July 2023, Issue No. 225

EDITOR IN CHIEF:

Neda Lukić n.lukic@aim.rs

ART DIRECTOR:

Branislav Ninković

b.ninkovic@aim.rs

CONTRIBUTORS:

Ljubica Gojgić, Radmila Stanković, Maja Vukadinović, Mirjana Jovanović, Miša Brkić, Rob Dugdale,

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Steve MacKenzie, Zorica Todorović Mirković, Sonja Ćirić, Miloš Belčević

PHOTOS: Zoran Petrović

COPY EDITOR: Mark Pullen

TRANSLATION & EDITING: PULLEN EDITORIAL

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FINANCE: Dragana Skrobonja finance@aim.rs

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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Maja Vidaković m.vidakovic@aim.rs

DIRECTOR: Ana Novčić a.novcic@aim.rs a.novcic@cordmagazine.com

PUBLISHER: Ivan Novčić i.novcic@aim.rs

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Urgent need For De-Escalation

Indeed, there can be no return to anything resembling normality for residents in the northern municipalities until all communities once again participate in public safety institutions there, as well as in the judiciary and in municipal decision-making

As it marks its 24th anniversary, the OSCE Mission in Kosovo is continuing to deliver its mandate from the UN Security Council and the OSCE Permanent Council – consolidating democratic institutions, safeguarding human and community rights, and ensuring an inclusive approach to public safety, taking account of the interests and rights of all communities.

Kosovo now has a legislative framework in place which protects the rights of non-majority communities. However, it is crucial that the legislation should be properly implemented and respected. The rights, needs and interests of non-majority communities are therefore fully integrated into all areas of the Mission’s work. Mission Members across all 38 of Kosovo’s municipalities are continuing to monitor the situation closely, reporting security incidents and advocating at all levels of administration, as necessary, to help ensure that the rule of law is upheld.

There has been recent notable pro-

gress in some areas of direct relevance to community rights. Non-majority communities are participating in local security fora established with OSCE support in municipalities right across Kosovo. The Consultative Council on Communities is working effectively with the Language Commissioner and other parts of government to scrutinize legislation and to ensure community rights are protected. A new unit is being established, sponsored by the OSCE, to improve the quality of translation between the two official languages, Albanian and Serbian. Young women and men from non-majority communities are responding positively to new recruitment opportunities in Kosovo institutions, including the Kosovo Police.

many municipal assembly members, decided to stand down from their positions last November, creating an institutional and security vacuum in the four northern municipalities.

The resignations of elected mayors and municipal assembly members made necessary the extraordinary municipal elections which took place in northern municipalities on 23rd April, but which were boycotted by the overwhelming majority of Kosovo Serb voters. While legally elected, the new mayors lack legitimacy as a result of the low turnout. As we have seen, tensions have risen sharply since then.

There is an urgent need for de-escalation. Indeed, there can be no return to anything resembling normality for residents in the northern municipalities until all communities once again participate in public safety institutions there, as well as in the judiciary and in municipal decision-making.

The OSCE Mission has worked hard in recent years to support the implementation of agreements reached in the EU-facilitated Dialogue, especially with regard to the integration of the police and the judiciary. This integration brought tangible benefits to residents and has been one of the Dialogue’s key achievements. It is therefore a matter of regret that professional police officers, judges and prosecutors, together with four elected mayors and

This is why the OSCE has called for fresh, inclusive elections to be held as soon as possible. The mechanisms exist for this to happen, provided all communities play their part.

There is an urgent need for both parties in the EU-facilitated Dialogue to reaffirm their commitments to one another and to implement what they have agreed. Understandings reached in Brussels on 27th February and then in Ohrid on 18th March raised hopes among all communities in Kosovo that there was a new momentum leading to normalisation. Those hopes should not be disappointed.

While legally elected, the new mayors lack legitimacy as a result of the low turnout. As we have seen, tensions have risen sharply since then

Ambassador Michael Davenport, Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo; former EU Ambassador and Head of the EU Delegation to Serbia, and British Ambassador to Serbia

Cooperation Is The Name Of The Game

Europe is in a hurry because it needs to catch up with the emerging and existing superpowers that take up ever more spheres of influence in international relations. If Europe wants to play a role on the international front as one, it needs to be at least cohesive, if not united. It needs to act fast. Of course, it isn’t only up to Europe and the European Union, but it is also up to Serbia to speed up the process

Nataša Pirc Musar President of Slovenia

By Ljubica Gojgić

Photos: Matjaž Klemenc UPRS

During her recent visit to Belgrade, Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar noted the importance to the region of the Brdo-Brijuni Process, in contrast to the claims of many analysts that this process is reaching a dead end: I sense that the time is right to bring more content to this process. There are many issues in the region that we politicians disagree on how to resolve. But there are quite a few other issues that we agree concern us all and on which swift joint action is hence needed: climate change and the brain-drain of young people are but two of them. I hope we can focus on these issues. This would send a strong message of cooperation to the region.

Madam President, how would you assess the results of your recent visit to Serbia?

― In a very positive way. President Vučić and I agreed that Slovenia and Serbia cooperate strongly in the field of economics, but also in other areas. We agreed that the Brdo-Brijuni Process should continue, which I personally find to be a very important message for the region and for Europe. Of course, we did not shy away from topics where we see things differently.

You’ve emphasised the fact that the Western Balkan countries are among the first destinations that you’ve been visiting as president of Slovenia. How important is this region to you and why?

― Indeed, my first visits are taking place in concentric circles, so to speak. I wanted to visit all the capitals of our neighbours, for obvious reasons. You need to live in an environment with friendly neighbours in order to lead healthy international relations. The Western Balkans is the region with which we, in Slovenia, share a lot: history, economy, friendships, rivalries. For some of us who are old enough, even the language isn’t a barrier. It is impossible for one to ignore these facts.

You stressed the importance of the regional Brdo-Brijuni Process during your visit to Belgrade. However, many analysts see that process reaching an impasse. How do you see the future of this initiative?

― I beg to differ, but let me first stress what I have been stressing since my first day in office. I commend my predecessor, Mr Borut Pahor, for co-launching this important political initiative. I pledged to both him and voters that I would try to continue with the process.

So, about the impasse - I sense that the time is right to bring more content to this process. There are many issues in the region that we politicians disagree on how to resolve. But there are quite a few other issues that we agree concern us all and on which swift joint action is hence needed: climate change and the brain-drain of young people are but two of them. I hope we can focus on these issues. This would send a strong message to the region: cooperation, not conflict, is the name of the game for the future.

You’ve said that you hope Serbia “will join the diverse European family as soon as possible, because Europe is also in a hurry”. Could you explain this statement further?

― Europe is in a hurry because it needs to catch up with the emerging and existing superpowers that

Slovenia is an initiator of the digitisation of the common archival materials of the former SFRY, which would make digital copies of them accessible to the national archives of all successor states

I expect trade between the two countries to reach almost €2 billion again this year

EUROPE

Europe will not be competitive internationally if it can’t be cohesive internally

are taking up ever more spheres of influence in international relations. If Europe wants to play a role on the international plane as one, it needs to be at least cohesive, if not united. It needs to act fast. Of course, it is not only up to Europe and the European Union, but it is also up to Serbia to speed up the process. I am fully aware of how difficult this process is, but you know very well what the big picture is here: Europe will not be competitive internationally if it can’t be cohesive internally.

Does Serbia’s EU accession depend on it accepting the independence of Kosovo, first and foremost in the context of UN membership?

― In my entire professional life, I have always consciously avoided speculative answers. I hope you will understand that I prefer to keep up this habit. But what needed to be said is that Serbia and Kosovo should find a solution to ease the tensions. The current situation does not help the EU or either country. The whole Western Balkan region is not progressing fast enough. I see a lack of political will, but - to be honest - the EU also has to do its share.

Your comments on the protests in Serbia and media freedom, which you gave during a joint public address with the President of Serbia, have attracted far and away the most media attention. Did you respond as a president or as a former journalist?

― Permit me a small correction here. I was not commenting on protests in Serbia. I reacted because I thought it was important to put the journalist’s question in perspective, within the context of values that I hold dear. So, the answer is: I reacted as a person guided in life by a set of certain norms and values that I shall never abandon.

INVESTMENTS

Slovenia is one of Serbia’s most important investors and economic partners

You’ve cited the archives and succession as being issues that require further harmonisation between our two countries. Where do the biggest problems lie?

― Slovenia is an initiator of the digitisation of the common archival materials of the former SFRY, which would make digital copies of them accessible to the national archives

SFRY DIGITISATION

It is right that we have orderly and transparent access to our common history

More than 1,500 Slovenian companies employ 25,000 workers in Serbia

of all successor states. It is right that we have orderly and transparent access to our common history.

In which directions could economic cooperation between Slovenia and Serbia continue to develop?

I expect trade between the two countries to reach almost €2 billion again this year, following last year’s record numbers. Slovenia is one of Serbia’s most important investors and economic partners. More than 1,500 Slovenian companies employ 25,000 workers in Serbia. But I always say that it’s never so good that it can’t get better. This can be made possible, in particular, by further improving freight routes, for example.

There are quite a few issues that we agree concern us all and on which swift joint action is hence needed: climate change and the brain-drain of young people are but two of them

New Insights On The Horizon

The recent LHCP2023 meeting in Belgrade provided a platform to explore numerous novel and captivating physics findings that are fundamental to CERN’s work. In this insightful interview with Joachim Mnich, Director for Research and Computing at CERN, we shed light on the next steps in humanity’s quest to unravel the mysteries surrounding the Higgs boson and enigmatic Dark Matter

Joachim Mnich Director for Research and Computing at CERN

Photos: CERN

CERN, as a pioneering institution in fundamental physics research, spearheads the expansion of our understanding of the universe through scientific exploration, technological advancements and collaborative endeavours. By pushing the boundaries of knowledge and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, CERN actively drives innovation, blazing the trail for future breakthroughs.

CERN’s physicists and engineers utilise state-of-the-art scientific instruments to explore the fundamental particles that comprise matter. By accelerating subatomic particles and causing them to collide at near-light speeds, they gain insights into particle interactions and uncover the fundamental laws of nature. The primary objective is to push the boundaries of human knowledge by delving into the intricate components that form our universe.

Serbia became CERN’s 23rd Member State on 24th March, 2019, though its association with the organisation dates back to its time as part of the former Yugoslavia, which was one of the 12 founding Member States in 1954. Serbian physicists and engineers played an active role in early CERN projects, contributing to the development of facilities like the SC, PS and SPS.

During the 1980s and ‘90s, Serbian physicists participated in the DELPHI experiment at CERN’s LEP collider. In 1991, Serbia and CERN established an International Cooperation Agreement, facilitating Serbia’s engagement in various projects. This includes participation in the ATLAS and CMS experiments at the Large Hadron Collider, collaboration in the Worldwide LHC Computing Grid, and involvement

in the ACE and NA61 experiments. Serbia’s primary involvement with CERN today centres around the ATLAS and CMS experiments. Serbia additionally contributes to research conducted at the ISOLDE facility, encompassing studies ranging from nuclear physics to astrophysics. Serbia also participates ac-

Serbia’s participation in CERN is a vital component of its strategy to implement the Smart Specialisation Strategy and drive scientific and industrial advancements. However, the industrial return to Serbia –when compared with all its membership dues to CERN – has so far been minimal. One of the ways to

tively in design studies for future particle colliders, such as the FCC (Future Circular Collider) and CLIC (Compact Linear Collider), which have the potential to become flagship projects for CERN.

balance the two directions of this cooperation is to revive the development and application of accelerator technologies in Serbia, specifically through the completion of the construction of the TESLA Accelerator Installation at the Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, which should be approved by the government of Serbia. Furthermore, the feasibility of establishing the Southeast European International Institute for Sustainable Technologies, which received support from CERN in 2017, within the scope of the Berlin Initiative for the Western Bal-

CERN’s collaborative environment drives innovation. Its technologies have had far-reaching impacts in healthcare, environmental protection, aerospace, cryptography and more

kans, should be remade with the possible return to TESLA as its core.

Given the significance of CERN’s potential for society and its own Member States, it is crucial for experts and the general public to gain deeper insights.

We had the privilege of interviewing Joachim Mnich, director for research and computing at CERN, to discuss some of the major developments in this regard. Our interview began by addressing the recent conference that was held in Belgrade during May.

What are the major takeaways from the LHCP 2023 Conference that was held in Belgrade in May?

― The LHCP2023 meeting in Belgrade was the first in-person event of this conference series after the pandemic. More than 350 scientists attended the conference, in -

cluding a large number of young people. The LHC experiments presented many new and interesting physics results. The large data sample collected so far, together with improved analysis techniques, often based on machine learning, allow for the establishing of very rare processes and increasing the precision of measurements. Examples are the observation of very rare decay modes of the Higgs boson and the precise determination of the mass

of the W boson, an important parameter of the Standard Model of particle physics.

Could you briefly explain to our readers, who are generally neither experimenters nor theorists, the major value of these scientific advances in terms of this endeavour’s industrial impact?

― Scientific advances are based on new technologies, in the case of the LHC in the areas of particle accelerators and detectors, as well as information technology. Key technologies employed at the LHC span a very wide range, including examples like cryogenics and vacuum technology, precision mechanics, micro-electronics and artificial intelligence.

Fundamental research might seem distant from our everyday lives, but CERN is a unique collaborative environment that provides

The LHCP2023 meeting in Belgrade marked the first inperson event of the conference series since the pandemic, at which LHC experiments presented numerous new and intriguing physics results

ENVIRONMENT

Innovative, environmentally-friendly cooling technologies are being developed to enhance the capacity of detectors while reducing their environmental footprint

EXPERTISE

CERN’s mission includes educating young scientists and engineers who later bring their expertise to industry and business

BREAKTHROUGHS

Upgrading the LHC to the High Luminosity LHC (HL-LHC) will enable the study of rarer processes, including the Higgs boson and Dark Matter

We will perhaps be able to shed light on the mysterious Dark Matter, which is five times more abundant in the Universe than ordinary matter, but which only interacts with it very weakly. To make this step in enhancing the science potential, new and stronger super-conducting magnets based on new materials have to be developed.

a fertile ground for innovation. The world wide web, for instance, was invented at CERN. More recently, CERN technologies have impacted healthcare, environmental protection, the aerospace industry, cryptography and more…

Education is also at the core of CERN’s mission: young scientists and engineers at CERN are trained on such modern technologies. After their career in research, the majority of them bring their knowledge and experience to industry and business.

What is the next step you are working on in terms of scientific advancements? How have the technologies you rely on evolved to enable this?

― We are preparing an upgrade of the LHC to increase the rate of particle collisions by a factor 5-10. This so-called High Luminosity LHC, or HL-LHC for short, will start operating in 2029 and will enable experiments to study even rarer processes, giving a more detailed and sharper view of the Higgs boson.

The detectors also have to be upgraded to take advantage of the higher collision rate. Finer and more precise detectors are required to reconstruct the collisions in a much more complicated environment. One example are detectors with a very good time resolution below a tenth of a billionth of a second. Another key development required is radiation hard electronics, which has to withstand a much higher dose than current detectors for many years.

New environmentally-friendly cooling technologies are being developed to improve the capacity while at the same time reducing the environmental footprint of the detectors.

Fundamental research might seem distant from our everyday lives, but CERN is a unique collaborative environment that provides fertile ground for innovation. The world wide web, for instance, was invented at CERN

Golden Age

With regard to relations between Belgrade and Pristina, our official position is to support the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue in Brussels. We followed events in North Kosovo with concern. These events harm regional security and stability. Nobody benefits from crisis ~ Hami Aksoy

H.E. Hami Aksoy Ambassador of The Republic of Türkiye

By Ljubica Gojgić

TURKISH FORCES

The units sent to Kosovo are Turkish forces under KFOR command; they are there at the request of the Joint Forces Command in Italy (Naples)

The situation in many spheres today serves to confirm that relations between Türkiye and Serbia have never been better and are at the highest level in recorded memory. This doesn’t only apply to the economy, where mutual exchanges worth 2.5 billion dollars are being recorded, but rather also applies to culture and tourism, says Turkish Ambassador H.E. Hami Aksoy speaking in this interview for CorD Magazine. He also considers our bilateral political relations as being “perfect”, despite the fact that the two countries differ in their views of Kosovo’s unilaterally declared independence. “We wish to see de-escalation,” insists Ambassador Aksoy in response to the latest tensions in the northern part of Kosovo.

Your Excellency, you stated in one interview that Türkiye and Serbia are experiencing “the best ever juncture in their mutual relations”. In which areas is this positive moment most evident?

― Türkiye-Serbia relations are indeed at a pinnacle. President Vučić defined our bilateral relations as “going through their golden age”. The Turkish-Serbian High-Level Cooperation Council was established in 2017 and has since held three meetings at the highest level – the last one being in 2022 – which has boosted our cooperation in various areas. The positive momentum shows itself in the economy, trade, tourism and cultural cooperation. The volume of bilateral trade stands at almost 2.5 billion dollars. We are closing in on the goal of five billion dollars of bilateral trade year after year. We have 21 largescale investments in Serbia. We are building factories, roads, highways, a modern hospital etc. Halkbank recently opened its 41st branch

TRADE EXCHANGE

We are closing in on the goal of five billion dollars of bilateral trade year after year

MISSIONS

After the establishing of our Consular Office in Niš, the number of missions we have in Serbia is now three; which indicates that bilateral relations are strengthening

in the country. Acıbadem Belmedic will soon build a modern, 400-bed hospital in Belgrade, while the 1,600 Turkish companies established in Serbia currently employ around 7,500 people here. We have also seen record-breaking numbers in tourism: almost 360,000 Serbian citizens visited Türkiye in 2022. This is an all-time high number. And 125,000 Turkish tourists also came to Serbia, representing a 110% increase compared to the numbers for Turkish tourists in 2021. We signed – amongst others – a “Travel with IDs” protocol agreement that will hopefully enter into force soon. The number of direct flights between our countries is increasing. We have flights not only from Belgrade, but also to Istanbul

― We have perfect political relations with Serbia. The friendship of our leaders is exceptional. Regarding relations between Belgrade and Pristina, our official position is to support the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue in Brussels. We followed the events unfolding in North Kosovo with concern. These events harm regional security and stability. We wish to see de-escalation. Nobody benefits from crisis. Stability is a key factor for welfare and development. Our president is in touch with both sides at the highest level. The only way to reduce tension and establish lasting peace and stability in the region is to make progress in the ongoing dialogue process.

Could you comment on the decision of the Turkish Defence Ministry to send members of special units to Kosovo, to be stationed in Prizren?

from Kraljevo and Niš. Apart from Istanbul, we now also have direct flights to Ankara, Izmir, Antalya, Bodrum and Alanya. Serbs have an increased interest in the Turkish language, thanks to some Turkish tv shows that are popular in Serbia.

Despite maintaining good relations with Serbia, Türkiye is also among the important promoters of Kosovo independence and advocates for the breakaway Serbian province’s accession to international organisations. How do you view the latest events and do you share the position of the countries of the Quint regarding Pristina’s responsibility for escalating tension?

― Türkiye continues contributing to global and regional peace and stability – not only bilaterally, but also through the peace missions of multilateral organisations like the UN, OSCE, EU and NATO. We are closely monitoring developments in the Balkans. We strive to follow a well-balanced and constructive position in order to be able to solve the issues through dialogue. The units sent to Kosovo are Turkish forces under KFOR command; they are there at the request of Joint Forces Command in Italy (Naples). So, basically, they are KFOR forces. They are there to ensure a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement, as authorised under UN Security Council Resolution 1244.

Following Novi Pazar, the city of Niš is also set to receive a Turkish consulate. What are the core tasks of these offices?

Our aim is to open an Honorary Consulate General in Novi Sad this year, thus increasing the number of Turkish missions in Serbia every year

― Consular missions provide a service to citizens in the areas for which they are responsible, while they are also essential for trade and business contacts, supporting investors from both sides. Having a stronger consular presence helps us provide a better service to our citizens. The Turkish Consulate General in Novi Pazar and the Consular Office in Niš are responsible for a wide region that extends from Čačak to Užice, but also encompassing the region around Niš, including Aleksinac. As a matter of fact, Türkiye was the first country to open a Consulate General in Novi Pazar. Our citizens originating from the Sandžak region, as well as Serbian citizens of Bosniak nationality, represent a strong link between our countries. We have businessmen whose investments have created jobs in many different parts of Serbia. when it comes to the Niš office, we have many Turkish citizens living in Western European countries who travel to Türkiye via Serbia during the summer. Our Office in Niš is located directly along their route to and from Türkiye. It plays a key in serving them as they traverse Serbia. It additionally also helps facilitate investments in Niš from the Turkish business sector. After the establishing of our Consular Office in Niš, the number of missions we have in Serbia is now three; which indicates that bilateral relations between our countries are strengthening. We actually only opened our Consulate General in Novi Pazar and the Consular Office in Niš during the last two years. Our aim is to open an Honorary Consulate General in Novi Sad this year, thus increasing the number of Turkish missions in Serbia every year.

Could Turkish-funded works on the construction of road infrastructure between Serbia and Bosnia-Herzegovina be sped up, and what determines the speed of progress?

― As countries of the same region, we have a mutual understanding of the need to strengthen peace, stability, connectivity and welfare across the Balkans as a whole. The Belgrade-Sarajevo Highway project is one of the results of that. During my tenure here, I have been happy to witness that it is continuing to develop at full speed in Serbia. I attended last October’s opening of the Novi Pazar-Tutin road

with President Vučić. Our countries thankfully have the essential political will to realise such infrastructure projects as efficiently as possible. Meetings between the relevant authorities of Serbia and Bosnia-Herzegovina have accelerated of late, particularly following the establishment of the new government in Bosnia-Herzegovina early this year. Serbian Construction, Transport and Infrastructure Minister Goran Vesić stated, following his 12th June meeting with his Bosnian counterpart Edin Forto, that Serbia and Bosnia-Herzegovina will be connected by two motorways and two expressways in the next few years, and that the 19 km section of the motorway from Kuzmin to the Bosnia-Herzegovina border will be completed by the end of this year. I believe that the continuation of such meetings, as well as the holding of the 4th meeting of the Türkiye-Serbia-Bosnia-Herzegovina Trilateral Committee soon, will lead to concrete results in terms of accelerating this project.

Türkiye is among the most popular summer holiday destinations for tourists from Serbia. Do people still ask you when direct flights between Belgrade and Antalya will be established and what do you tell them?

― Indeed, Antalya is one of the most attractive summer destinations for Serbians. We attach importance to developing people-to-people relations between our countries, which is why tourism represents a key area of cooperation. As I mentioned previously, we already have direct flights from Serbia to tourist destinations in Türkiye, including Antalya. These are mostly charter flights during the summer holiday season. We also want to launch direct flights to Antalya throughout the year. Just like direct regular flights to Izmir, extending direct flights to Antalya to the whole year would be beneficial to both potential tourists and business circles.

We are building factories, roads, highways, a modern hospital etc. Halkbank recently opened its 41st branch in the country

We have

21 large-scale investments in Serbia

Global Diary Spread of “Serbia against violence” Protests

For the eighth consecutive week, more than 20,00 protesters marched through Belgrade on in a stand against the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) government. Protests also spread to other cities in Serbia, including the second-largest city of Novi Sad and the southern city of Nis. They have demanded the resignations of two government ministers and the revocation of broadcasting licenses for two TV networks that, they say, promote violence and glorify crime figures. They also demand more media freedom and more coverage of opposition groups by the public broadcaster as well as an end to attacks on journalists and opposition figures.

Titan Submersible Disaster

Mitsotakis wins Greek Election

Greek conservative leader Kyriakos, who has been sworn in as prime minister, is credited with successfully returning the Greek economy to stability and growth after a severe debt crisis and three international bailouts. Although many Greeks are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis, voters chose to stick with the party promising lower taxes and improved public health. In May, his party fell just short of a majority in the 300-seat parliament and his decision to call an election in a bid to form a stable, single-party government was vindicated by the final result. Under Greek rules for a second election, the biggest party is awarded a bonus of between 20 and 50 seats. With more than 40% of the vote, New Democracy won all 50.

The dreadful saga of the missing Titanic submersible is finally drawing to a close. On Sunday, the vessel, called the Titan, was supposed to take five people on an hours-long, 3810 meter-deep journey to the wreckage of the Titanic, which rests at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. Instead, less than two hours into the tour, the submersible lost contact with its support ship. At a press conference this afternoon, the U.S. Coast Guard announced that a remotely operated vehicle had encountered the debris of the Titan, which suggested that the passengers were killed in “a catastrophic implosion of the vessel.” Investigators from the US, Canada, France and the United Kingdom are working closely together on the probe of the accident, said US Coast Guard Rear Admiral John Mauger.

The European Union arose on an economic foundation, and it turns out that even this is not a solid base. Cultural identity has been neglected.

Gunter Grass German writer

Rumi

Serbia to Host Specialised EXPO 2027

Member States of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) elected Serbia as host country of Specialised Expo 2027. After four rounds of voting during the BIE’s 172nd General Assembly, a majority of Member States voted for Serbia’s project to organise the next Specialised Expo in the city of Belgrade under the theme “Play for Humanity: Sport and Music for All”, between 15 th May and 15 th August 2027. This will be the first time that a BIE Expo is being held in Southeast Europe. According to the Serbian President, the total estimated financial gain from hosting Expo 2027 will be €1.1 billion and the direct economic benefits will amount to €600 million.

Belarus offers Wagner forces a new home

Turning point For EU and UK?

The European Union and the United Kingdom signed an agreement that’s been long-awaited by London to boost cooperation on financial services. The agreement will establish a forum through which the two sides will discuss voluntary regulatory cooperation on financial services issues. Jeremy Hunt, the British finance minister and Mairead McGuinness, European Commissioner for financial services, signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Brussels. McGuinness told reporters that although the UK is no longer in the EU, “we still share many of the same issues and challenges, like fighting financial crime, supporting sustainable finance and enabling digital finance. So, it’s really positive that we’ve had this structured cooperation in place.”

Following Wagner fighters capture of the city of Rostov on the Ukraine border, they raced in convoy through the country on their way to Moscow. The fighters, led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, a former Putin ally, founder of the Wagner army and a former convict, and his troops comprising ex-prisoners from Russian jails, Wagner forces decided to change the route and suddenly arrived in Belarus. The office of president Lukashenko explained that the decision to halt further movement of Wagner fighters was brokered with Putin’s approval, in return for guarantees for their safety. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that the move to Belarus was made under the deal. Peskov said Lukashenko had offered to mediate because he had known the mercenary leader personally for around 20 years.

Grief can be the garden of compassion. If you keep your heart open through everything, your pain can become your greatest ally in your life’s search for love and wisdom.

13th-century poet

ARE WE AWAITED BY A SWELTERING POLITICAL SUMMER?

Between Two Infernos

Will the current avalanche of discontent inundating the streets of Serbian cities soon be nothing but a fading memory, like the seemingly endless rain that has suddenly been replaced by a hot summer? Will the latest crisis in Kosovo – which continues to occupy the minds of citizens much more than the protests – fade in intensity, or will it only deepen, as some analysts are predicting? These are the questions bursting from the suitcases of every Serbian citizen and diplomat slowly preparing for their summer break

The history of previous protests in Serbia and tensions in Kosovo provide possible answers that could predict future developments, but that doesn’t free us of doubts over whether we are con-

fronted by different versions of “black swans”, i.e., possible sudden unforeseen changes with extreme consequences. One of them is the maturing of the Serbian electorate (and the opposition) and its strong resolve to progress

to the conquering of democratic freedoms through a series of minor victories, while another is for the stubbornness of Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti to become a serious burden for Western diplomats to handle.

Photo: Ana Paunković

Bojan Klačar Executive Director of the Centre for Free Elections and Democracy (CeSID)

A Solution to the Political Crisis Will Wait Until Autumn

The strong intervention of Western partners is needed to resolve the current Kosovo crisis, but also pressure on Albin Kurti. Furthermore, resolving the internal crisis resulting from the protests requires the reaching of a political agreement in Serbia. It would be tough for the summer to bring us solutions to both crises

Asweltering summer is just starting to heat up in Serbia, but the political temperature is already high. Neither a cold May nor a rainy June could “cool” what could be anticipated: Serbia returning to the political situation it experienced ahead of the April 2022 elections. This means lots of confrontation, little dialogue, excessive emotion and almost no mutual trust between the ruling coalition and the opposition. That’s why it’s important to note from the outset that summer will not be its usual boring self this year, rather it will be dynamic, in an environment of hypersensitivity and marked by various conflicts.

Although part of the public perceives the protests as being the biggest issue, that’s really not the case. Kosovo is in first place: it ranks high on the list of citizens’ priorities and the consequences of events in Kosovo can be felt everywhere, while Kosovo is an integral part of Serbia’s complex international mosaic (shaping relations with the EU, Russia and the U.S.) and, finally, it is a topic that is in large part beyond the control of the ruling coalition. The conduct of Kosovo leader Albin Kurti also represents a huge threat to peace and stability in the Western Balkans. The clashes occurring almost every day in North Kosovo will unfortunately not stop despite summer’s arrival.

The protests will remain lively over the short term, because there is still sufficient energy, solidarity and homogeneity, but it’s unrealistic to expect that energy won’t dissipate over the medium term. This is partly due to the summer months, but most important-

ly due to the fact that there are no “small victories” (the meeting of demands) that could provide (boost) new dynamism to these protests.

Is it then possible that the summer will even bring a solution to the crisis? Unlikely. Resolving the current Kosovo crisis requires the strong intervention of Western partners and enormous pressure applied to Albin Kurti. This isn’t certain to happen in the short term. Resolving the internal crisis caused by the protests requires political agreement in Serbia, either regarding early elections or the launch of political dialogue. No third way exists. There is no such agreement because of the different strategies of the ruling coalition and the

opposition. The government has a preference for elections, because it is the favourite to win them, while the opposition insists on using protests to weaken the ruling coalition (and only then holding elections).

A long, hot summer doesn’t favour either elections or protests, which is why a solution to the political crisis will have to be sought in autumn. If there is no kind of dialogue and elections are scheduled, we shouldn’t be surprised if these elections become another opportunity for confrontation, and not for overcoming the crisis. It wouldn’t be the first time.

Although part of the public perceives the protests as being the biggest issue, in reality Kosovo is still in first place

Bojan Vranić Associate Professor, University of Belgrade Faculty of Political Science

Can “Against Violence” Signify

A New Culture Of Protests In Serbia?

The question shouldn’t be about whether the protests can endure throughout the summer, but rather should be posed differently: will the parties organising the protests and the citizens participating in them learn to embrace minor victories, seizing every opportunity for success, irrespective of the magnitude of the outcome?

Following the national tragedy of the events of May, a series of political protests emerged in Serbia demanding that the ruling Progressives (SNS) take responsibility and make necessary changes in security, media and the overall public sphere in order to prevent future acts of violence. The mass protests against SNS policies and its (now former) leader Aleksandar Vučić are not new, given that similar protests took place sporadically between 2016 and 2021. What’s new is that the “Serbia against violence” protests are the first to be officially organised by the parliamentary opposition. There are many contesting issues regarding the means and ends of the protests, strategies, vision etc. However, the question that has been on the minds of the opposition, and in the hopes of the ruling parties, is whether the protests can survive the summer holidays, sunny days, and the rain of government money for children and to boost their parents’ salaries and grandparents’ pensions? This question tells us something about the way we perceive civic culture in Serbia. The strongest motivating factor behind the protests is undoubtably the horrific acts of violence seen in Belgrade, Mladenovac and Smederevo that shook Serbian society to its core. They showed that emotional upheaval is a stronger motivator than any rational cause. However, what lies beneath this emotional earthquake are layers of social injustice. These layers are horizontal, spread across different groups: ranging from social and economic inequalities; protests against clientelism and “party employment”; culture, education and environmental issues; and LGBTQ+ rights, to the overall decline of patriotism. With different degrees of media visibility, all these groups march together every week under the banner “against violence”. It is this atomic group

structure of the protests that sets the course for the outcome of political demands.

It is not a question of whether the protests can survive the summer. We have the similar example of the 2016 protests against the Belgrade Waterfront project that were prompted by the aggressive demolition carried out in the Savamala neighbourhood and peaked during July and August of that year. Despite the significant turnout for the protests and the emergence of new leaders (Saša Janković) and new political movements (PSG, NdmBgd), Aleksandar Vučić still won the 2017 presidential election by a landslide. The question needs to be worded differently: will the parties organising the protests, and the citizens participating in them, learn to accept minor victories, winning

The resounding victory of Aleksandar Vučić in the 2017 presidential election, despite notable protest activities and the emergence of new leaders and political movements, serves as an essential lesson from the past that demands careful consideration when navigating the current protest movements

whenever they can, regardless of the scale of the victory achieved? If opposition parties adopt the old Fabian strategy of not making a full-frontal assault on the opponent, the accumulation of small efforts can deliver favourable results over the long term. More importantly, small-scale gains will develop patience and trust among Serbian citizens: two virtues that are foundational to democratic political culture.

Jasmina Lukač journalist

Two Scenarios For A Summer of Tough Decisions

The continuation of protests at a reduced intensity could lead to the likely scheduling of early elections. The second scenario of a sudden radicalisation of protests and

This summer in Serbia will be a season of tough decisions; decisions that are much more difficult than those the needed to be made in the summer of 2022, when a new distribution of power was expected following Aleksandar Vučić’s re-election as President of Serbia. And that was a distribution of power that then included the opposition, bringing it to its feet after a decade of decline.

The summer of 2023 is seeing the opposition on the rise, thanks to the mass “Serbia against violence” protests, with the question being whether it will share power with Vučić, or wrest power from him.

The first scenario is more likely, but the second one shouldn’t be completely ruled out either. In the first scenario, protests will wane as a result of natural causes - heatwaves, summer holidays and the passage of time. The passage of time in the sense that the protests were triggered by feelings of agonising grief over the two consecutive massacres of children and young people and the grieve is subsiding after six weeks (the usual 40 days).

The opposition that is organising the protests will probably opt to campaign to maintain this manifestation of discontent despite falling turnouts.

This would mean the repeating of the events of 2019, with the directing of performances aimed at expressing civil disobedience and rejecting Vučić’s concessions. Back in 2019, that meant the “occupation of the Rectorate” over the doctorate of Minister Siniša Malog, camping on Andrićev Venac under the window of Vučić’s office, the attempt to create a civic platform in the form of the so-called Assembly of a Free Serbia...

European mediators like Vladimir Bilčik and Matjaž Nemec would turn up at some point, promising greater control of election processes, and the opposition would nonetheless participate in the early elections that Vučić is announcing for autumn, but which could also be held in January 2024.

The opposition would win more than it has now in those elections, certainly taking power in Belgrade and probably at least one other major city in Serbia, and possibly taking some important ministerial post.

This scenario perfectly suits Vučić, who last winter abandoned a full-on conflict with the West because he would have had to pay a personal price that was too high for him. He is endeavouring to become the Milo Đukanović of the Balkans following the departure of Milo Đukanović. However, as he doesn’t have the popularity that Đukanović enjoyed among Western allies, Vučić is striving to be a mixture of Đukanović and Viktor Orbán, though he is already an autocrat who enjoys the full security protection of the West while simultaneously maintaining strong business ties with Russia and the East.

This also resulted in him abandoning the SNS, as a party with Russian-Chinese leanings, and endeavouring to make the domestic scene more like that of the West.

He can only be prevented from doing this by the second scenario of the sudden radicalisation of protests and chaos, which also implies a revolt within Vučić’s closest circle that isn’t on the horison, particularly following the Hague Tribunal having finally delivered a verdict against Jovica Stanišić, the former chief of Milošević’s secret service.

Vučić is endeavouring to become the Milo Đukanović of the Balkans following the departure of Milo Đukanović. However, as he doesn’t have the popularity that Đukanović enjoyed among Western allies, Vučić is striving to be a mixture of Đukanović and Viktor Orbán

chaos, which also implies a revolt within Vučić’s closest circle, is far less probable

Milivoje Mihajlović journalist

Fiery Atmosphere In Both Kosovo And Serbia

The protests that are slowly spreading to engulf other cities – as is becoming increasingly certain – definitely won’t come to an end until citizens’ demands are met, despite the attempts of the current government to diminish and undermine them. The “reality show” in the Serbian National Assembly and public appearances of officials of the ruling coalition only serve to prompt ever more people to gather at each

subsequent protest. As for the Government of Serbia, it has been on holiday since the start of its term... Even well-informed journalists can’t remember who all the ministers are, because many of them are adept at hiding from the public eye... One thing that’s certain is that the President of Serbia will not go on holiday, as is his custom... Thus, the summer will certainly also be complicated because of that...

The situation in North Kosovo can’t be pacified quickly, even if Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti agrees to withdraw the special police and the mayor who was “elected” in elections boycotted by Serbs. The atmosphere isn’t only fiery in the North, but rather also in the Serb enclaves to the south of the Ibar. Residents of the municipality of Štrpce are complaining about increased police authoritarianism (the entire municipal leadership was arrested a year and a half ago and most of them haven’t had a hearing for more than a year). In the district of Kosovo Pomoravlje, in the villages near Kosovska Kamenica, the police arrested several locals and charged one of them with war crimes. Frightened locals claim that the police randomly arrested everyone who happened to be on the street, but also insist that their accused neighbour, a pensioner, didn’t participate in the war. Plainclothes Kosovo police officers in the North are also trying to secretly arrest people who participated in the recent protests held in front of municipal buildings.

Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti claims that he has no intention of backing down, but rather is intensi-

fying the repression, despite representatives of the U.S. administration publicly expressing their displeasure.

Kurti risks overturning Washington’s decades-long sympathy for Kosovo Albanians. Kurti attempted (and proved successful) to provoke a conflict between KFOR and local Serbs, but he didn’t count on his Western partners identifying him as the main culprit of the crisis. In all probability, this summer won’t be a peaceful one on the Kosovo political scene either. All opposition parties have raised their voices against Kurti and that dissatisfaction could spill over onto the streets. Warnings that Kurti’s obstinance is leading Kosovo towards isolation and bankruptcy could trigger a new wave of police violence in the North, but also protests against the Government of Kosovo among ethnic Albanian. NATO is sending ever more soldiers to Kosovo, the West is losing trust in the Kosovo government, there is no political solution on the horizon, nationalist extremism is awakening in the response of the police to the Serb population... This is too much of a risk, and thus the fear that the Kosovo summer could be more dramatic than the traditionally “hot” spring is justified.

The fear that the Kosovo summer could be more dramatic than the traditionally “hot” spring is justified

Protests, the national assembly, Chinese credit, sanctions against Russia, elections, Kosovo... These are all topics that will raise the political temperature in Serbia again this summer

Business Dialogue

LEADERS’ MEETING POINT

Aiming To Replace Cigarettes

MASSIMO ANDOLINA

President Europe Region at Philip Morris International (PMI)

Page 28

Passionate About Dealing With Law

DJORDJE DJOKIC

Senior Partner at Djokic + Partners

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Inspiring People To Make Fun&Fit Decissions

LJUBOMIR BABIĆ

CEO Fun&Fit Company, Delta Holding

Page 32

Poised To Make A Lasting Impact On The YACHTING MARKET

Page 36

Towards A Greener Future

NIS: ENERGY TRANSITION IN THE OIL INDUSTRY

Page 37

Aiming To Replace Cigarettes

Massimo Andolina President Europe Region at Philip Morris International

Despite how difficult it is for people to overcome their addiction to cigarettes, more than 25 million people have succeeded in making less harmfull choice over the past seven years thanks to the better alternatives they are being offered by Philip Morris

What trends in the field of tobacco harm reduction could be applied in Serbia?

― The trends in tobacco harm reduction are, first and foremost, innovation and science to bring consumers new and improved products. But the trends I would like to talk about are those in countries that have embraced tobacco harm reduction and recog-

nised the role of better alternatives in enhancing reductions in smoking rates. Sweden has, for example, embraced tobacco harm reduction for over 30 years, which has allowed it to reduce smoking rates from 20%, which is the approximate average in Europe today, to just 5.6%.

A world free of tobacco smoke is a big mission on your business agenda. What do you see as the key factors in transforming society towards realising this mission? What are the tools?

― If you’re asking on the basis of my experience to date, the most critical thing is to inform people. And this becomes particu-

larly important in the specific case of Serbia, given the high rate of smokers in the Serbian population that’s around the highest in Europe, with approximately 37% of the country’s legal age population smoking. The most important thing is to provide people with information and create awareness about the associated risks. And this is something companies can’t do alone. It needs to be done in conjunction between the regulator, the government and companies, which can then bring that information, and also the products, to the smoker.

What are the key challenges in changing the whole landscape in general?

― The key at this point is probably to get the regulator to start making decisions based on science and not on ideology or dogma. The issue with cigarettes is not tobacco or nicotine, but rather the combustion of organic matter that releases substances that are just bad for you. And I think at this point that we have the knowledge and the science, and have made the innovations, so it’s time for

us to move on; to continue along the path like we’re seeing with certain governments in Europe. A large country like France is stuck on a law that is 30 years old, when those innovations didn’t exist, and fails to recognise the difference between, for instance, a cigarette and a heated tobacco product. That doesn’t do a good service to smokers in their endeavour to cut out smoking.

This is really a trailblazing mission of PMI towards improving public health?

― It’s a trailblazing mission of ours. We have stated clearly that we want to unsmoke the world! We want to replace cigarettes! If you consider that this is the core business of our corporation, we’re saying we want to kill our business in favour of one that brings better alternatives to the world. I can only hope that this will inspire organisations like the WHO. We should look at what’s best for people, and in this case what’s best for smokers.

(PMI)

The key at this point is to get the regulator to start making decisions based on science and not on ideology

Philip Morris is the current leader and trailblazer in reducing the harm caused by tobacco. It is one of the most inspiring cases of a company utilising science and innovation to impact positively on society

Passionate About Dealing With Law

Djordje Djokic Senior Partner at Djokic + Partners

The Legal 500 declared our interlocutor’s law firm as being among the best in the banking and financial services sector. This firm is also specific in terms of its excellent ability to recognise the needs and objectives of clients and the fact that it develops a unique strategy for each of them individually.

You have been advising and representing some of the largest foreign and domestic companies for more than 15 years. Are you proud of those enduring relations based on foundations of trust, integrity and results?

― Our firm provides a full range of legal services at all stages of the development of major projects, from the initial stage to finalisation, and we can boast of having amassed enviable experience in the banking and financial sector, of representing commercial banks and various companies, and of our excellent familiarity with project financing, thanks to which we have participated actively in several significant investment projects in the Republic of Serbia. We advise numerous high-profile domestic and international clients in their daily operations, on sensitive corporate governance issues, complex cross-border transactions, specific commercial contracts and issues related to the restructuring and collecting of receivables. All of these enduring relationships are based on trust, integrity and excellent results. Apart from the fact that we carefully nurture old partnerships, at our firm we also strive to be a step ahead of the times in order for us to be able to keep pace with the accelerated development of the IT sector and our

clients’ needs in this field. We’ve developed specialist expertise in this area over previous years and actively provide legal assistance to some of the most innovative IT companies.

Your have a simple approach to your work: you endeavour to recognise the needs and goals of each individual client and develop a unique strategy for each of them?

― We work closely with clients in order for us to understand their unique needs and goals, and we develop tailored strategies to achieve those goals. We are passion-

ate about dealing with law, always strive to achieve the best possible results for our clients and believe in providing personalised attention to each of them. Furthermore, we join forces with other leading law firms in the region when required, which enables us to take on cross-border projects.

Does your wealth of experience enable you to handle the most complex legal issues?

― We have amassed 15 years of experience, more than 60,000 of the most varied cases, projects worth 800 million euros and vast

experience in a wide range of areas of legal practice. Thanks to this, and primarily to our team of dedicated professionals, we are able to provide the highest level of service and expertise. Our clients also include some of the most innovative technology companies, the operations of which are not sufficiently regulated by our legal framework, which requires us to also be very innovative in providing services, all in order to ensure that clients can preserve their business model to the greatest possible extent, on the one hand, while on the other hand being fully compliant with the regulations of the Republic of Serbia. We experience that as a challenge, as an opportunity to learn and refine our creative and courageous approach to our work.

We have amassed 15 years of experience, more than 60,000 of the most varied cases and projects worth 800 million euros

Law firm Djokic + Partners has spent more than 15 years advising and representing some of the largest foreign and domestic corporations and financial organisations

Business Dialogue

Lidl Removes More Than 20 Tons Of Waste From Nature

Many Italian companies seek our assistance in inquiring about Serbian agriculture

Antonio Ventresca Director Of The Italian Foreign Trade Agency (ITA)

Delta Real Estate Group Takes Over Radisson Collection Hotel In Belgrade

Lidl marks this year’s World Environment Day by collecting the results of numerous waste clean-up actions from nature that were carried out during April and May as part of the “Clean for Love” project. During the duration of the project, the company Lidl Serbia collected and removed 20 tons of waste from nature, and cleaning actions were carried out in ten cities in Serbia with the help of the partner organisation “Cap to Smile” and nine local organisations

to which Lidl provided financial support, which cleaned their cities and towns with volunteers. “For the fourth year in a row, we have been implementing the project “Purely out of love”, and this time World Environment Day is the occasion to summarise the results and remind the community of the importance of preserving nature and its resources”, said the head of Corporate Communications in Lidl Serbia, Jasmina Šrndic.

Igor Anić Becomes New Head of the Association of Banks of Serbia

Igor Anić, chairman of the Executive Board of Procredit Bank, is the new chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Association of Banks of Serbia (UBS). Vojislav Lazarevic from Addiko Bank was elected as his deputy. As reported in UBS, the third member of the Supervisory Board is Aziz Arslan from HalkBank. The presentation on the Procredit Bank website states that Anić has many years of experience in banking and finance. He graduated from the University of Belgrade Faculty of Economics and the Management Academy in Firth, Germany. After completing his studies, he spent three years at Energoprojekt, after which he continued his career at Procredit Bank in 2005.

Delta Real Estate strengthens its hotel portfolio by taking over the Radisson Collection - Old Mill Hotel in Belgrade. It continues to realise its plan to be a regional leader in the hotel industry. The Commission approved the purchase agreement for the Protection of Competition. Delta Real Estate Group, a regional leader in real estate development based in Belgrade, manages the InterContinental Hotels in Ljubljana, Crowne Plaza and Indigo Hotel in Belgrade, and more recently, the Radisson Collection-Old Mill in Belgrade.

“Our hotels are of a high category; they are part of well-known international chains, and therefore taking over the Old Mill Hotel in Belgrade, under the Radisson Collection brand, represents a logical continuation of our strategy,” said Andrej Sovrović, director of the hotel business at Delta Holding.

Danijela Fišakov President of the Slovenian Business Club

Schneider Electric Hub Opens In Novi Sad

The company Schneider Electric Hub officially opened its new building in Novi Sad, which will be called InGrid. Thanks to the process of careful reconstruction, the old building of Novkabel’s production hall was transformed into a modern business facility characterised by a carbon-neutral footprint, as well as unique solutions from the Schneider Electric company that provide both powers from renewable sources, as well as complete comfort and functionality for work. The opening ceremony was attended by the President of the Government of Serbia Ana Brnabić, Minister of Mining and Energy Dubravka Đedović, as well as numerous guests.

Serbian And Chinese Companies Sign Contracts Worth Half Billion Dollars

Fifteen Chinese state-owned enterprises signed trade agreements with Serbian companies worth about half a billion dollars in Belgrade as part of business meetings between Serbian and Chinese companies organised by the Serbian Chamber of Commerce (PKS) in cooperation with Chinese partners. Director General of the Department of Foreign Trade of the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China Li Xingjian emphasised that China and Serbia have a deep and traditional solid friendship. With the help of the leaders of both countries, excellent results are achieved. He emphasised that the Chinese market has great capacities. “We want to help Serbian companies open the market in China, and of course, we expect and want companies from Serbia and the world - to come to us to share our market to create visible results. The Chinese market is always open to the Serbian people,” said Li Xingjian.

A1 Serbia Begins Construction Of Optical Infrastructure

After 16 years of business in Serbia, investing in the mobile network and optical infrastructure for connecting base stations, the company A1 Serbia is accelerating the construction of its optical network to provide users with fixed services in 2024. As a company dedicated to developing and implementing the latest generation technologies, A1 Serbia is entering the program of building its own local optical network in the FTTH (Fiber to the Home) architecture. Preparatory works on the ground and acquisition and obtaining the necessary consent of the population begin during the summer, mainly in Belgrade. Fixed services and services through this additional option will be available to the first users in 2024.

The Slovenian economy has transformed over recent decades, which has also been reflected in the structure of SBC members in Serbia

Inspiring People To Make Fun&Fit Decissions

Ljubomir Babić CEO Fun&Fit Company, Delta Holding

The Fun&Fit, Jumbo and ABC brands have been synonymous with top quality for many years, but Fun&Fit is also a reliable partner to major industrial customers and confectioners. Its development plans rely on its expert personnel and the ability to adapt, keep pace with trends and introduce innovations, which have undoubtedly ensured the continuous growth of the company.

The market is today seeking well-balanced meals that are ready to be consumed at any time.

― Fun&Fit is a leader in the breakfast cereal category, and our popularity is grow-

ing constantly, in line with emerging trends. We understand the needs of the market and accordingly provide nutritionally well-balanced meals that provide energy for the whole day. We all know that active lifestyles are extremely important today and that it is thus crucial that the things we put in our body form part of a balanced diet.

With whom do you collaborate?

― Our commitment to quality and reliability makes us the preferred choice for many reputable food industry partners. We have long been a reliable partner to the most important industrial buyers and

Fun&Fit is a leader in the breakfast cereal category that plays a key role in establishing trends that support active lifestyles. The company’s respect for the highest standards of quality control has opened the door wide for exports to Russia, Belarus, Lebanon, UAE, Nigeria and even China

we cooperate with the most famous confectioners in Serbia. Moreover, we are actively negotiating with many other regional and international companies with the aim of expanding our cooperation.

You strive to adapt quickly to consumer demands, enrich your portfolio of products, monitor trends and introduce innovations. Can there be no growth in the country or abroad without that?

― As a leader of the breakfast cereals market, Fun&Fit has a key role to play in establishing trends that support an active lifestyle and the accompanying nutrition. A commitment to adapt quickly to consumer demands, expand the product portfolio, monitor trends and introduce innovations are among the key elements for ensuring the growth of the company.

We strive on a daily basis to inspire people to make wise decisions and to eat nutritionally well-balanced meals, but also to enjoy their daily activities. As a company, Fun&Fit’s aim is to show consumers that this way of eating can be both fun and beneficial, contributing to improving their mood and providing the energy required for today’s fast-paced life. On the other hand, we also invest in production lines that enable us to penetrate new categories. We thereby remain competitive on the market and offer our consumers the best products.

Fun&Fit is also recognised as an important partner in the production of private labels for the biggest retail chains. Do your capacities, experience and knowledge enable you to respond to even the most demanding requests?

― Yes, everything you mention, and particularly the knowledge that we’ve acquired in developing our brands over many years, enables us to respond to the most complex demands when it comes to the production of private labels for the biggest retail chains. We recently returned from the PLMA trade show in Amsterdam and are extremely proud of the large number of contacts that we established with the world’s largest retailers.

As a result of the high demand for private labels on both the global and local markets, retailers have extremely high expectations when it comes to their quality.

We are currently among the most important partners in the production of private labels in the categories we cover, thanks to the fact that we have for years been satisfying high standards of food quality and safety (IFS), which is crucial to our business.

Where can Fun&Fit products currently be found; do you plan to conquer new markets and expand beyond the borders of the region?

path are our plans to increase that share to 80% over the next five years.

Everything you’ve done to date has led to the fortifying of Fun&Fit’s leadership position and the forming of a solid base for new business successes. In which key areas of business are you planning to make improvements?

― Fun&Fit has achieved success as a company thanks to its extremely committed team, which is why we value our employees highly and invest in their development. We are conscious of the fact that these people are crucial to our success and proudly point out their contribution. On the other hand, our leadership position is a result

― Apart from our regional presence, Fun&Fit company has achieved significant progress in expanding to new international markets over the previous two years. Our brands can currently be found in retail chains across Russia, Belarus, Lebanon, UAE, Nigeria and even China. Research shows that our brands are in no way lacking in terms of quality compared to brands that come from the West, which points to our high export potential. Exports currently account for approximately 30% of our total sales, and demonstrating how certain we are of our progress on this

of continuous efforts exerted in key areas of our operations. We work constantly to develop our products, expand and conquer new markets, by exporting our brands and building strong partnerships. We plan to invest in additional capacities and are modernising and automating our production facilities, in order for us to effectively satisfy the growing demand.

As a company, Fun&Fit has been operating within the scope of Delta Holding since 2007. Does that provide you with additional certitude and the possibility to implement more ambitious plans?

― Operating within the scope of Delta Holding doesn’t only provide us with additional certitude, but also high credibility on the market. Being part of Delta Holding also implies the realising of ambitious plans while adhering to the highest standards in terms of quality, respect for business ethics, care for the environment and, most importantly of all, care for people. All this in combination creates strong foundations to support our further growth and business success.

We are among the most important partners in the production of private labels because we have for years been satisfying high standards of food quality and safety

Business Dialogue

We need cooperation within the Western Balkans because, with economic development, we influence the social development of our citizens

Marko Čadež / President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS)

Gold Found At Locality In Central Bosnia-Herzegovina

In the area of the municipality of Jezero, in the central part of Bosnia-Herzegovina, new significant reserves of gold were found during research carried out by experts of company Lykos Balkan Metals, it was announced from the Bosnian branch of the Australian company that conducts research in several locations throughout Bosnia-Herzegovina. Gold was discovered at the location of Zekilova Kosa, and the latest analysis confirmed the existence of more significant amounts of gold, which in some parts contain up to 4.89 grams of gold per ton. Given the discovery, the expansion of research in the northwestern part of the site is announced.

From July Easier Employment Between Open Balkan Member Countries

The Government of Serbia expects that a unique identification number will be implemented in July for all people on the market of countries in the “Open Balkan” region so that they can freely work in any member country of this initiative, said Minister of Internal and Foreign Trade Tomislav Momirović. Speaking at the “Open Balkan Forum 2” conference, Momirović reiterated that work is also being done on the traffic integration of Serbia, North Macedonia and Albania, i.e., one electronic toll collection tag works in all three countries. “We are also negotiating the establishment of a special communication line for the citizens of Open Balkan member states”, said Momirović.

OMV Petrom Greenlights Offshore Black Sea Gas Project Neptun Deep

Romanian oil and gas group OMV Petrom, majority-controlled by Austria’s OMV, said on Wednesday it has made the final investment decision to develop the long-awaited Black Sea deepwater gas project, Neptun Deep. The company, which will develop the project jointly with stateowned gas producer Romgaz, said it expected its first gas by 2027. It said it estimated the project will cost 4 billion euros, to be split jointly between the two companies, with the spending seen primarily on 2024-2026. Neptun Deep is currently expected to hold recoverable volumes at around 100 bcm of gas.

We have developed strategic documents - the Slovenian Development Strategy 2030, Slovenia’s Sustainable Smart Specialisation Strategy S5 and the Slovenian Industrial Strategy 2021- 2030

Matjaž Han / Slovenian Minister for the Economy, Tourism and Sport

Introducing First Ever Regional Publication

In commemorating 20 years of CorD Magazine, we are pleased to announce an exclusive regional publication promoting cooperation between Serbia, North Macedonia, Slovenia, Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Albania. The first-of-its-kind regional publication will bring together high officials of the region’s countries, representatives of the diplomatic corps and the most significant companies doing business in our region. This publication will be the first and a unique periodical that informs readers regarding regional cooperation, potentials, challenges and achievements in the region. Exploring and promoting regional cooperation, it will foster understanding and strengthen bilateral relations. This publication will serve as a platform to connect individuals, organisations and governments, fostering mutual understanding and paving the way for a better and more prosperous future. This exclusive publication will be a significant milestone for our publishing house, alliance international media, and the region’s media scene. The first issue will be printed by the end of this year and delivered directly to regional leaders.

First Ever Montenegrin Satellite Project Presented

The “Luča” project, the first Montenegrin satellite, was presented in Podgorica by numerous representatives of the Government of Montenegro, universities and the media. Representatives of the Montenegro Space Research Organization, Filip Jovićević, Nina Drakulić and Nikola Perović, spoke about the project, its specifics, plans as well as the activities of this organisation in the education of young people in the field of robotics and space technology. Presenting the technical specifications of the satellite and the rocket with which it will be launched into space, the innovator and entrepreneur Nikola Perović explained that “Luča” belongs to the category of small satellites that will be launched to an altitude of 500-600 km, and which will spend 2-3 years in space.

From 1st October Lower Mobile Internet Prices Between EU And Western Balkans

Mobile internet prices between the EU and the Western Balkans will be lower from 1st October this year. Representatives of the European Commission (EC), the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) and mobile operators from the European Union and the Western Balkans agreed that the prices of tariff supplements and special tariff packages between the EU and the Western Balkans should be lower than regular tariff packages. “This means that the WB citizens will be able to use tariff supplements or special tariff packages through which mobile internet in roaming will become more affordable,” Yettel announced.

Poised To Make A Lasting Impact On The Yachting Market

Alina Yachts is poised to redefine the luxury yachting experience in Serbia, introducing Sunreef Yachts’ exceptional craftsmanship, bespoke designs and commitment to sustainability.

Alina Yachts’ founders Alex Alpert and Nina Peličić have a remarkable background in building successful technology companies. Drawing from their entrepreneurial spirit, they are now poised to make a lasting impact on the yachting market. By joining forces with Sunreef Yachts, a renowned pioneer in luxury catamaran manufacturing, Alina Yachts is set to introduce Serbia to an unrivalled level of customised luxury experiences.

“The demand for luxury products in Serbia has witnessed tremendous growth, and this presents the perfect opportunity to introduce Sunreef Yachts to the Balkans. Having grown up surrounded by water, I recognised a need for a truly tailor-made luxury experience. Sunreef Yachts, with its combination of opulence and custom designs, allows individuals to spend more time on the water and create their dream homes,” says Alina Yachts MD Nina Peličić, expressing her excitement about the new venture.

Sunreef Yachts is known for its commitment to sustainable eco-innovation, leading the charge to revolutionise the yachting industry, stressed Alex Alpert, stating, “living on the water provides a sense of freedom that only the ocean can deliver. It is our responsibility to protect this invaluable resource that we hold so dear. At Alina Yachts, our mission is

to help people live symbiotically with the ocean, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same incredible experiences that we treasure and share.”

With their exceptional design, Sunreef Yachts offer a variety of layout possibilities, cabin arrangements, generous living areas and expansive deck spaces, catering to those seeking extended cruising, liveaboard lifestyles and mem-

orable guest experiences. The reduced hydrodynamic drag of these catamarans enhances speed, fuel efficiency and stability, setting them apart from traditional monohull boats. Moreover, the growing popularity of catamarans on the charter market makes them an enticing investment opportunity, with

owners anticipating an impressive annual return of approximately ten per cent on their investment.

With their deep understanding of the region and relentless pursuit of excellence, Alina Yachts is ready to cater to the discerning needs of Serbian yachting enthusiasts and ensure a seamless journey towards fulfilling their dreams on the water.

For further information, please contact: Alex Alpert

Alina

Yachts

+381600231383

alex@alinayachts.com

By joining forces with Sunreef Yachts, renowned pioneers in luxury catamaran manufacturing, Alina Yachts is set to introduce Serbia to an unrivalled level of customised luxury experiences

Towards A Greener Future

NIS: Energy Transition in the Oil Industry

Since the adoption of the Paris Agreement in 2015, every responsible company has included environmental protection and contributing to slowing climate change among its priorities. Notions like energy transition and decarbonisation have become an indispensable part of every responsible business

This is particularly true for the energy industry, which is very intensive and, as such, subject to additional public pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This industry is also in focus because of the impact on climate in the entire process – from production, through the refining of raw materials, all the way to final consumption.

Although it is hugely important that the public is increasingly discussing environmental protection, what happens in practice, i.e., how companies implement the set goals, is even more important. According to NIS, as Serbia’s largest domestic oil company, environmental protection implies daily dedicated work and significant investments, with the application of the best available technologies. That’s why NIS has, since 2009, invested more than 900 million euros in environmental projects and projects that have an indirect positive impact on environmental protection.

Thanks to these investments, the company has reduced emissions of pollutants into the air by as much as 90 per cent over the last 10 years. Numerous projects have been implemented to achieve this goal, primarily in the Pančevo Oil Refinery (RNP), which is the first energy facility in Serbia to receive an integrated pollution prevention and control (IPPC) permit, confirming that all production processes are aligned with the highest domestic and European environmental standards. In addition, NIS has built mini power plants in oil and gas fields in which the associated gas that was previously burned on the flare is now used to produce electricity and heating energy. Operations were launched in 2022 at the CCPP Pančevo, the first combined gassteam power plant in Serbia, designed for the combined production of electricity and heat based on natural gas, as a more environmentally friendly fuel. This project included invest-

ments of more than 180 million euros and the electricity it generates is added to the domestic electricity system, thus contributing to the security of supply for domestic consumers.

By implementing its energy transition, NIS has also taken significant steps when it comes to renewable energy sources. NIS has installed solar panels at 15 filling stations in Serbia, with these panels used primarily to produce energy that is used by the company itself, thereby

saving almost 600 MWh per year. Moreover, an annual reduction in carbon dioxide emissions of more than 600 tonnes is also achieved in this way. NIS also pays great attention to energy efficiency, with the company having achieved an overall increase in energy efficiency of 33 per cent between 2012 and 2022.

At NIS they say that they regularly report, through the Sustainable Development Report, on their efforts aimed at contributing to the protection of the environment. The company recently published its 2022 Report, marking the 13th consecutive report to be verified by an independent audit firm. NIS proudly highlights that it is a pioneer of the domestic market when it comes to verified reporting in accordance with the standards of a leading world organisation in the field of sustainable business – the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI).

Last year’s report was published under the slogan “Our Sustainable Community”, and NIS states that operations harmonised with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and ESG principles will be a priority for the company moving forward.

Last year’s report was published under the slogan “Our Sustainable Community”, and NIS states that operations harmonised with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and ESG principles will be a priority for the company moving forward

Business Dialogue

Elon Musk Reclaims Title Of World’s Richest Person

Elon Musk is once again the world’s richest person after leapfrogging French billionaire Bernard Arnault after a slump in the value of Arnault’s LVMH luxury goods empire. The 51-year-old maverick head of Tesla and owner of Twitter has seen his fortune recover to $192bn (£153bn) – up $55bn from the start of the year –while Arnault’s wealth has fallen by $5bn in the past 24 hours to $187bn according to Bloomberg’s daily updated billionaires’ index. Arnault had overtaken Musk as the world’s most wealthy person in December last year after the value of LVMH shares soared amid booming demand for its luxury products. At the same time, Musk’s wealth had fallen as Tesla’s share price slid on investor fears that he might be preoccupied with his recent purchase of Twitter.

Swiss Voters Approve Global Minimum Corporate Tax, Climate Goals

Voters in Switzerland on Sunday approved the introduction of a global minimum tax on businesses and a climate law that aims to cut fossil fuel use and reach zero emissions by 2050, public broadcaster SRF reported. The results showed that almost 80% of those who voted in Sunday’s national referendum backed raising the country’s business tax to the 15% global minimum from the current average minimum of 11%, an unusually strong endorsement. “This ensures that Switzerland will not lose any tax revenue to foreign countries,” Finance Minister Karin Keller-Sutter said. “It will also create legal certainty and a stable framework.”

EU’s Organic Farming Area Covers 15.9 Million Hectares

The area used for organic agricultural production in the EU continues to increase. It expanded from 14.7 million hectares (ha) in 2020 to 15.9 million ha in 2021, the equivalent of 9.9% of the total utilised agricultural area (UAA) in the EU. Between 2012 and 2021, the area used for organic farming increased in almost all EU countries. The area almost quadrupled in Portugal (+283%) and Croatia (+282%), the sharpest rates of increase within the EU. It also grew rapidly in France (+169%) and also more than doubled in Hungary (+125%) and Romania (+101%). The highest shares of organic farming areas within total UAA were in Austria (26% in 2020), Estonia (23% in 2021) and Sweden (20% in 2021). By contrast, the share of organic farming was below 5% in six EU countries in 2021, with the lowest shares in Bulgaria (1.7%) and Malta (0.6%).

“When you innovate, you’ve got to be prepared for everyone telling you you’re nuts”

Larry Ellison Chief Technology Officer of Oracle

UAE, Qatar Reopen Embassies After Years Of Tensions

The United Arab Emirates and Qatar announced the reopening of their respective diplomatic missions, six years after the Gulf rivals severed ties during a regional blockade that sent tensions soaring. The two resource-rich monarchies restored official relations in January 2021 after the end of the nearly four-year diplomatic and transport blockade that isolated tiny Qatar. “The United Arab Emirates and the State of Qatar announced the restoration of diplomatic representation between the two countries,” said a statement on the UAE’s official WAM news agency. The sides are “resuming the work at the embassy of the UAE in Doha, and at the embassy of Qatar in Abu Dhabi and its consulate in Dubai”, it said.

Equal Pay For Equal Work Directive Enters Into Force In The EU

The European Union directive on salary transparency has entered into force, and EU member states have three years to transpose its provisions into domestic laws. The directive introduces a wide range of pay transparency measures, including mandatory reporting of the gender pay gap in all EU member states, pre-employment pay transparency obligations, extensive rights to information about the pay of employees doing the same job, and a ban on pay secrecy clauses. Equal pay for equal work is one of the fundamental principles of the European Union contained in Article 157 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. Despite this, the European Commission has identified a lack of pay transparency as one of the key obstacles to achieving equal pay, as well as inconsistency in enforcement mechanisms across the EU.

George Soros Handing Over Control Of His Financial Empire To His Son

Billionaire George Soros has handed over control of his huge financial empire to his son Alexander, the PR service of the Open Society Foundation announced. Soros (92) changed his decision since he previously stated that he did not want his foundation to be taken over by one of his five children. But speaking about his ultimate decision to hand over the foundation and the rest of his $25 billion empire to his 37-year-old son, whom he calls Alex, George Soros said: “He deserved it”. Alexander Soros mentioned in his media appearances that he is “more into politics” than his father and plans to continue donating family money to left-wing political candidates in the USA.

“Fixed-income trading should improve in the second half, with momentum returning to the business recently after the US resolved the debt ceiling impasse”

Christian Sewing Deutsche Bank AG Chief Executive Officer

Revealing The Wisdom Of The Jay Shetty

Viral Phenomenon

Jay Shetty podcaster, author and life coach

With tens of millions of followers and his videos having been viewed well over a billion times, this monk turned entrepreneur has succeeded in motivating and inspiring countless people through his videos

When British-Indian podcaster, author and life coach Jay Shetty conducted an Instagram poll back in 2018 asking if his videos had had a positive impact on the lives of viewers, 97 per cent of respondents said that they had.

In the viral world today, this former monk and co-founder of company Same Tea has a clever way of getting his message across in such a way that wisdom goes viral.

Here we take a deeper look into the story of this man who has made inspiration go viral and continues to awaken people with his inspirational videos on a daily basis. Some of his social media videos have helped people get over a bad relationship, while others have even helped people overcome the loss of a loved one.

MONK TURNED ENTREPRENEUR

Shetty had a pretty normal UK urban life growing up in Barnet, North London… or at least until he grew up to the world of parents’ expectations. “Parental pressure took over and out came the quintessential ambitious dream of every Indian parent: for their child to be a doctor or an engineer,” he said. But he had his own dreams, and they prompted him to follow the path of philosophy and behavioural studies. It was while studying at business school that Shetty found himself inspired by entrepreneurs and CEOs. “But there was one incident that changed it all - when a monk came to speak at my University. At 22, I decided to be a monk,” said Shetty.

Having always been fascinated by behavioural science and ancient wisdom, Shetty, who spent every other summer in India growing up, decided to strike a balance between old books and new science. He spent his time as a monk studying behaviour-

al science and learning more about the human mind. And in 2016 he finally found that balance. He turned to online videos and found a ray of hope in the dark alleys of the web. “I wanted to build a platform that enables people to have healthy discussions and build meaningful conversations.” And today he has developed his practises to become one of the most renowned names on the web. “People would watch my videos and forward them on to their friends via WhatsApp. That would lead to discussions, to someone else who felt the same way receiving the chance to share their thoughts,” he said.

Astonishingly, he hit two billion views in 18 months. “The response was incredible and I got thousands of messages. Whether the issue was suicide or divorce, people were able to find a positive way out of difficult situations. And that’s where my joy

and passion for doing these videos was born,” he said.

CONTENT CREATION PROCESS

You are bound to come across Shetty’s videos when scrolling through Facebook or Instagram and will almost certainly find yourself unable to scroll on before checking them out. Why? His videos are relatable to everyone as they are inspired by people. His talks are based on scientific study. Having spent a decade studying behavioural science, he was able to connect with people. “It wasn’t just that. When I was speaking to people about their issues, something would just click and I would know that I have to talk about it. My videos often aren’t scripted and are based on real life experiences,” says Jay.

He has today achieved remarkable success, but not many believed

I wanted to build a platform that enables people to have healthy discussions and build meaningful conversations

Titian (Tiziano Vecelli), The Worship of Venus

Jay Shetty and his wife Radhi Devlukia launched Joyo, a brand of ready-to-drink sparkling teas

in his path initially. He has always received the full support of his parents, but his decision to become a Vedic monk brought questions from many - from his Grandma to his aunts, who believed he was wasting his life. “Not many people thought it would work, but I have managed to carve out my own journey,” insists Jay.

SUCCESS TO LEARN FROM

But even today he can’t explain his success as being the result of a well-devised plan. “I never thought of it as a business plan. That’s the trick - just start with the content and if it works for people, evolve it into a business. For me, the plan was never to be rich or to have this as a full-time job. When I began, the idea was to just start,” he admits. However, he nonetheless has a few words of advice for other entrepreneurs. “The more you go to the depth of the problem you are try-

ing to solve, the higher your company will grow,” he said.

We all have interesting ideas, but Jay believes it is good execution that defines success. “Good ideas are worth a million dollars, but it all depends on the implementation. You need to have the resilience and desire to succeed,” he said.

As entrepreneurs embark on their journey, they often draw inspiration from billionaire entrepreneurs, but Jay thinks we should redefine the word billionaire. “Let it not be defined by a man’s material riches, but rather by how they have each

impacted a billion lives,” he said.

He calls on budding entrepreneurs to recognise that everyone has failed; every big idea has been rejected by someone. “Years of hard work are required for an idea to succeed. You need to have resilience and grit, to care about the idea’s sincerity. Move with your heart, but monetise with your head,” says Jay, who knows that this is true from personal experience, having been rejected by 10 media companies.

When he’s not inspiring the world with his podcasts, Jay gives talks at major companies – including the like of Google and Microsoft – and interviews top personalities like Russell Brand… His inspiration has seemingly impacted everyone, but he’s not stopping there. He now plans to work on educational courses and stage more live events and digital shows, as well as authoring books that can serve to inspire yet more people.

The more you go to the depth of the problem you are trying to solve, the higher your company will grow

Jay and Radhi partnered with an AI-powered consumer brand group to develop delicious functional and flavorful tea blends

Cooperation Is Key to Success

wind in my sails. I first learned to overcome such situations and utilise them for my personal development, while that also turned out to be a professional advantage. Specifically, entering a new field meant that I very quickly had to learn and master new things, which helped me view all scientific problems from at least two different perspectives. I also rapidly overcame my fear of the unknown and developed the courage to go further in a new area.

I can say that my international experience and connections with transnational teams, which have differing approaches and expertise, helped me the most on my scientific journey. Closing ourselves off in a secure environment and only working with what we know certainly won’t lead to in-

When I began working with scientists from Portugal with expertise in the microalgae field, I knew very little about microalgae. They similarly lacked any knowledge of my field of green solvents and extractions. Despite huge difference in terms of years of experience between us, we simply sat together and all presented our ideas equally. Saying “I don’t know a lot about this, but I want to learn” is halfway to success in scientific projects and ideas. Openness to new ideas and completely different approaches, abandoning safe and familiar frameworks, is that which brings innovation in science. And that’s why I’m proud of our work in the field of microalgae, where we succeeded in marrying scientific expertise from the fields of pharma -

NOVA School of Science and Technology, University

When I completed my pharmacy studies at the Faculty of Medicine and began my doctoral studies at the Faculty of Technology, where I was also employed in the Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, I very often received comments that, as a pharmacist, I didn’t belong in engineering. That certainly didn’t feel nice, but it very quickly became a huge advantage and the

novation, but that is unfortunately very prevalent in academic circles, in my opinion. Stepping into the unknown can be scary, because the lack of knowledge makes you feel insecure. However, after a certain period, when you feel like you’ve actually expanded your skills, research area etc., you are greatly encouraged and desire to continue that personal and professional development.

Another thing I consider as being crucial to my development is the team. Namely, after defending my doctoral thesis, my colleague and I formed a team with operating principles that differed from those of traditional teams. This approach that guides me implies giving young people in science space for creativity, freedom and new ideas. This is what I needed, and it very quickly resulted in me becoming independent in my research.

ceuticals and green technologies microalgal biotechnology, engineering in wastewater treatment, and organic chemistry. That motivated and encouraged me greatly, such that I now enter new projects with ease and huge enthusiasm.

I also believe that joint approaches and activities are key to responding to the global challenges we currently face. Scientists truly have a great responsibility to offer solutions. However, scientific reactions alone aren’t enough. It is necessary to broaden participation, promote endeavour, and harmonize activities of all groups, governments, policymakers, and the general population. Mutual understanding and respect among all participants, and the opportunity for everyone’s voice to be heard, is key to success, and I hope that, as a society, we will improve this.

Dr Jelena Vladić

NOVA Lisbon, Portugal; recipient of the UNESCO – Al Fozan international prize for the promotion of young scientists in STEM

I’m proud of our work in the field of microalgae, where we succeeded in marrying scientific expertise from the fields of pharmaceuticals and green technologies, microalgal biotechnology, engineering in wastewater treatment and organic chemistry

Saying “I don’t know a lot about this, but I want to learn” is halfway to success in scientific projects and ideas. Openness to new ideas and completely different approaches, abandoning safe and familiar frameworks, is that which brings innovation in science

Venus Vincit Omnia: Venus in Art

Venus (also known by her Greek name Aphrodite) is the goddess of love. We’ve explored some famous Venuses here. Furthermore, Velázquez’s portrait put her on the list of contenders for “Best Bums in Art.” Then there’s a discussion of Courbet’s paintings, along with Botticelli’s depiction of her affair with the god of war.

Let’s take a look at some Venuses in art that are powerful not because of their beauty, but because of what they represent

ROMAN VENUS

The Crouching Venus is an image of Venus in the nude whose power lies in the magnitude of her fame. A dodgy bit of text (3.4, note 110) by Pliny the Elder describes the existence of a Hellenistic sculpture of Venus washing herself. Consequently, a Greek called Polycharmus is dubiously known as the original artist.

Whether that is the name of the artist or not is beside the point. What is

significant is that the Romans made many versions of the Greek original. As with most Roman copies of Greek originals, the possibilities for a Roman spin are seemingly endless. Crouching Venus can be small, large, of different materials, in varying postures, amusingly arranged with other statues; the list goes on.

There were so many Crouching Venus types in the Roman world that the modern world inherited them, and they continue to enter the art world today.

The Crouching Venus in our image is the Lely Venus. Today she lives at the British Museum in London, where

you can visit her for free. Once, an Italian princely family (The Gonzaga) had her in their collection, where she spent her days inspiring Renaissance painters. She made her way to England through King Charles I, who bought her in the late 1620s on the recommendation of Rubens!

THE RENAISSANCE

We see the influence of the Crouching Venus throughout the art world, such as in Renaissance paintings. In Venus, Cupid, Bacchus and Ceres Rubens depicts the goddess – inspired by the Lely Venus after his stay with the Gonzaga. She is alongside Bacchus (god of revelry), Ceres (goddess of harvest), and Cupid (her son, the powerful god of desire). The literary inspiration is a line from a Latin comedy that says “without Bread and Wine, Love turns cold.”

All in all, the Romans revered the power of Venus. In fact, every year they would hold a festival in her honor. April 1st was not a day to be foolish, but a very serious affair to get the goddess on the side.

That said, Titian’s painting of the scene (based on Imagines 1.6 by the Greek writer Philostratus) is very playful. A crowd of cupids sits before a matronly-looking Venus statue (a depiction of a well-known Venus sculpture). The cupids get up to many naughty things: can you spot the one about to shoot the infamous bow and arrow?

Along with April 1st, there were festivals in honor of the goddess on April 23rd, August 19th, and September 26th.

Lots of Koons’ work (like his 1980s Banality series) are known for turning banal items into high art icons, an inflatable Balloon Dog went on tour with Jay Z for example

Titian (Tiziano Vecelli), The Worship of Venus

Crouching Venus – The Lely Venus

The mythological founder of Rome (Aeneas) is Venus’ son, and she was the patron of Julius Caesar and also Augustus. So, we might think of her as “just” a symbol of love (the pink and fluffy kind), but this goddess is a powerful political icon too.

VENUS DE MILO WITH DRAWERS

Moving out of Renaissance art and whizzing towards Surrealism – the 20th-century avant-garde movement in art and literature from 1920s Europe – we arrive here (still on the subject of pink and fluff): at Dalí’s Venus de Milo with drawers. Which, if the title doesn’t give it away, is a version of the Greco-Roman Venus de Milo sculpture.

Half the size of the famous Venus de Milo, Venus de Milo with Drawers features silky mink tufts as drawer handles. Dalí’s magics the Art object into a piece of functional furniture, as well as opening up the world of Freudian analysis where Greek myths are images of the psyche. A perfect demonstration of the Surrealist interest in sparking new realities and experiences.

BIRTH OF VENUS

This intricate painting is tiny (28.8 x 28.9 cm) and beautiful. It is part of

a new genre of Contemporary Miniature Art, for which Khalid (a Pakistani contemporary artist) is a forerunner. Traditional miniature painting in Pakistan has a rich heritage, with roots in Mughal India, Iran, and also Turkey. Though small, Khalid’s Birth of Venus has very big politics. Its name Birth of Venus brings to mind The Birth of Venus by Botticelli and directs our understanding. In place of the nude classical Venus rising from the sea, we find an image of a woman wearing a blue wave-pattern bur-

burqas. The pattern of their burqas is not dissimilar to that of the dress of Spring in Botticelli’s version. Interestingly, Spring (in the Botticelli painting) is offering Venus clothing to cover her nakedness – in Khalid’s version that is obviously not necessary. The burqa is a type of traditional clothing worn by some Muslim women. It is a whole-body veil, which is designed to protect women from be-

qa. Instead of the giant scallop shell, there is a pink lotus leaf, the pattern of which possibly stands in for the flowing hair in the Botticelli. In each corner are four women also wearing

Contemporary culture tells us we have access to all areas, and that images of women are easy to read, consumable, disposable, but in fact the information we receive from an image is misleading and incomplete.

Charlotte Jansen, “Girl on Girl: Art and Photography in the Age of the Female Gaze,” 2017.

LEFT: Aisha Khalid, Birth of Venus

RIGHT: Petrina Hicks, The Beauty of History

DOWN: Crouching Venus – The Lely Venus

coming objects of lust. Western media often depicts them as oppressive, and even scary. However, in this picture, the gold leaf, gentle watercolors, and delicate patterning certainly don’t support that view. So, one question that Khalid could be posing is: is the burqa protecting and liberating Venus? Which is more oppressive, this version or a naked Venus?

THE BEAUTY OF HISTORY

Petrina Hicks’ photograph might be thinking along the same lines as Aisha Khalid’s. Again, she is using well-known Venus imagery (associated most famously with Botticelli): the pink sea shell. In The Beauty of History a pale-skinned woman, with long blonde hair (which is behind her back), holds a large pink shell in front of her face – removing her identity from the image. Her completely smooth skin recalls the white of Classical sculpture. In this passport-like portrait, the pinkness, shininess, and shape of the shell (which would obviously not be permitted in a passport photo) stand in place of a fully nude image. Is the title The Beauty of History a little tongue-in-cheek?

Hicks uses Classical images and the notion of a male gaze in art to show

Salvador Dalí, “The Secret Life of Salvador Dalí,” 1942.

us that being flawless is bland. The Beauty of History makes its subject inaccessible. She might be a Classical and Art historical ideal, but she isn’t seeable.

DOM PERIGNON BALLOON VENUS

Like our Venus de Milo with Drawers the Dom Pérignon Balloon Venus is both art and object. As The Beauty of History might highlight, she is possibly inaccessible as an image of femininity – but certainly not in a literal sense: made of polyurethane resin, she is a holder for Dom Pérignon champagne. In a way this is very fitting, considering what our Rubens painting pointed out.

MIDDLE: Venus of Willendorf, c.28000 –25000 BCE

Koons’ sculpture was commissioned to mark the release of a Millésime vintage 2003 Rosé and there are only 650 in existence. Lots of Koons’ work (like his 1980s Banality series) are known for turning banal items into high art icons, an inflatable Balloon Dog went on tour with Jay Z for example. Like the Roman emperors, Dom Pérignon understands the power of having Venus as a patron (as well as the fact that wine and love are a perfect pairing). Koons too is (in)famous for his shrewd money-making through art – earlier this year Rabbit broke the auction record for any living artist (a (w)hopping $9.1 million).

Dom Pérignon Balloon Venus handles the weight of Venus’ history in the art world and makes her into one of Koons’ balloon series (as well as into a piece of marketing). However, she is also part of Koons’ exploration of Antiquity, a series that he began in 2008 and which plays with motifs from the History of art. Koons based this commission on Venus of Willendorf, which is a Palaeolithic figurine. Apparently, the curves of the sculpture match the curvature of the Champagne’s flavors.

dailyartmagazine.com

The only difference between immortal Greece and contemporary times is Sigmund Freud, who discovered that the human body, purely platonic in the Greek epoch, is nowadays full of secret drawers that only psychoanalysis is capable to open.

LEFT: Salvador Dalí, Venus de Milo with Drawers

RIGHT: Jeff Koons, Dom Perignon Balloon Venus

Nebojša Bradić theatre director

By Radmila Stanković

Culture Is Standing On The Shoulders Of Previous Generations

He has staged around a hundred dramas, operas and musicals on the theatre stages of Yugoslavia and Europe, receiving the highest theatre awards for those works. He has served as the administrator of four professional theatres and as a successful Serbian minister of culture during the toughest years of economic crisis. And over a four-year mandate he also edited the Cultural and Artistic Programme of Radio Television of Serbia

Together with his then colleagues at the Ministry of Culture, he succeeded in finalising the reconstruction of the National Library of Serbia and the Yugoslav Cinematheque Film Archives. As a personal challenge, he arranged a marathon television broadcast of Belgian playwright Jan Fabre’s famous play Mount Olympus, which opened the 2017 Bitef and lasted as long as the play itself: 24 hours! And so it was that the theatre of antiquity, recounted in the most modern way, entered 220,000

homes throughout Serbia. It was a feat previously unrecorded in the history of Yugoslav and Serbian television, and an endeavour that wowed the world’s theatre public.

He staged the musical Les Misérables at Madlenianum Opera & Theatre, which went on to be performed for 15 years as this theatre’s most successful production, while the version of the musical Fiddler on the Roof that he directed for Sofia’s Muzikalen Theatre was declared 2021’s best play in Bulgaria!

Whatever he’s done, Nebojša Bradić (1956) has done as a man of culture; culture represents his most enduring point of reference. For him, culture is ’standing on the shoulders of previous generations, continuity and the establishing of public awareness’. He knows how the system of funding culture works, has high criteria when it comes to artistic scope, and is precise when locating the right address to resolve problems in this area.

“As long as prime ministers and finance ministers view culture as an expense, and not as an opportunity to provide the basis for the country’s success and good reputation, this trend that’s leading to the country’s decline will not change. Culture is not and can never be degraded. The degradation of culture can only be a projection of powerful people who are unworthy of that culture.”

The premiere performance of his interpretation of the opera Falstaff was recently staged at the National Theatre in Belgrade. This work by Giuseppe Verdi, which is again being performed in Belgrade after a break of 45 years, enjoyed unprecedented success at its early June premiere. And Bradić is today already rehears-

ing at Terazije Theatre for the musical Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, based on Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar’s 1998 film of the same name.

When they do have free time, Nebojša and his wife Zaga, a renowned psychiatrist and psychoanalytic psychotherapist, plan holidays, but also tours of some important museums and exhibitions, in order to watch shows in some European countries. They have been married for more than 30 years.

“Zaga and I provide each other with unquestionable support when it comes to the work we do. Our life is serene in these years, and oriented towards our shared interests. Our jobs are each inspiring in their own way. Her work is particularly interesting to me in that part in which she offers complex understanding of the human soul and the human situation today. But we have a clear agreement not to discuss topics that are strict-

Left: With Goran Marković and Zoran Hamović

Right: With Peter Handke

ly professional. Her patients are her problem, my ‘patients’ are my problem. Zaga loves the theatre and art, and particularly literature.”

CorD’s interlocutor had an exciting upbringing in the house of his father Momir, an actor and theatre manager in Kruševac, and his mother Milica, a teacher of mathematics who accompanied her husband on his journey. He was often left alone in the company of books and his own fantasies, and he believes that this was a good way to form the basis of what would be his future steps.

“I was nevertheless most profoundly determined by the close proximity of art and people who belonged to that world. On the other hand, I was interested in sport, music and literature, but also the natural sciences. In line with my mathematical mind, I defended my graduation thesis in the field of atomic physics.”

Divided in such a way, after completing high school he moved to Bel-

The position of minister is always a challenge, it’s like being Vuk’s monument. You are raised on a pedestal and actually become the best target for pigeons

grade and enrolled in three colleges: one in the field of technical sciences, a second covering the subject of language, and a third in theatre direction at the Faculty of Dramatic Arts.

“Compared to all my previous interests, I made the decision to deal with the theatre rather late and slightly unexpectedly, because I’d never previously been involved in the theatre and wasn’t even a member of the drama club. And it was because I wasn’t sure if I would pass the entrance exam for directing that I also enrolled in two other colleges.”

He succeeded at the first attempt and enrolled in the class of Professor Borjana Prodanović, the granddaughter of famous Serbian politician, writer and academic Jaša Prodanović (18671948), who was a special character in her own right.

“Interestingly, one of her students in the generation before me was my colleague and longtime friend Branislav ‘Žaga’ Mićunović, who also served as minister of culture of Montenegro, while Jagoš Marković was later also a student in her class. Three people with totally different sensibilities who were all her students.”

For Nebojša the student, socialising with Belgrade actually meant socialising with the theatre.

“It was as a student that I saw the best plays at Bitef; it was then that I watched the directing work of Robert Wilson, Grotowski, Eugenio Barba, Peter Brook and others. Belgrade was a centre of world theatre, and I unfortunately never again had an opportunity to experience that in Serbia. However, thanks to that initiation, I continued my personal and professional development in London, the theatrical magic of which still motivates me.”

Nebojša still remembers the fascination he felt when he watched his first play in Belgrade, Radovan III, starring Zoran Radmilović in the title role. He also recalls theatre director Jovan Bata Putnik (1914-1983), who just happens to be one of those deserving of the credit for Nebojša having entered the world of theatre in the

first place, and whose plays impacted on him viewing theatre as art. As a second-year student of theatre direction, he was an assistant to Dejan Mijač (1934-2022) on the Yugoslav Drama Theatre’s adaptation of the play Pučina [The High Sea], which remains remembered as being ‘revolutionary’ because of the way Mijač interpreted Nušić’s melodrama. Just as he interpreted other Serbian classics, which is why Nebojša rated him so highly.

Another great of Serbian culture, writer Borislav Pekić (1930-1992), had a deep impact on Bradić’s memory. When he decided to stage an adaptation of Pekić’s book The Golden Fleece, Nebojša approached the writer in the club of the National Theatre on one occasion in 1979.

“After that first meeting, we had several ‘sessions’ at the then City Tavern, where we discussed his work. He listened carefully to what I intended to do with the Fleece. That instilled a sense of self-confidence in me and I believe it influenced my future attitude towards art and artists. Pekić was then already a successful writer, and he spoke so seriously with a student of theatre direction. And did so totally openly, filled with understanding. We later saw each other occasionally;

he invited me to be his guest when I came to London. I directed his plays and was impugned for that, but also rewarded. I am proud that I was one of his friends.”

Nebojša had his first independent directing assignment while he was still a student, while he graduated with the Henrik Ibsen play Nora at the National Theatre in Niš. He has since gone on to put his name to around a hundred plays, musicals and operas that he’s staged in the theatre and opera houses of Serbia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria and elsewhere. He’s received positive and even outstanding reviews, won the Sterija Award and numerous others, but he approaches his work on each new play as if it were the most important, or, as he says, ‘every play is the last’. Encompassing a significant and successful part of this artist’s work have been his terms as an administrator of several theatres. His first such management role was at the Kruševac Theatre, where he spent 15 years as a theatre director, artistic director and manager. It was under his tenure, during the late 1980s and the first half of the ‘90s, that it became the most respected theatre in the Serbian provinces. “I was 30 years old when, based

With Andrea Bocelli

on the incentive of the actors, I first became acting manager and then administrator of the theatre. I accepted that duty with the precondition that the first job be the reconstruction of the theatre. The new theatre was open to guest actors, who included the likes of Đuza Stojiljković, Branislav ‘Ciga’ Jerinić, Tanja Bošković and many others. That was the impetus to launch the theatre and create successful and authentic plays.”

The triumph of the play The Damned Yard [based on Ivo Andrić’s book] at the Sterijino Pozorje festival in the year 2000 marked the crowning of Bradić’s ‘Kruševac cycle’. He both dramatically adapted and directed this famous Andrić novel, receiving the Sterija Award for his efforts, with the play declared the best of the entire festival. The cast comprised the then young Vojin Ćetković, Sergej Trifunović, Nebojša Milovanović, Nebojša Dugalić et al.

Nebojša would subsequently spend a short period as manager of Belgrade’s Atelje 212 theatre, a position he took on at the suggestion of fellow director and then outgoing manager Ljubomir Muci Draškić (1937-2004). It was from there, based on the suggestion of then Minister of Culture Nada Popović Perišić, that he moved to the helm

Left: With Radoslav Zelenović

Right: With Nada Perišić Popović

of the National Theatre, where during the following two and a half years of isolation he would break the blockades by realising international cooperation at this theatre. It will remain recorded that in the building of the National Theatre on Republic Square, on the eve of the launch of the 1999 bombing campaign, he succeeded in staging the premiere performance of a Jagoš Marković directed version

Rossini’s opera La Cenerentola, aka Cinderella. The costumes for the play were created by famous Italian fashion designer Renato Balestra.

“Cinderella signalled the return of our theatre scene to the world. Its premiere came in the time following the signing of the Dayton Agreement, after the lifting of sanctions. It was a stride forward for the theatre in difficult years. The staging was supported by the Serbian Ministry of Culture and the Italian Embassy in Belgrade. You should know that this success was all the greater because the very process of working on it was marred by threats that we were to be bombed. We ignored that a little, but that kind of uncertainty and tension was present.”

The Belgrade Drama Theatre also recorded years of great success during the two mandates when Nebojša was at the helm. He also founded the international Dance Festival, which today – after Bitef and Bemus – is undoubtedly a top national cultural treasure. He arrived at the BDT at the invitation of its actors. And he once again began his tenure time by seeking that the building undergo reconstruction.

“We quickly reached agreement that it was first necessary to work on the infrastructure, then to deal with the pro-

The success of the opera Cinderella in 1998 was all the greater because the very process of working on it was marred by threats that we were to be bombed

gramme, followed by the ensemble, and in the meantime to work on bringing back the audience. We had to come up with a code for the way we could attract the audience and re-establish the theatre on the map of Serbia’s important institutions of culture. There were successful plays, but also those others. Successful plays can be soothing, but you can draw better conclusions when a play fails than when you achieve success. Our artists and theatres are mistaken when they try to create success. Success isn’t created! Rather one creates a good repertoire, a good division of duties and a good show.”

His successes led to him being qualified to be nominated for the position of Serbian culture minister by then political party G17 Plus, and he subsequently spent three years in that ministerial role (2008-2011) and showed how it could be possible to start solv-

ing some problems. However, political games took other turns. He described the situation well, saying: “The position of minister is always a challenge, it’s like being Vuk’s monument. You are raised on a pedestal and actually become the best target for pigeons.”

He had a lot of ideas that would have proved useful during the times that we were then in, but that wasn’t to be.

“That was the moment of the world economic crisis and that was the biggest handicap for the then Government, and for the Ministry of Culture in particular. It wasn’t possible to implement many of the ideas that we had. One of the things we finalised was Serbia’s presentation at the Book Fair in Leipzig, where we were the guest of honour.”

Bradić showed what he was capable of doing in his time as minister. Famous actor Velimir Bata Živojinović (19332016), a long-time MP of the then ruling Socialist Party of Serbia, praised their exceptional collaboration during the years when he was in opposition and

Nebojša was minister. And the author of this article once testified about him in an interview for NIN.

“I was in all government bodies, and film bodies, in all film funds, where I could influence things for the better, to solve problems. Of course, without the help of some minister, especially Minister Nebojša Bradić, who did plenty to resurrect the film industry, while we film workers wouldn’t have been able to do much either. He deserves credit for the fact that Serbian cinematography is in a much better situation today than it was yesterday, though he didn’t have the understanding of many relevant people. If there were any stoppages, they weren’t his fault. Serbian film progressed so strongly that it began very successfully presenting our cinematography worldwide. It’s a shame that Bradić left.”

Today, when people from the domain of culture are dissatisfied with the government’s attitude towards them, Nebojša’s stance during his time as min-

ister represents a rare, bright example of desirable conduct.

“Both back then and today, I considered cultural clashes as not being needed by culture, that they are not good for culture, no matter how ‘attractive’ they sometimes seem to the media sphere. Someone in the position of a minister shouldn’t be someone who judges or adjudicates in a way that belittles someone or assassinates their character. The decisions made at the Ministry actually determine the policy that will be led by that Ministry. It is beyond my sense of civilised conduct when a minister clashes with a writer, director or actor. Culture doesn’t belong exclusively to any one party or convocation of the Ministry; it should not be preyed on by interest groups. The tone and manner in which individuals are discussed in the National Assembly, whether actors or someone else, is particularly insulting. This only causes the further escalation of violence in society, fear and insecurity. I’m proud of the dialogue I had with people who don’t belong to the same aggregation of political ideas or stances, because in that way we were able to collaborate with the aim of developing culture and the arts.”

With Lidija Pilipenko, Dejan Miladinović and Nebojša Romčević

Culture doesn’t belong exclusively to any one party or convocation of the Ministry; it should not be preyed on by political interest groups

Chill Out

VERSAILLES REOPENING MARIEANTOINETTE’S PRIVATE ROOMS

The Chateau of Versailles will reopen the private rooms of Queen Marie-Antoinette as part of its ongoing 400th-anniversary celebrations. The restored apartments were reopened to the public on 20th June, featuring 100 square metres (1,000 square feet) of luxurious living space where France’s last queen played with her children and received friends. It is the final part of restoring the Queen’s Hamlet and Trianon, a series of cottages and getaways built away from the main palace. It gives a “new understanding of history, with this paradox between public and private life, etiquette and intimacy, an extraordinary summary of history within a few square metres,” said Catherine Pegard, who runs the palace.

CHURCH OF ENGLAND VICARS DEMAND PAY RISE

Church of England vicars have become the latest group of workers to demand a pay rise in the face of the cost of living crisis, as Unite’s general secretary, Sharon Graham, claimed they were among the “working poor”. More than 2,000 clergy and lay staff represented by the union have submitted their first-ever official pay claim, asking for a 9.5% rise in the annual stipend, which stands at £26,794. The C of E’s remuneration and conditions of service committee is scheduled to meet and has invited Unite to make a submission about its members’ pay and conditions for the first time after lobbying by the union.

ANCIENT MAYA CITY DISCOVERED IN MEXICAN JUNGLE

A previously unknown ancient Maya city has been discovered in the jungles of southern Mexico, the country’s anthropology institute said on Tuesday, adding it was likely an important centre more than a thousand years ago. The city includes large pyramid-like buildings, stone columns, three plazas with “imposing buildings” and other structures arranged in almost-concentric circles, the INAH institute said. INAH said the city, which it has named Ocomtun – meaning “stone column” in the Yucatec Maya language – would have been an important centre for the peninsula’s central lowland region between 250 and 1000 AD. It is located in the Balamku ecological reserve on the country’s Yucatan Peninsula and was discovered during a search of a largely unexplored stretch of jungle larger than Luxembourg. The search took place between March and June using aerial laser mapping (LiDAR) technology.

FEWER PEOPLE TRUST TRADITIONAL MEDIA, MORE TURN TO TIKTOK FOR NEWS

According to a released report the number of people globally who initially access news through a website or app has dropped by 10 points since 2018, and younger groups prefer to access news through social media, search or mobile aggregators. Audiences pay more attention to celebrities, influencers, and social media personalities than journalists on TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat, the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism said in its annual Digital News Report. TikTok is the fastest-growing social network in the report, used by 20% of 18- to 24-year-olds for news, up five percentage points from last year. Fewer than half the survey respondents expressed much interest in the news at all, down sharply from 6 out of 10 in 2017.

MCCARTNEY ANNOUNCES NEW BEATLES SONG WITH LENNON VOICE USES AI

The Beatles’ new and last song uses artificial intelligence. It will be released this year, Paul McCartney has announced, adding that he used AI technology to get John Lennon’s voice from an old demo to complete the decades-old song. “We’ve just finished it, and it will be released this year,” McCartney said on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme. Although McCartney did not name the song, it is probably Lennon’s composition from 1978 called “Now and Then”. A demo recording of that track was on tapes labelled “For Paul”, which Lennon made shortly before he died in 1980, and Lennon’s widow, Yoko Ono, later gave to McCartney.

POLICE ROBOTS GO ON PATROL AT SINGAPORE AIRPORT

At more than 7 feet tall when fully extended and with 360-degree vision, they’re formidable enough to make any would-be lawbreaker think twice. But Robocop, they are not. These are the two robots the Singapore Police Force has introduced to patrol Changi Airport following more than five years of trials. And they are just the first such robots the force plans to deploy across the Southeast Asian city-state to “augment frontline officers” in the coming years. The robots, which have been patrolling the airport since April, are meant to “project additional police presence” and serve as extra “eyes on the ground,” according to the force, which describes them as the latest addition to its “technological arsenal.”

10 OF THE BEST Picnic Accessories

We’ve all been there. You lay the picnic rug down and set out your gourmet spread only to realise you’ve forgotten the all-important bottle opener or cheese knife. Not this summer. Whether it’s a day at the races or a weekend in the country, we’ll make alfresco lunching a piece of cake.

The Cooler Bag

No sun-soaked soirée is complete without a refreshingly chilled beverage. Keep your all-important tipples ice-cold in this 10-litre capacity (that equates to two wine bottles and two beer cans) cooler box from Fieldbar.

The Glassware

Raise a toast with these travel-proof Dolce Vita Champagne Flutes from Mario Luca Giusti. Made from durable synthetic crystal, they look sublime –plus, you’ll save on singleuse plastic or breaking your best glassware. It’s a win-win.

The Basket

Surely the chicest way to transport your strawberries and cream. Spacious and insulated, this Sunnylife Round Cooler Basket will facilitate a whole host of alfresco jaunts, from beach outings to romantic dates in the park.

The Blanket

Bring style points to your movable feasts with this exclusive herringbone blanket from Heating & Plumbing. Stitched with a waterproof backing, the soft wool blanket is ready to be spread out on dewcovered grass, while leather straps make it easy to roll up and carry.

The Corkscrew

Avoid resorting to desperate measures to open your favourite bottle with this handy Alessi corkscrew. Hand-painted with a summery rainbow pattern, everyone will enjoy using the parrot’s ‘beak’ to crack open a cold beverage.

The Games

Who doesn’t love a little friendly competition? Work up an appetite with picnic games from Sunnylife like this table tennis set and other outdoor toys that’ll keep the kids entertained all summer long.

The All-In-One Picnic Set

Instantly signal your picnic prowess by arriving with a quintessentially British wicker basket filled with four plates, bowls, glasses and a 16-piece cutlery set from Alessi. Designed by Dutch designer Marcel Wanders, the stylish set will make you the envy of the park.

The Portable BBQ

Never miss an opportunity to grill in the sunshine with Weber’s Pulse 2000 Electric BBQ. Thanks to an integrated app-connected thermometer notifying you when your food is ready, you’ll be cooking up a gourmet feast wherever you please, whenever you please.

The Napkins

Ditch the kitchen roll for these all together more luxurious napkins from LaDoubleJ. Reflecting the Milanese designer’s love of bright, maximalist design, they’ll add a pop of colour to alfresco tea parties.

The Throw

It wouldn’t be the great British summer without an unpredictable cloudy spell. Keep the chill at bay and the alfresco fun flowing well into the evening with a generously sized Merino wool and cashmere throw from Harrods of London. Your guests will thank you.

DISNEY FANTASIA

2nd July – 8.30 - Ušće

All fans of previous philharmonic picnics, and especially those who were impatiently waiting for the performance of the famous Disney’s Fantasia, will now have the opportunity to attend the biggest musical picnic to date, which will gather listeners of all generations for a large free concert in the open air,

NEMANJA RADULOVIĆ & DOUBLE SENS

3rd July – 21.00 - Tašmajdan

in Usce (New Belgrade block 13) starting at 8:30 p.m. This “live to film” concert will be the first time a licensed music-film spectacle of the Disney company will be performed in our region. The Belgrade Philharmonic got the right to show and perform this sensational production. This high-quality projection is a compilation of the original film “Fantasia” from 1940 and “Fantasia 2000”, which has never been officially shown in our region.

9 TH FESTIVAL OF FANTASTIC LITERATURE ART-ANIMA

5th & 6th July - Grad Cultural Center

The ninth edition of the Fantastic Literature Festival Art-Anima will be held on Wednesday and Thursday, 5th and 6th July 2023, at the Grad Cul-

For the first time after the spectacular performance in the Student Park in 2015, the famous Serbian violinist Nemanja Radulović will host a concert for the Belgrade audience outdoors - at the Tašmajdan Stadium, on 3rd July 2023. Together with his chamber ensemble Double Sens, Nemanja will perform tracks from his latest album Roots. A real summer treat for audiences of all generations! The concert is organised by the Center of Belgrade Festivals - CEBEF. An exclusive Warner Classics artist since 2021, Nemanja Radulović has released his debut album for this label, “Roots”, an enchanting sonic journey caused by numerous influences and inspirations. His previous album, Baika, one of a string of nine successful releases for Deutsche Grammophon and Universal Music Group, was hailed as a “fire whirlwind of an album” by BBC Music Magazine, with five stars and rave reviews. Gramophone magazine praised the “imagination”: “...with Radulović as narrator, this is an album with captivating stories.”

BAJAGA & INSTRUCTORS

23rd July – 20.30 - Botanical Garden

One of the most famous Serbian and regional groups, Bajaga and Instructors, will perform in the Botanical Garden on July 23 from 8:30 p.m. as part of the GARDEN SESSIONS concert season, organised by the Center of Belgrade Festivals (CEBEF). The group was founded by Momčilo Bajagić Bajaga - singer, composer, songwriter and guitarist. This band has a rich discography and many hits that many generations have listened to and loved. The book “YU 100: the best albums of Yugoslav Pop and rock music” included as many as four albums by Bajaga and Instructor in its selection: “On the other side of the Pillow” (1985), “Positive Geography” (1984), “Mist Riders” (1986). and “Shop of Secrets” (1988). The current composition of the band consists of Momčilo Bajagić Bajaga - guitar, vocals; Živorad Zika Milenković - guitar, vocals, percussion; Aleksandar Saša Lockner - keyboards, vocals; Marko Nježić - guitar; Vladimir Vlada Čukić - bass and Marko Kuzmanović - drums.

tural Center (Braće Krsmanović 4, Belgrade). The festival dedicated to fantastic literature and its influence on social and cultural aspects will host about thirty participants: writers, editors, literary critics and theorists. They will talk about literature written in the key of fantasy and its important roles, starting from the influence on the culture of reading and creative writing, through the promotion of scientific concepts, to the research of sensitive social issues and the encouragement of empathy and understanding.

Gild

Raven Kennedy

„It’s the arrogance of men to think so little of women. And it’ll be their downfall too“ Locked away in a castle on the snowy mountains in the Sixth Kingdom of Orea, I have never known freedom. No one can get in or out. Apart from him. King Midas, who rescued me from the streets. Who gave me food, shelter, and his heart. Who I promised to love forever. But everything I thought I knew about King Midas is shattered when political upheaval sees me sent across kingdoms to a future I no longer understand. The world has only ever heard his story. Now it’s time to hear mine.

1336 rsd

The Facades of Paris: Windows, Doors, and Balconies

Dominique Mathez

This elegant book invites readers to lift up their eyes while strolling throughout Paris s streets and boulevards to pause, discover, and appreciate the facades of its buildings and the delicate artworks that are their windows, doors, and balconies. Innumerable motifs ornament the architecture of the French capital each a minor masterpiece of fine design and ironwork artistry. Exquisite, neverbefore-published watercolors and ink drawings by French illustrator Dominique Mathez bring each building s beautiful exterior to life. Away from the over-celebrated monuments and landmarks, the city s true, subtle charm emerges, distilled in a striking invitation to take a new look and rediscover its architecture through the ages.

5872 rsd

Confessions of an Economic Hit Man, 3rd Edition

John Perkins

Extensively updated, this edition features twelve new chapters, including a new introduction, preface, and study guide. The book updates the story of economic hit men (EHMs) and focuses on China’s EHM strategy. EHMs are highly paid professionals who use development loans to cheat countries around the globe out of trillions of dollars and force them to serve US interests. Former economic hit man John Perkins gives an insider view into this system. With a global perspective, this book offers powerful revelations on extremely timely elements, including the third economic hit man wave sweeping the world and how China optimizes US EHM models to make them a more dominating force.

2429 rsd

Tech Boss Lady

Adriana Gascoigne

New Art of Coffee: From Morning Cup to Caffiene Cocktail

Ryan Castelaz

While the popularity of craft cocktails and home bartending have helped people create their own drink-driven memories, the possibilities for coffee have remained rather tame. Much more than a guide to beans or brewing, The New Art of Coffee shares how to create inspiring concoctions and flavor profiles from comforting and rejuvenating to celebratory and adventurous. Nearly fifty recipes paired with beautiful photography will inspire and offer something for every taste and time of day hot, iced, carbonated, post-workout, decaffeinated, alcoholic, and deconstructed. Organised by mood, the recipes range in complexity from a quick quaff to a showstopping slow build.

3400 rsd

The founder of Girls in Tech offers first-hand accounts of the realities of startup life, with the very best advice from top women entrepreneurs You know startups are hard, but what is it like to fail, or have a falling out with your co-founder, or to go through hundreds of pitches in an effort get funded? In Tech Boss Lady, Adriana Gascoigne dives into the gritty, raw side of startups. She shares her own story - of defying Silicon Valley’s boy’s club and founding the largest organization for female entrepreneurs in the world - as well as candid true tales from more than 20 leading women in tech. The result: a no-nonsense guide for the entrepreneur, intrapreneur and Tech Boss Lady within each of us.

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Madly, Deeply: The Alan Rickman Diaries

Alan Rickman

Alan Rickman remains one of the most beloved actors of all time across almost every genre, from his breakout role as Die Hard’s villainous Hans Gruber to his heart-wrenching run as Professor Severus Snape, and beyond. His air of dignity, his sonorous voice and the knowing wit he brought to each role continue to captivate new audiences today. But Rickman’s artistry wasn’t confined to just his performances. Rickman’s writing details the extraordinary and the ordinary in a way that is anecdotal, indiscreet, witty, gossipy and utterly candid. He takes us behind the scenes on films and plays ranging from Sense & Sensibility, the Harry Potter series, Private Lives, My Name is Rachel Corrie and many more.

3400 rsd

Faces & Places

Korean Embassy’s Annual Reception For Economic Partners

1/6/2023

This year’s Korean Embassy’s Annual Reception for Economic Partners brought over 100 guests to the Residence of the Ambassador, where they enjoyed refreshments and traditional Korean food and drinks. In his welcoming remarks, H.E. Ambassador Jeong Lee thanked everyone for their support and contribu-

Italian Embassy Celebrates Festa della Repubblica

2/6/2023

At the residence of the Italian ambassador to Serbia, H.E. Luca Gori, the Day of the Republic of Italy was traditionally celebrated. In his address, Ambassador Gori said that in the last year, the friend-

tion to strengthening economic cooperation between Korea and Serbia. Much has been done in this field lately, including a tentative deal to sign a bilateral investment treaty to promote mutual investments, visits of high-level Korean delegations and business people, and a business roundtable prepared by KOTRA. At the same time, working-level discussions on free trade agreements are underway.

ship between Serbia and Italy has strengthened on all levels and that Italy will continue to preserve peace and security in the Balkans. The reception was also an opportunity to present “Made in Italy”, and guests enjoyed vintage cars, Italian cuisine and culture. The photo exhibition “Roma Eterna Promozione”, dedicated to the city’s bid to host Expo 2030, was also presented and organised in cooperation with the Italian Cultural Institute from Belgrade. The event was attended by Prime Minister Ana Brnabić, numerous ministers, representatives of local and international institutions, and representatives from the world of business, culture and sports.

IWC Coffee Morning At Kuća Kralja Petra

7/6/2023

IWC Belgrade’s last coffee morning before the Summer break was held at Kuća Kralja Petra, whose organisers generously offered to host the event. IWC members enjoyed each other’s company at the must-see destination on Belgrade’s cultural map, surrounded by its beautiful garden. The new President of IWC Belgrade, Barbora Kuchtova, welcomed guests and gave an insight into her hopes for IWC over the coming year, particularly emphasising the Charity Bazaar being held on 3rd December. This event included a “Potluck Brunch”, where IWC members were invited to share dishes from their countries, and we were spoilt with an impressive array of savoury and sweet delicacies.

National Day Of Portugal

7/6/2023

Many dignitaries from the public and cultural life of Serbia, as well as numerous representatives of the diplomatic corps, attended the formal reception organised last night on the celebration of Portugal Day at the Hilton Hotel. Ambassador of Portugal H.E. Virginia Piña, addressed the present guests and emphasised the significance of this day for the Portuguese people. The national day

of Portugal is celebrated on 10th June, the most important public holiday in Portugal and the date with which the nation identifies. On that day in 1580, the greatest Portuguese poet of all time, Luís de Camões, died. That date was chosen because the famous poet’s exact date of birth is unknown.

Faces & Places

The National Day Of The Sovereign Order of Malta

8/6/2023

In the garden of the Archbishop’s Palace, which is adjacent to the Embassy, the National Day of the Sovereign Order of Malta in the Republic of Serbia was held on 8th June. It was an occasion to commemorate the humanitarian initiatives of the Order in Serbia and announce the latest WISH that has been fulfilled. As part of the “Make a WISH to the Order of Malta” campaign, a multisport field was inaugurated in Bač on 9th June and donated to the local church. This project, which originated from an idea by Mino Raiola, the manager of world-renowned football champions, is a tangible expression of our unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes and our dedication to improving local communities. Raiola, who passed away last year, believed that engaging young people in sports is the best way to keep them away from the risks of the streets.

Reception On The Occasion Of The Russia Day

14/6/2023

A reception was organised at the Russian Embassy in Serbia, marking Russia Day, a national holiday established on the occasion of adopting the Declaration on State Sovereignty of the Russian Federation. The President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, was among the guests. “There is no indication of a change in the consistent position of the presidents of Serbia and Belgrade, and above all, in what is crucial. We are convinced that there will be no recognition of Kosovo and that there will be no change in cooperation with Russia,” said Russian Ambassador, H.E. Alexander Botsan-Kharchenko, addressing those gathered at the reception on the occasion of Russia Day. Greeting the guests, the Russian ambassador reminded of the words of President Putin that Russia Day is first and foremost a holiday of national and people’s unity that symbolises loyalty to patriotism and that it is a sacred heritage.

Statehood Day Of Slovenia Marked

14/6/2023

President of the Republic of Slovenia Nataša Pirc Musar, who was in Belgrade on a working visit, attended a reception on the occasion of the Statehood Day of the Republic of Slovenia, organised by the Embassy and hosted by Ambassador H.E. Damjan Bergant. “The reception at the National Day organised by the Embassy of Slovenia in Serbia indicates that Slovenia and Serbia are building political relations characterised by open dialogue and commitment

The Opening Of The EU Opportunity Week

21/6/2023

EU Ambassador to Serbia H.E. Emanuele Giaufret opened the EU Opportunity Week with a formal reception at the MTS Hall. In addition to the ceremonial reception, the guests had the opportunity to see the exhibition “Innovation Expo”, and 11 companies, supported by the European Union’s funds through the Innovation Activity Fund programs, presented their innovative solutions and achieved results. “Our mission, my mission is to make Serbia an even bigger part of the EU economy and society as it progresses on its path of integration,” said European Union Ambassador Emanuele Giaufret at the opening of the EU Opportunity Week.

to cooperation and solving issues of common interest. Slovenian companies are also active. There are over 1500; they employ more than 25.000 people. I am glad that in the future cooperation will get further strengthened in energy, science and tourism.

Faces & Places

Afro Festival Held With Kenya As Guest Country

25/6/2023

The Afro Festival was held at the Museum of African Art. As a result of the exceptional international cooperation between the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Serbia, the Embassy of the Republic of Serbia in Nairobi and the Museum of African Art, this year’s honoured guest of the festival was the Republic of Kenya. The Ministry of Youth, Arts and Sports of Kenya and the Cultural Center of Kenya presented their rich cultural heritage with an exclusive program under the slogan “Kenya - the pride of Africa!” with performances by more than thirty music and dance performers and a sales exhibition of traditional and contemporary art and craft products, fashion design, textiles, jewellery. The doyen of the Group of African Ambassadors and the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco, Mohamed Amin Belhaj, addressed the visitors.

Canada Day Marked In Belgrade

27/6/2023

“Today, the connection between Serbia and Canada is celebrated because the two countries have a lot in common, said Canada’s ambassador to Serbia, Giles Norman, during a reception organised to mark Canada Day. “We have many Canadians who are making progress, bringing back to Serbia the acquired knowledge and technical skill and applying it in Serbia, so we want it to continue to increase,” Ambassador Norman told Tanjug and thanked everyone who came to the reception. National Canada Day is celebrated in memory of July 1, 1867, when the provinces of Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick proclaimed the federal union of Canada, which the British North America Act of the British Parliament granted dominion status.

The Year Of Opportunities

BUSINESS PARTNER FRANCE 2023

04 No Alternative To Normalisation

H.E. Pierre Cochard Ambassador of the French Republic to the Republic of Serbia

14 Proud Of Our “Green Line”

Vladan Čokić

Country Chief Executive for Serbia and for Montenegro at Bureau Verita

24 French Season In The Hues Of A Late Summer

Guest of Honour at the 66th International Belgrade Book Fair

08 Optimistic With Reason

Dragan Stokić President of the French-Serbian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIFS)

12 Re-Bonjour: Events For New Encounters

Sanja Ivanić

General Director of the French-Serbian Chamber of Commerce and and Industry (CCIFS)

16 French Serbian Autumn

Stanislas Pierret Counsellor for Cooperation and Culture at the Embassy of France, Director of the Institut français de Serbie

20 Reliable Partner

French-Serbian Chamber of Commerce (CCIFS) and Industry

IMPRESSUM

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Neda Lukić n.lukic@aim.rs

ART DIRECTOR

Branislav Ninković b.ninkovic@aim.rs

PHOTOS

Zoran Petrović

COPY EDITOR Mark Pullen mrpeditorial@mail.com

PROJECT MANAGERS

Biljana Dević b.devic@aim.rs

Mihailo Čučković m.cuckovic@aim.rs

Renata Šteković Zagorac r.zagorac@aim.rs

OFFICE MANAGER

Svetlana Petrović s.petrovic@aim.rs

FINANCE

Dragana Skrobonja finance@aim.rs

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Maja Vidaković m.vidakovic@aim.rs

DIRECTOR Ana Novčić a.novcic@aim.rs a.novcic@cordmagazine.com

PUBLISHER Ivan Novčić i.novcic@aim.rs

PRINTING

Rotografika d.o.o.

FRANCE 2023

Us

28 A Great Who Connects

Sava Šumanović

30 France Plans To Invest €2 Billion In Cycling Cycling

Segedinski put 72, Subotica

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Strengthening Institutions, Enhancing Economic Ties

France is a key player on Serbia’s journey towards EU membership, with a focus on resolving the complex relations between Serbia and Kosovo, strengthening the rule of law and democratic institutions, and fostering economic relations and investment opportunities between the two countries

moting regional reconciliation.

Furthermore, France places great importance on the rule of law and democratic institutions, aligning with the EU’s expectations for Serbia's EU membership journey. It is with this in mind that Ambassador Cochard acknowledges the mass protests in Serbia, viewing them as part of a vibrant democratic landscape, provided they remain peaceful.

This special issue offers valuable insights into bilateral economic cooperation, shedding light on the strong interest of French companies in expanding collaboration, specifically in the areas of environmental protection, infrastructure development and renewable energy.

France has been a staunch supporter of Serbia's political and economic reforms, as well as its pursuit of EU accession. The visit of the President of the French Republic to Belgrade on 15th16th July 2019 served to revitalise relations between the two countries, aligning with the objectives of the French Strategy for the Western Balkans that was adopted in April 2019.

France is currently focused on Serbia’s journey towards EU membership in three key areas: firstly, France, together with Germany and the U.S, is actively seeking to resolve the complex and tense relations between Serbia and Kosovo; secondly, France prioritises strengthening the rule of law and democratic institutions in Serbia; and lastly, France places a strong emphasis on deepening

economic relations and encouraging increased investment from French companies in Serbia.

France's perspective underscores the value of fraternity, solidarity, and shared values in fostering mutual cooperation and engagement between France and Serbia, contributing to Serbia's development across various domains.

These priorities are highlighted in the interview for this special issue with H.E. Pierre Cochard, Ambassador of France to Serbia. He stresses the importance of normalising relations between Belgrade and Pristina, emphasising the need for comprehensive and inclusive municipal elections in North Kosovo in order to achieve a lasting political resolution. The ambassador also emphasises France's commitment to supporting Serbia's European integration aspirations and pro-

Moreover, this special issue also emphasises the efforts of local authorities aimed at addressing environmental and cultural challenges, with a focus on strengthening ties between France and Serbian municipalities. Lastly, it provides an overview of cultural cooperation and valuable insights into the celebration of Francophone culture in Serbia, coinciding with the forthcoming International Belgrade Book Fair.

France also actively promotes cultural cooperation by revitalising studies of the French language in the education system, facilitating inter-university exchanges, providing training programmes for cultural professions and fostering research collaborations between laboratories. Facilitating the mobility of Serbian students and researchers to France is a key priority for the French Embassy in Serbia.

No Alternative To Normalisation

Municipal elections in the municipalities of North Kosovo that are boycotted by the Serb population do not represent a lasting political solution. They have to be reorganised with the full participation of the Serb population. That’s what we will be working on to make sure that we can return to the original agreement that is still in place and is still binding for both parties -

Pierre Cochard

As a member of the Quint and a country with a leadership that’s viewed with respect from the Serbian perspective, France provides its own contribution to the process of normalising relations between Belgrade and Pristina. In this interview for CorD Magazine’s special edition on France, Ambassador H.E. Pierre Cochard insists that the only alternative to returning to dialogue is “growing incessant tensions”. He reiterates France’s assessment that the government in Pristina “has an important share of responsibility in the latest events”, adding that the obligation to form the Association of Serb Municipalities must be met.

Your Excellency, what will be your key message when you address guests at the traditional Bastille Day reception on 14th July?

— My key message will be one of fraternity and solidarity. Fraternity is one of the elements of our national motto “liberté, égalité, fraternité” [liberty, equality, fraternity] that’s sometimes forgotten. But this year I want to address the Serbian people with a message of fraternity and solidarity after the Ribnikar school mass shooting. That was a shock for everybody. It was also a shock for us because we have strong ties with the Ribnikar community. So, we share in the sorrow of the children, the parents and the teachers, and we will continue to support the Ribnikar school in the future. But I also want to share a message of solidarity and fraternity with Serbia in order to help the country implement its green agenda and thus accelerate on its path towards the EU and to ensure that the country belongs to the broader European community of shared values.

Speaking on the occasion of the unveiling of the new runway at Belgrade Airport, which is managed by French company VINCI Airports, you described this venture as symbolising a new page in the annals of bilateral cooperation between our two countries, in which you see Serbia as a regional power. Could you elaborate?

— Yes, I think that the VINCI investment in the airport is emblematic of the long-term perspective in which French companies want to invest in Serbia. And if they do so it’s because they believe in the future of this country, its European future, its capacity to utilise its assets of geographical location, good infrastructure and a skilled workforce in order to, let’s say, become even more developed and become a true regional power in the positive sense of that term, i.e., to become a driving force propelling the entire region towards EU standards and EU integration.

KEY MESSAGE

Fraternity is one of the elements of our national motto “liberté, égalité, fraternité” [liberty, equality, fraternity] that’s sometimes forgotten

INVESTMENTS

I think that the VINCI investment in the airport is emblematic of the long-term perspective in which French companies want to invest in Serbia

KOSOVO

We invite Kosovo to take stock of the situation and exert all possible efforts to enable a productive dialogue and to return to agreements

By Ljubica Gojgić

Nonetheless, at the political level there is often talk of the danger of Serbia being isolated in the region. How do you view these two parallel realities?

— I don’t think anybody wants to have Serbia isolated in the region and in Europe. That would be a dead end for the country and the region. That’s why we called on Serbia to join the EU sanctions against Russia. That’s not only to tick the box, but rather to show that we have the same assessment of the impact of this war of aggression on our collective security, and on the way of life that we all want to protect together. Of course, that’s also an illustration of the fact that, as a regional power, Serbia also has challenges and responsibilities. It has to overcome the legacy of the past. It has to promote regional reconciliation and once again represent a driving force for all countries of the region, bringing countries together and not sidelining them in striving to achieve this objective.

The start of this year was marked by optimism over the latest attempt to forge an agreement on the normalisation of relations between Belgrade and Priština. Given the latest events, do you think this process is once again in crisis? — We have just witnessed the fact that there is no alternative to normalisation. The only alternative is growing incessant tensions, and that is unfortunately now playing against the interests of the local population, chiefly and primarily. That’s why we invested a lot, as you mentioned, in restoring the dynamism of this normalisation process. We are naturally worried by the unilateral gesture taken notably by Pristina and have made it clear that Pristina has an important share of responsibility in the latest events. So, we invite Kosovo to take stock of the situation and exert all possible efforts to enable a productive dialogue and to return to agreements. For example, municipal elections in the municipalities of North Kosovo that are boycotted by the Serb population do not represent a lasting political solution. They have to be reorganised with the full participation of the Serb population. That’s what we will be working on to make sure that we can return to the original agreement that is still in place and is still binding for both parties. We will make sure that it will produce the expected effects.

It has been announced that France, and President Macron in particular, will have increased involvement regarding Kosovo in the future. Will this involvement prioritise the formation of the Community of Serb Municipalities or concessions on the Serbian side, in the form of Serbs returning to institutions, which is an insistence of the U.S.?

— Of course, in this approach concessions are expected from both sides, but what was already decided and agreed upon in 2013 and 2015, in terms of the Association of Serb Municipalities, is clearly a priority. It must be implemented forthwith. That’s not only the message of France and Germany, but rather is the message of the whole of the EU and the United States. So, yes, it’s a step to be taken immediately. The return of Serbs to Kosovo institutions – be that the police, the judiciary and municipalities – is also important and we have all witnessed the negative impact of their withdrawal. There is a vacuum that allows unilateral steps to be taken and that’s partly the explanation for the current situation. So, both are important, but discussion of the Association of Serb Municipality must start immediately and implementation must come soon.

Given that you often emphasise that there will be no overlooking of Serbia’s obligation to strengthen its democracy and institutions on its path to EU membership, how do you see the current political situation in the country, marked by mass protests among citizens?

— Rule of law is a key milestone on Serbia’s journey towards the EU. We want to give impetus to new momentum in this process of Serbia achieving full membership, but that doesn’t mean the rule of law, functioning institutions, the separation of powers and so on being neglected or downgraded in terms of importance. In order

for that to remain a key element, we are looking very carefully at positive reforms already implemented and other reforms that are planned for the coming months. That will, of course, be an important part of all these equations. I would not like to comment on internal political developments: that’s up to the Serbs to decide. Coming from a country where mass protests are not

rare, all I can say is that I think that, provided they don’t descend into violence, mass protests may be considered part of lively democratic life at the same level as a functioning parliament, functioning institutions, pluralist media landscape etc. All that is part of democratic life, again provided violence is clearly excluded.

When it comes to economic cooperation, you stated recently that the full potential for further economic cooperation between the two countries has not been utilised. France is present in Serbia in the sectors of environmental protec-

Coming from a country where mass protests are not rare, all I can say is that I think that, provided they don’t descend into violence, mass protests may be considered part of lively democratic life

tion, wastewater treatment, and major infrastructure projects, with more than 100 French companies operating in Serbia. Which new areas do you see as having the potential to further develop bilateral cooperation?

— There’s great potential. We've done well over previous years. Our bilateral exchanges have tripled since 2010 and now total around 1.6 billion euros, which is a more than 30% increase compared to last year. We have more than 100 French companies here and they are employing a lot of Serbian people, so all that is positive. Our main sectors of activity are wastewater treatment, waste treatment, the environment, infrastructure and so on. There’s also a strong French presence in the area of automobiles and vehicle equipment. Just to mention the fact that Hutchinson, for example, will increase its presence, while Michelin has now extended its capacities in Pirot. We have a lot of mechanical industry players, like Mecafor and so on. There’s also another important sector in the form of the agri-food industry, where we

have major companies like Savencia, Lactalis and Axereal that are mainly present in Vojvodina. Renewables also represent a sector that’s of great interest to us and one in which we’re sure French companies will be increasingly present. We already have a large, modern project in the field of the solar power industry. And another sector is IT. Just to mention the fact that I recently inaugurated, together with the Prime Minister, the new Novi Sad hub for Schneider Electric worldwide, which is a very well-known company. And here in Novi Sad they will be producing software that will be exported all over the world and will help make the electrical network much more effective. They will also be present in Serbia.

In your capacity as ambassador, you are heavily engaged beyond Belgrade. You signed the Convention on Cooperation in Kragujevac and provide support to the City of Niš in organising its public transport system based on the model of Nice, while you also led ambassadors of francophone countries in their visit to the City of Cacak, which is this year’s Serbian capital of culture. How do you see Serbia from that perspective?

— Everywhere, but especially in Serbia, local authorities have a key role to play in addressing important challenges like the environment, mobility, and so on. That’s why we are trying to increase our ties with local authorities here. They also have an important role in allowing for an active civil society at the local level to also promote culture through popular culture for everyone. That’s why we also try to forge links between French and Serbian local authorities. This is even more important, for example, through the seminar of municipalities at which they can exchange their environmental protection solutions, promote energy efficiency etc. This seminar has been a huge success, with a lot of Serbian and French local authorities coming to hear – initially in Niš, Novi Sad and Belgrade – exchanges and also bilateral visits. In the important field of culture, I very much enjoyed the visit to Čačak together with my francophone colleagues. We also brought French artists to this city, and having an annual capital of culture for Serbia is a very good initiative. I would also like to mention the fact that, as you perhaps know, France will be the guest of honour country at the upcoming International Belgrade Book Fair in October. We are happy to see that a lot of French local authorities are interested in coming and bringing their own… let’s say ‘assets’. We will certainly have Ille De France and Rhones Alpes (City of Lyon) presenting at our stands and also showing the local dimension of France dynamism.

We have more than 100 French companies here and they are employing a lot of Serbian people…Our main sectors of activity are wastewater treatment, waste treatment, the environment, infrastructure and so on

Our bilateral exchanges have tripled since 2010 and now total around 1.6 billion euros

Optimistic With Reason

The trade exchange between Serbia and France is experiencing continuous growth, while the number of French companies and French partners interested in investment in our country is on the rise. These positive trends fill us with optimism and represent inspiration for our work ~ CCIFS President Dragan Stokić

The number of French companies operating in Serbia has been increasing ever since the signing of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement with the European Union, as has the number of inquiries from French companies interested in launching their operations in Serbia, says Dragan Stokić, president of the French-Serbian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIFS). These developments have resulted in a threefold increase in the volume of trade between Serbia and France over the last 12 years, with bilateral trade

reaching a value of 1.6 billion euros in 2022. And that growth was up 29 per cent compared to the previous year alone.

“Moreover, if we take into consideration the involvement of French companies in capital infrastructure projects in Serbia (Belgrade Airport, waste treatment project in Vinča and the Belgrade metro), we are optimists when it comes to the volume and expansion of bilateral trade and we hope that the value of the total trade exchange will soon exceed the figure of two billion euros,” says our interlocutor.

To what extent are changes on the world market, and the responses of French companies to those changes, relevant to your activities in Serbia?

— Globalisation has contributed to us being networked/interconnected, but also to us being simultaneously dependent on one another, and to changes on the world market influencing changes in individual countries to a certain extent. When it comes to French companies in Serbia, we can say that these changes are limited. They relate more to the initial decision of French companies to start doing business in Serbia generally. French companies are now more cautious when it comes to making such decisions, considering all possible scenarios and not taking lightly the decision to enter any market. On the other hand, it should be noted that those companies that already operate in Serbia continue to conduct their activities without hindrance and are not impacted to a great extent by changes on the world stage and geopolitical challenges.

Given the repositioning of major value chains, how relevant is the Western Balkan market for French companies under these new conditions?

— The fact that the value chain is shifting and that European companies are seeking alternative solutions when it comes to their supply chains is actually beneficial to Serbia, because it positions our country as a potential destination for new FDI. Serbia is recognised as a traditional industrial country with a high-quality workforce, and if we add to this it’s good geographical position, developed transport infrastructure, favourable business climate, and the gov-

ernment’s willingness to accommodate investors through various subsidy programmes, we can say that the repositioning of the value chain can benefit Serbia.

To what extent did the “Bonjour Serbia” campaign help to better acquaint you with Serbia’s potential and to present, in a targeted way, the potential of the local market to French companies?

tions of companies in these cities. This campaign helped us to establish significant contacts and familiarise ourselves with local institutions and projects, but also helped us present to our member companies the potential of the region in Serbia. This was one more wonderful way for our members to connect, establish joint cooperation and perhaps decide to take advantage of the potential

— Under the scope of the Bonjour Serbia event, we visited Kragujevac, Niš, Kikinda and Zrenjanin. Members of our Chamber had an opportunity to meet with institutional and business partners, and to better acquaint themselves with the opera-

that regions across Serbia offer to expand their operations.

You stated at this time last year that you respond to challenges with enthusiasm and hard work, and that nu-

We are optimists when it comes to the volume and expansion of bilateral trade and hope it will soon exceed the figure of two billion euros

merous objective challenges can be overcome with an intelligent combination of measures, the dedication of the business community and good cooperation with the Government of Serbia. How would you rate the current economic juncture from that perspective?

— We entered 2022 optimistically, believing that last year would bring us many more opportunities and fewer challenges to doing business. However, the business world is unpredictable, and we are learning with each year to adapt to new changes and utilise them to make progress. Happenings at the world level and in our country, as well as the uncertainty and unpredictability they bring with them, prompt us to change our business strategies and decisions, to take risks, in order for us to be the best in what we do despite all the tribulations. By encouraging mutual cooperation and the strength of the community, we strive to improve the state of the economy and ease access to the market for French companies.

How does the clear slowdown in Serbia’s economic growth reflect on the operations of French companies in our country?

— Just like other countries in the region and further afield, Serbia is experiencing slower economic growth. The reason for this is largely high inflation, which is reflected in the reduced pur-

chasing power of the population, and that consequently impacts companies’ business revenue. Despite these negative circumstances, the vast majority of French companies in Serbia carry out their activities unhindered. Slow economic growth does influence decisions to invest and expand operations in Serbia. Such situations cause companies to be more cautious with investments and often prompt decisions to delay expansion plans.

Over the past several years, numerous chambers – acting both independently and in unison – have influenced the improvement of the business climate in Serbia. What changes are you focused on today and to what extent are they understood by the Serbian administration?

— These same initiatives remain current at the level of the Chamber. We listen to the needs of our member companies and try – through the good communication that we have with the relevant government bodies – to suggest the consideration of certain economic laws that would primarily help companies carry out their activities unhindered. Our Chamber commends the state bodies on their cooperation; they always happily respond to our invitations to organise meetings with members and respond to every inquiry we make quickly and with precision.

SYNERGY

By encouraging mutual cooperation and the strength of the community, we strive to improve the state of the economy and ease access to the market for French companies

CAUTION

Serbia is facing slower economic growth... Such situations cause companies to be more cautious with investments and often prompt decisions to delay expansion plans

CONNECTING

The “Bonjour Serbia” campaign was a wonderful way for our members to connect, establish joint cooperation and take advantage of the potential for expansion offered by regions across Serbia

Re-Bonjour: Events For New Encounters

If we observe the intensity of business cooperation between our two countries in 2023, we must say that we aren’t dissatisfied when it comes to the arrival of new French companies on the Serbian market, particularly given that we must bear in mind that these results have been achieved in the midst of an ongoing crisis

and “systemic” elements of the Belgrade metro project, explains CCIFS General Director Sanja Ivanić in this interview. “There are also several smaller projects, predominantly in the retail and services sectors. Considering the current crisis, we’re not dissatisfied,” she adds.

Bilateral trade between our two countries is growing year on year, with the number of French companies opting to launch operations in Serbia on the rise, while the French-Serbian Chamber of Commerce and Industry continues to cultivate optimism for the years to come, as it has since its inception.

We had the pandemic, followed by a global energy crisis, and now the continuation and complication of that crisis. To what extent have these adverse circumstances impacted on the number of French companies contacting you for advice and support related to FDI?

French companies have positioned themselves as partners on projects that are of strategic importance to Serbia in the areas of infrastructure, energy and the green economy. These are sectors in which French expertise is recognised worldwide, including in Serbia.

Two French companies have signed contracts with JKP Beogradski metro i voz [public utilities company Belgrade

Metro and Train] since the start of this year, with RATP Dev (operator of the Paris Metro) having signed a contract for early operator assistance services for the automated metro system and French company Systra, in a consortium with Germany’s Deutsche Bahn, signing a contract for Project Management Construction Management (PMCM), which relates to the establishing of a connection between the “construction”

— Following the abating of the pandemic, we succeeded in fully returning to the previous way of operating, though events at the global level have brought new challenges. The geopolitical situation, as well as the rising inflation that also hit our country, brought a certain degree of uncertainty with regard to future business. However, despite the unenviable situation on the market, the number of inquiries that we receive from French companies enables us to maintain a positive attitude, because we are recording slight growth. French companies from various fields of industry view the Serbian and Balkan markets as an opportunity to expand and launch operations.

INTERVIEW | SANJA IVANIĆ GENERAL DIRECTOR OF THE FRENCH-SERBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND

We know that French companies in Serbia are particularly interested in the infrastructure and energy sectors, and seemingly also the green economy. How, in this context and from the point of view of potential French FDI, would you assess the legislative amendments and institutional changes in these sectors?

— That’s right, it is precisely in these sectors where French expertise is recognised all over the world, including in Serbia. The best proof of this are the two large projects in Serbia that are being implemented by French companies working in cooperation with the City of Belgrade: Belgrade Airport (Vinci Airports) and the Vinča waste management complex (Veolia). The excellent cooperation that these two companies have with the City authorities provides a genuine incentive for all those companies considering doing business on our market. Moreover, the constant aspiration to harmonise Serbia’s legal regulations with the EU acquis representing an important indicator that the Serbian state is urging and encouraging the arrival of new FDI.

French SMEs also started arriving in Serbia a few years ago. How pronounced is this trend today?

— Unlike large companies, small and medium-sized enterprises are significantly more cautious when it comes to approaching the Serbian market. Despite the dose of caution that exists, French SMEs have nonetheless noticed the opportunities offered by our country’s market. We consider state assistance as being extremely important for the SME sector, but also the support of major corporations. Given that this is a sector that can play a key role in growing the Serbian economy, we endeavour to encourage all our member corporations to improve their cooperation with SMEs. This is one of the ways to increase the number of French SMEs in Serbia and create the best possible conditions for them to do business.

The CCIFS contributes to linking French companies and promoting French culture through a wide variety of activities. What does 2023 bring us when it comes to these CCIFS activities?

— The Chamber had numerous activities during 2022. We held many successful events for our members at which they

had opportunities to mutually connect and establish business cooperation. The excellent results that we achieved last year served as an incentive for us to continue organising events for our member companies in 2023 and to offer services to French companies wanting to do business in this region. We will continue with our regular monthly gatherings in the period ahead, as well as a series of new additions. We are continuing the Bonjour Serbia event, under the scope of which we provide our members with opportunities to attend various events over the course of a single day, through meetings with the local business community and local authorities. As of this year, we are even going a step further and deepening this event through the Re-Bonjour events, within the scope of which we will return to the cities we previously visited and place the expertise and experience of our member companies at the disposal of companies throughout

Serbia. We will organise a series of conferences nationwide throughout Serbia at which we will present relevant topics from the business world to local enterprises. This coming autumn will see the implementing of a new edition of the CSR campaign ‘Do Something Drastic to Make Waste Fantastic. Within the framework of this year’s campaign, primary school pupils will use waste to make structures on the topic of promoting sports and the Olympic Games to be held in Paris next year. The Quest for Net Zero project also remains a priority this year, with numerous roundtable events, publications and CSR activities. We also organised the region’s first Green Gala evening this year, which enjoyed fantastic success. This autumn’s French Week, with its many happenings, will be launched with the Beaujolais Nouveau evening, to be held, according to tradition, on the third Thursday in November.

Bureau

Proud Of Our “Green Line”

lines for assessing and managing risk, as well as for making decisions on investments. Viewed over the long term, both certification and compliance with ESG standards can bring companies numerous benefits. Achieving better business and financial results, as well as an improved reputation, requires a systematic approach and a lasting commitment to these aspects. Mere certification or the satisfying of ESG standards is no guarantee of success, though it can form an important part of a strategy that contributes to achieving those goals.

Here Vladan Čokić, Bureau Veritas Country Chief Executive for Serbia and Montenegro, discusses the company’s “green line”, which encompasses everything from the verification of greenhouse gas emissions, certification in the area of sustainability, social responsibility, eco products and the energy efficiency of buildings and systems

Your company is today increasingly mentioned for its so-called green line of services and solutions. What is included under the ‘Green Line’? — Bureau Veritas is really a leader in the field of Testing, Inspection and Certification, which is confirmed by the fact that we provide services for more than 400.000 clients globaly. The “green line” initiative is oriented towards supporting sustainable development and environmental protection, as well as promoting energy efficiency, and under “green line” services and solutions we offer a wide array of services and certifica -

tions that help organisations reduce their environmental impact, implement sustainable practices and satisfy regulatory requirements. The services categorised under the Bureau Veritas “green line” include, amongst others, the verification of greenhouse gas emissions, certification in the field of sustainability, social responsibility, eco products, the energy efficiency of buildings and systems etc.

Could a direct parallel be drawn between certification and adherence to ESG standards?

— A certain connection exists between certification and compliance with ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) standards, but it isn’t a direct parallel. Certification relates to the process of verifying

and confirming that an organisation, product or service fulfils certain standards. For example, the certification of environmental management sys-

You also believe that a better world can be reached by creating better jobs, better surroundings and better business practices, and all in accordance with the UN’s sustainable development goals. How do your clients view that?

— Many companies are today aware that business success isn’t only measured in terms of financial results, but also in terms of a positive social and environmental impact. Companies that accept sustainability as part of their business model recognise benefits like

tem could be considered part of a sustainability approach and ESG practices.

ESG standards focus on gauging the impact companies have on the environment, attitudes towards employees, social equity, the management of corporate risks and other issues linked to sustainability. ESG standards often serve as guide-

competitive advantage, access to new markets, risk reduction etc. The trend is such that ever more companies are recognising that sustainability and business success are not antithetical, but are rather interconnected and in the long term ensure improved operational and financial results, as well as a better reputation.

Veritas is a leader in testing, inspection and certification that provides clients with all services required to achieve, maintain and demonstrate compliance with all requirements pertaining to quality, health and safety, the environment and corporate social responsibility

Mere certification or the satisfying of ESG standards is no guarantee of success, though it can form an important part of a strategy that contributes to achieving those goals

French Serbian Autumn

It is our great honour to have been chosen as the Guest of Honour country at the International Belgrade Book Fair and our wish is for our appearance to reflect the fusing of French and Serbian culture –the confluence. We want this to symbolise the entire autumn period in Serbia, which many partner institutions from all over the country will help us achieve ~ Stanislas Pierret

This year’s International Belgrade Book Fair, which features France as the Guest of Honour, will be opened by Mathias Énard, considered one of today’s most important French novelists and the recipient of many awards, the most prestigious of which is the Prix Goncourt.

Also arriving as our guests will be Eric-Emmanuel Schmitt, who’s well known to Serbian readers, but even more famous among theatregoers, as well as novelist Catherine Cusset and economist Julia Cagé. Belgrade will simultaneously welcome world-renowned economist Thomas Piketty.

“At the same time, this year’s Fair will provide an opportunity to recall the galaxy of francophone authors, which includes writers who not only marked Yugoslav art with their creativity, but are also well known in France, such as Yugoslav novelist Danilo Kiš and French comic book writer Enki Bilal,” explains Stanislas Pierret, cooperation and culture counsellor at the Embassy of France and director of the French Institute in Serbia [Institut français de Serbie].

One of your exhibitions is dedicated to Serbian publishers who champion French culture. How has it been received?

In light of the upcoming Book Fair, our wish was to highlight the importance of the work of Serbian publishers and translators, given that they represent the fulcrum for spreading French thought. We decided to work, in cooperation with them, to organise exhibitions in the gallery of the French Institute, through which we will present published translations of French and francophone authors. We entrusted the first exhibition of posters, which feature authors and citations from their works, to publishing house Akademska Knjiga [Academic Book]. That exhibition opened on the same day that the Embassy of France in Belgrade hosted the award ceremony to present the Order of Arts and Letters in the rank of Officer to Mrs Bora Babić, director of this publishing house, which has spent almost two decades successfully publishing important works in the fields of fiction and social sciences. Following this exhibition, we are planning another with other publishing houses with which we collaborate.

To what extent has this series of events triggered the interest of new and existing lovers of the French Institute and its media library?

We are led by the idea of expanding the audience, who don’t have to be exclusively francophone. There are many existing areas where our two cultures come together, and sport is certainly

one of them, particularly considering the upcoming Paris Olympics. I was astounded when Novak Đoković triumphed at Roland Garros and spoke French at the award ceremony. The very idea of speaking the language of the country that welcomed him, where he competes, demonstrates his respect for that country, and that can only be an incentive to strengthen our ties. And if it is even appropriate to mention myself at this moment, I will say that I’ve also been trying to learn the Serbian language since arriving in the country, and I’m glad to have reached a solid level, which I will improve upon.

Another area of your focus is the youth and their exploration of French culture. Could you provide information on specific events in 2023 dedicated to the younger audience?

Young people remain in the focus of our activities throughout the entire year, and that will also be the case at the book fair. We try to familiarise them with French culture through sports, games and workshops. Children were happy to visit the circus workshops that we organised in cooperation with organisation Cirkusfera.

We will organise events, workshops, book promotions, readings and games at our stand on a daily basis, through which youngsters and their parents will be able to learn more about the French language and culture. I’m glad that the guests of the fair will also include famous French authors who’ve already found their place among young readers: Magali Le Huche, Florence Aubry and Tony Valente.

As we are all aware, sport, tourism, and gastronomy will also be in your focus. What role does the institute play in promoting the upcoming Olympic Games, which will take place in Paris in 2024?

We plan to sell books in French at our stand, which will also include books addressing the fields of tourism, sports and gastronomy. We would like to organise meetings with athletes. We are also planning to hold discussions about books dedi -

Our language school will be represented at the Book Fair throughout the nine days of its duration

Nine bilingual Serbian-French language departments that are attended by students in six Serbian cities demonstrate the development of that cooperation and represent another symbol of the fusing of our two cultures

FRANCE,

cated to athletes, with the authors in attendance. One such book was published in France recently and we hope it will be translated into Serbian. The work in question is called Le Nageur (The Swimmer), which author Pierre Assouline dedicated to famous French swimmer Alfred Nakache, who was a champion in the interwar period and a participant in the Olympic Games, and who was deported to Auschwitz at the peak of his career, only to return. The book addresses the topics of overcoming oneself, resistance and the fight for survival, and represents a genuine life lesson in courage and endurance that we can only be given by great athletes.

We also plan to promote the Illustrated French-Serbian dictionary of sports, which will be published prior to the Fair by the Faculty of Sport and Physical Education of the University of Niš.

The rise of AI and its impact on various forms of culture is a widely discussed topic globally, including in Serbia. How are French cultural institutions, publishers and artists approaching this particular subject?

At the start of this year’s Book Fair, Serbian publishers will organise a professional summit and panel debates with French publishers, but also with representatives of other institutions related to books and publishing. We were happy

Museum Of Basketball

We’ve been invited to this year’s opening of the Museum of Basketball in Čačak, and that’s something I’m especially looking forward to

to respond to the call for us to bring competent French representatives to participate in themed discussions. The themes to be discussed will include piracy in publishing, intellectual property rights and, of course, the ever more topical theme of artificial intelligence.

French culture is accessible in Belgrade, Niš and Novi Sad. Have you been considering expanding to other cities in Serbia?

The French Institute in Serbia can boast of the fact that it is a unique foreign cultural institute in

Serbia in that it has branches in as many as two cities: Novi Sad and Niš. Our desire is to organise our activities nationwide across the country, to collaborate with representatives of culture in all Serbian towns and cities. After Čačak, which is this year’s Serbian capital of culture, we expect to also develop cooperation with Užice next year, which will carry this same title in 2024.

The French language promotes values that are vital in today’s unstable world: liberty, exchange and tolerance. French is the official language of the Olympic Games and an influence vector around the world

Reliable Partner

The French-Serbian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIFS) organises numerous activities for its members – from monthly gatherings to conferences and numerous other activities that provide opportunities for members to get informed, meet new partners and establish dialogue with representatives of the state administration and other interlocutors. Here we

review the most important activities of the CCIFS in the previous period.

WHAT IS THE CCIFS?

As the leading French-Serbian business network, the French-Serbian Chamber of Commerce (CCIFS) is an association that brings together French companies operating in Serbia, as well as Serbian and other international companies that conduct trade relations

with France or French companies. The CCIFS is also a reliable partner to all companies from France wanting to obtain information about the Serbian market or launch a business in Serbia and the wider Western Balkan region. In its efforts to promote French-Serbian economic exchange and facilitate communication between member companies, the CCIFS organises around 40 different events annually.

MONTHLY ACTIVITIES

The CCIFS organises three to four events of different formats per month, which provide opportunities for member companies to get acquainted, obtain information and, of course, enjoy socialising together. It is precisely these kinds of networking events that have enabled a lot of acquaintances to be made that subsequently developed into business partnerships. We would highlight the monthly meetings under the title ’Na čašicirazgovorasa’ [‘Conversation over a glass with...’], Speed business meetings, training courses held within the scope of the

CCIFS Training Centre, thematic webinars, as well as meetings of the HR, CSR and Sustainable Development clubs.

22.11.2022, EMBASSY OF FRANCE IN BELGRADE GREEN TRANSITION CONFERENCE

The GREEN Transition conference, organised by the CCIFS in collaboration with the Embassy of France in Serbia and under the patronage of company MPC Properties, was the second conference in the series of events held within the scope of the

Quest For Net Zero project that was launched in the context of harmonising the Serbian economy with the EU Green Deal. The conference aimed to present French expertise in the green transition sector and environmental protection through the latest projects of leading French and local companies. The conference was jointly opened by Ambassador of France to Serbia H.E. Pierre Cochard, Serbian Mining and Energy Minister Dubravka Đedović and CCIFS President Dragan Stokić.

In the autumn of 2022, in cooperation with the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Serbia and with the support of its member companies, the CCIFS implemented the CSR campaign “Do something drastic to make waste fantastic”. This campaign was intended for fourth year pupils at primary schools across Serbia and aimed to raise their awareness of the importance of sustainable development and environmental protection. Schoolchildren were invited to use waste to create structures. The response of schools was exceptional, with the CCIFS receiving 200 applications from various regions of Serbia. Following voting by the jury, but also the general public – with more than 30,000 votes collected – CCIFS member companies awarded 12 valuable prizes to the schools that produced the structures declared as being the best. Following the culmination of the campaign, a two-month photo exhibition of images of the 20 best structures was organised at Belgrade’s Ušće Shopping Centre, in cooperation with MPC Properties.

27.3-23.4.2023 CHALLENGE CCIFI

CSR CAMPAIGN “DO SOMETHING DRASTIC TO MAKE WASTE FANTASTIC”

The CCIFS made its first ever appearance in the major global sporting competition CCIFI Sport Challenge, participating together with French chambers from 24 countries worldwide. The team from Serbia included 10 CCIFS member companies. With the help of a mobile app, we counted our steps and were physically active, while at the same time being socially responsible (part of the funds collected from participation were donated to French organisation SeaCleaners). In competition among over 550 teams, all teams from Serbia achieved great results, starting with Tigar Tyres, who took 5th place at the world level, while Serbia winning a fantastic 1st place in the country category.

27.4.2023 GALA EVENING

Among the CCIFS’s most attractive events is the annual Gala Evening that brings together 250 guests, including diplomats, businesspeople and public figures. This year's GREEN Gala was held at Belgrade’s Hyatt Regency Hotel. The CCIFS switched the focus of its operations towards the promotion of sustainable development and emphasising healthy business values last year, and the organisation of this year’s GREEN GALA paid particular attention to reducing the carbon footprint. The same event saw the awarding of the annual Grand Prix in two categories, as well as special awards for members. The Innovation Grand Prix was won by Generali Srbija, while the CSR Grand Prix went to Schneider Electric. The Chamber also awarded two special prizes: one to MPC Properties in recognition of its special contribution to the Chamber’s activities over the previous year; and the other to Tigar Tyres, which took 1st place in Serbia at the CCIFI Sport Challenge organised at the level of French chambers worldwide. Occupying a special place in

AUTUMN 2022

the programme of the Gala Evening was a fashion show organised in cooperation with the Faculty of Applied Arts in Belgrade and company L'Oreal, in which students presented fashion creations that they made in accordance with the principles of sustainable fashion.

ent them to new French companies and, on the other hand, to improve commercial exchanges between CCIFS member companies and local companies. Events have so far been held in Kragujevac, Niš, Kikinda and Zrenjanin, all of which brought together the highest members of the French diplomatic corps in Serbia, mayors and municipal/city governments, members of the French-Serbian business community, as well as representatives of local companies. Each event also included visits to French manufacturing companies operating in the aforementioned cities: Tigar Tyres (Michelin), Mlekoprodukt, Mecafor and Le Belier.

BONJOUR SERBIA

Bonjour Serbia is an event series that was launched at the start of 2022 and aims, on the one hand, to better acquaint the CCIFS with the potential of cities across Serbia in order to better pres-

GLOBAL INDUSTRIE

The CCIFS had the pleasure of participating in the GLOBAL INDUSTRIE fair and presenting the potential of the Serbian market in France for the second year in succession, this time in Lyon. This prestigious event is one of the world’s leading fairs dedicated to the development of industry and international cooperation.

2022-2023

7-10.3.2023

17-23.11.2022

FRENCH WEEK

French Week, representing one of the CCIFS’s most significant events, aims to promote historical, cultural and business ties between France and Serbia, while it is held during a period marked by an extremely popular French custom - the reception of Beaujolais Nouveau new wine.

The diverse and vibrant contents of the 10th edition of French Week provided guests with opportunities to participate in traditional French Week events: tasting good wine at the reception of Beaujolais Nouveau new wine; learning some secrets of preparing French delicacies at the Gastronomy Workshop; tasting famous wines from French regions at the Wine Workshop; sampling famous French cheeses and other delectable delicacies. New business links were forged between CCIFS member companies and representatives of local institutions, international organisations, Serbian cities and municipalities at the Green Transition business conference, which aimed to present the sustainable development sector expertise of CCIFS members. Furthermore, the seventh consecutive Online Employment Fair was held throughout the entire week, on the web platform www.francuskanedelja.rs, with visitors given the possibility of touring the virtual stands of participating companies, applying for over 70 advertised jobs and chatting with HR representatives. Completing the programme for young people was a series of webinars for students entitled “After college I shall be...”, at which students received an opportunity to discuss various professions with panellists and receive useful advice regarding their future professional orientation.

SUPPORT SERVICES TO FRENCH COMPANIES

The French-Serbian Chamber of Commerce works continuously to provide support to French companies wanting to develop their business activities in Serbia. We assist companies from France in terms of investigating market potential, identifying potential clients and partners, opening branches and generally doing business on the Serbian market. The CCIFS has been an operating partner of Business France, the French Government agency for export promotion, and a member of Team France Export for 10 years. More than 200 French companies from the most varied sectors (from industry to services) have placed their trust in us when it comes to assessing the launch of operations in Serbia. We also provide support to companies in the countries of the region, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro and North Macedonia. Our LeBooster business centre provides services ranging from the renting of office space to all kinds of assistance in companies’ functioning.

French Season Late Summer In The Hues Of A

Speaking during last October’s handover of the open book of the Fair, French Ambassador Pierre Cochard, representing the guest of honour country at the 2023 Belgrade Book Fair, said: "I look forward joyously to France’s guest appearance, and this will simultaneously be an opportunity for the French Institute in Serbia and the Embassy of France to highlight cooperation with young people. They will promptly use travel books, alongside comics, audio and digital editions, and read literary fiction. We will suggest that all partners, including theatres and museums, pay attention to French creativity and make it a beautiful French season in the hues of a late summer.

Here we exclusively present to you some of the French authors who’ve agreed to participate in the 66th International Belgrade Book Fair, which will this year be held between 21st and 29th October.

CATHERINE CUSSET

Catherine Cusset was born in Paris in 1963. She graduated from the École normale supérieure, before receiving two PhDs, one from Paris Diderot University, with a dissertation on the works of the Marquis de Sade, and one from Yale University, where she continued to teach 18th-century French literature from 1991 to 2002.

Her links to America would go on to influence the themes of her novels, in which she questions the cultural differences between French and American

Visitors to this year's Belgrade Book Fair will have an opportunity to discuss her works, particularly the novel La Définition du bonheurThe Definition of Happiness

people, as well as between the countries themselves, but she would also delve deeply into family matters and reexamine the unavoidable motive of passion.

She made her debut on the literary scene with the 1990 novel La Blouse Roumaine. Although most of her written works received awards, it can be said that her L'autre qu'on adorait novels, all published in 2016, proved the most successful, having been declared the best novels by young people from the selection for the prestigious Goncourt prize in 4 countries of the world: Belgium, Romania, Slovenia and Sweden. She received the prestigious Prix Anaïs Nin for her novel Vie de David Hockney.

Catherine’s work have been translated into more than 22 languages. Here novel Jouir (Uživati) has been translated into Serbian (Prosveta, 2004, translated by Ivana Hadži-Popović.)

Visitors to this year's Belgrade Book Fair will have an opportunity to discuss her works, particularly the novel La Définition du bonheur - The Definition of Happiness [Definicija sreće] (Prometej, Novi Sad, 2023, translated by Sara Ralić).

ERIC-EMMANUEL SCHMITT

Eric-Emmanuel Schmitt was born in Lyon in 1960. He initially studied music and literature, only to graduate from the Ecole normale supérieure in philosophy in 1983, where he also earned his Ph.D in 1987. Six years later, following wonderful responses to his

Photo copyright: © Photo Ulf Andersen

literary work, he decided to devote himself fully to writing. Three translations of his titles will be presented at the book fair: the novel [Udeo drugog] (Clio, 2023); and two children's books: L’île de la liberté [Ostrvo slobode/The Liberty Island] and L'Éléphant qui ne respectait rien [Sebično slonče/Selfish Elephant] (Odiseja, 2023).

Schmidt is first and foremost a playwright. He has received the award of the French Academy of Sciences for his entire theatrical opus, while many of his works – from the first one to be performed in 1991 and to this day – have been awarded multiple times, with many more nominations. Over the course of the three months that it showed in Belgrade, an extra ticket was highly sought after for every performance of his famous piece Enigma Variations. Performance rights were subsequently bought for many countries: Finland, Greece, Japan, Poland, Argentina, Russia... and everywhere the main role is performed by famous stars and the best actors of national theatres.

All three of his short stories comprising the Trilogy of the Unseen - Oscar and the Lady in Pink [gospođa u ružičastom mantilu], M. Ibrahim and the flowers of the Koran [Gospodin Ibrahim i cvetovi Kurana] and Milarepa, which have been published in Serbian by Laguna – are performed on theatrd stages

The author of more than 20 books for children and young adults, she is a winner of several prestigious French awards

ature, before earning a master’s degree in geography. In Apart from writing, Aubry also works as a school teacher and librarian. She is a member of the Charte des Auteurs et Illustrators de Jeunesse, an association of authors and illustrators that advocates equal rights of writers and illustrators of children’s books.

The author of more than 20 books for children and young adults, she is a winner of several prestigious French awards. Her works deal with serious and sensitive issues, such as suicide (La Fille du monstre, 2019), alcoholism among adolescents (Biture

worldwide. He is also known to Serbian theatregoers for the dramas The Visitor [Posetilac], Einstein’s Betrayal [Ajnštajnova izdaja], Enigma Variations [Zagonetne varijacije], Minor Marital Crimes [Mali bračni zločini] etc.

During his stay in Belgrade, Eric-Emmanuel Schmidt is scheduled to attend a performance of his piece Si on recommençait [Da krenemo ispočetka/If we Started Again] at Opera & Theatre Madlenianum.

FLORENCE AUBRY

Florence Aubry is a French writer and activist. She was born in 1968 in Besançon, where she completed undergraduate studies in language and liter-

During his stay in Belgrade, EricEmmanuel Schmidt is scheduled to attend a performance of his piece Si on recommençait [Da krenemo ispočetka/ If we Started Again] at Opera & Theatre Madlenianum

express, 2010), poor living conditions for animals in captivity (Titan Noir, 2018), and so on.

Her novel Titan Noir [Crni Titan/Black Titan] (published in Serbian by Odiseja, 2023, translated by Svetlana Stojanović) is Aubry’s first work to have been translated into Serbian. It has also won several awards, the French Booksellers Award (2019), the Petruis Award for the best youth novel (2019) and the Maya Award (2020), the first French award presented for literary works that contribute to the defending animal rights.

JULIA CAGÉ

Julia Cagé is a French economist. Her main areas of interest are development economics, political economy and economic history. Cagé is a professor

Under the scope of her visit to the International Belgrade Book Fair, Cagé will hold a lecture on media freedom

Copyright Albin MichelPhotographe Pascal ITO

of economics at the Sciences Po University’s Department of Economics in Paris. She is a winner of the 2023 Best Young French Economist Award. One of the directors of the Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Evaluation of Public Policies (LIEPP) of the research group “Evaluation of Democracy”, she is also a research associate of the Centre for Economic and Political Research (CEPR) and head of CEPR’s research and policy network on “Media Pluralism”. She is the wife of famous French economist Thomas Piketty.

Akademska knjiga published her book Saving the Media. Capitalism, Crowdfunding and Democracy (Sauver les médias) in 2016, which was translated from French by Dušan Janić.

Under the scope of her visit to the International Belgrade Book Fair, Cagé will hold a lecture on media freedom She will be signing her book Saving the Media at the Fair, at the Akademska knjiga stand and the French national stand.

MAGALI LE HUCHE

World-renowned French children’s book author and illustrator Magali Le Huche will be a guest of the Creative Centre at this year’s International Belgrade Book Fair.

She is known to Serbian readers for her audio books about a musical dog, called Peca in Serbian, which are among the most popular children’s books around the world. The Creative Centre has to date published 11 books from this series, the hero of which is called Paco in the original French, and prepara-

As a writer of extraordinary erudition, Énard uses this novel to provide a lot of information about the violent history of the Zone – the states of the former Yugoslavia, Spain, Algeria, Lebanon, Italy

a teenage girl growing up in the ‘90s who manages to overcome her fear of school by listening to the Beatles. The book received the 2021 Prix Pépite in the category of comics at the Salon du livre jeunesse de Montreuil and a special acknowledgement from the jury of the 2022 Bologna Ragazzi Awards in the category of comic books for primary school children.

Born in Paris in 1979, Magali studied for five years at the Academy of Applied Arts in Strasbourg. She published her first children’s book in 2005 and has since been working continuously as an author and illustrator of children’s books and graphic novels.

MATHIAS ÉNARD

This year's 66th International Belgrade Book Fair will be opened by French writer Mathias Énard. Born in 1972, he studied Persian and Arabic and spent a long time living in the Middle East, while he is today resident in Barcelona. Énard’s novel Zone, pub-

tions are underway to publish a Serbian version of the book Peca plays the blues [Peca svira bluz], the original version of which was published recently by Éditions Gallimard.

She achieved great success with her 2021 autobiographical work Nowhere girl, which she both authored and illustrated, and the Serbian translation is also expected to be published by the Creative Centre ahead of this autumn’s Belgrade Book Fair. A touching and humorous comic/graphic book about

She is known to Serbian readers for her audio books about a musical dog, called Peca in Serbian, which are among the most popular children’s books around the world

lished in Serbian by Akademska knjiga in 2016 and translated by Anđa Petrović, was declared by critics as one of the most original books of the decade and won several French and international literary awards. As a writer of extraordinary erudition, Énard uses this novel to provide a lot of information about the violent history of the Zone – the states of the former Yugoslavia, Spain, Algeria, Lebanon, Italy. He received the 2012 Goncourt Award for the novel Compass (Boussole), published in Serbian by Akademska knjiga in 2016, translated from French by Tamara Valčić Bulić. Énard is one of the most beloved writers in our region, while he is also among the top ex-

perts on the region’s history and culture. Two other novels of his have been translated into Serbian: Breviary for Pyrotechnicians (Bréviaire des artificiers 2007), translated by Emilija Cerović Mlađa, and Tell Them of Battles, Kings and Elephants (Parle-leur de batailles, de rois et d'éléphants, 2010), translated by Ivana Misirlić Bigard. This year’s International Belgrade Book Fair will include a promotion of Énard’s latest novel, The Annual Banquet of the Gravediggers Guild (Le Banquet annuel de la Confrérie des fossoyeurs, 2020), translated by Tamara Valčić Bulić and published by Novi Sad-based Akademska knjiga. The same publishing house is also preparing to publish the novel The Perfection of the Shot (La Perfection du tir, 2003), which has been crowned with the prizes Prix des cinq continents de la Francophonie and Prix Edmée-de-La-Rochefoucauld.

THOMAS PIKKETY

We expect the most spectacular event at the Belgrade Book Fair to be the guest appearance of

Piketty is one of the most vocal advocates of progressive taxation of income and wealth globally in order to reduce inequality around the world

Hennette), translated by Kristina Bojanović; Time for Socialism (Vivement le socialism, 2020) translated by Gorana Prodanović; A Brief History of Equality (Une brève histoire de l’égalité, 2021), also translated by Gorana Prodanović; and Capital and Ideology (Capital et idéologie, 2019) translated by Aleksandar Stojanović. Capital and Ideology is a continuation of the book Capital in the XXI Century. During Piketty's stay in the Serbian capital, he will make a guest appearance at the International Belgrade Book Fair and give a lecture. He will be signing books at the stand of his Serbian publisher, Akademska knjiga from Novi Sad, and at the French national stand.

TONY VALENTE – TONI VALENTE

Artist & Scriptwriter

Tony Valente gained his start in comic books with Delcourt, illustrating the four-part series Les 4 princes de Ganahan, alongside scriptwriter Rapheël Drommelschlager. Once the series was completed, Valente began work on his own project, Hana Attori (Soleil Productions), a result of his manga and anime influences. He next illustrated SPEED Angels (Soleil), together with writer Didier Tarquin, before turning once more to a personal project. The first volume of the French manga series Radiant was published by Ankama.

world-renowned economist Thomas Piketty, who drew a lot of attention from the world public when he published the book Capital in the XXI Century (Le capital au XXIe siècle) in 2013, which became a scientific bestseller. More than 2.5 million copies have since been sold worldwide, with this work translated into more than 40 languages. The main theme of the book is wealth and income inequality in Europe and the United States since the 18th century. Piketty is one of the most vocal advocates of progressive taxation of income and wealth globally in order to reduce inequality around the world. World Bank economist Branko Milanović considers Piketty's book “one of the groundbreaking books in economic thinking”. Akademska knjiga published Capital in the XXI Century in Serbian, translated by Kristina Bojanović, in 2015 and has since also published his other books How to Democratise Europe (Pour un traité de démocratisation de l'Europe; co-authored by Antoine Vauchez, Guillaume Sacriste and Stephanie

Valente has the remarkable distinction of having RADIANT as the first and, to date, only manfra (French manga) to be translated into Japanese

Valente has the remarkable distinction of having RADIANT as the first and, to date, only manfra (French manga) to be translated into Japanese. Over a million copies of RADIANT have been sold worldwide. Radiant is translated and published in Serbia by publishing house Najkula.

A Great Who Connects Us

On the occasion of celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the establishing of the Cultural Centre of Serbia in Paris, an exhibition entitled Sava Šumanović and European Realism Between the Two World Wars was held from 26th May to 23rd June, organised in cooperation with the Novi Sad-based Pavle Beljanski Memorial Collection and the Gallery of Matica Srpska

The exhibition was conceived with the idea of presenting the latest results of research into Šumanović's connection with French culture and Paris’s international art scene at the Cultural Centre of Serbia. The exhibition is authored by Milana Kvas, manager of the Pavle Beljanski Memorial Collection.

The exhibited works included nine paintings and four drawings from the Gallery of Matica Srpska and eight drawings from the Pavle Beljanski Memorial Collection, as well as video animations of the paintings Luncheon on the Grass (Pavle Beljanski Memorial Collection) and The Drunken Boat (Museum of Contemporary Art, Belgrade ), while the exhibition was complemented with the addition of a special video segment with important examples of Šumanović’s painting and works by his role models and contemporaries sourced from both public and private collections.

Completing the exhibition was the original authorial music of composer Andrija Pavlović. The exhibition’s video content was authored by Aleksandar Ilić, while its design and accompanying catalogue were entrusted to Veljko Damjanović.

With a focus on original works from the Gallery of Matica Srpska that were originally exhibited at the Autumn Salon and the Salon of the Independents in Paris, relations with orientations towards European realism on Paris’s art scene, as well as on Šumanović’s circle of friends and acquaintances, the standouts among whom included the likes of Rastko Petrović, André Lhote, Florent Fels and Kiki de Montparnasse, the exhibition at the Cultural Centre of Serbia presented Sava Šumanović in a new light as one of the most important Yugoslav artists on the cultural scene of the French capital.

Lectures by art historian Gordana Krstić Faj and screenings of films about Sava Šumanović were organized throughout the duration of the exhibition. A promotion of the publication Sava ŠumanovićandEuropeanRealismBetweentheTwo WorldWars, published in 2022 by the Pavle Beljanski Memorial Collection, was held on 23rd June to mark the culmination of the exhibition’s run. Providing an important contribution to the evaluating and interpreting of Šumanović’s work for future generations, this representative collection of works includes trilingual (in Serbian, English and French) published studies by prominent scientific and museum experts and art historians: Zvonko Maković, Lidija Merenik, Igor Borozan, Ana Ereš, Sofija Milenković, Gordana Krstić Faj, Tijana Palkovljević Bugarski, Milana Kvas and Tamara Ogn-

A promotion of the publication Sava Šumanović and European Realism Between the Two World Wars was held on

23rd June to mark the culmination of the exhibition’s run

jević. The fact that the contents of the publication are available in both French and English enables experts and the general public in France and elsewhere to better familiarise themselves with the important aspects of Šumanović's creative oeuvre, which serve to show that his art, but also the Yugoslav cultural scene of the interwar period, participated equally in shaping Europe’s art scene.

The exhibition and promotion of the publication SavaŠumanovićandEuropeanRealismBetween the Two World Wars was realised under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Serbia, with the support of the AP Vojvodina Provincial Secretariat for Culture, Public Information and Relations with Religious Communities and the Novi Sad branch of the French Institute in Serbia.

France Plans In Cycling €2 Billion To Invest

In May 2023, the French government announced plans to spend €2 billion by 2027 to promote cycling. The funds will finance the Bicycle Mobility Plan(link is external), which was released on 5 May. Its implementation “should make cycling and walking part of the daily lives of all French people”, said Prime Minister, Élisabeth Borne when announcing the plan.

To achieve this, the plan targets three lines of action: i) make cycling accessible to everyone, from an early age; ii) make cycling and walking an alternative

to private cars and public transport; and iii) make cycling an important economic sector by supporting cycling tourism in France, as well as its cycling industry. The government wants to make bicycles an attractive alternative to cars and a means of transport accessible to everyone from the youngest age and throughout their life. The aim is to provide bike training for all primary schoolchildren, so that eventually an an entire age group will be able to ride a bicycle, i.e. 850,000 children each year. The Government also wishes to develop the bicy-

The French government announced a €2 billion plan to expand cycling infrastructure as part of a broader effort to encourage people to ditch their cars

CLEMENT BEAUNE, TRANSPORT MINISTER

Today, half of our trips by car are less than 5km. That’s immense potential for bikes. With the Plan Velo, we’re mobilizing €2 billion to accelerate the deployment of bikes everywhere in France

work with local authorities and hope that, alongside them, we will be able to invest €6 billion over the period”, said Élisabeth Borne.

The government will also increase spending on secure bike parking facilities in railway stations and in cities. In addition, €500 million will be allocated to subsidies to enable people to buy bicycles, including second-hand bicycles.

As part of the third pillar of the Bicycle Mobility Plan, France plans to strengthen cycling as an economic sector. A national cycle tourism strategy is to be developed that aims to make France the number one cycling tourist destination in the world by 2030. The government will also support bicycle production and the repair industry. Amongst others, a call will be launched for projects that encourage industrial players to innovate, as well as to relocate the production of components and the assembly of bikes to France. The aim is that, by 2027, 1.4 million bicycles will be assembled in France, increasing to 2 million in 2030 (up from 850,000 in 2022).

“The investment the national government will be making to promote cycling is totally unprecedented and massive”, commented Transport Minister Clement Beaune on the plan. The new Bicycle Mobility Plan supersedes the Cycling and Active Mobility plan(link is external) formulated in 2018, which had a planning horizon until 2024 and a budget of €350 million. Its implementation may have sparked the enthusiasm for cycling and the current use of bicycle routes is up 52% compared to 2017. It is hoped that the measures from the new plan will further fuel enthusiasm and ensure a lasting cycling culture.

cle as a tool to promote an active, healthy lifestyle throughout life.

In order to make cycling an easier and more accessible alternative to car for local trips, the government intends to double the cycle lane network from 50,000 km today to 80,000 km in 2027 and 100,000 km by 2030. The government is planning to invest up to €250 million a year for this until 2027. The funds are intended to co-finance projects at the regional and local levels up to 25% to 30% of the total costs. Priority will be given to provincial cities and rural areas, as large cities have already received considerable state funding for cycling infrastructure. "We will

Currently, France has 50,000 km of bike lanes. The government wants to increase that to 80,000 by 2027, and 100,000 by 2030

ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

SPECIAL EDITION 2023

CONTENTS

04 Seeking Equilibrium Between Public And Private Interests

Ivan Rašković Professor of the University of Belgrade Faculty of Architecture, President of the Association of Belgrade Architects

14 Architectural Maturity Comes Via The Absence Of Fear

Milena Ivanović urban planning group head, Bureau Cube Partners

10 Designing For A Radically Changing World

Aleksandar Saša Zeljić architect; AIA, NCARB, LEED BD+C; Studio Director, Design Principal, Director of Practices. - Gensler, Chicago

IMPRESSUM

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Neda Lukić n.lukic@aim.rs

ART DIRECTOR

Branislav Ninković b.ninkovic@aim.rs

PHOTOS Zoran Petrović

COPY EDITOR Mark Pullen mrpeditorial@mail.com

PROJECT MANAGERS

Biljana Dević b.devic@aim.rs

Mihailo Čučković m.cuckovic@aim.rs

Renata Šteković Zagorac r.zagorac@aim.rs

OFFICE MANAGER

Svetlana Petrović s.petrovic@aim.rs

FINANCE

Dragana Skrobonja finance@aim.rs

Milena Kalinić design group head, Bureau Cube Partners

Sanja Kostić design group head, Bureau Cube Partners

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Maja Vidaković m.vidakovic@aim.rs

DIRECTOR

Ana Novčić a.novcic@aim.rs a.novcic@cordmagazine.com

PUBLISHER

Ivan Novčić i.novcic@aim.rs

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ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN 2023

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RAŠKOVIĆ Professor of the University of Belgrade Faculty of Architecture, President of the Association of Belgrade Architects

SEEKING EQUILIBRIUM BETWEEN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE INTERESTS

Belgrade’s development testifies to its economic might and market attractiveness, to the positive and negative values that it shares, in relative terms, with the planet’s other metropolises. Although there is plenty of public debate in our country regarding current architectural solutions, often among laypeople, I would say that the field of architecture has an optimal influence in our environment. The sheer number of design contests organised in our country testifies to this claim

The latest urban planning and architecture solutions in our cities are among the many topics subjected to lively debate in Serbia, not only in the context of the solutions themselves, but first and foremost as a reflection of broader social values, and denying, striving towards and deviating from those values. In recent times, these debates have been

bringing citizens onto the streets, with some architects and urban planners stating that they are directly engaged in political life or are react collectively as representatives of the profession, commenting on the numerous signs of change throughout Serbia, from the Belgrade Waterfront and the route of the metro, to the potential destruction of ecological oases like Šodroš or the Reva Pond, the fell-

ing of trees lining streets in the centres of major Serbian cities and the ubiquitous invisible hands of investor urbanism. In order to get the lowdown on whether the dilemmas besieging us are uniquely ours or global issues, the search for the correct balance between public and private interests, the amounts of money circulating in the construction sector and all kinds of better and worse architec-

IVAN

tural solutions to be found in rural Serbia, we spoke with Ivan Rašković, professor at the Belgrade Faculty of Architecture and president of the Association of Belgrade Architects.

For a foreign visitor or someone arriving from the provinces, the architectural solutions of a capital city relay a message about a country’s development, about its relationship towards history and the future, and certainly towards citizens themselves. Observed from that perspective, what does the latest wave of construction in the Serbian capital tell you about the values that we nurture?

— The wave that you mention primarily testifies to Belgrade being a

multiculturalism, once brought it flattering comparisons with Berlin. The momentum of construction we’re discussing is, in a way, both the cause and consequence of Belgrade’s status as a metropolis. The volume of all kinds of investments testifies to it being a significant space of great opportunities, so the city’s growth is an expression of the desire to utilise those opportunities. One financial expert told me a few years ago that, at that moment, there was more money circulating in the Belgrade construction sector than there had been in the entire Socialist Federal Yugoslavia prior to its collapse. A great advantage is also represented by its position at the confluence of two navigable rivers, the Sava and the Danube, on the border of the

so it certainly can’t live its life as it did, say, a hundred years ago. The development of Belgrade, thus, testifies to its economic might and market attractiveness, to the positive and negative values that it shares, in relative terms, with the planet’s other metropolises.

metropolis, because many brands that extend beyond its boundaries are developing in the city. The legendary ‘splav’ (raft) venues floating on the Sava and Danube, which have long been famous across Europe and beyond, represent a metaphor for the metropolis, combining within them ‘the black and the white’; the nadir and the zenith of urban life. Additionally, Belgrade’s museums have also become one of the city’s brands; the Nikola Tesla museum is particularly prominent, and for good reason, because it displays the legacy of one of the all-time greatest inventors in human history. The diversity of Belgrade’s urban matrix, the presence of architecture with superior values, a rich offer of city amenities, heritage and dramatic

Pannonian Plain, which leads directly to the “heart” of the European continent. Of course, the architecture and construction highlighted in your question are important elements of the metropolis that certainly express the system of values and economic might.

Belgrade is growing dynamically, with new buildings and complexes demonstrating that it is also a place to generate profit, in which it doesn’t differ from other world metropolises. New square metres are sold and rented because there is high demand for this type of “good”. The attitude towards heritage is something the public is sensitive to, but there must be consideration for the fact that every city is also a “usable object” and that buildings have their own lifespan,

Whose notions are woven into such solutions? How many of them are the product of relevant international contests, involving foreign and domestic architects - competing, ideas – and what does that tell us about the influence your profession has on shaping the future – not only the future of the capital, but of urban centres across Serbia? — The ‘idea’ of a city is always the result of the harmonising of public interest and private investments that “fill” the budget, while the city administration further directs them towards development for the benefit of all citizens. Interestingly, our area is known for its long and well-developed tradition of public architectural contests, so its buildings that were ‘won’ in contests include: Palace Albania, the Temple of Saint Sava (on two occasions), St. Mark’s Church in Tašmajdan, New Belgrade’s Hotel Yugoslavia, the General Staff Building in Miloš Veliki Street [Yugoslav MoD], the Palace of Serbia and the National Library. That tradition is not waning – thus, around a year ago, we had as many as five architecture contests: for the faculties of applied arts and music, the hub on the site of the former Ložionica railway depot next to Gazela Bridge, the extension of Student City in New Belgrade... all capital investments! A contest, as a competition between ideas, is certainly the best way to reach the right solution for any architectural topic. What happens in a spatial area impacts all members of the community, regardless of the ownership status of a structure or land plot; impacting their movements, views,

VOX POPULI

The influence of the field of architecture in our area is assessed differently by the public, and we have to be mindful that the wider public are laypeople when it comes to issues of architecture and urban planning

TOPONYMS

The legendary ‘splav’ venues on the Sava and Danube, which have long been famous across Europe and beyond, represent a metaphor for the metropolis, combining within them ‘the black and the white’; the nadir and the zenith of urban life

HOUSING

The very relevant topic of housing policy actually finds its place in an important document that’s been prepared over many years by our state under the title National Architecture Strategy

A LARGE NUMBER OF VARIOUS ETHNO-COMPLEXES HAVE BEEN SPROUTING UP ALL OVER SERBIA FOR DECADES AND OFTEN REPRESENT UNSKILLED AND EVEN TASTELESS INTERPRETATIONS OF THE RURAL ARCHITECTURE OF OUR LANDS

sense of satisfaction, and their lives in general. Public and private interests must be concordant, through compromise and close collaboration, without radical opposition. The correct solution is to evaluate which locations in the city are of such spatial importance that planning documentation for them must include the obligatory conducting of a public contest, regardless of whether the project is under state or private ownership. And that is actually implemented in our environment, though I would say not to a sufficient extent. The influence of the field of architecture in our area is assessed differently by the public, and therein we have to be mindful that this public, the wider public everywhere

around the world, including in our country, is made up of laypeople when it comes to issues of architecture and urban planning. The public functions according to lines of personal taste, which is a subjective category; the fact that someone doesn’t like a façade in the city or the way some square has been arranged doesn’t necessarily mean those solutions are bad. I would still say that the field of architecture has an optimal influence in our environment; in relative terms, architecture contests are organised in our country much more often than they are in most EU countries and the U.S., but it can always be better.

Investor urbanism is often mentioned in our country as a prevalent private interest that is to

the detriment of public interest and the real needs of citizens. Is that fated in the times in which we live globally, or are there also ways to reflect public interest in our cities. Where lies the power of architects and urban planners, and that of citizens?

— Every expression of “urbanism” is by its very nature investor-driven, regardless of who invests the money. On the other hand, it is clear that not every private investment threatens the public interest. However, in a narrower sense, this notion relates to private investors, be they individuals or companies, who manage – through corrupt deeds – to have planning documents amended to favour them. Thus, this is not fated in the time and space in which we live, but is

rather a global phenomenon that has a tradition dating back centuries and is on par with the legal prevention of corruption and influence peddling among individual civil servants - decision makers. Civic action is also a legitimate instrument for crushing negative processes in a city’s development. However, here – as I’ve mentioned – it should be considered that the vast majority of citizens are laypeople when it comes to issues of a city’s development, so in any event they require professional assistance in recognising the real essence of a problem and the direction of its solution. Finally, the “power” of an architect in these matters is both indirect and direct; indirectly through planning documentation compiled

ONE FINANCIAL EXPERT TOLD ME A FEW YEARS AGO THAT, AT THAT MOMENT, THERE WAS MORE MONEY CIRCULATING IN BELGRADE’S CONSTRUCTION SECTOR THAN IN THE ENTIRE SFR YUGOSLAVIA PRIOR TO ITS COLLAPSE

in a high-quality way and contests that are well organised and adjudication, and directly in cases when they occupy decision-making positions while serving, for example, in the position of a city architect or urban planner, as a member of a planning commission, a state secretary at the ministry or a local government official.

There is a lot of talk at present about smart cities as urban areas that absorb the latest technological solutions, provide important responses to address the challenges of climate change and provide for a better quality of life for citizens. To what extent do you observe such trends in urban planning solutions and plans in Serbia and surrounding countries?

— I'm not an expert on that topic, but I think that our region’s inclusion in those trends is optimal. The planning documentation of the majority of our cities encompasses issues of waste recycling, reducing harmful emissions and developing the concept of “green energy”, as well as protecting the environment. Air pollution in Belgrade, for instance, is the result of incinerating various types of industrial waste in private furnaces. It is necessary to implement major, enduring and financially supported efforts to render these furnaces environmentally acceptable.

One piece of news that we were able to read recently is that the number of abandoned residential units in Serbia has increased by around 10,000 since 2011, to a total of 123,000. How do you interpret this information? What does it say about our housing policy? — We would have to define precisely what we mean under the term “abandoned apartment”. If that includes apartments that no one currently lives in, there can be various reasons, such as their owners residing and working abroad.

Over the past decade, a significant number of apartments have been bought as investments that are waiting for prices to rise, which has nothing to do with the housing policy, which actually finds its place in an important document that’s been prepared over many years by our state under the title National Architecture Strategy.

You spoke in another interview about something that only appears sporadically in our country’s media: architectural solutions in rural areas, or the existence of public places in that space. Is their absence or neglect one of the answers to the question of why those areas are being abandoned, and could addressing that lead to their possible rediscovery?

— Rural areas are still beyond the focus of the architecture profession in our country. The key reason is the imperative of the ideology of modernism to break with the past. That break manifested in attempts to find new, self-grounded form and spatial concepts. The architecture of rural areas is symbolised by the backward and the undesirable. The emergence of postmodernism in the last third of the 20th century created space for the specific utilising of the principles of traditional rural architecture, and results weren’t lacking. Inspiration from folklore architecture is inexhaustible and represents an opportunity for our country to affirm itself culturally and in tourism and economic terms. A large number of various ethno-complexes, primarily intended for hospitality purposes, have been sprouting up all over Serbia for decades. Unfortunately, most of those creations are not architecturally “literate”, nor do they

have any genuine connection with tradition, but rather they represent unskilled and even tasteless interpretations of the rural architecture of our lands. Solutions that are properly inspired by the tradition of rural architecture and represent exemplary illustrations of that tradition, such as the works of Božidar Petrović and Blagota Pešić, are also present, though unfortunately to a much lesser extent, for now.

IF “INVESTOR URBANISM” IMPLIES PRIVATE INVESTORS WHO MANAGE –THROUGH CORRUPT DEEDS – TO HAVE PLANNING DOCUMENTS AMENDED TO FAVOUR THEM, THEN IT IS ON PAR WITH THE LEGAL PREVENTION OF CORRUPTION AND INFLUENCE PEDDLING AMONG INDIVIDUAL CIVIL SERVANTS - DECISION MAKERS

GARDENS BY THE BAY, SINGAPORE

Beauty In The Gardens

Beyond the flora and fauna that live here, we can admire the Gardens’ iconic structures – architectural marvels that reimagine nature with artistic finesse.

Underlying the concept of Gardens by the Bay are the principles of environmental sustainability. Much effort was made to plan and design for sustainable cycles in energy and water throughout Bay South Garden.

Comprising two glass biomes, the Conservatories replicate the cool-dry climate of the Mediterranean and semi-arid sub-tropical regions and the cool-moist climate of the Tropical Montane region. They house a diverse collection of plants that are not commonly seen in this part of the world, some of which are of high conservation value.

DESIGNING FOR A RADICALLY CHANGING WORLD

We had the privilege of talking with Aleksandar Saša Zeljić, a Serbian architect who holds multiple positions, including Studio Director, Design Director, Regional Practice Area Leader, and Principal at Gensler, a glob-

al architecture, design, and planning firm that’s headquartered in Chicago. With an impressive career spanning over 22 years, Saša has amassed extensive expertise in a diverse range of complex and prestigious projects. He represented the perfect interlocutor for topics

spanning everything from major trends in the profession to personal experiences in designing the award-winning Shanghai Tower, Manila's Finance Centre Tower and World Plaza, as well as Chicago's Shirley Ryan Ability Lab and 333 North Green. Considering that he is also engaged in his home country, we also covered questions related to young Serbian architects and their work.

What do you consider as the major pressing issues being dealt with by contemporary architects?

— I think architects today are designing for a radically changing world that’s facing a multitude of concurrent challenges, including climate change, mobility, affordable housing, equitable design, or return to work, to name just a few. We must confront each of these critical challenges while always meeting the goal of improving experiences for all people. In the context of that complexity, collaborative problem-solving and design thinking can push boundaries, combining ideas, tools and approaches. Understanding that many of our global issues are interconnected, we must focus on multifaceted, integrated solutions. One example of how design can be a catalyst for major change is in our engagement with the climate crisis. As one of the most pressing issues we face today, climate change is impacted by a total of 40% of carbon emissions from the building industry, and so we have an opportunity to lead by making connections between clients and suppliers/manufacturers that can enable more productive and sustainable structures. We are also using strategic design thinking to create environmental responsibility and impact positively on communities by encouraging clients to increase their ESG goals, making buildings more desirable to tenants and investors.

Architects navigate a changing world, addressing climate change, mobility, affordable housing, equitable design and the return to work. Through collaboration and design thinking, they make efforts to offer solutions for a better life

ALEKSANDAR SAŠA ZELJIĆ

architect; AIA, NCARB, LEED BD+C; Studio Director, Design Principal, Director of Practices.Gensler, Chicago

With environmental stewardship as a core value, Gensler will eliminate all net emissions associated with our work by 2030. The Gensler Cities Climate Challenge (GC3) is our roadmap for how we intend to help our clients reach their carbon targets and our goal of making every building in our portfolio net zero.

Which recent works of architecture, whether your own or someone else’s, do you see as defining the future trend in the field?

— Designing for a profoundly changing world is an opportunity for all of us in the building industry to make decisions that address challenges head on with creativity and innovation. Urban areas today contribute more than 80 per cent of global GDP. That’s set to increase as the world’s urban population will more than double by mid-century. Our focus must therefore be on cities and recognising trends that will drive their success. Cities succeed and flourish because of their ability to attract diverse groups of people with

a wide range of skills and perspectives. With this and Gensler’s annual research in mind, here are the top four trends and strategies in design. I will dub the first one “Reclaiming experience”. The absence of experience that we faced during the pandemic continues to remind people of how valuable human interaction is and how critical our spaces are in enriching our lives. By prioritising design strategies that primarily emphasise people’s needs and expectations, we can reclaim the human experience in the places where we live, work and play.

The second one is decarbonisation. Driven by the critical impact of climate change, decarbonising the built environment continues to be the imperative of our time. As ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) and carbon disclosure mandates catalyse transformation in the construction industry, we will see more investments in sustainable design and construction strategies that sequester carbon in buildings and document the design details of a building’s

environmental and social impact.

The third one would be a lifework connection. The future of cities is being defined by their ability to reenergise the connection between life and work. The most vi-

brant cities of the future will be the ones that use design to successfully address the interconnected lifework issues of thriving workplaces, attainable housing, and safe and accessible transportation.

And finally, the fourth one would be equitable design. What do I mean by that? The demand for buildings and urban districts that have a higher purpose with a positive social impact will continue to drive design decisions. Creating a positive social impact means influencing everything from urban

WITH ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP AS A CORE VALUE, GENSLER WILL ELIMINATE ALL NET EMISSIONS ASSOCIATED WITH OUR WORK BY 2030

Shanghai Tower

master planning to building design, as we focus on how spaces and infrastructure can address things like growing inequality, aging populations and community engagement.

You have particular expertise in designing high-rise buildings that redefine the skylines of ma-

jor cities. What are the most significant challenges in designing these types of buildings? How does a building become iconic, and how did you feel when creating such edifices?

— Tall buildings are complex projects that require large, experienced teams and visionary clients, as well as local governments, to make them happen. I had an opportunity to be part of the team and lead the work on the design for Shanghai Tower, which – at 632 metres and 127 floors – is the world’s second tallest building. There are many challenges involved in the design of a building like this, from the impact of seis-

mic, lateral forces, the selection of a structural system, an efficient elevatoring strategy, fire, life and safety, through MEP Systems, energy use – I would say perhaps some 75% of these challenges are not obvious to anyone looking at the building from the outside and without diving deep to understand how it was done.

Moreover, buildings like this need to successfully fit the scale of pedestrian experience at the ground level, to be as inviting and pleasant to be around as they are a recognisable part of the future skyline. Lastly, they need to provide efficient functioning for their intended use. The majority of tall buildings are today mixeduse developments that have commercial, retail, hotel, or residential housing as programmes, coexisting in a single structure, and as such these buildings have additional layers of complexity that need to be considered carefully. I think solving all these challenges determine how successful and iconic a building is—being tall alone does not equate to a building being iconic.

Your career advancements are likely a dream for many young architects in Serbia who aspire to have an internationally recognised career. What recipe for success would you like to share with younger generations of architects, including those who are just starting their studies at the Faculty of Architecture? — I would encourage young colleagues and students to think beyond talent, hard work and perseverance. On your path towards success, it is also important early on to focus on developing your skills around collaboration, and your ability to listen and build partnerships. I think that, in any professional opportunity you have, you need to be focused on being patient and present in the moment and take time to learn and

THE ARCHITECTURAL PROFESSION IS DEEPLY ROOTED IN THE IDEA OF SERVING OTHERS AND PURSUING DREAMS THAT EXCEED ONE’S OWN LIMITATIONS

Shanghai Tower

grow as much as possible, while having a long view of what success means to you.

I would also say that you should learn to feel comfortable being uncomfortable at certain times, and to take risks in expanding your knowledge. Being humble about taking each of these steps towards building your career will help you understand that this profession is so much about serving others and achieving dreams that are bigger than you.

As a member of the international jury of the Council of the 45th Salon of Architecture held earlier this year, what were your major impressions regarding the quality of the submitted work and the ideas guiding the participants?

— It was a true privilege to be invited to be a juror at this year’s 45th Salon of Architecture. I appreciated the idea brought by the organisers around the necessity to develop a closer dialogue between the private and public sectors, developers/investors and local communities and academia. This kind of partnership, in which opposing points of view are often present, has positive impacts on fraternal communities, as dialogue is the only way to make true progress as we design our cities.

It was great to see projects that are being done by my colleagues practicing in Serbia and the region. I also enjoyed spending time reviewing the work of students and researchers. There were several categories of projects submitted. I think overall work quality was good. We had a lot of conversations at the level of the jury before we selected winners. Compared to where I practice, I think one of the key differences I see is in the scale of work, especially for architectural projects. Many of the projects submitted were of course smaller scale, which enabled a focus on craft and execution. I also

appreciated seeing work in the interior design category and seeing how the evolution of the workplace in Belgrade’s new offices is keeping pace with what we see in United States. I would also add that having an international jury was a very smart decision by the organisers, given the critical feedback practice needed to learn, course correct, and evolve with even greater work in the future.

I HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE PART OF THE TEAM AND LEAD THE WORK ON THE DESIGN FOR SHANGHAI TOWER, WHICH –AT 632 METRES AND 127 FLOORS – IS THE WORLD’S SECOND TALLEST BUILDING

The Finance Center, Manila, Design by Gensler

ARCHITECTURAL MATURITY COMES VIA THE ABSENCE OF FEAR

One of Belgrade’s most respected architectural studios comprises a team of almost 50 top professionals for whom each new project represents a new source of inspiration. It thus comes as no surprise that Bureau Cube Partners (BCP) was entrusted with three exceptionally important jobs: the reconstruction of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts (SANU); the reconstruction, extension and construction of additional new facilities within the scope of the Serbian Institute for Mother and Child Healthcare, as well as the reconstruction and extension of the Faculty of Fine Arts

For this CorD Magazine special, we interviewed three successful young women architects who play a significant role at BCP – a studio that pushes the boundaries by the day, setting new, higher standards – to discuss the biggest challenges of contemporary architecture and urban planning, the demands of modern man, global and local trends, new tools and trends, the need for lifelong learning and specialised training, the crisis of creativity, but also inspiration.

Your studio’s portfolio is impressive, as is the list of locations you've been engaged in and continue to work on. The demands of modern man far exceed former standards. Is this leading to rising demand for new residential complexes that offer, in addition to high-quality residential units, numerous other contents and services?

Milena Ivanović: Your assertion honestly makes us proud, which certainly obliges and additionally encourages our professional need

for dedication and satisfaction, to actually render architecture – as a science, an artistic discipline and, finally, as a systematised practical category – even more solid, useful and agreeable, authentically respecting the cohesive factors of its uniqueness based on Vitruvius’s timeless definition of architecture. Our studio, which comprises almost 50 exceptional colleagues, representing architects who are oriented and have very ably differentiated origins, is also recognisable for its extremely wide range of launched

MILENA IVANOVIĆ

urban planning group head, Bureau Cube Partners

SANJA KOSTIĆ

design group head, Bureau Cube Partners

MILENA KALINIĆ

design group head, Bureau Cube Partners

and implemented design challenges that are reflected in the design of architectural structures with various purposes, typological characteristics and functional distinctiveness.

When it comes to your question regarding qualities, standards and rising demand for residential units, which is undeniably high, it is important to stress that the term, formulated in the form of “needs of end users”, often changes appearance, matures, generates, improves and “persistently” upgrades itself in a qualitative sense. In this way, we –as members of our studio and the broader architectural community, with realistically acquired reputational criteria that have been maintained successfully to date - are set new boundaries that are accompanied by additional challenges. In that sense, concepts like luxury and comfort, which we almost always strive for, prompt an avalanche of distinctive unrecognisable forms, which are materialised in formats that time and again show that lifelong education and professional specialisation are essential.

Could you highlight some of the projects that you’ve worked on or are currently working on, and do so in relation to the aforementioned growing trends and demands?

Milena Kalinić: BCP architectural studio is currently participating actively in the process of designing several very complex residential-business developments that are distinctive in terms of content and form, the most current of which is the Buena Vista residential and commercial complex, which – following confirmation of the design concept and verification of the urban planning design project – is currently in the stage of obtaining essential documentation to launch the actual construction process.

This complex is located in the immediate vicinity of Košutnjak [Belgrade forest park], or more precisely in Kneza Višeslava Street. Apart from the nomination criteria for the form, artistic and distinctive aesthet-

ic characteristics, this project is also made interesting due to its exceptional technical and technological fitting, which is reflected in the applying of high standards regarding energy efficiency, and all this in accordance with extremely demanding spatial relationships and applied configuration principles.

Representing an additional advantage of the Buena Vista residential and commercial complex is that it testifies to applied principles of qualitative elements of contemporary architecture. Thus, firmitas-utilitas-venustas (strength-utility-beauty) in its full, existential format.

Elegant and fluid forms radiate sophistication and rhythm, while

the utilised high-quality materials and equipment, alongside flowing harmony and the functional uniformity of the “connective tissue”, set against interior and exterior frames, serve to additionally en-

BCP ARCHITECTURAL STUDIO PARTICIPATES ACTIVELY IN THE PROCESS OF DESIGNING SEVERAL VERY COMPLEX RESIDENTIAL-BUSINESS DEVELOPMENTS THAT ARE DISTINCTIVE IN TERMS OF CONTENT AND FORM

Buena Vista residential and commercial complex

hance the impression of constancy. Ellipsoidal elements, and the architectural rhapsody of their segments, coupled with a convex façade, introduce at the essence an element of serenity to the existing geometric playfulness and its spatial forms.

It isn’t easy to satisfy the expectations of clients, respect the local market and keep pace with global trends, but you nonetheless achieve it all. Does this mean that clients have unreserved faith in your expertise and dedication?

Milena Ivanović: Our relationship with clients is really based on trust. However, we consider the format of unreserved trust to be illusory, and as such simply non-existent. The profession itself teaches us that things are easily changeable, and that we must be ready to absorb the majority of qualified measurable factors of influence if we want to make

and through the product itself.

Of course, a successful final outcome is the only relevant measure that is evaluated almost as a base standard, but a successful outcome always comes at the end of a process that implicitly implies constant and serious financial investment, as well as other intangible investments in the expert specialisation of individuals and their professional education, in order to even be started. Our architectural studio provides all of this with indisputably recognisable results that are the reason we are still here with you today.

We often here talk of a crisis of creativity and a lack of original ideas in architecture, but your studio, as one of Belgrade’s extremely highly rated architectural studios, doesn’t have such problems. Where do your ideas come from; what inspires and motivates you to go a

reached, discouragement and capitulation are unrecognised emergent and conceptual categories. On the contrary – tenacity, perseverance, readiness to comprehend and understand mistakes, as well as the systemic articulating of the resulting shortcomings, represent a professional stride towards an assemblage of creative potential. The creative potential of an individual observed and validated through teamwork becomes part of the union of dozens of such assemblages that are filled with inspiring and motivating elements, which await their own opportunity.

Sanja Kostić: It has been noted that our studio comprises almost 50 exceptional architects, which also includes colleagues like Braca Ferenčak and professor Miša Mirković, who participated in the creating of the new architectural paradigm in the former Yugoslavia and represent true laureates of our profession, and a lot can be learned from them. When you approach the development of ideas with this knowledge, you know that nothing is impossible and everything is dependent on us alone. Architectural maturity comes via the absence of fear of the unknown, and that’s crucial to any form of creativity.

the degree of competitiveness at least slightly more difficult to achieve.

In dealing with architectural space at both a micro and macro level, we strive - in addition to spatial phenomena and general and special characteristics - to understand as well as possible the additional specifics and characteristics of the space’s end users.

Sanja Kostić: In accordance with the noted principles, we strive to always re-examine and check, testify to and present our expertise and professionalism, very consciously, never diffidently and silently, always clearly and completely precisely, uncompromisingly. We prove ourselves very proudly and effectively, both to ourselves and colleagues from the guild, through constant improvement, and to clients during the design process

step further with each new project?

Milena Kalinić: The concept, as a part of the creative postulates, and its subsequent systematisation through the unifying of elements that actually comprise the entire creative cycle, can be colloquially referred to as an idea that is most often a pseudonym for expressed individuality. However, the reality, and the full name of such a process, is rooted in completely clearly defined and essential teamwork, the spatial and functional articulation of which we control jealously from the outset to the final stage of the process.

Milena Ivanović: Our studio’s clearly established and determined protocols, with complete openness and indisputable expertise, contribute to the fact that even when moments of stagnation, conflict or transience are

Your team of architects strives to ensure that the architectural units and urban spaces it creates are always harmonised contextually and with the immediate surroundings. How difficult is it to coordinate between tradition and the demands of modern life?

Sanja Kostić: Frank Gehry said that architecture should speak of its time and place, but yearn for timelessness. This postulate led to the emergence of dissertations grounded in the values of contemporary architecture. Regardless of the juncture when you read Gehry, the cited claim always has the same meaning, which is why we strive to provide a contemporary architectural expression when forming new spatial compositions, regardless of the urban matrix within the scope of

AN ADDITIONAL ADVANTAGE AND RECOGNISABLE ELEMENT OF THE BUENA VISTA RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL COMPLEX IS THAT IT TESTIFIES TO APPLIED PRINCIPLES OF QUALITATIVE ELEMENTS OF CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE

which we operate. It is only in this way, by offering spatial responses and implementing compositional interventions materialised through individual structures, that we can additionally emphasise the level of originality of the epoch while avoiding mere interpretation, multiplication and reminiscence.

Is Serbia lagging behind the developed world when it comes applying modern trends in architecture and urban planning? Can Belgrade be compared with other world metropolises in this sense?

Milena Ivanović: If we conduct more thorough analysis of the spatial development of Belgrade, we can conclude that it has always been an inspiring spatial area, for both domestic and foreign architects. Our process of creating space is constantly changing and being complemented, both through our individual thought processes and experiences, and through new software tools that are more present today than ever before.

Construction regulations are often unable to keep pace with modern architectural trends. Mandato-

ry minimum criteria on the content of documentation are often insufficient for more serious spatial considerations. And it is precisely due to the aforementioned lacking documentation elements or similar factors that we resort to new processes, analytical methods and spatial/programmatic analyses, which – alongside legally mandatory elements –

form an integral part of our studio’s planning and design documentation. The creation of master plans, studio analyses and other extremely systemically complex research that we process through modern software tools and platforms, place us on the world map when it comes to the applying of modern and practically applicable development trends in architectural practice.

Foreign investment inflows are also largely dictated by the speed of development of our cities, and our readiness to adjust to domestic and foreign markets is reflected the most through the applying of new technologies. In accordance with this, it is professionally flippant to com-

EVEN WHEN MOMENTS OF STAGNATION, CONFLICT OR TRANSIENCE ARE REACHED, DISCOURAGEMENT AND CAPITULATION ARE UNRECOGNISED EMERGENT AND CONCEPTUAL CATEGORIES

Kosmaj Nature Community master plan

pare Belgrade’s urban development in relation to its rough recent history with the metropolises of Western Europe, though we believe that we are moving swiftly towards the elimination of that factor of frivolity.

Apart from your projects being exposed to the critical judgement of colleagues, the public as a whole, and end users, they must also stand the test of time.

Can that be simultaneously considered a challenge and good motivation?

Land is not a renewable resource, to begin with that challenge. Alongside various tools and their possibility to simulate the actual use of space, our testing ground is still represented by the city and its urban area. In accordance with this, every intervention is visible and critiques are implied; this is something we face time and again, regardless of its connotation and content. The moment we implement our idea from start to finish, additional motivation appears and constantly pushes us towards new challenges, and thus towards new achievements. The absence of criticism would prove disastrous for us, as it would imply that we are not worth mentioning.

First came the reconstruction of the building of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts (SANU), followed by the reconstruction and extension of the Faculty of Fine Arts? Does this project have special importance and significance for Bureau Cube Partners? It certainly does! Our team rejoices at the very thought that we can boast

THE PROCESS OF CREATING SPACE IS CONSTANTLY CHANGING AND BEING COMPLEMENTED, BOTH THROUGH INDIVIDUAL THOUGHT PROCESSES AND EXPERIENCES, AND THROUGH NEW SOFTWARE TOOLS

Campus of the Faculty of Fine Arts

of working on such significant edifices. It was a real challenge for our architectural studio – led by a team of authors comprising architects Milan D. Rašković, professor Miodrag Mirković and academic Branislav Mitrović – to go through several pre-qualification and qualification contests and tender processes and to gain the opportunity to submit designs. The FFA sculpture department was originally designed by academic Branislav Mitrović, who formally and essentially joined the team on the basis of this fact and our invitation.

When it comes to the Painting Department, as a separate unit, it is integrated into the newly designed FFA campus in Mila Milunovića Street, which from the aspect of architectural receptivity represents a unique multifunctional structure, and a formally clear and very complex synthesis, has been completely or rebuilt, or rather totally reconstructed, with the extending of the old structure and the building of a new one.

Additionally taking into consideration the morphological characteristics and versatility of the terrain, our response reflected in the newly designed entirety of the FFA Campus and our team’s outstanding cooperation with FFA representatives, we sincerely consider that we really have the right to be more than satisfied. As a final result, we gained a complex designed on the postulates of sustainability. The multifunctionality of the inner courtyard is reflected not only through the active use of the area of the park, but at the same time is also represented by the square, as a gathering place and a place for rest, work and painting, but also as a space where it is possible to organise exhibition and presentation events. The main purpose of the FFA Campus consists of studios, workshops, galleries and various typologically adaptable, multifunctional spaces –all in the function of implementing teaching processes in the study programmes of the painting and sculpture departments.

Your architectural studio has also provided an outstanding contribution to the theoretical development of architectural practice by producing publications intended for the broader architectural community. Could you tell us more about that, considering that this isn’t common practice in our country, especially given that all of the aforementioned emerged from the private direction of your studio?

Milena Kalinić: BCP, which highly values and believes in the degree of significance of its design experiences as a creative matrix, took the bold move of publishing systemically unified general guidelines and engineering recommendations for the design of specific architectural structures that are more broadly grouped into public purpose buildings. And in so doing, through two separate publications, encompassed the buildings of the higher and public prosecutor’s offices, on the one hand, and the buildings of social protection services, on the other. Both publications contain

rules and engineering recommendations that are systematised through respect for the discourse of all engineering disciplines. They can prove extremely helpful to our engineer colleagues in the treating of their functional disposition, spatial organisation and formative receptivity, as well as in the selection of technical and technological methodologies of architectural design, but also designing in accordance with other engineering disciplines that are essential for their contemporary feasibility and exploitation.

Engineering recommendations and instructions for the design of public buildings – the Centre for Social Work and the Basic and Higher Public Prosecutor’s Offices

The fact that BCP independently implemented all the required processes to ensure these publications saw the light of day is something that particularly motivates us when it comes to establishing the actual needs of our architectural environment, both in theoretical and practical architectural creativity, and additionally, at least in an attempt to establish the lower limit of values and according to which the architectural practice in our country has to be sustainable and valued.

BUREAU CUBE PARTNERS HAS PROVIDED AN OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE THEORETICAL DEVELOPMENT OF ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE BY PRODUCING PUBLICATIONS INTENDED FOR THE BROADER ARCHITECTURAL COMMUNITY

RIBBON CHAPEL, HIROSHI NAKAMURA & NAP

Flow Of Movement

Positioned midway up a hill, the chapel offers a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea of Japan. Mainly designated for hosting wedding celebrations, this chapel is located within the premises of a resort hotel, BellaVista SPA&MARINA ONOMICHI, in Onomichi, Hiroshima. The aisle leading to the altar can be likened to the trajectory of life and is filled with various recollections and emotions. The aim was to compose the space with the path itself and to be close to the excitement of the bride and groom and the thoughts of the attendees. The nuptial ceremony is performed within this chapel by having the bride and groom ascend the separate staircases to meet at the summit, where they seek absolution from the heavens to unite as one and pronounce their vows. The two individuals who were once walking distinct paths now merge into a single entity at the zenith and subsequently descend the stairs in unison. It is essentially an architecture purely composed of flow of movement.

dipl. ing. arch, Founder & Owner, MAPA Architects

LET’S PRESERVE VALUABLE RESOURCES

MAPA Architects is a Belgrade studio that deals – alongside architectural design – with the development of investment, design and project management, consulting services and specialised structures

In this special CorD Magazine interview, one of Serbia’s best, most awarded and most sought-after architects evaluates the current state of architecture and the construction industry, discussing, amongst other things, the relationship between investors and architects, the quality and aesthetics of newly constructed major residential complexes and the utilisation of space.

Do you like what you see when you look at what’s around you?

The kind of architecture we create, and the kind of architecture we live, is very important. When it comes to designing, it is necessary to observe the programme from multiple aspects and the kind of impacts it has on the environment, nature and users, but also consumers. Those interrelations in the space that we all share, the built structures and environments into which we incorpo-

“Architecture is the masterly, correct and magnificent play of masses brought together in light,” Le Corbusier

rate our works, and that which we inherit and leave behind as a legacy, are all extremely important.

As an observer, I’m not delighted with the kind of environment we are building, which on the whole relates to large swathes and complexes that are called by various empathetic names, but that’s not what they represent, nor do they leave such an impression. On the other hand, architects understand their responsibility for all spatial interventions, and I consider that on the micro front that relationship has been raised to a high level. It is expected that this will slowly transfer to the macro front, with the maturing of the notion of the need of the architect and leaving it to the profession to do its job of making the built environment better. A spent resource is like a bad tattoo, which is why it’s crucial to consider, organise design

PREDRAG MILUTINOVIĆ

Mind Office park, photo Relja Ivanić

Photo: Nebojša Babić

contests and seek out the best solutions for key spaces and large complexes.

Does it seem to you that micro-planning has been causing problems on the macro front in our country for quite some time?

This interdependence impacts greatly on the quality of the built environment, of the space. Space is a resource, and constructed space represents a message, an attitude and a response. It is easier to intervene and have a design influence on the micro front, but there are also some opposing factors. It is often the case that a location doesn’t correspond in terms of infrastructure with what the dimensions and spatial limitations permit. A lot of time is required to properly plan and equip infrastructure to cope with all these micro interventions, but there isn’t enough consistency to create a framework and find time for planning documents to be adopted and respected.

The arrival of foreign investments has enabled the explosive growth of the construction industry. How has this been reflected in terms of creativity?

The construction industry market stabilises with the arrival of foreign investments, but the impact on creativity can be interpreted in different ways. More precisely, when the measurability of the ratio of gross, net and price sees architecture inserted into an xsl table, that table has little space for creativity, particularly when it relates to commercial and residential buildings. The freedom for creativity varies depending on the typology of the structure. I think that freedom in the creative approach is felt the most in office spaces and industrial structures, and I would highlight the fact that it is also nurtured in total design.

Every investor has their own specificities, desires and expectations, while the same goes for the designer. How difficult is this to harmonise?

It isn’t easy on either side, and everything starts with choice. In principle, the first choice is made by the investor, and the final choice is made by the architect through their acceptance, so expectations should be envisaged from the outset. Of course, this is all different in projects done in cooperation with real estate companies, investors in commercial facilities for the market or when it comes to private investments. The more participants

engaged in the process, the more difficult it is. Knowledge, interest, understandings of participation differ and harmonise everything isn’t easy. My approach is that the needs of the investor must be respected, but with the view that the architect is the first among equals, because we are called on to create and bear responsibility in multiple ways.

This balancing and follow-up and exchange between us and the client during

even exist on our market. I consider that a wonderful opportunity to exchange approaches and knowledge, particularly on projects not previously done here or that involve specific approaches and specialisations. That’s a wonderful opportunity for exchange, because they must have local partners. Foreign designers bring one form of a freer approach and attitude towards design and investors, which should

the design process is very important, and high-quality channelling leads to the achieving of good results.

How do you view the ever-increasing opening up of our market to foreign architectural designers?

I had the opportunity, more than 15 years ago, to work on some of the first projects in our country with conceptual solutions that came from foreign colleagues, such as SOM, MYS Architects, WATG, Virgile and Stone. I learnt a lot on them at a time when such an approach and building typology didn’t

also become the practise in our country. With this I don’t consider that the domestic scene is lagging behind foreign ones in any way, but we need opportunities and I hope there will be ever more of them.

Aesthetics or functionality or always both aesthetics and functionality?

Always both aesthetics and functionality. A clear function provides a space with a basic aesthetic. That spatial balance of architectural massing, sense of proportion, gives architecture its aesthetics. Form used to follow function, while now that has flipped.

THE NEEDS OF THE INVESTOR MUST BE RESPECTED, BUT THE ARCHITECT IS THE FIRST AMONG EQUALS, BECAUSE WE CREATE AND BEAR RESPONSIBILITY IN MULTIPLE WAYS

Mixed-use complex, Mapa Arhitects

CORPORATE

TRUSTED AND SUCCESSFUL

With offices in Belgrade and Novi Sad, Tivat and London, Arhi.pro has positioned itself as an influential player on the international stage. Renowned for its intelligent and technically advanced architectural design, they boast a multidisciplinary team of professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional results.

Aprominent international Design and Build practice based on architectural design and construction, Arhi.pro has established itself as a leading force in the industry with a diverse portfolio of locally and internationally acclaimed projects.

Founded in 2002 by Anja Ivana Milic and Aleksandar Milic, Arhi.pro started as a small architectural studio in Belgrade, Serbia, and has

since grown into a trusted and successful company with a global presence. With offices in Belgrade, Novi Sad and Tivat, and more recently in London, Arhi.pro has positioned itself as an influential player on the international stage. The company's workforce now exceeds 200 professionals, including some 100 engineers specializing in Architecture and Planning, Structural Design, MEP Design, BIM Services, Construction, and Furniture Design

and manufacturing.

Using the most efficient software for 2D and 3D design (such as Revit, Rhinoceros, and AutoCAD), the architects excel in their craft. They are supported by skilled graphic teams that produce computer generated imagery for presentation and marketing. Furthermore, many of their architects and designers are experts in parametric design allowing the creation of unique geometric solutions rarely seen on the local architectural scene. Under one brand, architects, structural engineers, landscape architects, interior designers, electrical, HVAC and plumbing engineers collaborate seamlessly to bring visions to life.

Arhi.pro stands as a leader in Building Information Modeling (BIM) in the region, an essential digital process that facilitates collaborative design, construction, and management of buildings and infrastructure projects by integrating information and enabling effective decision-making throughout a building's lifecycle. Arhi.pro actively showcases its extensive experience by participating in BIM conferences and education as a board member of BIM

Office BuildingNavigator, New Belgrade, Serbia

Investor: MPC

Serbia. The company has recently celebrated the completion of one million square metres of architectural projects in Revit (the most prominent BIM design software). Besides this, Arhi.pro is a member of the Institute of Standardization of Serbia, the Serbian Chamber of Commerce and the British-Serbian Chamber of Commerce, underscoring its commitment to excellence and adherence to international standards of design and business.

Arhi.pro is a strong advocate for sustainable and green design, having played an active role in the Green Building Council of Serbia and Montenegro. Emphasizing the promotion and education of green building standards, innovation, and technologies, the company remains at the forefront of environmentally conscious design and construction. And perhaps most notably, it is the first office to author a design awarded a LEED Gold certificate in Serbia, a certificate issued by the U.S. Green Building Council for Energy and Environmental Design excellence. This acknowledgement was awarded to the IT Park project in Indjija.

Setting itself apart from competitors, Arhi.pro boasts a comprehensive suite of services, encompassing both design and construction. The construction department, alongside the furniture manufacturing branch, ensures seamless project delivery. This unique capability solidifies Arhi.pro as the only all-disciplinary Design & Build specialist in the region. The construction department has successfully completed major projects including the prestigious BW Magnolia building at Belgrade Waterfront, where Arhi.pro served as the general contractor.

The furniture design and production department, known as Arhi.pro Furniture, focuses on meticulous furniture design, material procurement, and manufacturing of both fixed and loose furniture. Equipped with state-of-the-art ma-

chinery for wood and steel-based materials, the workshop guarantees exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Arhi.pro

Furniture has a portfolio of successfully produced furniture for many notable clients with high standards for the use of materials, timing of production and assembly or shipping arrangements.

The impressive reputation of Arhi.pro extends beyond its local projects, as the company has collaborated with renowned architectural names such as SOM, MVRDV, BDP, Gensler, and many others on successful international ventures. This network of partnerships fur-

Office BuildingGreen Escape, New Belgrade, Serbia

Investor: Imel Group

Business InteriorGreen Escape, New Belgrade, Serbia

Investor: Imel Group

ther enhances Arhi.pro's global influence and reaffirms its commitment to excellence.

Arhi.pro continues to reshape the architectural landscape, pushing the boundaries of design and construction. With a focus on intelligent solutions, sustainability and multidisciplinary collaboration, the company stands as a beacon of innovation in the industry. From concept to completion, Arhi.pro turns architectural visions into tangible realities, leaving a lasting imprint on the built environment.

Arhi.pro offers a comprehensive range of design services, including Architecture, BIM, Interior Design, Structural Design, MEP Design, Landscape Design, Furniture Design, Lighting Design, Design Project Management, and CGI. On the construction front, the company provides Construction Works, Fitting Works, Furniture Manufacturing, Construction Project Management, Electrical Works, Smart Systems, Plumbing Works, and Mechanical Works.

THE COMPANY HAS RECENTLY CELEBRATED THE COMPLETION OF ONE MILLION SQUARE METERS OF ARCHITECTURAL PROJECTS IN REVIT, THE MOST PROMINENT BIM DESIGN SOFTWARE

DANILO GRAHOVAC

Studio A&D architects CEO

CREATIVITY IS BUILT

The rich portfolio of Studio A&D architects provides the best testimony that facilities like schools, hospitals, nursing homes and student dormitories can look “like catalogue presentations”. The facilities that they work on are created in accordance with the needs of users and real world conditions

With his team of young, professional and dedicated architects, and by responding to the needs of every client, Danilo Grahovac has built both a name and a renowned practice. They approach every project with the same enthusiasm and professionalism, regardless of scale and budget, while the team’s great passion also preserving the honour of the profession.

You succeed in giving everything a personal touch and not compromise on quality. Is that very important to you?

— There are always pressures to compromise and they aren’t always easy to resist, but we strive to do so. Budget restrictions in our reality are

textures, which is pandered to by the marketing of producers of construction materials and technological systems. The purpose of a house isn’t to be smart or dumb, but rather to satisfy the user’s requirements, to be a shelter and a refuge, a home, a workplace, an institute for help and care, and a high-quality and businesslike approach requires concessions and creative considerations in order to ensure the project doesn’t deviate from the basic requirement.

You don’t hide the fact that public sector facilities and public purposes are your greatest passion. Where did that come from?

Would we be mistaken in claiming that your standards exceed the national average?

a consequence of the understanding of society’s materialist concept.

It is essential to teach all stakeholders about the appeal of that which is beautiful in the environment that is given to us unreservedly. Over and over again. And we still have the strength to fight the pressures, more or less successfully. Thanks to the internet, architecture has turned into a catalogue selection of colours and

— Happiness is the result of four factors: knowhow, work, talent and perseverance. When all those elements are satified, the result is inevitable, and that’s something I believe in deeply. Our oeuvre is based on facilties of a public nature and I consider myself fortunate that we’re not a classic bureau that’s mainly engaged in the construction of residential properties. When it comes to public facilities, the most important thing is to satisfy the demands of users, employees, and everyone who will use those facilities. There are really a lot of them and they differ greatly. I’m personally inspired by considering the habits, obligations and activities of different users of, for instance, a hospital or an airport. Between us, I find that a lot of fun, and where there is fun there can be satisfaction with the result.

— Domestic standards are scandalous, to put it as mildly as possible. In social protection for example, the standards defined by bylaws are formulated in such a way that existing infrastructure and facilities somehow “pass” some sort of oversight or inspections. Due to the constant negligence and carelessness of users, employees and all others, the conditions are extremely bad. If some kind of human minimums were applied for the quality of space, not a single facility would be permitted to function. In that sense, over the last 10 years there has been far greater understanding for the approach thart we insist on.

From where do you draw inspiration?

— I like to say that everything around us was created by architects. From the first caveman builder, via Egyptian masons and Michelangelo to this day. Every street, house, school and barracks. Everything apart from nature, which I suppose was created by God. Inspiration for every man is in his surroundings. Creativity is something that’s built with a lot of exploration, travel and discovery. Of course, everyone will now say that our environment isn’t inspiring. That’s because not everyone has imagination. I adapted my surroundings to suite me and am teaching my team to do the same. Beauty surrounds us everywhere... provided you want to see it. And if you don’t see it, close your eyes.

OUR OEUVRE IS BASED ON FACILTIES OF A PUBLIC NATURE AND I CONSIDER MYSELF FORTUNATE THAT WE’RE NOT A CLASSIC BUREAU THAT MAINLY DEALS WITH RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES

THE AIRPORT PROVED A MAJOR CHALLENGE

Apart from being active on the local market, Kapaprojekt has also been present in Russia, Switzerland, France and the countries of the region for a full three decades. This company is known for its top quality in drafting design project documentation for all types of buildings and managing investments from preliminary design to full implementation

At this successful Serbian company based in Niš, which has been pushing the boundaries of contemporary architecture since its inception, they believe that achieving top results requires – apart from amassing a wealth of domestic and international experience –constantly improving projects with the use of new technologies.

Few companies provide the kind of top quality work that you have, for a full three decades. We congratulate you...

— We thank you for recognising us as one of the leading companies in Serbia. Our great experience and dedicated work over the 30 years of our existence has placed us on the map of successful companies in Serbia.

Apart from being present on the Serbian market, you are also active in Russia, Switzerland, France and the countries of the region. You have amassed many significant buildings constructed for major investors, and we’re sure there are some that represent highlights and stand out...

— We were already working for the Russian market a lot back in the 1990s and 2000s. We had a bureau in Moscow and worked with the biggest companies on the market. I would

highlight one of the most significant projects: the Gazprom administration building, covering almost 80,000m². We learnt a lot from that and gained significant references. Among the more recent projects, I would single out Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport, for client Vinci Terna. We’ve been working on this project for three years and have been finishing the work in recent months. Airports are a complex discipline, and that is particularly so with this one, where reconstructions and extensions were carried out, and everything was unified to form a new, functional whole. It was a massive challenge to coordinate, in an architectural and constructional sense, with the construction of new phases and providing for the smooth func-

tioning of the airport during the period of the project’s implementation.

How are the boundaries of contemporary architecture shifting?

— In its enduring development to date, the company has monitored emerging new technologies, the development of modern construction materials and building systems. This is a constant process of educating designers, who must monitor and follow new trends and technological innovations, in the form of system solutions, as well as the materialisation of facilities and the need for new, innovative and functional solutions. We can note that the needs and demands of the clients themselves constantly change in line with the development of technology globally.

Architecture has become a multidisciplinary field, because an architect must be familiar with new tech-

ALEKSANDAR STOJANOVIĆ

CEO and chief design architect, Kapaprojekt

nological processes of construction, on the one hand, and with software, on the other. When it comes to tools for project design, here also things have changed drastically: from rapidograph pens and tracing paper, via computer-based work in, for example. the AutoCAD program, which is the most commonly represented tool, to the application of BIM technology in design. I must mention that all those BIM technologies in architecture and construction, which we have been applying for several years already, are just tools that enable us to create higher quality project and technical documentation. Given that behind all technical tools stands just a man-engineer-designer, we try to educate our employees in every sense.

One of the most significant projects to be highlight is the Belgrade Nikola Tesla Aiport, covering almost 70,000m²

ARCHITECTURE HAS BECOME A MULTIDISCIPLINARY FIELD, BECAUSE AN ARCHITECT MUST BE FAMILIAR WITH NEW TECHNOLOGICAL PROCESSES OF CONSTRUCTION, ON THE ONE HAND, AND WITH SOFTWARE, ON THE OTHER

DESIGN FORECAST 2023

10 META TRENDS SET TO TRANSFORM THE FUTURE OF CITIES

Mobility, multifamily, and multipurpose—will be common and key drivers of design across many practice areas, according to Gensler’s Design Forecast 2023, based on the international firm’s work in more than 80 countries.

The abiding premise of this 189-page report, published by Gensler Research Institute, is that the world is changing radically, and design must respond accordingly with bold new ideas if it’s to impact this transformation of buildings and cities. “Crisis and change have taught us a new way to approach design at Gensler,” write the firm’s co-CEOs Diane Hoskins and Andy Cohen. “It is an ongoing process, where research leads to experimentation and new ideas, which, in turn, lead to further investigations, discoveries, and motivations.”

The forecast identifies 10 megatrends—culled from the firm’s 29 practiceareas—thatGenslerbelieves will transform the future of cities:

01 RECLAIMING EXPERIENCE TREND

The absence of experience faced during the pandemic continues to remind people of how valuable human interaction is and how critical our spaces are when it comes to enriching our lives.

STRATEGY

By prioritising design strategies

that emphasise people’s needs and expectations, we can reclaim the human experience in the places where we live, work and play.

02 LIFE-WORK CONNECTION TREND

The future of cities is being defined by their ability to reenergise the connection between life and work.

STRATEGY

The future’s most vibrant cities will be those that use design to successfully address the interconnected life-work issues of thriving workplaces, attainable housing, and safe and accessible transportation.

03 BUILDING TRANSFORMATION TREND

Stranded assets are creating development opportunities that can regenerate cities and transform outdated office buildings into thriving residential living.

STRATEGY

As real estate worldwide ages, building owners and developers are leveraging adaptive reuse strategies — specifically office-to-residential conversion — to transform stranded assets and create vibrant life-work districts and high-value properties.

04 ATTAINABLE HOUSING TREND

Rising interest rates and inflation are creating a larger opening for multifamily development that could finally address the global shortage of attainable housing.

STRATEGY

As urban communities and central business districts are redesigned, attainable housing becomes a key feature of the type of life-work, mixed-use neighbourhoods that will redefine the future of cities.

05 DECARBONISATION TREND

The decarbonisation of the built environment continues to be the imperative of our time.

1 - Willis Tower Repositioning, Chicago

2 - The River District, New Orleans

3 - 1 St Clair Ave West, Toronto

4 - Lower Hill District Mixed-Use Redevelopment, Pittsburgh

5 - Related Companies, South Congress Office Building, Austin

STRATEGY

As ESG and carbon disclosure mandates catalyse transformation in the construction industry, the world will see more investments in sustainable design and construction strategies that sequester carbon in buildings and document the design details of a building’s environmental and social impact.

06 MOBILITY TREND

The mobility shift is continuing to unfold, paving the way for more

life-work cities and vibrant urban communities.

STRATEGY

The shift to new forms of electric and autonomous vehicles and public transportation will allow cities to redesign underused urban districts into mixed-use life-work communities.

07 EQUITABLE DESIGN TREND

The demand for buildings and urban districts that have a higher purpose with a positive social im-

6 - BMW Designworks Future of Mobility, Los Angeles

8 - Jabil Global Headquarters, St. Petersburg, Fla.

7 - Newark Community Museum of Social Justice, Newark, N.J.

pact will continue to drive design decisions.

STRATEGY

Creating positive social impact is influencing everything from urban master planning to building design, as a focus is placed on the way spaces and infrastructure can address things like growing inequality, aging populations and community engagement.

08 INTELLIGENT PLACES TREND

PropTech and smart building technology will redefine the experience of places.

STRATEGY

Sensors, IoT and other smart property technologies and apps can create far more curated experiences for tenants, while providing developers with the data and insights they need to design better spaces.

09 FLIGHT TO QUALITY TREND

Office tenants are continuing their flight to quality.

STRATEGY

Tenants will continue their flight to quality — and their flight to experience — giving a competitive advantage to Class A spaces in prime locations with the right mix of high-quality amenities in and around the building.

10 THE OFFICE AS A DESTINATION TREND

The transformation of the workplace continues, with offices that are compelling destinations with a diverse collection of spaces and experiences.

STRATEGY

The office has an important role to play in the future of work, but only if we curate experiences and design compelling destinations for employees that include a mix of spaces that make it easy for individuals and teams to focus and connect.

Source: Gensler

9 - Lumina Shanghai, Shanghai, China

10 Insight HQ, Chandler, Ariz.

Focus On The Future

Stefan Lazarević

Brooke Isham USAID Serbia Mission Director

Aleksandar Vratonjić Gligorijević CMO, TeleGroup

IMPRESSUM

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Neda Lukić n.lukic@aim.rs

ART DIRECTOR

Branislav Ninković b.ninkovic@aim.rs

PHOTOS Zoran Petrović

COPY EDITOR Mark Pullen mrpeditorial@mail.com

Serbia

Vera Nikolić Dimić AmCham Executive Director

Nenad Đurđević

Commercial Director for SEE, Turkey and CIS at Ball Packaging

PROJECT MANAGERS

Biljana Dević

b.devic@aim.rs

Mihailo Čučković

m.cuckovic@aim.rs

Renata Šteković Zagorac r.zagorac@aim.rs

OFFICE MANAGER

Svetlana Petrović s.petrovic@aim.rs

FINANCE

Dragana Skrobonja finance@aim.rs

Aleksandar Selakov Ph.D. Gray Cell CEO; Professor at the University of Novi Sad Faculty of Technical Sciences

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Maja Vidaković m.vidakovic@aim.rs

DIRECTOR

Ana Novčić a.novcic@aim.rs a.novcic@cordmagazine.com

PUBLISHER

Ivan Novčić i.novcic@aim.rs

PRINTING

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USA 2023

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More Alike Than Different

The Serbian-American bilateral relationship has undergone a significant transformation since the challenging times of the 1990s. The progress we have witnessed is noteworthy, highlighting the positive state of our country’s partnership with the United States

Commemorative issue of postage stamps “140th Anniversary of SerbianAmerican Diplomatic Relations”

ment. Moreover, bilateral trade agreements and initiatives have facilitated greater market access, opening up new avenues to economic cooperation and expansion.

The sectors where interest in further collaboration is on the rise includes technology, innovation, energy, agriculture, and infrastructure development. Joint ventures, research partnerships, and knowledge-sharing initiatives have the potential to unlock mutually beneficial opportunities and create a positive ripple effect across various industries.

One of the most encouraging aspects of the evolving relationship between Serbia and the U.S. is the increasing investment in Serbia by American companies. This growing trend not only demonstrates confidence in Serbia’s economic potential, but also results in mutually beneficial opportunities for both nations. This collaboration symbolizes a departure from the adversarial dynamics of the past and emphasizes a partnership approach in addressing growing economic opportunities.

Building upon the previous comment, it is crucial to reflect on the economic prospects that have recently emerged in the Serbian-American bilateral relationship. Increasing investment in Serbia by American firms stands as a testament to the confidence and trust placed in Serbia’s economic potential. These investments have not only injected vital capital into the na-

tional economy, but rather have also paved the way to job creation, technological advancements, and transfers of knowledge. The collaborative efforts between Serbian

Even in the economic sector, some political contextualization is inevitable. The U.S. supports Serbia in achieving energy independence from Russian sources, and thus seeks to foster new partnerships with American and European firms in the green economy sector. The keen inter-

and American businesses have fostered a dynamic and innovative entrepreneurial environment, contributing to the sustained growth and prosperity of both nations.

Serbia’s strategic geographic location, skilled workforce, and favorable business climate are key factors attracting American companies. The Serbian government’s commitment to implementing business-friendly policies and economic reforms has resulted in an environment more conducive to foreign direct invest-

est expressed by recent trade delegations demonstrates the desire of U.S. companies to be part of Serbia’s journey towards energy independence.

Overall, the increasing economic ties between Serbia and the U.S. underscore the evolving dynamics of the partnership between our two countries. The positive trajectory of the Serbian-American bilateral relationship serves as a testament to the progress achieved and sets the stage for even greater accomplishments in the future.

While there is always room for improvement, it is evident that the partnership between Serbia and the U.S. is strong and growing even stronger

Author: Jakša Vlahović, creator of the stamps of Post of Serbia

Dramatic Advancement

Our relationships with the government of Serbia are open and constructive as we tackle tough global problems together as partners, rather than adversaries. Just last month, you even saw the President of the United States congratulating Serbia’s great basketball player on leading his team to the NBA Championship. No one would have foreseen that in the 1990s ~ Christopher Hill

As someone who is very well acquainted with Serbia from the crisis years of the 1990s, Christopher Hill, current U.S. ambassador to Serbia, agrees with the assessment that relations between his country and Serbia have improved significantly since those dark days. Speaking in this interview for CorD Magazine, he notes that proof of this fact is provided by U.S. support to Serbia on its path to EU membership, but also military and economic cooperation. In this context, Ambassador Hill also confirms his country’s interest in being part of Serbia’s energy transformation, which business delegations from the U.S. have discussed with their interlocutors in Belgrade.

Your Excellency, you have now entered your second year as ambassador to Serbia. Do you consider that the U.S. has managed to make positive advances in terms of the quality of relations with partners in Belgrade compared to the end of the ‘90s, which is the period for which you are recognizable?

— The quality of our partnerships has advanced dramatically since the 1990s, no question. American firms are investing in Serbia at a rapidly growing pace. Our armed forces work closely together to maintain peace and security throughout the region, and increasingly around the world. Our relationships with the government of Serbia are open and constructive as we tackle tough global problems together as partners, rather than adversaries. Just last month, you even saw the President of the United States congratulating Serbia’s great basketball player on leading his team to the NBA Championship. No one would have foreseen that in the 1990s. We can always improve, but the partnership we’ve built with Serbia is strong and getting stronger, and it delivers benefits to Serbian and American people every day.

When Serbian leaders state today that the U.S. now has a better understanding of Serbia, what does that actually mean?

— I’m not going to speak for Serbia’s leaders, but I can say that it’s been my experience that our mutual understanding is growing all the time, thanks in large part to those partnerships I just mentioned. And as that understanding grows, we all see that Serbs and Americans are more alike than we are different. I like to talk about how Serbia has chosen a future in the West, but the reverse is also true: the West has chosen Serbia as a partner, because Americans and Europeans look at Serbia and see a country with an immense reservoir of talent. We see people who want to do business the same way we do, who want to join with us to solve complex

PARTNERSHIP

The partnership we’ve built with Serbia is strong and getting stronger, and it delivers benefits to Serbian and American people every day

CHALLENGES

Serbia still has its challenges, but that shouldn’t blind us to the progress that has been made. And that progress should give us hope

RESOURCES

With access to a wealth of natural resources, Serbia is poised to become a leader in Europe’s 21st century green economy

By Ljubica Gojgić

problems and make the world better for our children and grandchildren. I think we understand one another very well. We’re constantly learning from one another and challenging one another, as friends should. It’s important to keep that process going.

With regard to recent events in Kosovo, many were surprised by the severity with which Washington responded to the Kosovo Prime Minister and the government in Pristina. Some media reports even used the wording “America imposes sanctions on Kosovo”. What is this really all about: a warning; the revoking of cooperation with Albin Kurti alone, or the expressing of Washington’s readiness to, say, withdraw support for Kosovo’s membership in the Council of Europe?

— I’ll let my colleague in Pristina, Ambassador Hovenier, speak about our relationship with Kosovo. I will say that I was shocked on my arrival here to see that the problem of Kosovo’s status still sucks up so much time and attention that could be better directed towards Serbia’s development and the realization of its European aspirations. We want to resolve these issues once and for all so that Serbia can get on with the business of taking its rightful place in the European Union and as a part of the larger political, economic, and security structures of the Euro-Atlantic community.

Belgrade and Pristina are being called on to return to dialogue and the implementing of commitments agreed to in Brussels and Ohrid. However, a major discrepancy exists when it comes to the interpretation of what has been agreed. In his recent guest appearance on CNN, Serbian President Vučić said that recognizing Kosovo’s independence is not the issue, but rather normalizing relations. How would you define the normalization of relations in this context?

— I’d point you to the agreement. It means establishing an Association of Serb-majority Municipalities so that the Serb community in Kosovo has a sense of security regarding the future. It means both countries recognizing one another’s documents and national symbols, including license plates, identity cards, diplomas. It means ensuring the free movement for people and goods, so the economy of the entire region can thrive. And it means not standing in the way of one another’s integration into regional and international bodies. It means showing the European Union that Serbia is ready for membership and won’t bring the problems of the past with it. It means taking the steps necessary to allow normal life to function for all citizens of the region, and ultimately unlocking the region’s vast economic potential.

James O’Brien is another expert who’s very familiar with the Balkans from the time of President Bill Clinton. What does his appointment as Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs mean for relations between the U.S. and Serbia?

— Jim O’Brien is a longtime colleague and a good friend. He’s someone with deep knowledge of this region and immense respect for its culture, its his-

its highest ever level, especially in the IT sector. Great interest in cooperation in the domain of energy has also been noticeable since your arrival in Serbia. You have even discussed a possible strategic partnership with your interlocutors from the government. Does that imply more tangible arrangements related to company Electric Power of Serbia?

tory, and the people who live here. I know he’s someone who wants to see Serbia thrive and realize its full potential. So, I think his nomination is great news for Serbia, and I look forward to working with him closely once he’s confirmed.

According to Serbian government statistics, economic cooperation with the U.S. has reached

— We are 100% committed to helping Serbia gain its independence from Russian energy, so we are always looking for opportunities to encourage new partnerships with American and European firms. The opportunities in Serbia right now are incredible. With access to a wealth of natural resources, Serbia is poised to become a leader in Europe’s 21st century green economy, and the clean energy sector plays a big part in that. America is eager to be a part of that transformation, which is evident in the interest we’ve seen in the recent trade delegations that have visited. We’re open to all possibilities. As for EPS, I think Serbia’s partnership with Norway promises great benefits, and we’ve been glad to see that develop.

Your recent assessment that there “should be no question as to whether Serbia is moving towards the European Union and growing into a responsible democracy where the rights of jour-

Serbia has chosen a future in the West, but the reverse is also true: the West has chosen Serbia as a partner, because Americans and Europeans look at Serbia and see a country with an immense reservoir of talent

nalists are respected” was seen by part of the public as being too generous towards the authorities. It is also in stark contrast, for example, to the way Serbia is viewed by Washington, D.C.-based Freedom House, which classifies Serbia as an endangered democracy with a “hybrid regime”. Who has the better perspective, you or them?

— As I believe I said on that same occasion, with respect to these issues, I often come back to the words of Martin Luther King, Jr., who famously said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.” There is wisdom in that perspective. Your first question asked about how our partnerships have changed since the 1990s, and I noted that, compared to then, the Serbia of today, and especially the Serbian-American relationship, is almost unrecognizable. Serbia still has its challenges, but that shouldn’t blind us to the progress that has been made. And that progress should give us hope. As an ambassador, I’m not here to sit in judgment of Serbia. I’m here to build a relationship that will help propel Serbia forward, because when Serbia does well, both our countries benefit. That’s where my focus is every day.

H.E. CHRISTOPHER HILL

As an ambassador, I’m not here to sit in judgment of Serbia. I’m here to build a relationship that will help propel Serbia forward, because when Serbia does well, both our countries benefit. That’s where my focus is every day

I was shocked on my arrival here to see that the problem of Kosovo’s status still sucks up so much time and attention that could be better directed towards Serbia’s development and the realization of its EU aspirations

More Intensive Cooperation With U.S. Partners

The visit of more than 40 representatives of major U.S. companies sends a clear signal that the current U.S. administration gives a strong impetus to developing economic cooperation with Serbia. And strengthening strategic partnerships like the one with the U.S. is crucial to the development of our economic potential ~ Stefan Lazarević

We recently had an opportunity to see two important delegations of American companies visit Serbia, bringing more than 40 representatives of major U.S. companies to Serbia in a period of just four months. This is excellent news for us, says AmCham Serbia President Stefan Lazarević.

When it comes to discussing potential, an emphasis is ordinarily placed on investments and the creation of new jobs, but our interlocutor explains that it should also be noted that Serbia generated record revenues exceeding 1.2 billion dollars from the export of services to the United States in 2022, which represents an increase of a whopping 30 percent compared to 2021. “It is thus clear that strengthening strategic partnerships like the one with the U.S. is crucial to the development of our economic potential. I believe that, apart from well-known geopolitical reasons, one more important reason for American business’s fresh interest in our country is the region’s internal connectivity through the Open Balkan initiative, the implementation of which Serbia is working on intensively.”

You mention the Open Balkan initiative. How attractive is this concept operationally, from the point of view of investors, and in the context of creating this unique economic space what more should be done for it to receive its full synergistic effects?

— We should be conscious of the size of our economy and that of the region as a whole – these are small markets, and connecting them through the opening of borders represents an incalculable advantage for investment and business. The Initiative’s most important advantage is that it makes the market of the Western Balkans more attractive for doing business, because I’m convinced that with its full implementation we will ensure the free flow of people, goods, services and capital. We need to understand that companies wanting to do business in Serbia are most commonly considering the potential of developing a broader regional presence.

The Open Balkan Initiative has to date achieved serious progress in terms of resolving long-standing nontariff barriers and obstacles, which has facilitated imports and exports of food products, in some cases by as much as 50 percent, while direct costs from taxes and fees have been reduced by up to 80 percent. This has all resulted in the volume of the trade exchange in the Open Balkan region increasing by almost 30 percent. The economy strongly supports the full implementation of the Agreement on Free Access to the Labor Market, which has already been

signed and would enable the hiring of personnel who are in short supply through eased administrative procedures. Significant progress is also required in the areas of cross-border capital flows and reducing transaction costs, as well as in the liberalization of financial services.

How heavily engaged is AmCham as a chamber when it comes to supporting these efforts to ensure potential investors receive relevant information about Serbia as an investment destination?

FUNCTIONALITY

Significant strides towards operationalizing the Open Balkan idea are also required in the areas of cross-border capital flows and reducing transaction costs, as well as in the liberalization of financial services

DEVELOPMENT

We are awaited by the development and growth of many “tech” domains, which will certainly be reflected in the level of investments in our country

PRIORITIES

AmCham members want to see progress in the area of a more transparent and efficient public procurement system and investments in education and the environment

— The American Chamber of Commerce has, for two decades already, been among the most important ports of call for American companies considering Serbia as a destination. We are committed to our mission of being a pillar of support to the business of our members through the providing of crucial business information, networking and the establishing of mutual connections, all of which are of great importance to potential investors. As one part of these efforts, AmCham’s business mission to Washington, D.C. during June included the holding of a series of very important meetings with representatives of relevant American institutions, organizations and companies, through the “Door Knock” format. I would single out the high-level meetings at the State Department, meetings with several

congressmen and senior representatives of the Department of Commerce. We additionally held a roundtable with representatives of companies interested in coming to Serbia, as well as a series of bilateral meetings. The aim of our mission was to strengthen the institutional and economic preconditions needed to increase bilateral trade and opportunities for new investments between Serbia and the U.S., as well as to present the positive experiences of American companies already doing business in our market.

AmCham has been conducting surveys on the business environment and labor prospects in Serbia for the past 10 years. As we await the results of the latest, 11th survey, could you tell us what the previous ones showed?

Connecting the countries of the Western Balkans through the opening of borders represents an incalculable advantage for investment and business

— In the opinion of AmCham members, according to the previous survey, the most important factor for improving the business environment is represented by institutional reforms – improving the work of the judiciary and the rule of law, as well as reducing corruption. The third priority is the further development of eGovernment, with its development to date being assessed favorably, as well as the continuation of efforts intended to improve the efficiency of administra-

tion. Moreover, compared to previous surveys, a more transparent and efficient public procurement system stands out as a something of a higher priority. When it comes to investments from the national budget that are essential to long-term growth, AmCham members prioritize investments in education, as they also did in previous years. Compared to previous surveys, the essential need to invest in the environment was especially highlighted.

There has really been a lot of discussion recently regarding whether the IT sector is actually experiencing a decline after rising sharply. From the point of view of your members and the inquiries you receive regarding Serbia’s IT sector, how would you rate the attractiveness of this sector for further investment?

— According to estimates, over 190,000 people worldwide lost their jobs in the IT sector during the first five months of this year, which is significantly higher than across the whole of 2022. It was clear that the sudden growth of this industry, which primarily came as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and the meteoric rise of e-commerce, would not be sustainable in the long run. On the flip side, it would be glib and superficial to talk about the “collapse of the IT industry”, rather it is more realistic

to talk about its consolidation. All estimates suggest that, over the long term, we are awaited by the development and growth of many “tech” domains, which will certainly be reflected in the level of investments in our country. Some recent inquiries that we’ve received, as well as conversations during the “Door Knock” mission to the States, provide signals in that direction, though it is too early to mention specific names. I will also add that I’m convinced Serbia should work on the creation of an ecosystem that would help us become a regional hub of research and development for innovative technologies, such as artificial intelligence and biotech, which would create opportunities to even more strongly attract new investments and for the modernization of the society and the state.

The ICT industry, biotech, energy, infrastructure, the automobile industry, agriculture and food production are attractive sectors for investment

Success Doesn’t Happen By Accident

Serbia has several important factors that make it an attractive place to do business. Among them are a talented labor force, good infrastructure, a stable currency, a facilitative regulatory environment, and close proximity to regional markets, including the Western Balkans and the EU

U.S. companies have spent more than 20 years investing significantly in many sectors in Serbia – food processing, automotive, information technology, agriculture, and others. In a positive feedback loop, the continued success of many of these companies has drawn the attention of other companies.

According to Joseph Boski, First Secretary at the Embassy of the United States to Serbia, this is why American companies, European companies, and others are increasingly choosing Serbia as a place to invest. Indeed, says our interlocutor, “continued success does not happen by accident”.

Are there specific sectors or industries that you believe provide untapped potential for bilateral trade and investment?

— There are many sectors that are doing very well and will continue to grow – these include the automotive and IT industries. I am confident these sectors will build on the successes they have already achieved. Tourism, and the service sector more broadly, are also likely to experience significant growth in the short- and medium-term.

Two sectors with untapped potential and significant room to grow are the financial sector and agriculture. Serbia can expand in both of these sectors and become a modern, regional hub with smart agriculture and high-end financial services. One step that could help both these sectors is the development of a sophisticated wholesale or commodities market that could serve Serbia and the region. A commodities market could simplify contracts for all parties, thereby significantly reducing transaction costs, particularly for agriculture. This would positively impact both domestic and international sales. At the same time, the development of a sophisticated commodities market would create demand for advanced financial services, creating a positive feedback loop between these two sectors. A more vigorous financial services sector would improve access to

SUCCESS

Serbia has been among the world’s leading countries in attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) for several years

POTENTIALS

Two sectors with untapped potential and significant room to grow are the financial sector and agriculture

COMPLEMENTARITIES

The Open Balkan Initiative, CEFTA, the Berlin Process, and others, are all complementary and should be viewed as such

credit for households and provide better investment vehicles for households and businesses.

How does the Open Balkan Initiative factor into this?

— The countries of the Western Balkan region have numerous complementary synergies. All countries in the region could benefit from more efficient trade, as well as larger, more open consumer and labor markets. The Open Balkan Initiative is one of several regional integration efforts that support the goals of more efficient, more open movement of goods, services, people, and capital. These efforts – the Open Balkan Initiative, CEFTA, the Berlin Process, and others – are complementary and should be viewed as such. Advances in any of these processes should benefit the regional economy overall, but also encourage further progress in other processes.

What plans does the U.S. Embassy have to facilitate future trade and investment between the two countries?

— A lot is going on in U.S.-Serbian commercial relationships. In the last year, the U.S. Embassy facilitated two major trade missions to Serbia

with over 50 U.S. companies – many of which are among the largest companies in the world. Members of the American Chamber of Commerce recently visited Washington, while a new Serbian-U.S. business association was just established in the United States.

The dynamism of the U.S. economy and of the U.S.-Serbian commercial relationship is extraordinary. The Embassy will continue to work with

The dynamism of the U.S. economy, and of the U.S.-Serbian commercial relationship, is extraordinary

established and new companies interested in expanding these dynamic commercial ties. We will be providing support to numerous companies in a range of sectors – from finance to health care, and from energy to infrastructure.

How would you evaluate the overall business and investment climate in Serbia, taking into account factors like the regulatory environment, infrastructure, and skilled labor?

— For U.S. and other foreign investors, the successful track record and continued investment in Serbia is clear evidence of a welcoming business and investment climate. The ease of establishing businesses and the very competent workforce, regulatory framework, and infrastructure are all factors that contribute to a good overall business environment. Of course, there are challenges – such as a continued need to improve the rule of law and what seems to be a tightening of the labor market. The latter – the relatively tight labor market –

is an indicator of significant success, but continued economic growth will require an increasingly dynamic and perhaps larger labor force.

Within the context of economic cooperation between the U.S. and Serbia, how significant is innovation and the digital economy?

— U.S. companies in the IT sector have made significant and lasting contributions to Serbia’s economy, while enjoying a mutually beneficial relationship. This relationship includes job creation, knowl -

edge transfer, the adoption of best management practices, and a culture of innovation and success. I would like to close with one observation that has struck me over my first year living and working in my adopted home of Belgrade. This is something that is very clear among U.S. companies investing in Serbia in all sectors, especially IT. Every time I meet with the country directors of U.S. companies in Serbia, the vast majority of the time I am meeting a Serb. U.S. companies invest in and rely on the people of Serbia. The best jobs at U.S. companies, the top management positions – for example, an executive leading a team of 5,000 workers at one IT company and others being responsible for teams with several thousand each – those top positions, the very best jobs at these U.S. companies, are filled by Serbian citizens. This really shows the deep level of commitment from American companies - we aren’t just looking for a platform for Americans to work in Europe, rather American companies are looking for a long-term, mutually beneficial partnership with Serbia and the Serbian people.

U.S. companies in the IT sector have made significant and lasting contributions to Serbia’s economy, while enjoying a mutually beneficial relationship

Empowering Citizens For Progress

USAID's support to Serbia encompasses programs that promote citizen engagement in tackling local challenges, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, while they aim to address identified obstacles to democratic and economic growth

USAID is deeply invested in the peace and prosperity of the Serbian people, says Brooke Isham, USAID Serbia Mission Director. USAID Administrator Samantha Power visited Serbia this May in order to reassure the Serbian government and people that they have a strong and committed partner in the United States.

As Isham explains, her visit underscores USAID’s enduring support to the stability, peace and prosperity of the region. So, as the Brussels Dialogue and EU accession processes continue, USAID’s focus remains on helping Serbia build the longterm foundations needed for a stable, prosperous future. And the agency is this year continuing to support a wide range of initiatives centered on economic growth, democratic development and European integration.

Drawing on your experience with USAID missions in countries facing significant challenges, what experiences and best practices can you apply to the situation in Serbia?

— Countries – and indeed people in every country – are different. The challenges of the Balkan region are quite distinct from those of Iraq, Morocco or Azerbaijan, where I previously worked. For this reason, I prioritize “locally-led development” that is built on the dual foundations of country expertise and local leadership. Our programs in Serbia support direct citizen involvement in addressing local challenges and encourage citizens to “be the change they want to see”. USAID programs also support local entrepreneurship and innovation. And going forward, we will continue to work with our counterparts at all levels to address the issues that the people of Serbia identify as obstacles to democratic and economic growth, and to help them create a better future for themselves and their families.

How does USAID aim to support sustainable energy, energy security, and energy efficiency in Serbia as part of the broader green transition, considering the economic and security implications?

— We are working closely with Serbia’s government, businesses, municipalities and citizens to help Serbia build a secure and reliable energy sector. Through our U.S.-Europe Energy Bridge initiative, USAID is working to boost energy conservation and accelerate the expansion of renewable energy production in Serbia. To save energy, we are helping municipalities modernize their district heating systems in such a way that they meet consumers’ heating needs more efficiently. We are also helping apartment owners insulate their buildings and thus reduce their heating expenses.

But Serbia’s clean energy transition and long-term energy security will require significant public and private sector investment to upgrade and build new infrastructure. The transition will also require the further regional integration of energy networks. So, USAID is also helping Serbia attract investments in energy transition technologies, including renewables. We’re doing this work in a couple of ways. First, we’re working with the government to establish regulations that maximize the amount of renewable energy generation that can be safely and affordably added to the country’s high voltage electricity network. Second, we’re working with commercial banks to

develop pilot loan programs for homeowner associations that want to finance energy efficiency improvements for their buildings. More broadly, we are working with regulators, providers, and all energy stakeholders to ensure more reliable and efficient energy supply for homes and businesses.

Considering the importance of supporting the private sector to unlock economic potential during crises, what major initiatives is USAID currently supporting in Serbia, including those that benefit the Open Balkan region?

— Serbian businesses, especially small- and medium-sized enterprises, possess outstanding potential for expansive growth. To help Serbia take advantage of this situation, USAID is working closely with the private sector. Our Big Small Businesses activity, for example, is helping companies from the agriculture, food, equipment, and light machinery sectors to grow by creating new market opportunities, driving exports, and attracting investments in the industry. In tandem, we fund two other programs to develop innovative businesses in biotech, AgTech, gaming, blockchain and other sectors.

Deepening Serbia’s trade ties and building business connections is a core component of our support. In this regard, we support firms in participating in international trade events across Europe and the United States. But, more importantly, we are now also bringing international buyers to Serbia, which enables a larger number of Serbian firms to make regional and international connections that will drive their future growth. Agro Belgrade, for example, is a regional trade fair that has been organized with USAID for the past four years. This fair gathers producers from Serbia and the entire region and international buyers, retailers, and distributors from European countries, who come to learn about the quality of Serbian products and to negotiate contracts with potential suppliers. For the same purpose, we have also sponsored a trade fair focused on the metal, rubber, plastic, and machinery industries, as well as a conference on the application of ICT solutions in agriculture.

Within the context of overall economic and investment relations between Serbia and the U.S., how would you evaluate USAID's current support to Serbia’s tech sector?

— I knew before I came to Serbia that this country has registered impressive economic growth over the last decade, but I wasn’t aware of just how much potential Serbia has in IT and innovation. The well-educated workforce and growing number of startups and tech companies bodes well for Serbia’s economic prospects. These sectors are ripe for more investments that will further boost the IT industry. And I can only see more possibilities going forward, as

Serbia links up more closely with its neighbors, the European Union, the United States, and elsewhere.

SUSTAINABILITY

USAID is working to boost energy conservation and accelerate the expansion of renewable energy production in Serbia DEMOCRACY

We will continue to work with our counterparts at all levels to address the issues that the people of Serbia identify as obstacles to democratic and economic growth FINANCE

USAID is launching an initiative to establish a dedicated venture capital fund that will nurture and support the growth of innovative technology companies

For our part, USAID has two major activities that are working with eager and innovative private sector partners to further cement Serbia's position as a regional hub for IT and innovation. The USAID Serbia Innovates project supports innovative initiatives and companies, and increases their access to finance. By applying a “supercluster” methodology, the project increases collaboration among the private sector, academia, and government on four innovative sectors, including blockchain and web3, AgTech, bio/ health-tech, and gaming. As a result, new educational programs and proposed policy change initiatives are well underway and new innovative tech solutions are under development. This initiative is also providing talented young people with valuable knowledge and experience that they can apply to careers in the tech industry. A second USAID initiative

will tackle the critical issue of finance by establishing a new venture capital fund focused on growing innovation and technology companies.

How would you assess current cooperation between the civic sector and the Serbian government at all levels, and what progress would you like to see in this collaboration?

— Wherever USAID works, we know that a strong civil society helps a country to have a strong democracy that understands – and is responsive to – the needs of citizens. That’s why USAID has been partnering with civil society organizations (CSOs) since we started working in Serbia more than 20 years ago. Indeed, CSOs play a critical role in advocating for their communities and the things those communities care about. Here in Serbia, we work with CSOs from the village to the national level, providing them with tools and models that they can use to effectively advocate for the needs of their constituencies.

During the past year, with USAID support, the Ministry for Human Rights and Social Dialogue has worked to establish a Civil Society Council. I commend the Ministry for including CSOs from different parts of Serbia in the consultation process and for fostering a constructive dialogue among participants in the process. And I view this as a positive sign that government and civil society leaders will continue to collaborate on creating an environment in which the voices of citizens can be heard and given the attention they deserve.

Deepening Serbia’s trade ties and building business connections is a core component of our support

Vital Partnership

AmCham has been a partner to the Serbian Government for 22 years and throughout that time has been working to better position Serbia as an attractive investment destination, implementing reforms, and aligning regulations with EU standards for future membership. Our partnership is vital in addressing current opportunities and challenges

The Serbian economy continues to face many challenges. That’s why it is crucial for us to work with the Government to build institutional capacities, wherein the most important aspects for businesses are judicial efficien-

cy, the rule of law, and continued digital transformation to improve transparency, says AmCham Executive Director Vera Nikolić Dimić.

Other areas of interest and action include the green agenda for an environmentally sound and energy efficient Ser-

bia, enhancements to the health care system, and support for regional initiatives aimed at Serbia’s integration into the EU, such as the Open Balkan initiative, adds our interlocutor.

How do you work and coordinate with other AmChams throughout the region in order to help achieve the Open Balkan vision?

— The business community across the region is interested in all four freedoms of movement that Open Balkan focuses on, namely the movement of people, goods, services, and capital. However, there is insufficient awareness among corporations about the results already achieved. This prompted AmChams in Serbia, North Macedonia, and Albania to conduct research that involved several surveys with major importers and ex-

OPPORTUNITIES

The business community across the region is interested in all four freedoms of movement that Open Balkan focuses on: the movement of people, goods, services, and capital

porters in these countries that revealed the Open Balkan’s tangible benefits. For instance, major progress has been made in addressing long-standing non-tariff barriers and obstacles, which has facilitated trade in the region, in particular imports and exports of foodstuffs. The findings of these surveys show that, in some cases, the time needed to import or export food has been cut by up to 50 percent, with direct costs of fees and charges reduced by up to 80 percent. Viewed together, we see that the changes have helped increase the volume of trade across Open Balkan countries by close to 30 percent.

Of course, businesses believe that Open Balkan will only achieve its full potential if it is extended to all regional non-EU markets, and that is something we will continue working on.

These findings will help all of us together to take greater strides in improving regional economic connectivity.

Much more potential cooperation with other AmChams lies ahead. Judging by our experiences to date, I feel we are all doing a good job, whilst also enjoying the projects we are working on together.

How successful has the Serbian Government been over the past year in addressing global challenges that have had a negative impact on the Serbian market?

— In times like these, when local challenges are compounded by global ones, such as the global energy crisis and the war in Ukraine, government plays a more important and greater role in implementing reforms. Much remains to be done in this field as well, including shifting to green energy, improving health care and education, and enhancing transparency and predictability.

That said, tangible progress has been made in several areas. Notably, infrastructure is improving, macroeconomic

COLLABORATION

Greater potential for cooperation with other AmChams lies ahead, as our experiences show that we are effectively and enjoyably working on shared projects

Our membership comprises 240 American and local companies that employ 100,000 people

PROGRESS

Tangible progress has been made in infrastructure, macroeconomic stability, and Serbia’s active participation in regional initiatives like Open Balkan

stability has been preserved, and Serbia is participating actively in regional initiatives such as Open Balkan.

With growth currently very low, what are the key issues that ought to be considered by the business community?

— In order to always be certain that we can fully support businesses, we conduct an annual survey of our members that tells us what can be enhanced to improve their performance.

This survey is currently ongoing, so I can’t tell you what the results will be, but I believe businesses will primarily seek help in identifying and supporting areas that hold the most potential to promote growth, such as the knowledge economy, biomedicine, and modern agriculture – all of which are sectors that add substantial value to products before they are exported or consumed.

We recently saw the Serbian Government partly alter its policies designed to attract investment. How can these changes influence Serbia’s status as a destination for American investors? — Any business needs a stable and predictable business environment, as all our member companies agree. Very few of them utilize any subsidies. Without false modesty, I can say that AmCham today brings together the best in the Serbian economy. Our membership comprises as many as 240 American and local companies that have together invested over 14 billion euros in Serbia and employ 100,000 people. Some of the policies you mentioned are quite beneficial, such as the requirement to use manufacturing equipment and technologies that have a minimal impact on the environment. This is an important aspect for all of us, not least as Serbian citizens, who not only live here, but also hold this country in trust for future generations.

In challenging times like these, with global issues like the energy crisis and the war in Ukraine, the government needs to take on a vital role in implementing reforms

Ready For A Global Breakthrough

Gray Cell is a software company that strives to satisfy all the technological needs of its clients. It is dedicated in particular to energy transformation and solutions that contribute to the advancement of the AgTech industry

The IT sector is among the world’s fastest growing industries, one that requires lifelong learning, specialization training and the monitoring of trends. It is precisely this approach that forms the core of the company of our interlocutor, Mr. Selakov, who considers that science and technology should be used in the service of the economy.

Do you offer your numerous clients universal software solutions or do you tailor bespoke solutions for each client?

We strive, as a software company, to satisfy all our clients’ technological requirements. We offer a flexible approach, because we understand that every organization has specific demands. We start from our universal modules that have been ver-

ified by industry, and this results in us delivering solutions that are tailor-made to suit the company and project.

The world was recently hit by one of the worst energy crises, and that will continue to pose a threat if no energy transition is forthcoming. How do you view this? How can energy transition be implemented?

TECHNICAL SCIENCES

Energy transition refers to the shift from traditional sources of energy that have a negative impact on the environment, such as fossil fuels, to sustainable sources of energy like solar, wind, hydropower, hydrogen and other renewable sources. In the context of our company and the projects that we implement in California, there are several ways in which we contribute to this transition.

We firstly develop software platforms and tools for the optimization and management of electricity infrastructure. This encompasses systems for supervising and managing the power transmission and distribution grid, software for optimizing electricity production, electric vehicle charging systems, solutions for managing small systems that are referred to as microgrids, as well as other technology platforms that facilitate the efficient management of electricity.

We also contribute to this transition by using the technologies of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics, by participating in energy transition through the optimization of power systems, predicting energy consumption levels and identifying areas to improve energy efficiency, and alongside that we also write scientific papers, present our research at conferences and organize seminars via digital platforms. In order for us to succeed in the energy transition process, future power systems must conform to the 3 Ds of energy: digitization, decentralization, and decarbonization.

Smart agriculture is one of the areas you’re especially committed to advancing. What kind of role does the IT sector play in this branch of the economy? Can IT companies place themselves at the service of small manufacturers and industries?

Software companies can play a significant role in advancing the AgTech industry. Our company is engaged in this area in two ways, both independently and through collaboration with our partner company from Kentucky. Our software system for optimal animal feed formulation enables farmers and the industry to precisely tailor nutrition to the needs of their animals and the market. By using data on animal genetics, metabolism and needs, the software generates opti-

mal diets and feeding recommendations, alongside reducing CO2 emissions during the production of animal feed. We do this by working in cooperation with partners to glean information on how many kilograms of CO2 are emitted during the production of a single ton of animal feed raw materials. Our dual optimization system results in improved feed efficiency, better animal health, and a reduced negative environmental impact.

We have begun developing a technology platform for the production of protein from insects and reducing biowaste. This system comprises intelligent software

with the advancement of science and industry trends. In order for our students to also be adaptable to the world market to the greatest possible extent, we maintain three pillars of academic work: teaching, science, cooperation with the industry.

Considering Gray Cell’s results, one would say that you have a fantastic team. There can be no success without that. In these dynamic surroundings, lifelong learning, specialization training and the monitoring of trends are critical success factors. That’s precisely why we insist on employing and retaining experts and dedicated professionals who are ready to constantly improve their skills and knowledge. Through regular training participation in conferences, workshops, and studying the latest technologies, our team is oriented towards constant development. Alongside lifelong learning, it is also important to promote teamwork, communication, creativity and a commitment to problem solving. These characteristics are all of equal importance when it comes to achieving success in the IT industry.

Early this year, you made your debut appearance at the DistribuTECH Conference, which is held in Sand Diego and represents one of the world’s most prestigious events of its kind. What were your impressions? Was it a useful experience?

for managing insect breeding, monitoring environmental parameters and controlling substrate quality, as well as physical breeding chambers.

We can’t overlook the fact that you are also a professor at the Novi Sad Faculty of Technical Sciences and head of the ASE study program... How are your students; What kind of engineers do they mature into?

The Applied Software Engineering study program, and the Faculty of Technical Sciences as a whole, are extremely agile, which means that they constantly upgrade their plans and programs in line

DistribuTECH is a really exceptional conference that represents the pinnacle of events in the Smart Grid industry. The organization and content on offer at the conference were outstanding, with an emphasis on key topics: energy transition, electromobility, smart grids, energy security and resistance to attacks, both physical and cyber. Viewed overall, our debut at #distributech23 was an extremely useful and inspiring event for us. Gaining new insights, establishing contacts and presenting our company at the global level has had a positive impact on our further strategy and development. And San Diego is also a fantastic city.

In order for us to succeed in the energy transition process, future power systems must conform to the 3 Ds of energy: digitization, decentralization, and decarbonization

Dedicated To Excellence

TeleGroup is a company that has 30 years of experience, the most modern technological solutions in the fields of transport, energy, greenfield projects, agriculture and telecom operators, and services that are adapted to the specific needs of each client

Thanks to its presence in numerous industries, our interlocutor’s company works constantly to develop its innovation capacities, which enables it to maintain a stable market position and continue growing in its target markets. Judging by the results, this company is on an excellent path.

What is the guarantee of quality and reliability at TeleGroup?

— Our experience and numerous references in all industries are certainly important, but that which really distinguishes us is our dedication to innovation and constant striving for improvement. We don’t only have almost 30 years of experience, impressive references and all essential licenses as a company, but rather we also work passionately in order to be at the cutting edge of technological advancement. This is why we’re chosen as a partner by the biggest “players” – they recognise our dedication to excellence.

What comprises your offer?

— Our offer is all-encompassing and covers a wide range of industries. The crucial difference is in our approach to each project. We don’t merely offer technology solutions, we provide personalized services that are adapted to the specific needs of each client. Whether this relates to transportation, energy, construction, agriculture or critical infrastructure, our mission is to provide design, construction and maintenance solution services that will help our customers achieve their business goals.

We are also a reliable partner to institutions in all countries of the region, and to both private and multinational compa-

nies. We are extremely proud of our projects, like those within the scope of intelligent transport on highways and intersections in Serbia and Bosnia-Herzegovina. We’ve implemented systems that ensure patients receive the best possible care in clinical centers in Niš and Belgrade, while we also ease the work of employees at airports around the region.

We are also there for those most in need of help. For example, thanks to our solutions, more than 300,000 homestaead farms in Serbia are able to increase their production capacity and thus increase their earnings.

We initially helped telecom operators take the first steps in all new generations of technology - both fixed and mobile networks, as well as cable and broadband infrastructure. We today help those same telecom operators launch products and services aimed at improving quality of life for their users.

Does the fact that you work constantly on the development of innovation capacities secure your stable market position and further growth?

— Our presence in the region is the result of our dedication to providing our clients with the best services. We have over 500 employees in all countries of the Western Balkans, and we work continuously on the development of innovation capacities, due to our presence in numerous industries. This allows us to maintain a stable market position and continue to grow in our target markets. Through Horizon2020 and various projects that are supported by the World Bank, USAID, UNDP, GIZ and others, we are part of a community that works to implement the latest projects, but also technologies that will only come to life in a commercial sense after a few years.

Our mission is to provide design, construction and maintenance solution services that will help our customers achieve their business goals

Care for Nature: The Foundation Of A Successful Business

High-quality and a responsible attitude towards nature represent the foundations of a successful business. Company Ball Packaging this year celebrates 18 years of doing business in Serbia, and does so as a leader in the production of aluminum packaging and one of the country’s biggest exporters, providing a huge contribution to Serbia’s foreign trade exchange results

tion of cans exceeds billions of units, more than half of which is destined for export to 20 markets around the world. Production at these scales obliges us to be responsible when it comes to sustainable development, circularity and recycling. And in accordance with all of that, the company approaches this topic proactively and with great experience.

aging can be recycled an unlimited number of times with minimal losses.

Ball Packaging participated in the establishment of the Alliance for Circular Packaging, while you are actually heading that association. What does the Alliance represent and what are its objectives?

In an effort to increase the percentage of recycling and packaging circularity, the Alliance for Circular Packaging was established recently and will be included in discussions on the adoption of new legislation regulating packaging waste management. Here Ball’s Nenad Đurđević explains how important this is for all of us.

How do you view Ball Packaging's position in Serbia today?

— For almost 18 years, Ball Beverage Packaging Europe has been responsibly and carefully building its position in Serbia as a successful company. We haven’t only proven ourselves to be the leader in the production of aluminum packaging, but we can also state unreservedly that we are among the country’s biggest exporters. Our annual produc-

Supporting this claim is the fact that every other can sold in stores has been recycled at least once and is sourced from Ball.

Ball Corporation, within the framework of which the Ball Packaging factory in Belgrade operates, has published a detailed and precise Climate Transition Plan. What does that mean specifically? — The climate transition plan that Ball Corporation presented applies to all factories, including the Belgrade one, and adheres to UN guidelines related to the decarbonization of the economy aimed at halting the rise in global temperatures. When it comes to our business, this specifically means taking certain measures to reduce CO2 emissions by 55% by 2030, as well as reaching the level of complete decarbonization and zero percent CO2 emissions by 2050 at the latest. We have been applying circular economy and recycling principles for years. Around 73% of aluminum cans currently produced in Europe are recycled, while our end goal is to make that 100%, because aluminum pack-

— The alliance consists of leaders in the production of packaging and encompasses almost all materials for packaging food and beverages (glass, plastic, multilayered cardboard packaging, cardboard and paper packaging, as well as metal packaging). We together comprise approximately 65% of the market and possess great experience when it comes to circularity and recycling. That’s precisely why we want to join the discussion on the adoption of new legislation regulating the management of packaging waste. Our goal is to achieve a higher percentage of recycling and circularity. New solutions mustn’t be unfavorable for some of the materials used in packaging, because that could threaten overall production capacities in Serbia.

We unanimously advocate the introduction of a deposit system for all types of disposable beverage packaging, as well as the collecting of packaging in two streams: one for plastic, metal, glass and cardboard packaging that is not included in the deposit system; the other for paper and cardboard.

Our annual production of cans exceeds billions of units, more than half of which is destined for export to 20 markets around the world

Between Nature And Technology

Your reliable partner in construction

With more than three decades of experience, company Termoinženjering has grown to become one of Serbia’s leading engineering firms. Due to its expertise and experience, Termoinženjering is focused on high-demand projects like industrial facilities (pharmaceutical, food, the automotive industry and tire manufacturing), health centers, theaters and museums, hotels, banks, telecommunications and IT centers, sports halls and special purpose public facilities.

Separating Termoinženjering from the competition are its expertise, dedication to technology and deep understanding of the process. That’s why Termoinženjering is able to view all aspects of a project, including needs in terms of energy, fluids, ambient conditions, spatial parameters and construction. The Termoinženjering approach is based on understanding the specific requirements of production, in which it differs from others. Through such an approach, Termoinženjering secures sustainable and tailored projects that fulfill the needs of its clients in a dynamic market.

The main advantage of its enduring existence and operations is its unique approach

to clients, which is why the majority of them decide to cooperate continuously with the company, as is the case with the likes of Goodyear-Cooper Tires, Siemens, Michelin-Tigar Tyres, Nestle, Stada-Hemofarm, Galenika, PharmaSwiss, Trelleborg, Continental and others, all of whom only have words of praise for their business partner.

“We want to emphasize the high level of professionalism of the employees of Termoinženjering and our gratitude for every piece of expert advice, engineering proposal and the quick identifying of optimal technical solutions, with which we helped and improved such a large joint business project,” said Tigar Tyres’ Gary Scheide

Termoinženjering pays special attention to EPC [Engineering, Procurement and Construction] projects, or Design-Build projects, with the highest possible level of expertise in a large number of disciplines that provides a

full guarantee of quality and efficacy in the execution of works, thus providing clients with added confidence and comfort in their work. A team of more than 50 engineers in various specialist areas – architects, civil engineers, electrical and automatic control systems engineers, mechanical and process engineers – monitors construction works with the application of optimal solutions, conducts analysis of changes and risks and internal testing, enabling projects to be completed according to planned timeframes and quality. Following the completion of a project, the Termoinženjering team remains at the service of clients through the servicing and maintaining of all technical systems, additionally safeguarding the proper functioning of production plants.

Termoinženjering also pays special attention to green building processes and the application of solutions with renewable energy sources, including the construction of solar power plants. Its commitment to sustainability and environmental protection has been recognized, while the company has earned an EcoVadis rating for the ESG aspects of its business, ranking it among silver companies.

Building Trust In The Digital World

Consumers want to trust the brands that they love, and brands want to build trusted digital platforms that their customers can rely on. However, trust can be elusive in the digital world, and staying ahead of fraud prevention can be challenging

fear, Continuous Trust makes the promise of the digital economy possible.

Telesign was founded to solve the challenge of online fraud prevention and provide an online identity solution that enables technology adoption around the world. Telesign annually protects more than a billion accounts from takeovers. The company is a trusted partner to global enterprises across more than 230 countries and territories, including eight of the world’s top ten internet companies. We took this opportunity to interview Nenad Vučinić, General Manager of Telesign Belgrade, to discuss the company’s history and its Belgrade operations, but also its vision for the future.

Can you give us a short history of Telesign in Belgrade?

— We have been in Belgrade since 2012 and have since grown to more than 370 employees here. Belgrade is an ideal location for many reasons. It has a highly educated, motivated, and multilingual workforce, many of whom have deep technology and telecommunications industry knowledge. Over the past ten years, we have made significant investments in Belgrade, including ambitious hiring of personnel, extensive employee training and knowledge transfer.

We are constantly impressed by the quality of the labor market in Serbia. In addition to expanding our IT roles here, we have added strategic roles in sales, marketing, and support to serve our growing international presence, and we plan to expand further.

At our core, we enable companies to create a happier and healthier digital experience for their customers. Our global footprint of 700+ direct-to-carrier routes spanning more than 230 countries and territories equips Telesign to deliver 21+ billion verifications annually. With our proprietary data sets, exclusive global partnerships, and client relationships, Telesign offers powerful fraud prevention solutions to customers worldwide.

Can you provide examples of Telesign in action?

— Customer onboarding is a critical use case. Today, one in four newly created accounts are fake. Businesses need to detect potential risk as quickly as possible, while adding minimal friction. Telesign’s intelligent solutions are trained to detect fraudulent phone numbers and recommend when to block risky new

Our global footprint of 700+ direct-to-carrier routes spanning more than 230 countries and territories equips Telesign to deliver 21+ billion verifications annually

What is Telesign’s mission and what are some of the company’s key differentiators?

— Telesign connects, protects, and defends companies and customers, and digital interactions between them. With powerful machine learning that delivers identity with speed, accuracy, and global reach, we enable Continuous Trust™. Empowering companies to transact, communicate and engage with their customers free of

users. Leading internet and social media companies like Mamba, one of the world’s largest online dating sites, use Telesign to prevent fraud.

Another use case is toll fraud/IRSF, which can cost companies hundreds of thousands of dollars in a single attack—all it takes is an unprotected form or phone line. Companies utilize Telesign to detect voice and message traffic abnormalities and block fraudulent traffic and robocalls.

Cancer Is No Longer An Incurable Disease

Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD) has been among the global leaders in medical innovations and a pioneer in immuno-oncology therapy discovery for 130 years, while it has even shifted the paradigm of oncological disease treatment and enabled significantly better outcomes

Our company’s main task is to work together with decision makers in the health care system, from the moment an innovative drug receives a usage license, to find a way for that drug to reach patients as soon as possible - says MSD’s MD for Serbia and the Balkans, Nebojša Škuljec, before explaining everything that his company is doing on this front.

Discoveries made at your laboratories have contributed to extending longevity. Are vaccines and immuno-oncology drugs the best example of this?

— Our company is among the leaders in medical innovations that have enabled this kind of outstanding progress in treatment, where it is estimated that innovative drugs have contributed 73% to extending longevity at the beginning of the 21st century. MSD has made available to millions of patients worldwide a drug that is currently used in the treatment of over 20 types of malignancies, while clinical trials are underway for other types of tumors. This class of drugs that is specific in that it activates our immune system in the fight against cancer has already enabled a certain number of patients in Serbia to survive for significantly longer and to have exceptional quality of life even in the disease’s most severe, metastatic stage.

How is it possible to make the maximum number of innovative medicines available to patients in Serbia?

— Although our country has narrowed the gap in terms of the availability of innovative medicines compared to EU countries over recent years, that gap is still evident. We will give our all, through joint efforts of the state and the private sector, to move as close as possible to European and world treatment standards, with a special focus on malignant dis-

eases. This is very important because Serbia is a country with a medium risk of contracting disease (ranked 12th among 40 European countries), but has an extremely high risk of dying from malignant diseases – ranked as high as second place in Europe, immediately after Hungary.

A major breakthrough in the prevention of cervical cancer occurred last year, when children were immunized – at the expense of the RFZO [national health insurance fund] –against infections caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the main cause of this disease. Serbia thereby also joined the WHO mission to eliminate cervical cancer. That goal is also within the reach of countries that have been implementing this type of prevention for the last 15 years. This vaccine was received by 24,000 children in one year in Serbia, which gives us hope that cervical cancer, which currently claims more than 600 lives in our country each year, will soon become a rare disease.

Is the pharmaceutical industry focused on personalized medicine?

— It is expected that personalized medicine will become a powerful new weapon in the fight against many diseases, including malignancies. A prerequisite for applying personalized medicine is the acceptance of the principle of decision-making based on data, which is an area where Serbia has taken a big step with the digitalization of health care and the launch of the BIO4 project – an ecosystem that is becoming increasingly attractive for the development of innovation, cooperation between academia and industry, and future commercialization.

MSD Serbia has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Government of the Republic of Serbia pertaining to our company’s support to the development of the BIO4 scientific campus. We expect this strategic partnership to enable the creation of new solutions and the better use of data to achieve sustainable financing and improve unequal and suboptimal health outcomes.

The HPV vaccine was received by 24,000 children in one year in Serbia, thanks to which cervical cancer is set to soon become a rare disease

Next Major Step: America

WTO is among Eastern Europe’s fastest growing logistics companies, with branches in Bulgaria, China, Croatia, Greece, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia and Taiwan. With its “Vision 2030” strategy, the company has envisioned opening branches in all the world’s top logistics centers

The company's policy is oriented entirely towards meeting and exceeding all the demands of customers in the field of transport and logistics, as well as providing additional services linked directly or indirectly to this activity - explains WTO MD Bogdan Gavrilović, revealing part of the company’s plans for the period ahead.

Your “Vision 2030” strategic plan envisons the opening of branches in all world logistics centers. Is everything progressing according to plan?

— We are satisfied with our operations and achievements to date. This May, we opened a branch in Albania that offers maritime, air and land transportation, as well as all other logistics services, just as is envisioned by our “Vision 2030” strategy, thus we now have more than 250 employees at 22 locations in 12 countries. That company’s head office is in Tirana and the team is led by MD Sara Matohitaj, who is an excellent professional. Apart from the subsidiary in Albania, it has been planned for this year to open another office in Romania, in Constanța, while the establishing of an office in the U.S. – as a very large and demanding undertaking – is our main priority for the period ahead. We are focused and very dedicated to this endeavor, which forms an important part of our strategy. With the opening of an office in America, we will meet the needs of our current and future clients, their business plans and expectations.

Apart from the successful opening of new branches, what other achievements have you made?

— We are continuing our excellent operations, thanks to which we can state with unconcealed pride that – with a turnover exceeding 105 million euros and more than 45,000 twenty-foot equivalent units transported – we suc-

cessfully achieved our targets for last year. The main focus of our firm’s activities will continue to be on LCL consoles, with which we transported more than 88,000 cubic meters of cargo over the previous year, which also represents the biggest indicator of our growth.

Considering that the general director and the sector manager changed in Belgrade, with both managerial positions filled by people who acquired their expertise of the freight forwarding trade at WTO, we can boast of new energy that is accompanied by ambitious plans. With an expanded composition and new, significantly more modern and larger offices, our team will be bet-

ter prepared than ever before to respond to every demand of clients.

WTO is also a member of numerous professional associations, chambers of commerce and business clubs. This makes it easier to do business, while at the same time increasing your obligations.

— Yes, you are correct... Since 2013, we have been a member of the United Nation Global Compact, the world’s largest network of companies with corporate responsibility, encompassing more than 12,000 corporate members from more than 145 countries. We are also part of the World Cargo Alliance Family, the largest and most powerful network of independent freight forwarders; the Security Cargo Network, representing the global alliance of independent international freight forwarders; the Slovenian Business Club and AmCham Serbia. Our membership in the American Chamber of Commerce has actually proven to be very important now that we are working intensively to open an office in America and when we require support.

With the opening of an office in America, we will meet the needs of our current and future clients, their business plans and expectations

The numerous Serbian companies that have successfully realized initial business ideas by relying on their own knowhow and experience serve as proof that it is possible to become and remain a strategic partner of the world’s largest companies by using your own powers to develop your own business in Serbia. Alfa Technics is one such company.

Does your steel empire prove that it is possible to start from nothing and become a strategic partner of renowned global manufacturers from different branches of industry?

Anything’s possible... With just a few friends and associates, engineers and experienced experts in the field of design and production, I established a company in 2010 that became a reliable partner in the international business environment in just a few years. Today, slightly more than 12 years on, Alfa Technics has around 300 employees and more than 17,000 sqm of production and administrative space, on an area of five hectares within the Customs Free Zone in Svilajnac. In 2017, we moved from Kragujevac to this city, which has taken a European approach to creating a stimulating business environment for a decade and a half, and we then invested approximately 15 million euros in plant facilities and equipment.

Are you expanding your production programme constantly?

It's All About People

This widely renowned Svilajnac-based company designs and manufactures demanding construction frames and process equipment, vehicle test cabins for the world's leading manufacturers, steel structures for numerous airports around the world that provide extra comfort for passengers, etc.

— Standing still is stepping backwards. Being familiar with the clients with whom you do business, as well as those with whom you are seeking to establish cooperation, their needs and plans, is key to survival, development and advancement. At Alfa Technics we are continuously training new generations of experts and improving our knowledge and

in cabins manufactured by Alfa Technics. At the same time, steel structures that we produce and assemble here provide additional comfort for passengers at airports around the world, from Argentina to Australia, thanks to our long-term partnership with ThyssenKrupp Airport Systems. We cooperate with companies from 42 countries around the world and that makes me very proud.

Your employees’ high-quality and expertise is what sets you apart from the competition. Do you appreciate hard work and invest in staff training because you believe that there can be no success without good people?

skills so that we are ready to respond not only to current needs, but also to the future needs of the sophisticated international market.

We design and manufacture demanding construction frames and process equipment, with the adoption of special production programmes. Thus, for example, Rolls-Royce, Porsche, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, Mercedes, Fiat, Volvo, Audi and BMW test their vehicles

— People are the most important factor. With mutual support, understanding and trust, every goal can be reached. We hire all those who want to advance, as well as those who we have something to learn from in order for us to be better every day. We have our own training center that has produced, among others, five top experts with the title of International Welding Engineer (IWE).

We have spent years supporting dual education. That’s how more than 60 high school students had the opportunity to acquire theoretical and practical knowledge right here with us. With such an approach, over the coming decades I believe that Alfa Technics will continue to contribute not only to the development of the local economy, but also to the Serbian economy as a whole.

We continuously train new generations of experts and improve our knowledge and skills so that we are ready to respond not only to current needs, but also to the future needs of the sophisticated international market

We’ll Breathe Fully And Deeply

Apodis d.o.o. is part of Germany’s Apodis Group, which has spent 20 years successfully dealing with air and liquid filtration systems. Its core activity in Serbia is the manufacturing of HEPA 14 filters

It was four years ago, in an effort to remove her hometown of Belgrade from the list of world cities with the most polluted air, that Sofija Đorđević decided to launch the “Breathe Freely” mission, in cooperation with German company Rod Holding. She was led at that time, but also today, by the need to do something good for her own people.

“Breathe freely” is your personal mission that you launched in 2019. How did we end up having to fight for clean air and the ability to breathe normally?

— It was just a few years ago, in 2019, that I, like all other Belgraders, found myself struggling to catch my breath in my hometown, which topped the list of the world’s most polluted cities. In my search for a solution, I went to Stuttgart, one of Europe’s greenest cities, and was surprised by how much one city deals with the needs of its residents, how much it takes care of its citizens. The way they arrange the greenery is unbelievable, and I was especially fascinated by the fact that air purifiers with HEPA filters were installed at every meter on the streets.

That need to do something more for my own people was further reinforced during the pandemic, while my husband,

Dragan, in his fight for his own life, relied on my idea to donate Apodis purifiers to introduce to the hospital system in order to create the most sterile conditions possible for both patients and staff.

What has changed since then? The pandemic has abated and summer has arrived, so the air is not pollut-

ed, but you are continuing what you started?

— The air quality index in Serbia still isn’t good, so we’re still topping the list of the worst cities, which is why I founded Apodis as a company for the production of HEPA 14 filters that clean the air of 99.995% of dust, pollen, bacteria and viruses. The best-known Apodis products are the Air Diamond air condition-

er and the Air Guard air purifier, which – thanks to the Hepa filter – eliminate germ contamination and ensure the highest possible air purity. Air Diamond is an air conditioning unit that’s used in operating theaters, intervention rooms, reception areas and intensive care units. The recipient of an innovation award from the state of Baden-Württemberg, it satisfies all prescribed medical standards. The Air Guard air purifier can be used in offices, halls, restaurants, hotels, residential units, etc., while its design can be fully adapted to suit the customer.

Do you think Belgraders will soon be able to breathe fully and deeply again?

— As someone who has spent a large part of their career in the most important city institutions dealing with the population, I’m really able to recognize the needs of my fellow citizens, while apart from that, and even more importantly, I’m willing to do everything in my power, with great enthusiasm and energy, to ensure Belgrade breathes again. It is for this reason that this July 10th will be remembered as the date when HEPA 14 filters started being produced in Serbia, and we will continue our mission. We are dedicated and efficient, our customer orientation is unrivalled, and individual support is our core business principle.

The best-known products of the Apodis Group, which has been operating in Germany for 20 years already, are the Air Diamond air conditioning unit and the Air Guard air purifier

Great Upsurge Of Trade In Services

The investments of U.S. companies in Serbia, which are estimated to total 4.9 billion dollars, the great upsurge of trade in services over the last few years and the progressive growth of the goods exchange, which exceeded a billion dollars for the first time ever in 2022, represent the latest characteristics of the balance sheet in the growing economic cooperation between America and Serbia, interpreted in specific figures

Despite mutual goods exchanges having tripled over the past decade, and last year’s increase of almost 28 percent leading to a record total of 1.27 billion dollars in 2022, the bilateral trade exchange remains below realistic possibilities. And although Serbian exports have experienced a 5.6-fold increase since 2012, they still stand at a value of just 540.8 million dollars, without more significant structural changes.

When it comes to the U.S. market, manufacturers from Serbia last year mostly sold pneumatic tires for outdoor use, engine parts, frozen raspberries, circulator pumps and traditional export products of the arms industry –hunting and shooting sports equipment and ammunition. American exporters to Serbia practically didn’t sell goods of a much higher value either, despite recording a better performance of 725.4 million dollars on the Serbian market.

Apart from medicinal drugs, diagnostic and laboratory reagents, medical instruments and appliances, the list of imported products also includes turboprop engines and plastic products, while it was last year top by airplanes, which are overhauled here and subsequently returned to the U.S. Analyzes conducted locally indicate that the potential to increase trade exists in all segments of the economy – from the agriculture and food sectors, via the metal industry (auto

parts and metal processing), to the textile and furniture industries, etc.

Observing local companies and American firms that have invested in Serbia, and that produce in and export from Serbia, indicate that the resumption of activities on the signing of a bilateral agreement on the avoidance of double taxation, and the extension or renewal of the GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) program that expired at year’s end 2020, would contribute to improving the mutual utilization of the existing potential and increasing trade between Serbia and the U.S., but would also motivate new American investors to invest in Serbia.

Ever more importance in total trade between the two countries is being gained by the exchange of services, which are less burdened by the great distance between the markets and last year reached a total value of 1.33 billion dollars. America has been the number one export market for Serbian services over the past two years, ranking ahead of Germany, the UK, and Switzerland. In stark contrast to trade in goods, which is marked by a constant deficit on the Serbian side, Serbia is recording a surplus in the exchange of services, which exceeded the value of a billion dollars in 2022. The highest revenue generated from the export of services to the American market – accounting for a whopping 55 percent – was achieved through the export of telecommunication, computer and information services, with slightly more than half of that total accounted for by computer services, i.e., software programming services.

The biggest stamp on the record of economic cooperation between Serbia and the U.S. is provided by the investments of American companies in Serbia, which – if we also take into account investments made by the European subsidiaries of American companies (which official statistics formally base on the source country of payment and not the origin of the capital invested) and investments made by U.S. companies while already operating in Serbia – have approached the figure of five billion dollars, according to U.S. sources in Serbia. The number of American investors in Serbia is increasing year on year, while their contribution to the Serbian economy – through production operations, exports, and the creation of new jobs – is also on the rise. More than 600 companies with majority American capital are registered in Serbia and employ more than 30,000 workers.

Apart from the leading companies in terms of investment levels to date, which include Philip Morris International, PepsiCo, Coca-Cola Hellenic or Ball Packaging, investments in Serbia’s manufacturing sector have also been made by Cooper Tires and Cooper Standard Automotive, Van Dru-

nen Farms, Johnson Controls, West Pharmaceutical Services, Lear Corporation, Ametek, etc. The world’s leading hotel brands – Hilton, Marriot, and Radisson – have also arrived in Serbia.

Over recent years, the interest of American investors has increasingly extended beyond the scope of traditional sectors in which they have previously invested the most, such as the food, tobacco and automotive industries, telecommunications, IT, tourism etc. Or rather, the interest of U.S. investors is expanding and focusing primarily on ICT and clean technologies – the energy sector and environmental protection – but is also extending to new fields, such as biotech and biomedicine. This was confirmed late last year by the Trade Mission of the U.S. Government, representing the first such mission in the last two decades.

The biggest investment to date in the ICT sector and shared services has been in the NCR tech campus, while the Development Agency of Serbia’s list of the top investors also includes Microsoft, which has provided an incalculable contribution during its almost two decades operating on the Serbian market. Other investors in this sector include Sitel, EBV Elektronik [Avent], TeleSign, GroundLink etc. Other major American

The number of American investors in Serbia is increasing, while their contribution to the Serbian economy is also on the rise. More than 600 companies with majority American capital are registered in Serbia and employ more than 30,000 workers

Trade exchanges having tripled over the past decade, with last year’s increase of 28 percent leading to a record total of 1.27 billion dollars in 2022

technology companies (Oracle, IBM, Cisco, Motorola, Dell, Honeywell, etc.) have been present in Serbia and the region for years, through various forms of business. Amazon has also practically arrived in Serbia, through its partnership agreement and first contract with Telekom Srbija.

Providing special high quality to cooperation between the two economies are the U.S. companies that have established their own R&D and technology centers in Serbia. Apart from Microsoft, which opened its fourth development center worldwide in Serbia back in 2005, thereby fortifying its position at the global level, companies IBM and Rivian also opened their own R&D centers in Serbia late last year. We are also recording examples of acquisitions in the IT

sector that are proving to be mutually excellent. In the domain of energy, and in anticipation of the signing of the announced agreement on strategic cooperation in this area that is currently being negotiated by the two governments, U.S. companies are interested in investing in new, modern energy capacities in Serbia, primarily in the RES field. And it isn’t only American capital that’s important for Serbia and the region, but rather also the modern technologies they bring and the transfer of knowledge in the transition to green energy, decarbonization and diversification in production and supply, and increasing energy efficiency, but also in the implementation of regional connectivity projects.

Alongside progress in the building of a common regional market and consolidating regional integration in the Western Balkans under the scope of the Open Balkan Initiative, which enjoys U.S. support, a great incentive to strengthening trade and economic ties between the two countries, and to stimulating new American investments in the country, will be provided by the activities of the recently established American-Serbian Business Council (ASBC), which represents a platform for intensifying dialogue between the two countries’ institutions and business communities.

The exchange of services last year reached a total value of 1.33 billion dollars

A great incentive to strengthening trade and economic ties between the two countries, and to stimulating new American investments in the country, will be provided by the activities of the recently established American-Serbian Business Council (ASBC)

Reflecting On A Year of Achievement

Explore the highlights of AmCham Serbia's dynamic year-long journey of growth, collaboration, and transformation, encompassing pioneering initiatives, recognizable programs, and impactful events that drive the change in shaping and advocating for a better framework for doing business.

NOVEMBER 3, 2022 THE 9TH GENERATION OF THE AMCHAMPS PROGRAM ENROLLED AND LAUNCHED

This AmChamps generation attracted the largest ever intake of 56 participants, with students as mentees and managers from AmCham general membership as mentors, accounting for 28 each.

During 2022/2023, the mentors and their mentees participated in projects and workshops, thus gaining practical experience that will help them in their future professional development.

As the program is competitive, the winners look forward to receiving full scholarships for the Executive MBA and master’s programs at CITY College, University of York, Europe Campus.

OCTOBER 12, 2022 EMPOWER HER INITIATIVE LAUNCHING

AmCham Serbia joins the EMPOWER HER initiative, promoting economic empowerment for women. The initiative is a partnership between the U.S. Department of Commerce, AmCham EU, and AmChams Europe. The event was formally opened by Ivan Miletić of Philip Morris International and AmCham First Vice President. The event included a speech given by Brankica Janković, Serbian Equality Commissioner, while video message addresses were also provided by Pamela Ward, Regional Senior Commercial Officer Southeast Europe at the U.S. Department of Trade, and Susan Danger, CEO of AmCham EU.

A panel debate was moderated by AmCham Executive Director Vera Nikolić Dimić and included Jasmina Knežević, CEO of Acibadem Bel Medic, Violeta Jovanović, Executive Director at the National Alliance for Local Economic Development (NALED), Vesna Damjanić, Editor-in-Chief of Bloomberg Adria TV, and Nina Čaprić, Government Relations Manager at NCR. The panelists discussed ways to encourage companies to engage in efforts to advance a more diverse and inclusive workplace that supports women.

The lectures and workshops created for this generation included: Mentoring; An Introduction to Coaching; Environmental Protection and Compliance; Agile workshop, field trips & company visits; Family Business; Motivation; Case Study Tips & Tricks; Strategy Models and Leadership; Neuromarketing, Innovation and Creativity; Business Transformation & Digital Transformation; Public Speaking/Networking; Meet the AmCham President; Algorithmic Leadership; Getting Products to Market; and many more…

AMCHAM SERBIA 10TH LAP TIME CONFERENCE

AmCham Serbia’s traditional landmark event, the Lap Time Conference, was held for the tenth consecutive time in 2022 and was opened by AmCham Serbia President Stefan Lazarević, while Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabić and U.S. Ambassador Christopher Hill gave keynote speeches.

The survey that identified the key reform priorities was presented. The vast majority of AmCham companies (86%) believed their business results would meet or exceed projections in 2022, despite the Ukraine crisis. Member companies that have also reported negative impacts of the crisis have faced falling profits (20 percent), revenues (14 percent), and planned investment (16 percent), with effects on employment remaining minimal. AmCham members expected to sustain their current operations in 2023, or even to grow, with 96 percent planning to retain or expand their workforce.

Discussion with relevant government ministers shed light on how to steer reforms towards the removing of key obstacles that hinder faster economic growth in these very challenging times.

FEBRUARY 8, 2023

AMCHAM SERBIA GENERAL ASSEMBLY MEETING

AmCham ended 2022 with the greatest ever number of member companies. As AmCham Executive Director Vera Nikolić Dimić underlined during the presentation of the AmCham Annual Report, the association boasts 231 international and local companies operating in Serbia, which have collectively invested over €14 billion and employ more than 100,000 Serbian citizens.

AmCham Serbia President Stefan Lazarević emphasized four priority areas that will be in the focus of the association: continuing the digital transformation of society and the economy, fully implementing the green agenda for an environmentally friendly and energy efficient Serbia, enhancing the health care system, and assisting regional initiatives in support of Serbia’s EU integration, including the Open Balkan initiative.

The members’ vote saw Igor Lončarević of KPMG elected Secretary Treasurer, while Marko Martinović of PepsiCo becoming Untitled Governor.

The event’s keynote speaker was U.S. Ambassador to Serbia Christopher Hill.

MAY 30, 2023 ESG CHAMPIONS CONFERENCE

Recognizing the significant efforts that companies invest in ESG, AmCham Serbia and consulting firm Kearney launched the ESG Champions initiative in late 2022. It aimed to recognize companies that achieve the best results in environmental protection, social responsibility, and conscientious corporate governance.

The conference saw company IKEA announced and awarded as 2023 ESG Champion.

The award ceremony was followed by three swift panel discussions that brought together business representatives to highlight the importance of developing a green portfolio for enhancing global competitiveness, generational and cultural differences as an opportunity for maximizing business performance, and the best responsible corporate governance practices.

The event highlighted the best ESG practices in the local market and promoted discussion about the common mistakes companies make in implementing ESG strategies and ways to avoid them.

APRIL 24, 2023 CONFERENCE ‘REGIONAL ECONOMIC COOPERATION – OPEN BALKAN INITIATIVE: WHAT CAN BUSINESSES EXPECT?’

A conference entitled ‘Regional Economic Cooperation – Open Balkan Initiative: What can businesses expect?’ focused on regional economic cooperation platforms and the needs of companies for continued integration. A ministerial panel comprised Serbian Minister for European Integration Tanja Miščević and Serbian Minister of Internal and Foreign Trade Tomislav Momirović, while representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management, Ministry of Internal and Foreign Trade, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Finance, National Bank of Serbia, and other relevant institutions shared their views on the panel debates covering the free movement of goods and the free movement of capital. The event also presented research conducted jointly by AmCham in Albania, AmCham North Macedonia, and AmCham Serbia that emphasizes the potential for regional economic integration. It was stressed that some progress has been achieved in terms of the free movement of goods, while improvements are desired in terms of labor market access, the movement of capital, and the liberalization of services.

The importance of attracting foreign investors and improving trade was also highlighted.

DELEGATION OF AMCHAMS IN EUROPE VISIT WASHINGTON, D.C. AND HOUSTON, TEXAS

AmCham Serbia Executive Director Vera Nikolić Dimić joined an executive AmChams in Europe (ACE) delegation attending the annual 2023 U.S. Conference in Washington, D.C., and Houston, Texas, to discuss policy with leading representatives of the U.S. administration. The group met with leading U.S. stakeholders, including Jose Fernandez, Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, U.S. Department of State; Marisa Lago, Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce; and Suzanne Clark, U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO. They discussed the importance of the transatlantic relationship, the competitiveness of Europe, energy, and other global challenges. The delegation also met with representatives of Export-Import Bank, POLITICO, member companies, and business leaders from Collins Aerospace, ExxonMobil, and Honeywell. They also paid visit to the NASA Space Center.

Nikolić Dimić had an additional meeting with Serbian Ambassador to the U.S., H.E. Marko Đurić.

JUNE 12-16, 2023

AMCHAM SERBIA - DOORKNOCK DELEGATION TO THE U.S.

An AmCham Serbia delegation embarked on an economic mission to the U.S. with the aim of strengthening institutional and economic prerequisites for increasing bilateral trade and opportunities for new investments between Serbia and the U.S. The delegation sought to showcase the positive experiences of American companies already operating in the Serbian market.

AmCham Serbia President Stefan Lazarević led the delegation, which comprised board members Ronald Seeliger, Second VP, Igor Lončarević, Secretary Treasurer, and Goran Vasić, Untitled Governor, as well as Deputy Executive Director Amalija Pavić. They met with David De Falco, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Europe and Eurasia at the U.S. Department of Commerce, Gabriel Escobar, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, representatives of USAID and the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, as well as members of the U.S. Congress and Senate. Discussions focused on the avoidance of double taxation, the renewal of the general system of preferences, the DFC’s active engagement in the region, and investments by American companies in various sectors.

Kissinger The

Century

Henry Kissinger, who turns 100 on May 27, is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in 20 th-century international relations. The German-born American diplomat, scholar and strategist has left an indelible legacy in global politics that continues to act as a bookmark for international relations scholars, students, and today’s practitioners of statecraft.

From the late 1960s, Kissinger played a momentous role in shaping U.S. foreign policy and navigating the complex dynamics of the cold war era. His contributions to international relations have had a lasting impact, earning him recognition as a visionary strategist and diplomat.

Few would disagree that Kissinger’s influence on U.S. foreign policy has been immense, importantly as a thinker and academic. But his most significant impact was through his work as secretary of state and national security adviser to U.S. presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford.

One of his key contributions was his work towards U.S. rapprochement with the People’s Republic of China, planning Nixon’s historic trip to China in 1972 through covert negotiations and deft diplomacy. It was a milestone event in U.S. foreign policy that has shaped Washington’s engagement with Beijing since.

Kissinger’s participation in negotiations for the Paris peace accords from 1968 to 1973, which effectively ended direct U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War, was another key achievement. His relentless efforts in shuttle diplomacy between the U.S., North Vietnam and South Vietnam, contributed to establishing a ceasefire and evacuating U.S. soldiers, ending direct US involvement.

But despite the accolades, triumphs – and even the Nobel peace prize in 1973 for his contribution to the Paris accords – Kissinger’s record and legacy are controversial. There has long been a debate concerning Kissinger’s approach to international affairs, which according to his many detractors often overlooked ethical considerations.

Concerns about links to violations of human rights and the undermining of democratic values were sparked by his backing for authoritarian regimes such as Chile under Augusto Pinochet. Regardless, Kissinger never wavered in his conviction that his diplomacy should put U.S. interests first while appreciating the complexity of the international scene.

FOREIGN POLICY

From his days in government, and then through his continuing influence as a renowned scholar, Kissinger’s strategic thinking and diplomatic approach have shaped U.S. foreign policy in significant ways.

The biggest contribution Kissinger made to US foreign policy was his advocacy for “realpolitik”. He believed that the U.S. should base its foreign policy decisions on a clear and systematic assessment of power dynamics and the pursuit of geopolitical stability.

A leader does not deserve the name unless he is willing occasionally to stand alone. It's never happened in history that every region in the world could affect every other region simultaneously. The Roman empire and the Chinese empire didn't know much about each other and had no means of interacting. Now we have every continent able to reach every other.

- Henry Kissinger

It was an approach that emphasised the pragmatic pursuit of national interests instead of a strict adherence to abstract ideological principles.

The key feature of this realpolitik was the importance of maintaining a balance of power, believing the U.S. should actively engage with other major powers to prevent any one nation from gaining hegenomy or threatening U.S. dominance.

This approach shaped his handling of major geopolitical events during the cold war, such as the aforementioned normalisation of relations with China, as well as the development of a détente policy towards the USSR in the early 1970s. This per-

His most significant impact was through his work as secretary of state and national security adviser to U.S. presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford

spective also emerged clearly in his approach towards the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Kissinger also made significant contributions to arms control and nuclear non-proliferation efforts during his tenure at the state department. His thinking on nuclear deterrence em -

President_Nixon, Henry Kissinger and Israeli PM Golda Meir, meeting in the Oval Office 1973

Reunión Pinochet - Kissinger

phasised strategic stability and the need to prevent proliferation.

In this sense, his emphasis on negotiations and diplomatic engagement – intensified by his shuttle diplomacy method – managed to reduce the nuclear threat.

He played a pivotal role in negotiating the strategic arms limitation talks (Salt) in the 1970s, which resulted in the landmark agreements Salt I (1972) and Salt II (1979), fostering stability in US-USSR relations.

In the Middle East, his shuttle diplomacy once again demonstrated his ability to bring adversaries to the negotiating table, notably during the Arab-Israeli conflicts of the 1970s and the negotiation of the Sinai II agreement in 1975, which –temporarily at least – stabilised relations between Israel and Egypt.

J'ACCUSE: KISSINGER’S CRITICS

But Kissinger’s legacy has also attracted foreceful criticism. Among his most vocal and persistent critics was the late British writer and journalist Christopher Hitchens. Hitchens’ book “The Trial of Henry Kissinger” presented a series of arguments about alleged war crimes committed by his American “nemesis”.

Kissinger wrote several influential books, including Diplomacy (1994), On China (2011), and World Order (2014)

BooksHitchens accused Kissinger of disregarding international law and violating the sovereignty of many nations. His alleged involvement in controversial military actions such as the secret bombing campaigns of Cambodia and Laos has drawn substantial criticism and raised concerns about accountability and transparency in US foreign policy decision-making.

Moreover, America – under his guidance – also stands accused of launching in covert operations to overthrow the legitimately elected president of Chile, Salvador Allende, in 1973 in order to install Pinochet), and of turning a blind eye to human rights abuses that occurred during Pinochet’s regime.

Similarly the country’s ostensible support for the Suharto dictatorship in Indonesia disregarded human rights and basic ethics. Of this, Kissinger had this to say in a interview with The Spectator in 2022:

Kissinger’s participation in negotiations for the Paris peace accords from 1968 to 1973, which effectively ended the direct US involvement in the Vietnam War, was another key achievement

White House meeting about New START Treaty

NOBEL PRIZE 1973

Kissinger won the Nobel peace prize in 1973 for his contribution to the Paris accords

I am, by instinct, a supporter of a belief that America – with all its failings – has been a force for good in the world and is indispensable for the stability of the world. It is in that region that I have made my conscious effort.

Despite all the criticism, Kissinger endured and remains a respected international relations scholars and advisor to this day. After leaving government in 1977, he reentered academia, serving as a professor at Harvard University, where he had previously earned his doctorate in government. As a scholar, Kissinger wrote several influential books, including Diplomacy (1994), On China (2011), and World Order (2014).

That he was invited to address the World Economic Forum at Davos this year shows that, although divisive, even today Henry Kissinger remains a highly influential figure.

ByAndréCarvalho,PhDResearcher,Department ofWarStudies,King'sCollegeLondon

Kissinger never wavered in his conviction that his diplomacy should put U.S. interests first while appreciating the complexity of the international scene

Biden and Kissinger

President Ford informally concludes the Vladivostok Summit

Meeting at Camp_David to discuss the Vietnam situation

President Trump Meets with Henry Kissinger

A Singer Understanding Beyond Our

DEBUT

She debuted at the Apollo Theater in 1935 and began recording under her own name in 1936

COLLABORATION

Holiday’s most notable collaborations were with legendary saxophonist Lester Young, who gave Holiday her moniker “Lady Day”

Similar to the founding principles of the blues, Billie Holiday’s life was marred with both the harsh realities of personal woes and boisterous changes of tempo. Nicknamed “Lady Day,” the Philadelphia-born singer used her tumultuous life experiences to create timeless jazz records. Considered by many to be one of the greatest jazz vocalists of all time, and within her music, her style became so unique that she altered the genre norm with songs like “I’ll Be Seeing You,” “Strange Fruit,” and “All of Me.” She also set jazz standards with songs like “What a Little Moonlight Can Do” and “Easy Living.”

Holiday left employment as a maid to pursue work as a dancer in Harlem nightclubs. At one of those clubs, she was asked to sing. She quickly began singing in many of the Harlem nightclubs and soon established a following of admirers, despite having had no formal musical training.

Holiday’s career began to grow, thanks in part to the interest of John Hammond of Colum-

Perhaps Holiday’s most notable collaborations were with legendary saxophonist Lester Young, who gave Holiday her moniker “Lady Day.” Together, they created some of the most important jazz music of all time. Of her groundbreaking vocal style and delivery, Holiday once said, “I hate straight singing. I have to change a tune to my own way of doing it. That’s all I know.”

As both a vocalist and a songwriter, Holiday penned God Bless the Child and Lady Sings the Blues, among others. Her interpretation of the anti-lynching poem Strange Fruit was included in the list of Songs of the Century by the Recording Industry of America and the National Endowment for the Arts.

bia Records, who organized her first recording with Benny Goodman in 1933. She debuted at the Apollo Theater in 1935 and began recording under her own name in 1936.

Holiday toured extensively in 1937 and 1938 with the Count Basie and Artie Shaw bands. While on tour, Holiday was often subjected to discrimination.

Holiday’s autobiography, Lady Sings the Blues, was written in 1956. She won five Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000 and the Nesuhi Ertugan Jazz Hall of Fame in 2004.

Holiday, known for her deeply moving and personal vocals, remains a popular musical legend more than fifty years after her death. Despite personal obstacles, Holiday inspired many with her vocal gifts and continues to be recognized as a seminal influence on music.

Holiday won five Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000 and the Nesuhi Ertugan Jazz Hall of Fame in 2004

Stunning Natural Beauty

Yellowstone's stunning natural beauty inspired the 19th-century push to set aside the land, where Indigenous people had been present for millennia

There are 63 national parks in the United States, but none has captivated the American imagination quite like Yellowstone National Park, the very first of its kind. The park encompasses more than 2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana and Idaho, and showcases unique natural features and stunning wildlife. But without the efforts of a dedicated few, it might never have existed at all.

While the majesty and wonder of public parks is obvious to visitors today, in 1872 the idea of setting aside such a vast territory was hard to grasp. In the post-Civil War era, land was being parceled and sold to investors and developers in pursuit of immediate economic benefits. The notion of preserving land for the recreational enjoyment of future generations was not widely embraced nor understood.

But the ideas on which Yellowstone was founded—public access, enjoyment of nature, and conservation of wilderness—took root in the American imagination, and inspired the creation of subsequent national parks across the United States and around the world.

HISTORY OF YELLOWSTONE

Though national parks are often imagined as untouched wilderness, Yellowstone was shaped by the continuous presence of Indigenous people on the lands and waters for thousands of years. Long before the first settlers encountered Yellowstone, at least 27 federally-recognized Native tribes had connections to the region that dated back to time immemorial.

The array of tribal names for the area reflected its importance and meaning: the Crow called it Aw’Pawishe, meaning “land of steam,” while the Assiniboine and Sioux called it Pahaska, or “white mountain country.” The Tukudika, a Shoshone band, lived year-round in what would become Yellowstone National Park, while other tribes traveled through the area for trade, subsistence and ceremonies.

Yellowstone was especially valuable as a source of obsidian, a volcanic glass used to make knives, arrowheads and other tools, and more than 50 ancient obsidian quarry sites have been documented in the park by archeologist Douglas MacDonald.

After Yellowstone National Park was established in 1872, park officials began to forcibly deter Native Americans from entering and using the park, and the Tukudika were relocated from their home in Yellowstone to nearby reservations. “Yellowstone National Park is surrounded by Indian reservations,” says Mark Fiege, professor of History at Montana State University. “And their creation was directly related to the creation of the Yellowstone National Park boundary.”

Concerned that their presence would deter tourism, administrators perpetuated the false idea that the tribes were afraid of the geothermal features and voluntarily avoided the area. Meanwhile, regulations enacted to protect the wildlife and natural features of the park were also used to prohibit Native Americans from hunting, fishing or gathering obsidian and other materials.

FIRST SETTLER EXPEDITIONS INTO YELLOWSTONE

The first reported non-Native visitor to Yellowstone was John Colter, a member of the Lewis & Clark Expedition, who explored some of the region in the winter of 1807 and 1808 in pursuit of trapping and fur trading opportunities.

For the next 60 years, descriptions of geysers and hot springs were relayed by Colter and other mountain men, until organized expeditions began in 1869 with the Folsom-Cook expedition. Many believe that the idea of a national park first arose during the subsequent Washburn-Doane Expedition of 1870, during a conversation around the campfire by members of the party who were awed by the natural wonders they encountered.

However, there were more pragmatic reasons to consider creating a national park. “No one could think of anything useful to do with it,” says Patricia Limerick, professor of history and director of the Applied History Initiative at the University of Colorado Boulder. The high, mountainous

terrain was ill-suited for agriculture, logging or development. “But what made it useful was railroads, because they needed places to stop, places for people to go. The advent of railroads was very important for public parks, even though trains and wilderness seem kind of opposed.”

Nathaniel Langford, a member of the Washburn party, was approached by Northern Pacific Railroad CEO Jay Cooke, who felt that promoting Yellowstone as a tourism destination could help to secure support for his planned rail extensions through Montana.

As historian Paul Schullery writes in Searching For Yellowstone, Langford gave a number of lectures about Yellowstone upon his return from the area that were financed by Cooke. One of these talks captivated a geological surveyor named Ferdinand V. Hayden. Hayden obtained congressional support for an exploration in 1871, and brought with him a photographer named William Henry Jackson and a painter, Thomas Moran.

Like the Washburn expedition, Hayden’s party returned to the nation’s capital with remarkable stories and samples from Yellowstone. But thanks to Moran and Jackson, they also had photographs, sketches and oil paintings, many of which were

The Crow called it Aw’Pawishe, meaning “land of steam,” while the Assiniboine and Sioux called it Pahaska, or “white mountain country.”

exhibited in Congress as senators contemplated the proposal to establish a park.

Images like Grand Canyon at Yellowstone Park or the towering Old Faithful geyser, captivated the public imagination more than reports or speeches ever could. In the words of Hiram M. Chittenden, Captain of the Corps of Engineers “the regions where such wonders existed should be preserved to the people forever.”

YELLOWSTONE BECOMES A PARK

President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Yellowstone National Park Protection Act on March 1, 1872, which declared the park was “hereby

Many believe that the idea of a national park first arose during the subsequent Washburn-Doane Expedition of 1870, during a conversation around the campfire by members of the party who were awed by the natural wonders they encountered

reserved and withdrawn from settlement, occupancy, or sale under the laws of the United States, and dedicated and set apart as a public park or pleasuring ground for the benefit and enjoyment of the people.”

(While it’s often referred to as the first national park in the world, that title arguably belongs to Bogd Khan Uul National Park, which was protected by the Mongolian government in 1783.)

The language of the act reflected the higher aspirations of public lands for crafting America’s national identity. Frederick Law Olmstead, a landscape architect who co-designed New York City's Central Park and drafted a charter for Yosemite in 1865, wrote passionately about the obligation of the government to protect such places. “It is the main duty of government, if it is not the sole duty of government, to provide means of protection all citizens in the pursuit of happiness,” wrote Olmsted, arguing that happiness could be found through the “occasional contemplation of natural scenes of an impressive character.” Public parks, wrote Olmsted, ensured such happiness was available to all citizens, upholding the values of unity, liberty and equality.

Despite these democratic ambitions, the creation of Yellowstone and other national parks was not without tension, particularly among the locals. “Before the park was created, people hunted for food,” says Limerick. “After the park was created, that became an illegal act called poaching. And that changed the whole tenor of life in neighboring communities.”

In the words of historian Paul Schullery, “The idea of Yellowstone is, like nature itself, a work in progress.” As public understandings of Native rights and history evolve, the legacy of Yellowstone becomes more complicated in retrospect. Challenging, dynamic character is what makes the park so special.

“It never stands still, it always changes. And it will always be a place that challenges the mind,” says Limerick, “The geysers and hot springs, all the many different forms of life—it’s chronically, wonderfully unsettling. Is that always comfortable? No! But we can’t make it into an interchangeable part of the American experience.”

By MichelleE Cyca

In the words of historian Paul Schullery, “The idea of Yellowstone is, like nature itself, a work in progress.”

The Idea