MINING SECTOR 2021
INTERVIEW
H.E. GILES NORMAN, AMBASSADOR OF CANADA TO SERBIA
We Gladly Share
OUR KNOWLEDGE We welcome the intention of the Serbian Ministry of Mining and Energy to further develop the mining regime and adjust it to the needs of the most important stakeholders: citizens of Serbia and the mining industry. Canada is committed to support that process and we will continue to discuss details of that cooperation with the Ministry.
C
anadian companies are responsible for some of the major successful exploration projects that are currently developed in Serbia, representing an important cornerstone in Serbia’s decision to further develop its capacities in the mining sector. We spoke with H.E. Giles Norman (Designate), Ambassador of Canada to Serbia, about possibilities for transfers of knowledge and best practices in sustainable mining. I n 2013, previous Canadian ambassador to Serbia Roman Vaschuk expressed surprise that many in Serbia “neglect the importance 12
of the mining potential for the development of the entire Serbian economy”. How have things changed in the meantime; and how much has Canada contributed to this change? Mining has a long tradition in Serbia and it is my understanding that local communities are well aware of its importance, considering that several regions in this country, especially in Eastern Serbia, are economically dependent on mining. Serbia plans to strategically develop the mining industry’s share of GDP from the current 1.6% to 4%, and to do so largely thanks to excellent mineral deposits, which are recognised by international mining investors, including those
