETHERLANDS

SERBIA TO ALIGN WITH THE EU

Economic ties between the Netherlands and Serbia give us enough reason to be optimistic. Our bilateral trade has been growing consistently, at about 20%, and shows no signs of slowing down, despite a complex global situation ~ Joost Reintjes

In this particularly difficult global situation, in which democratic values are under attack, it is important to seeks solutions jointly. The European Union imposed sanctions on Russia in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. A country that aspires to EU membership, like Serbia, is expected to align its policies with the EU. Progressive alignment with the EU’s foreign policy is not a new condition and is part of the negotiation framework. When it comes to EU integration, economic relations play a very significant part. Economic ties between the Netherlands and Serbia give us enough reason to be optimistic. Our bilateral trade has been growing consistently, at about 20%, and shows no signs of slowing down, despite a complex global situation. In fact, provisional figures for 2022 indicate a 30% increase in bilateral trade, reaching almost a billion euros in the first ten months of the year. It is my expectation that the positive experiences of Dutch companies operating in Serbia will serve as a calling card for other companies to test out the market. Furthermore, Dutch companies are very much ingrained in Serbia’s everyday life. With around 500 businesses employing almost 20,000 people in a variety of sectors, Dutch companies include household names that almost every Serbian knows and uses, including Ahold-Delhaize (Maxi/Tempo), KLM, Philips, Kupujem-Prodajem, Heineken, but also small vibrant businesses providing consultancy services, furniture manufacturing, urban greening and sustainable agriculture. These economic interactions between our two countries help to increase people-to-people contacts. However, it is not only through economic ties that our two countries are getting to know each other better. I meet many people that have studied or lived in the Netherlands for all kinds of reasons: a personal highlight for me was meeting Dušan Tadić, captain of your national football team and Amsterdam’s Ajax. Mutual understanding doesn’t come only through shared successes, but also through shared challenges. Serbia can do more to safeguard media freedom and the safety of journalists. A responsible and pluralistic media forms part of the necessary checks and balances in a democratic system. Also in 2023, the Netherlands embassy will be working with government and civil society to help implement the reforms needed to protect democratic values like freedom of expression and the rule of law.

SWITZERLAND

H.E. URS SCHMID

AMBASSADOR OF SWITZERLAND

TIMES OF INNOVATION

Businesswomen and men are constantly finding innovative ways to deal with the changes that our world is undergoing. They work across boundaries and languages, set politics aside and find ways to work together. They are bridge-builders who create interpersonal ties and link communities ~ Urs Schmid

Iam always amazed by the human capacity for innovation and this gives me a great deal of reason for optimism. Think only of how quickly a vaccine was developed during the COVID pandemic! Under stress and with the right funding, scientists from all over the world are capable of great things. Particularly in times of crisis, transformations happen and the current energy crisis may help us to transition more quickly to greener sources of energy. Switzerland is consistently ranked number one in terms of innovation, but I am also very impressed by Serbia’s capacity to innovate. Whether at the Science & Technology Parks, the Institute of Physics - which I visited this year – or other schools and universities across the country, wonderful steps forward are happening each day. Businesswomen and men are also constantly finding innovative ways to deal with the changes that our world is undergoing. They work across boundaries and languages, setting politics aside and finding ways to work together. They are bridge-builders, they create interpersonal ties and link communities. As a Swiss ambassador, I am proud of the hundreds of Swiss businesses, many of them owned or led by Swiss-Serbian dual nationals, who are quietly developing and diversifying economic ties between our two countries. Switzerland was recently ranked 2nd in the 2022 Economic Freedom Index compiled by the Heritage Foundation. This index looks at indicators such as the rule of law (property rights, judicial effectiveness, government integrity), regulatory efficiency (business freedom, labour freedom, monetary freedom), government size (tax burden, government spending, fiscal health) and open markets (trade freedom, investment freedom, financial freedom). Serbia is currently in 59th place on this index, but with a positive trend of expanding economic freedoms. I look forward to continuing to work with Serbia in 2023, through our Cooperation Programme, through our Swiss-Serbian Chamber of Commerce, through our individual business actors, through scientific cooperation and through our regular political consultations.

SWEDEN

H.E. ANNIKA BEN DAVID

AMBASSADOR OF SWEDEN

SWEDEN AND THE EU PRESIDENCY

What we have witnessed is historic unity in the EU… The real heroes are, of course, the Ukrainian women and men fighting for their – and our – freedom. But it is also true that the unified response of the EU has contributed to strengthening Ukraine economically and militarily ~ Annika Ben David

Firstly, we should be proud of the fact that we have seen an unprecedented level of solidarity and resistance during the last two major crises – the pandemic and Russia’s full-scale war on Ukraine. Instead of being divided, we have been astonishingly united in our responses. This shows that our societies are strong when and where it really matters. The speed at which the scientific community was able to develop vaccines that saved millions of lives was unprecedented, and so was our common European response to Russia when it attacked Ukraine on 24th February. What we have witnessed is historic unity in the EU, a bloc created out of the ashes of WWII in order to prevent any devastating new wars between former enemies. The real heroes are, of course, the Ukrainian women and men fighting for their – and our – freedom. But it is also true that the unified response of the EU has contributed to strengthening Ukraine economically and militarily. Another reason for optimism is the fact that the state of European industry remains strong. The argument that Western sanctions hurt Europe more than Russia has been proven false. If we look at the bigger picture, you could actually say that we are getting collectively smarter, more coordinated and better at solving problems. This is true in medicine and science, but also in politics. For example, it is now a well-established fact that the most important progress within the EU has been a result of dealing with crises. The typical Swedish take is that most problems can be solved, and I truly believe that the last few years have shown us precisely that. Sweden takes over the presidency of the EU in January, and for six months will drive the EU’s agenda forward. We now have the Tirana Declaration, making it clearer than ever that the EU is committed to welcoming our Western Balkan partners into the family. Now is the time to speed up reforms, harmonise policies and implement decisive new measures for the geostrategic orientation of the region.

TURKEY

H.E. HAMI AKSOY

AMBASSADOR OF TURKEY

HOPE FOR A PEACEFUL FUTURE

As Türkiye, we enter 2023 with awareness that it will be a unique year, especially for us, as we will be celebrating the centenary of the foundation of our Republic. Additionally, we will be celebrating the 500th anniversary of the date we laid the foundations of our Ministry of Foreign Affairs ~ Hami Aksoy

We live in an era characterised by uncertainties, crises and conflicts. There are various threats to peace and stability worldwide. A spectrum of new challenges has emerged, testing the entire international system. In this complex background, we experienced two new major shocks over the last two years: the coronavirus pandemic and the war in Ukraine. As we were recovering from the negative impact of the pandemic, we faced a new shock, and the heart of Europe is now facing the most severe crisis since World War II. Türkiye is at the very centre of a region where the effects of crises and changes are felt deeply. Despite the negative aspects of this complex global equation, I believe there is always hope and reason for optimism. For instance, I sincerely believe that our experience of learning the importance of solidarity during the pandemic will create many opportunities for constructive collaboration in 2023. As Türkiye, we enter 2023 with awareness that it will be a unique year, especially for us, as we will be celebrating the centenary of the foundation of our Republic. Additionally, we will be celebrating the 500th anniversary of the date we laid the foundations of our Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The essence of the historical accumulation of knowledge is what determines the identity of our diplomacy and shapes our basic reflexes. If we learn from history and adjust our policies and strategies to construct a peaceful future, there is always hope and reason for optimism. In 2023, these two important anniversaries will provide an opportunity for us to reflect on history and look to the future with the experience we have derived from our past, and address the challenges ahead of us with wisdom. I sincerely hope that 2023 will be a milestone in which we will construct a peaceful future, and rise to the challenges we face. I would like to conclude with my sincere wishes and celebrations for a Happy New Year.

US

H. E. CHRISTOPHER R. HILL

AMBASSADOR OF THE U.S.

ALWAYS LOOKING FORWARD

I’m sure 2023 will bring many challenges, as in years past, but I am optimistic that, by working together, Americans and Serbians will not only continue to find creative solutions to overcome those challenges, but to turn them into opportunities ~ Christopher Hill

By nature, I’m an optimist. That’s why I’m a diplomat, because the work of a diplomat is to look forward and to find solutions to tough problems. My confidence about Serbia’s future, and the future of this region, was one of the reasons I took this role, and I see many reasons to look forward to 2023. First among them are the business partnerships between Serbia and the United States that are growing stronger and stronger. Serbia recently hosted 27 American IT and clean energy firms who made up our first bilateral trade mission in 20 years. Innovative American companies like the electric vehicle maker Rivian are opening offices here because they recognise the wealth of talent available in Serbia and how much Serbia’s next generation has to offer in working in partnership with the West. The U.S. Development Finance Corporation is guaranteeing hundreds of millions of dollars in loans to help promising Serbian SMEs get up and running, and linked into more lucrative markets, while USAID is working to help Serbia find smarter energy solutions. And we are investing in Serbia’s young people too – through exchange programmes, mentoring, networking and more through our new youth leadership development programme, BOLD. I’m sure 2023 will bring many challenges, as in years past, but I am optimistic that, by working together, Americans and Serbians will not only continue to find creative solutions to overcome those challenges, but to turn them into opportunities for both our countries and all our people to flourish.