Diplomacy and Commerce No. 37 by Diplomacy&Commerce magazine

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March 2019 | ISSUE No. 37 | Price 350 RSD

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EDITORIAL

CONTENTS

To Vienna, to Vienna! "To Moscow, to Moscow!" the three sisters from Chekhov’s drama cheered at the beginning of the 20th century, clearly referring to the fact that this city was the centre of global events and trends at the time. "To Paris, to Paris!" was exclaimed by numerous writers and artists from America and around the world who, after the First World War, flocked to the French capital. "To Vienna, to Vienna!" I exclaimed in my speech at the launch of Diplomacy & Commerce Austria magazine late last month, deeply convinced that Vienna is again becoming the cultural, economic and diplomatic centre of Europe. As Brexit and many other processes weaken the role of Brussels in the EU, its eastern part, embodied in the Visegrád Group, now enjoying a strong support from Austria, Slovenia and Croatia, maybe also Ukraine in the future, begins its transformation into a new European force which should be seriously considered from this point forward. The borders of the countries that make the Visegrád Group are overlapping with the borders of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire that had ceased to exist more than 100 years ago. It remains to be seen whether this community will become the epitome of the dreams of the last Austro-Hungarian Emperor, Charles I of Austria, inside the European Union, or perhaps beyond it, in the future. Diplomacy & Commerce Austria, the third magazine in the series, is published by Color Media Communications in collaboration with the London-based The Economist. The magazine launch party took place at the beautiful residence of the British Ambassador in Vienna, and in the presence of a number of diplomats, business people, politicians and Princess Camilla Habsburg Lothringen, the great-great-greatgranddaughter of Empress Maria Theresa. This month, in Belgrade, we are also celebrating the 3rd birthday of the Serbian edition of Diplomacy & Commerce, and I would like to use this opportunity to thank all of our associates, interlocutors and advertising clients for their excellent cooperation and loyal partnership in these past three years.

ROBERT ČOBAN

IT IS TIME TO FOCUS ON SERBIA’S SMES ZSUZSANNA HARGITAI

EBRD Director for Western Balkans

DIPLOMACY&COMMERCE FROM A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE D&C Anniversary

MIKTA: COOPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT JULIÁN VENTURA

Mexico’s Deputy Secretary of Foreign Affairs

GROWTH OF INSURANCE MARKET IS INEVITABLE DRAGAN FILIPOVIĆ

CEO of Generali Osiguranje Srbija

Director

TANJA BANKOVIĆ

tanja.bankovic@color.rs

JELENA RANĐELOVIĆ

ILIJA PETROVIĆ INDIGOCHILD Art director

indigochild.ilija@gmail.com

NATAŠA NEŠIĆ

Advertising director

jelena.randjelovic@color.rs

Advertising manager

GORAN ZLATKOVIĆ GETTY IMAGES

VANJA KOVAČEV

Translation

PR&Event support Nord Communications

natasa.nesic@color.rs

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JOVANA MARKOVIĆ

RUŽA RISTANOVIĆ

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DIGITALIZATION – COUPLING OF EXPERIENCE AND INNOVATION DIANA GLIGORIJEVIĆ

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BUSINESS IS ALWAYS "HUMAN TO HUMAN"

Primarius WALTER EBM

DEJAN LJEVNAIĆ

Photos

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Wiener Privatklinik

dragana.radovic@color.rs

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DRAGAN KOSTIĆ

TONY LUX

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The CEO of Tony Lux, Marketing Luxury Goods the French Way

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KHYBER POSSIBILITY

America and the Taliban are Edging Towards a Deal But is it a cover for cutting and running?

Could there be a ray of hope for Afghanistan? After 17 years of fighting, America and the Taliban may be ready to lay down their arms. The adversaries have agreed in principle on a framework for ending their war, says Zalmay Khalilzad, America’s point man on Afghanistan. The outline was forged in talks in Qatar that were originally scheduled to last two days but ended up being extended to six. It envisages America withdrawing troops in return for assurances that Afghanistan will never again become a haven for international terrorists. America also wants a ceasefire and the start of talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government, which the Taliban have resisted until now. Osama bin Laden was living in Afghanistan when he plotted the 9/11 attacks on America. It was to overthrow his protectors in the Taliban and to search for him that America first dispatched troops to the country in 2001. Part of their mission ever since has been to hunt for terrorists. The other part— helping build a stable democracy— has been justified on the grounds that Afghanistan may otherwise become a base for terrorists again. Although in 2001 the Taliban invoked Afghan traditions of hospitality in their refusal to hand over bin Laden, for at least the past decade they have promised that Afghan soil will not be used to launch attacks on other countries. They not only repeated those assurances in Qatar, Mr Khalilzad says, but also agreed to provide guarantees and an enforcement mechanism—though he has not revealed any details of those. In exchange America seems to have acceded to the Taliban’s main demand: that it withdraw its troops from the country. For years the insurgents have said the

starting point for talks must be the end of what they call the American occupation. They do not believe America’s assurance that it does not want a permanent military presence in the country. An American pull-out now appears to be on the table although, again, the timing and scale remain unclear. The two other steps discussed in Qatar are a ceasefire and talks between the Taliban and the government of Ashraf Ghani, Afghanistan’s president. The Taliban have thus far refused a truce, except for three days last year during a Muslim holiday. This has been dictated both by uncompromising ideology and by pragmatism. Commanders

an indivisible package. “Nothing is agreed until everything is agreed,” he says, “and ‘everything’ must include an intra-Afghan dialogue and comprehensive ceasefire.” The Taliban are less clear. They have triumphantly briefed their supporters about the progress towards a withdrawal, but have been more coy about the ceasefire and talks. American officials say that the Taliban have requested more time to confer among themselves on these. Their negotiators have gone home to do just that. Talks will resume later in February. After years of gloom, any progress is welcome. Afghanistan’s war has claimed more than 24,000

RESOLVING DEEPER DISPUTES, ABOUT HOW AFGHANISTAN SHOULD BE GOVERNED, WILL DEPEND ON AFGHAN-TO-AFGHAN TALKS fear it may be difficult to motivate fighters again if they lay down their weapons for a long spell. The Taliban have also long refused to speak to the elected Afghan government, which they claim is an American puppet. Mr Khalilzad presents all four main elements of the deal—the exclusion of international terrorists, an American withdrawal, a ceasefire and talks between the Taliban and the government—as

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civilian lives since 2009. Mr Ghani admitted last week that 45,000 members of his security forces had died since 2014. The war and a series of other conflicts that preceded it have blighted a beautiful country, leaving it one of the poorest in the world. The framework is “historic”, says Graeme Smith of the International Crisis Group, a think-tank. “This is closer than we have ever been so far to some kind of settlement process.”

But the framework glosses over many of the thorniest issues and, despite the desire for peace, there are concerns about motivations on both sides. Donald Trump, America’s president, has long indicated that he would like to pull American troops out of Afghanistan. That could cause Mr Khalilzad to embrace a deal that is not so much a hard-fought compromise as a figleaf to cover America’s retreat. The Taliban, for their part, may make promises they have no intention of keeping, on the assumption that America will be reluctant to return once it has withdrawn. Mr Khalilzad’s framework focuses on questions that stem from 9/11. Yet Afghanistan has been at war for 40 years. Resolving deeper disputes, about how Afghanistan should be governed, will depend on Afghan-to-Afghan talks. Among the chief concerns for many are whether and how the Taliban will take part in Afghanistan’s fledgling democracy. Are they prepared to sit down with factions that they battled in the 1990s? Do they want to seize power themselves? Will they continue to murder girls for going to school? The Taliban have a strong hand and it is getting stronger. Although the war is at something of stalemate, that is thanks only to America’s presence. The government’s casualties, America’s generals admit, are unsustainable. A hasty withdrawal would leave the government vulnerable, even if talks with the Taliban are under way. A lasting settlement will probably not come from a blockbuster deal. Instead it is likely to involve gradual and incremental steps. That would require Mr Trump to deploy a virtue he is not known for: patience. From The Economist, published under licence. The original article, in English, can be found on www.economist.com

INTERVIEW

It is Time to Focus on Serbia’s SMEs Serbia has considerable potential for accelerated private sector development, contributing to growth, jobs and innovation narios may mean for Serbia?

ZSUZSANNA HARGITAI EBRD Director for Western Balkans

Serbia has considerable potential for further private sector development, contributing to sustainable economic convergence. However, business environment and access to finance remain major obstacles. On the top of that the financial performance of stateowned enterprises is below regional standards and suggests the need for further reforms, says Zsuzsanna Hargitai EBRD Director for Western Balkans. We spoke with Ms Hargitai about the reforms process in detail. How do you assess the current pace of reforms leading to the full-fledged market economy?

— The EU accession process is a key driver of reforms as Serbia has to show significant progress in all areas of negotiations with the EU in order to prepare for the accession at a later stage. We have seen this with other EBRD countries which became EU members, and there is no reason to think Serbia will not be able to step up efforts to implement all the necessary reforms as well. Serbia made big steps ahead during the previous IMF programme, improving fiscal sustainability

significantly by cutting the general government deficit from 6.6 per cent of GDP to a surplus in 2017 and 2018. The country also stepped ahead in the World Bank Doing Business Index substantially between 2015 and 2017 from 91st to 47th place, mainly due to the introduction of the electronic construc-

— The EU should remain Serbia’s anchor for reforms, main trading partner and the leading source of foreign direct investment and development funding, whatever the Brexit scenario will be. The Western Balkans will also remain an important political partner for the EU and investment destination for EU companies, regardless of Brexit. Also, the European Union’s Western Balkans strategy provides an assessment framework for the progress and timeline for the potential accession for Serbia and

ALL INFRASTRUCTURE IN MOST WESTERN BALKANS COUNTRIES – AND THIS INCLUDES WATER, AIR, ROADS, RAILWAYS – IS OUTDATED AND IS A PRIORITY tion permitting. However, reforms have since then slowed down as stagnating rankings also show. The EBRD, together with the EU and other donors and partners, is assisting Serbia to improve in many areas covered by EU negotiations chapters. We do this by investing in projects which have strong development impact, projects that help increase competitiveness, enhance corporate and economic governance and improve regional infrastructure. According to some assessments Brexit might weaken perceived prospects of EU accession for candidate and potential candidate countries. A slower reform momentum would then weigh on growth. What different sce-

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other Western Balkans countries. Our forecast for Serbia’s GDP growth is 3.5 per cent in 2019 and around 3-3.5 per cent for the medium term. This growth will not be enough to provide meaningful convergence to EU income levels

so Serbia will need further significant reforms to speed up the catching-up process. It seems that both the internal and external incentives will remain strong enough to keep up or rather accelerate necessary reforms. Where do you see the major sources of growth for the country and what do you see as major obstacles which are still holding back the GDP (?) and the industrial production?

— Private sector productivity growth will be the most important driver of long-term economic growth as the working-age population is expected to shrink in the medium-term. Serbia has considerable potential for further private sector development, contributing to sustainable economic convergence. The private sector accounts for around 70 per cent of total employment and its profitability (with SMEs constituting 90 per cent of total number of registered enterprises) is relatively low. Large and medium-sized companies often lack behind in terms of corporate

ANNUAL MEETING AND BUSINESS FORUM This year the EBRD will hold its Annual Meeting and Business Forum in Sarajevo on 8-9 May. This is the single most important event in the yearly cycle of the Bank and it combines the reunion of the Board of Governors, the EBRD’s highest decision-making body, and the Business Forum. The EBRD Annual Meeting and Business Forum, organized by the Bank together with the host country, traditionally attracts more than 2,000 delegates from governments, businesses, institutions, civil society, think-tanks and media. It provides unique networking opportunities as well as a platform for the host country to present itself to an international audience.

governance, while SMEs face a still difficult business environment. Business environment and access to finance remain major obstacles. The danger is that many young, dynamic and innovative enterprises cannot develop according their potential because of lack of funding – banking and non-banking, like seed capital and venture capital, or through capital markets. When we ask companies what holds them back, they say tax rates, access to financing, inefficient government bureaucracy, corruption and policy instability. Another challenge for Serbia is the reform of the state-owned enterprises (SOE). Although there was some good progress in privatisation, the SOEs still represent a significant part of the Serbian economy and operate with low economic efficiency. Their financial performance is below regional standards and low profitability suggests that more professional management and a reduction in political interference could bring more efficiency. Which state and public companies will be in your focus in 2019?

— I would like to highlight two projects: Vinča landfill and Nis-Merdare-Pristina highway. Our planned financing for Vinča landfill, will contribute to financing the development and environmental upgrade of the Belgrade’s Vinča) landfill in Belgrade and a waste-to-energy plant, improving solid waste management in and around Belgrade. This is in line with the forthcoming Serbian strategy for solid waste management and is a landmark project for Serbia, contributing to improved environmental standards. In addition to this, a highway between Nis-Merdare-Pristina will help improve the links between Serbia and Kosovo, connecting people and businesses. This project is also supported by the EU through Western Balkans Investment Framework As one of the most prominent supporters of the modernisation of infrastructure in Serbia what do you see as priorities in this sector?

— All infrastructure in most Western Balkans countries – and this includes water, air, roads, railways – is outdated and is a priority. But infrastructre is not only roads and briges but also municipal utilities such as waste management, water supply and

2018, and will develop a Green City Action Plan including strategic objectives, actions and investments to address its urban environmental challenges. How do you assess the country’s prospects to transform its economy toward knowledge-based economy?

THE EU SHOULD REMAIN SERBIA’S ANCHOR FOR REFORMS, MAIN TRADING PARTNER AND THE LEADING SOURCE OF FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT AND DEVELOPMENT FUNDING waste water treatment, health and education. We will also be looking into opportunities to invest in water infrastructure, as wastewater treatment remains the most underdeveloped subsector of water infrastructure in Serbia. Energy efficiency in public buildings or street lighing will also be in focus. Furthermore, under our partnership with the EU, over 30 municipalities in Serbia will implement energy efficient street lighting projects thanks to EU supported Regional Energy Efficiency Programmes. To what extent has Serbia embraced the green economy as one of the engines of growth? Which projects you would mention as the prime examples of that policy?

— Serbia is increasingly investing in its green economic development, and the EBRD has been a reliable partner in this field. Since 2006 we have provided in total more than EUR 1 billion financing for ‘green’ projects, i.e. projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance climate resilience, or have

other environmental benefits (such as improved resource efficiency and reduced local pollution). In the energy sector, for example, the EBRD has a long-standing tradition to provide credit lines for energy efficiency and small-scale renewables through local commercial banks. Initially they targeted SMEs, and since last year our newest product (Green Enegy Financing Facility, GEFF – Residential) is dedicated to support energy efficiency imrovements in househoulds. Two flagship projects in the renewables sector are the Kovacica and Dolovo wind farms, where we co-financed with about EUR 100 million in total. Both are on track to start production this year, thereby supporting Serbia - a country that is still highly reliant on coal - in achieving its renewable energy target. On the municipal level, we are also looking into possibilities of promoting renewable energy in district heating as well as more energy efficient street lighting projects. Moreover, Belgrade joined the EBRD Green Cities in August

— The EBRD recently conducted a study about the knowledge economy across the 38 economies where it invests. The best performing EBRD countries are Estonia, Slovenia and Lithuania, in contrast, Turkmenistan, Egypt and Tajikistan were ranked lowest. Serbia was ranked as above average with innovation systems marked as the weakest point, but very strong ranking for ICT infrastructure. For Serbia to improve towards knowledge-based economy it should spend more on R&D and education and skills. Our latest Transition Report showed that manufacturing work is the easiest to replace by robots. Serbia should plan ahead and prepare by investing into constantly upgrading the skills of workers so that they remain productive and wages can catch up with other countries. How EBRD supports this transformation?

— The EBRD is a big supporter of knowledge economy and above we support improving conditions under which people and businesses can prosper and have better access to knowledge and innovation in their countries. We encourage companies to innovate, including through technology transfers, to become more competitive and to move up global value chains. Our investments in broadband, fixed and mobile services, particularly in regional areas, helps reduce the digital dive within countries and across the EBRD regions. We also support the ability of traditional industries to innovate.

EBRD’S INITIATIVE TRADE READY SUPPORTS SERBIAN SMES SMEs make up about 99 per cent of businesses in all countries across the region, including Serbia. On average, SMEs provide jobs for around three-quarters of the employment and add an estimated two-thirds of the region’s total value added - a proportion similar to the EU average. In that sense, it is always time to focus on Serbia’s own SMEs. From our work with Serbian SMEs, we see that the private sector is encountering new opportunities, however, in particularly small businesses face a number of obstacles that prevent them from reaching their full potential, including access to finance, trade and access to EU markets, corporate governance

etc. The EBRD’s advice for small business team is focusing on exactly those SMEs and helping them overcome those obstacles. We are now extending this support to focus more on export-oriented companies. SMEs in Serbia often lack know-how about appropriate trade finance instruments avaiable, as well as about processes and market relationships for international and domestic trade. Trade Ready is a programme that should help such SMEs to obtain both know-how and finance so they can expand more internationally. The implementation of Trade Ready in Serbia is funded by the European Union and Luxembourg.

D&C ANNIVERSARY

Diplomacy&Commerce From a Different Perspective In the past three years, Diplomacy&Commerce magazine provided its readers with an abundance of news from politics, business and culture, reported on the opinions of relevant stakeholders both from Serbia and abroad, covering all segments of life, and opened up topics that were not written or talked about enough. With its latest issue, Diplomacy&Commerce is celebrating its

third anniversary in Serbia. In the past two years, we have launched Diplomacy&Commerce magazine in Croatia (2017) and Austria (February 2018), and our next stop is

This year is marked by uncertainty, caused by the possible consequences of Brexit, the upheaval in the EU and the United States-China relations. Which event would you identify as the potentially riskiest for this region and for Serbia's EU accession process?

Slovenia (2019). We are very proud of the fact that we have managed to interview the leaders of the Serbian, Croatian and Austrian political, business and diplomatic commuDo you think that the reforms in Serbia are on the right track? What would you set as priorities in 2019?

nity, as well as the renowned regional and global public figures. For this special birthday issue, we have asked the Serbian government officials, the representatives of institutions and embassies, as well as the representatives of business associations in Serbia to give us their opinions about Serbia’s perspective regarding the EU membership, the climate in the West Balkan region and global political and economic issues.

Do you think that the EU enlargement to the Western Balkans will remain on the EU agenda, or do you think that it will disappear from it all together in 2019?

WE EXPECT BIGGER PROGRESS ON DOING BUSINESS LIST Professor ZORANA MIHAJLOVIĆ, PhD Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Infrastructure

There are many such challenges, from the issue of Kosovo and the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina in the immediate environment, through the upcoming elections for the European Parliament, and an attempt to change the rules of world trade. Serbia is too small to be able to influence in any way the relations between world powers, although changes in these relations do affect Serbia’s position. What we can do, in the best interest of our citizens, is to strive to improve our relations with all our partners, in accordance with our national interests. Maintaining stability in the region remains a priority for Serbia, because we believe that without stability there is no economic development or new investments, which are crucial for a better future for the whole region and all the people living in this region. I believe that infrastructure projects play an important role in promoting cooperation, and therefore preserving stability, because there is an unambiguous interest of the whole region, supported by the European Union, to connect via infrastructure, because only connected people can enable

faster economic development, new investments and provide better conditions for the life of citizens. Since 2014, the Ministry implemented deep-rooted changes in all segments with the view of undergoing a comprehensive regulation and improvement of construction sector, transport policy and faster and more efficient investments in infrastructure. In 2019, we are going to embark on a new investment cycle in infrastructure worth more than 5 billion euro, which, among other things, includes the construction of the Preljina-Požega motorway stretch, the Moravian corridor, the Ruma-Šabac-Loznica fast road, and the continuation of the construction of the Belgrade –Budapest fast railway. We are also continuing with the ongoing reforms in the railway and road sector, as well as in the construction industry. One of the most important reforms currently being implemented in the field of civil engineering is the reform of the cadastre. In 2018, we introduced a one-stop-shop system that begins and ends in the notary's office, and

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replaces the previous visits to five different administrative counters. We are also starting a new reform of E-Space, that will enable electronic preparation of the planning documents, which expedites the entire process, makes it transparent and facilitates the issuing of documents based on those plans. This year, we expect greater progress on the World Bank's Doing Business List, because in 2018, we were not happy with our ranking, mostly because some other countries were faster and implemented more reforms than we did. Accession to the European Union is a two-way process, and

Serbia has demonstrated that it is prepared to do everything in its power to become a full-fledged EU member. Our goal is to make Serbia closer to the developed countries and EU members in terms of standards and regulations, because that is important for our country and our citizens. Serbia is a country that has opted for membership in the European Union, and regardless of the current turbulence in the EU, it contributes to the political stability in the region and its networking, and carries out reforms that are essentially bringing the country closer to the EU, which, at the same time, entails a better life for our citizens.

D&C ANNIVERSARY

BUILDING STRONG AND TRANSPARENT INSTITUTIONS ZORAN DJORDJEVIĆ Minister of Labour, Employment Veteran and Social Affairs Government of the Republic of Serbia

The greatest risk to US-China relations in 2019 is the potential for "the trade war" to intensify. Given that the EU is our largest trade partner, we do not expect that the eventual crisis in the US-China relations will directly affect Serbia's economy, but there could be indirect consequences. Great Britain leaving the EU is an event that has already begun to fundamentally re-examine the very foundations of European integration. Apart from the political consequences

of Brexit, the potentially most risky events for Serbia and our European integration are the relations between the EU and Russia and the resolution of the Kosovo and Metohija issue. The Ministry of Labour, Employment, Veteran and Social Affairs is responsible for two chapters in the process of negotiations with the EU. In terms of Chapter 2 (Freedom of Movement for Workers), our negotiating position has been submitted to the Chairman of the Council of the EU Chairman on July 24th, 2018, and we expect this chapter to be opened in 2019. In regard to Chapter 19 (Social Policy and Employment), the drafting of the Action Plan for the gradual transposition of EU acquis in this area into the legislation of Serbia is ongoing. The results of the Serbian government achieved so far are sufficient indicators that reforms implemented have been more than significant for the economic re-

covery of the country. During 2019, the Government’s priorities will be higher investments in education, science, research & development, modernization of public administration, investments in health care and infrastructure. In 2019, the Ministry of Labour, Employment, Veteran and Social Affairs plans to adopt several important laws that will lead to significant improvement in the field of social protection (Law on Amendments to the Law on Social Protection, the Law on Social Entrepreneurship, the Social Card Law). In the following period, in addition to regulatory aspects, building strong and transparent institutions is very important, which our operational and strategic plan will focus on. Given the fact that the next European Parliament elections will be held from May 23rd to 26th, 2019, the issue of EU enlargement to include the Western Balkan countries will largely depend on the outcome of these elections.

The EU's strategy for the Western Balkans envisions Serbia and other countries in the region possibly becoming EU members by 2025. For the first time ever, thanks to this strategy, Serbia has been given an indicative timeframe for EU accession. Whatever the EU’s decision might be, that will determine the outcome of future events – “freezing out” would result in negative effects for Serbia, plus there are difficult decisions that we, ourselves, have to make. However, this is not only the issue related to the relations between the EU and Serbia, but also to other strategic interests which are diffracted and taking shape in the Western Balkans and which have repercussions on us and the EU, but also on other global strategic interests globally outside this region. In conclusion I would like to say that the EU’s decision is unilateral, but it will also have strong bilateral consequences and strategic repercussions that cannot be clearly seen at this time.

REFORMING PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION IS DRIVING FORCE BEHIND ALL CHANGES BRANKO RUŽIĆ Minister of State Administration and Local Self-Government

Our basic foreign and political aim is a full-fledged membership in the EU and it is important that we understand that nobody is forcing us to become an EU member but rather, if we are to become a member, we would be in the company of the most developed and economically stable countries, where the flow of goods and services is free, which facilitates the ease of life and raises the living standard on a higher level. These are the reasons why we are constantly talking about the importance of fulfilling our obligations on this path, and I do not mean it only on the state level, but also at the local one too. Our progress in the European integration process is conditioned by the negotiations between Belgrade and Priština, and given that Priština is reluctant to abolish the tax on Serbian products, I do not see how we can proceed with the negotiations until that happens. On the other hand, it

is beyond doubt that the EU faces a number of challenges, but I would not agree with the claim that its very survival is in jeopardy. They definitely are and there is no doubt about that. I think that the Serbian citizens agree with us. We have achieved macroeconomic stability, reduced public debt and unemployment, and the economy is doing well. The public administration reform, that I coordinate, is crucial both for joining the EU and for radically changing the work of the public administration, because the administration should not be an obstacle to the changes, as it has been for many years in support, but rather a support. We have built a new foundation with the adoption and implementation of laws such as the Law on General Administrative Procedure, which facilitates the exchange of information between civil servants, rather than asking citizens for that

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information, the Law on e-Government, which makes the use of the state-of-the-art technologies mandatory for civil servants, the Law on Inspection Oversight, which completely changes the work of inspections, the reform of the human resource management system which goal is to find the type of a civil servant that we really need and to motivate them to work, and last but not least, e-services in various fields that facilitate the public administration’s work. We are continuing to improve each segment of our work and I would like to underline that, this year, we will also embark on the decentralization strategy, which is crucial bringing order into the work by municipal and town authorities. I believe that Serbia’s future is in the EU. Romania, which is currently presiding over the EU, constantly sends out messages about the importance of Serbia and the

Western Balkans’ faster accession to the EU, and I am confident that this support will be reflected in concrete activities. Just as I believe that Serbia’s future is in the EU, I also believe that the EU’s future is to accept the Western Balkans into the Union, regardless of how ambitious that sounds at the moment. I am also confident that European politicians are quite aware of this fact.

D&C ANNIVERSARY

SERBIA'S PROGRESS IS EVIDENT H.E. SEM FABRIZI Ambassador and Head of EU Delegation in Serbia

The EU continues to believe that multilateralism is key to find more democratic and equitable solutions: we have ensured the longest period of prosperity and security ever experienced in Europe through the most advanced and sophisticated multilateral body. And we did it not out of naïveté but mindful of the ashes of the past and the hard reality that our national interests are better served and defended through the EU. A Union who has the critical mass and the right tool box to promote and protect EU citizens globally. A Union committed to a European perspective for the Western Balkans. So my message to Serbia and the Western Balkans is: keep focus on your strategic priority - the EU accession. Together we will be stronger to address today's and tomorrow's challenges. Accession is a process and the priorities are clear. Serbia's progress are evident in the area of the economic reforms. More evident and robust progress are needed in the wide area of

rule of law, fundamental rights and good governance. For 2019 I see the need to focus on the constitutional debate for ensuring impartiality and efficiency of the judiciary; delivering a comprehensive reform of the Public Administration; stepping up the fight against corruption and organised crime with a solid track record; creating an environment that fully guarantees freedom of expression, including through a swift approval and implementation of the media strategy. I would like to see more quality and speed in the reform process. We are currently in the process of preparing the 2019 Country Report and the report on the Economic Reform Programme, which will be published this Spring and will assess the developments over the past 12 months. These will assess in details all the areas covered by Serbia’s accession to the EU. Western Balkans and Serbia continue to figure highly on the agenda of the EU. 2019 is not changing that. The European Parliament Foreign Policy Committed has just visited Serbia. Other important EC Commissioners are planned to be in Serbia over the next weeks to push forward the EU - Serbia agenda, on the different reforms. The Digital Summit hosted in Belgrade at the beginning of April will be another important milestone to foster our coop-

eration. We have a full and intense programme ahead of us. In May we will have elections for the renewal - every 5 years - of the European Parliament. One of the greatest exercises of democracy in the world. This should not be seen as a challenge. Democracy never is. We will continue working and assisting the Western Balkans in their reform process. The pace of Serbia's accession process remains in its own hands.

WE SUPPORT REGIONAL RECONCILIATION AND COOPERATION HANS FRIEDRICH SCHODDER UN Resident Coordinator ad interim in Serbia/UNHCR Representative in Serbia

The world is indeed facing uncertainties and big challenges such as climate change, environmental degradation, new and old conflicts, as well as increased inequalities. To address them we need more dialogue and solidarity among states and citizens, respecting diversity and treasuring forms of cooperation that promote peace and prosperity for all. To achieve sustainable development we will need to foster greater collaboration, coordination and commitment. The global Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development is one tool for the reinvigorated multilateralism that is needed. The Paris Agreement on Climate Change is another important platform that calls for urgent action. Also the UN system is currently being strengthened to contribute to new forms of multilateral cooperation, globally and locally. The UN family can play a unique role in conflict prevention and resolution but also in promoting social justice. It supports states and other stakeholders to

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ensure fair, inclusive, transparent and sustainable development that does leave no-one – certainly not the most vulnerable or disadvantaged members of society – behind. This is important not only in implementing Agenda 2030 but also to help states in designing and rolling-out effective national and local development plans. The UN system enjoys strategic partnerships to identify and support coordinated and integrated solutions, act quickly and decisively when natural or men-made disasters hit and leverage development and climate financing as appropriate. Not all is doom and gloom. Just consider, for example progress in the Regional Housing Project and how it heals wounds from past conflict, or the recent North Macedonia name accord, which after many years of UN mediation, will also bring people in the region closer together. Serbia can utilise financial support from the EU to undertake the reforms required to become a member of the EU. These investments can be reinforced by the state budget and other donors to support future generations’ needs for renewable energy, the protection of the environment and cultural heritage. A healthy economy needs an educational system that teaches the right skill set for the present and future local job market, to mention a just a few priority areas. At all times, respect of and

investment in fundamental rights of all people will remain a strong priority as well as a tool for advancing diversity and inclusion as well as society overall. Nurturing good relations with all neighbours - maintaining respectful dialogue, mutual understanding and close cooperation in the region should also remain a priority. Many UN agencies actively support regional reconciliation and cooperation for example by promoting dialogue between youth and other stakeholders. Serbia is actively engaged in Agenda 2030 implementation. The design of Serbia’s development strategies offer opportunities to identify cross-cutting accelerators for Serbia to meet all Sustainable Development Goals. Promoting gender equality, improving the position of young people, upgrading environmental sustainability, as well as financing inclusive development, could, for example, be prioritized as such accelerators. Also during this year, the 19 UN Agencies, Funds and Programmes that constitute the UN family in Serbia, together with authorities and development partners, will evaluate the progress of the current Development Partnership Framework for Serbia (2016-2020), leading to priorities for the formulation of the next Development Partnership Framework. I have no doubt that integration of the Western Balkans will remain on the agenda of Europe.

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SERBIA HAS MADE A GOOD PROGRESS DUBRAVKA NEGRE Head of the Western Balkan Regional Office of the Europen Investment Bank (EIB)

From the regional point of view, I would underline a historic agreement between now North Macedonia and Greece that ends a decades-old dispute in this region. Risky but successful set of events took place, which hopefully will contribute positively to the continuation of the EU integration processes of the North Macedonia. Not trying to change the past, but willing to shape future involves risk and courage in this region. Regarding the economic criteria of the reform process, Serbia has made a good progress â&#x20AC;&#x201C; budget deficit was addressed, macroeconomic stability pre-

served and inflation contained. But, Serbia needs to continue with structural reforms in order to be competitive and to improve its business climate. From our point of view, the main focus should be the prioritization of public investments and restructuring of public enterprises. The private sector is still underdeveloped and hampered by weaknesses in the rule of law and the enforcement of fair competition. So, we need more legal security for investors and more transparency in public procurement processes. All these areas are also important for the EIB Group activities.

THE IMPLEMENTATION OF REFORMS IS PROGRESSING SEBASTIAN SOSA IMF Resident Representative in Serbia

The IMF has indeed lowered its world growth projections for 2019 and 2020, mainly due to downward revisions for the euro areaâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; especially Germany and Italy. Escalating trade tensions and the potential shift away from a multilateral, rules-based trading system could disrupt supply chains, with a significant impact on EU growth, notably if confidence is affected. This could hurt the economies of the Western Balkans including Serbia, due to their strong trade and financial linkages and integration into EU supply chains. The implementation of structural and institutional reforms is progressing but needs to be accelerated to make Serbia a dynamic, private sector-driven market economy that will be able

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to compete successfully in the Single Market when Serbia joins the EU. Key priority areas include reducing infrastructure gaps, improving the business environment, reducing informality, modernizing tax administration, and completing the restructuring and strengthening governance of state-owned enterprises. We understand that the process of EU enlargement to the Western Balkans will continue in 2019 and onwards. In the case of Serbia, we hope that reform efforts will be strengthened to close negotiating chapters already open and that additional chapters will be opened, providing a strong anchor for the implementation of the institutional and structural reforms needed to converge to EU standards and be ready to join the bloc.

The enlargement will certainly remain on the EU agenda, as enlargement is one of the successes of the European Union. We could witness that Austrian Presidency in 2018 and Romanian presidency in 2019 are keeping this region on top of the EU agenda. Important in this process is that countries aspiring to join the EU do their part of homework in many aspects. The EIB, as the EU Bank, is available to help them on that path through our products in lending, blending and advising. In 2018 only, our activities in the Western Balkans exceeded EUR 1bn in supporting social and economic development of the countries in this region.

WE NEED MORE OPTIMISM H.E. TOMÁŠ KUCHTA Czech Ambassador to Serbia

I think we need more optimism here. The European Union proved in recent years that it is able to react to difficulties and overcome crisis situations. I believe that it is able to face issues caused by Brexit or other problems. Despite various challenges on the international scene, I am convinced that the Serbia´s accession process will continue. Let us concentrate on making it a success instead of drawing

REFORMS ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACK H.E. KATI CSABA Ambassador of Canada to Serbia

1. We believe the greatest risks are internal rather than external. Serbia holds in its own hands the keys to a more positive future. Serbia’s future, and its progress on the EU path, can be assured by a greater commitment to the reform

process, and by addressing conditions which caused Serbia’s decline to “partly free” status in the recent Freedom House report. External factors definitely complicate matters – notably the current stalemate in the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue. Serbia is making progress, and some reforms are on the right track. After its recent visit to Serbia, the IMF delegation highlighted Serbia’s success in fiscal consolidation. However, the country needs to achieve public sector rightsizing, boost the efficiency of public enterprises,

black scenarios. I would rather underline the importance of solving bilateral problems and promoting regional cooperation in the Western Balkan region. First, I would like acknowledge enormity of this task. From our own history, we know how complex process it is. Moreover, Serbia´s challenges are even higher. I would like to express support of my country to the reform process in Serbia. It makes consistent efforts in many areas. Let me just mention the process of changing the Constitution to strengthen independence of judiciary or series of laws adopted last year by the Parliament. Here, I would like to highlight the importance of dialogue

and inclusiveness of the whole process whether we talk about non-government sector or political parties. At the same time, there are areas where more progress is needed and they are well known: Let me just mention some aspects of the rule of law and media situation. The enlargement policy is one of the most successful and efficient instrument of the EU. Despite scepticism expressed by some political tendencies, I am convinced that there will be sufficiently strong support inside the Union to keep the integration of Western Balkan countries to the EU on the agenda. I can promise that the Czech Republic will do its best in this regard.

reduce administrative barriers and simplify complicated bureaucratic systems. By addressing these challenges, Serbia will unlock the potential for accelerated economic growth and converge towards EU standards. Canada supports the EU integration of the Western Balkans, and we hope that the EU perspective for the countries of the Western Balkans will remain open. Canada, as you know, is not a member of the EU, so I am not in a position to speculate about the intentions of the EU or individual member states.

COMMITTED SUPPORTER OF THE EU-ACCESSION H.E. DR. ATTILA PINTÉR Hungarian Ambassador to Serbia

First of all, Hungary is and will remain a committed supporter of the EU-accession of Serbia. This will continue to be a priority for the Hungarian Government even after the exit of the UK from the EU. Great Britain is an ally and friend of Hungary and accordingly, we regret their exit from the European Union, but respect the decision of the British people. Losing a supporter of en-

largement process is an unfortunate turn of events. This way, the already ailing pro-enlargement voice can be further weakened in the EU, which I think will not bring forward a quicker pace for Serbia’s accession agenda. The Serbian government is steadily working on all important reforms in a difficult situation. As the ambassador of a neighbouring country, I have to underline that the measures taken towards the protection of minority rights are exemplary and the support to local education in the mother tongue of ethnic minorities is significant. Economic issues and the rule of law are also highly important factors for Serbia. Therefore, development in these fields are crucial for the long-lasting stability of the country.

It is my sincere belief that enlargement policy should be a high priority of the EU in the years to come. The European Commission’s 2018 Western Balkans agenda was a good start, but concrete measures must follow. It is unacceptable for the Hungarian Government that the European Commission does not want enlargement in the Balkans until 2025, despite the fact that this is in Europe’s economic and security interests. The region already has deep connections to the EU in the field of economy, commerce and infrastructure and we should seize the historical opportunity to enrich the European family with new members. The renewed interest and influence of third-party actors also compel us to take decisive action in this field.

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WE SHOULD CONSOLIDATE THE EU H.E. FRÉDÉRIC MONDOLONI France Ambassador to Serbia

As you rightly mention both Europe and the world are facing major challenges which will require dedication and efforts in the coming period. Serbia is committed to join the EU and France supports this perspective: the main risk would be that this goal would be hampered. To prevent this,

COMMITTED TO SUCCEED ON THE EUROPEAN PATH H.E. OANA CRISTINA POPA Romanian Abassador to Serbia

The challenges on the international stage deem necessary an active role of the Union in global affairs, in line with its Global Strategy on Foreign and Security Policy. Also, we have to make a common effort towards identifying the proper solutions with the aim to strengthen peace, freedom,

stability, prosperity, social solidarity and cohesion, that the project has been delivering since its inception. A strong, cohesive and enlarged Union will surely be able to tackle all the challenges that rise up in Europe and worldwide. I believe that one of the major challenges for the states in the Balkan region is internal and refers to maintaining progress in the ongoing reform process. Serbia, through the public positions expressed by its leaders and through a multitude of actions, showed that is committed to succeed on the European path. I strongly encourage Serbia to further pursue sustained reform efforts and demonstrate track record.

We should consolidate the EU before any new enlargement. This is what France is striving for at the moment. The reform both of EU and Serbia could be carried out in parallel, so that Serbia can join the EU at the end of both processes. EU and France want Serbia to join in, there is absolutely no doubt, but EU must be in the appropriate condition to welcome it and Serbia must also make the necessary efforts to make its accession possible.

The Western Balkans are among the priorities of Romania’s Presidency of the Council of the EU. In this regard, we will continue to support the European perspective of the countries in the region on the basis of their own merit and compliance with process-specific criteria. Romania will remain, in 2019 and beyond, a firmly committed promoter of the enlargement policy.

H.E. PHILIPPE GUEX Ambassador of Switzerland to Serbia

The main risk is not an event but a non-event: a period of no deal, instead of normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina which remains crucial for the European future of Serbia. However, a normalization agreement which would not be implementable by the parties would be highly risky for Serbia

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Serbia has already accomplished difficult reforms in the economic area. It must be complemented by equivalent efforts on other crucial topics described in the negotiation chapters – and especially rule of law. I know this implies difficult reforms but EU accession will also rely on Serbia’s capacity to carry them out

effectively. The priorities for 2019 remain the same: accomplishing the reforms set out by the negotiation chapters, to close them as soon as possible.

Rule of law, independence of the judiciary and freedom of media are fundamental conditions for the accession of any country to the EU. Thus, at the core of the reform process, focus should be set constantly on implementing and guaranteeing these EU benchmarks.

REFORMS HAVE IMPROVED THE BUSINESS CLIMATE

it is of utmost importance that Serbia continues its reforms, especially on rule of law, and that the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina resumes – which implies that Pristina cancels without further delay its tax on goods from Serbia and Bosnia.

and the region. A future agreement has to be comprehensive as it has to resolve all open issues. No space has to be left for different interpretations. It seems that the negotiators are far away from this goal. Therefore, I believe that a short term quick fix would bear a risk for Serbia and the region. There is no doubt that the ongoing reforms have improved the business climate in Serbia within the last few years. But much more can be done as there is currently still a lack of clear perspective for many people living in Serbia. I feel sorry for those young men and women who tell us that they have to leave the country because their families do not have the right connections to find a proper

job. The best way to mitigate the brain drain in Serbia is to improve the rule of law, to reform the judiciary and not to give anymore a chance to corruption. These would be my priorities in 2019. It is not the role of a nonEU country like Switzerland to make speculation about the EU enlargement agenda. As Switzerland belongs to the top four donor countries to Serbia, we very much follow Serbia’s EU accession process. Europe would not be Europe without Serbia and the countries in the region. Europe needs Western Balkans as much as the Western Balkans needs Europe. Therefore, I am convinced that there is no better option for Serbia than EU accession.

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SUPPORT TO WESTERN BALKAN H.E. TANJU BILGIÇ Ambassador of Turkey to Serbia

As a non-EU country we do not know the inner discussion of the EU. Nevertheless, itis not new to say that this year would be a very active year for European politics. Brexit negotiations reached a new stage, the EP elections is going to take place this year and Juncker Commission’s tenure will come to an end this year as well. For this reason, it might be expected that the EU would not be able to focus much on the Western Balkans. We are hoping that the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue process would not be stalled by upcoming political

EUROPEAN INTEGRATION OF SERBIA H.E. CARLO LO CASCIO Italian Ambassador to Serbia

Global dynamics can often appear turbulent, but we have to maintain a certain degree of optimism. The last word on Brexit has not been said yet, while the trade negotiations between the United States and China are still ongoing. Italy’s position on a multilateral and consensual approach is very clear: we are against any unilateral and protectionist decision that

can only harm growth and put an unnecessary obstacle to the normal flow of goods and services. That is also why we strongly believe in the European integration of Serbia, both at the political and economic level, in order to share the prosperity and stability of our single market. As our Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte pointed out during his recent visit to Serbia, we strongly support Serbia’s path towards the EU, so that we could define ourselves “Ambassador of Serbia to the EU”. In the last few years, Serbia has made several progresses, but we all know that much still needs to be done. We are here to foster this progress. As a matter of fact, Italy and Serbia have recently signed a number of agreements

WE STAND READY TO FULLY SUPPORT SERBIA H.E. NIKOLAUS LUTTEROTTI Austrian Ambassador to Serbia

It is difficult to predict what will happen and what effects political and economic uncertainties, that are inherent in international relations, will have. Regardless of these uncertainties, it would be important for Serbia to continue focusing on its reform priorities for this year. And I am encouraged when I hear the President and Prime Minister repeatedly saying that the reform process will continue because it is in the interest of its citizens and the country. Serbia has it in her hands

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developments in the EU or elsewhere. By using this opportunity, I also would like to say few words concerning my country’s stance towards the Balkans as an answer to a campaign which aims to portray Turkey as a rival to the EU in the Western Balkans. Since the end of the Cold War, Turkey has always supported all the Western Balkan countries’ Euro-Atlantic integration as long as it is in line with their national will. It is still the case, so. We believe that Turkey and the EU can co-operate on and join their efforts towards concrete steps. Serbia has so far opened 16 negotiation chapters and closed 2 of them. Our expectation is that Serbia would take further steps forward in its negotiation process during Romanian presidency. However, as I have tried to point out above, the EU will be very busy with its

internal issues this year. According to the latest information, it is envisioned that the EU Commission's Country Reports (Progress Reports) on the candidate countries, which are expected to be published in April under normal conditions, would only be finished after the EP elections at the end of May. It is a fact that the EU has not been able to focus its energy on enlargement due to the impact of big crises, such as the Euro crisis and the migration crisis, which the EU has faced in recent years. 2019 also seems to be such a year. First of all, there is a challenge like Brexit which it has never faced before. There are also Commission and EP elections. However, I do not believe that the Western Balkans will fall from the EU's agenda in the period ahead due to all these events.

in order to improve the situation in many sectors: from the fight against corruption and organized crime, to cooperation in scientific and technological research as well as in the agricultural field, just to mention some very different examples. We hope that Serbia will rapidly continue on the path of reforms, in the economy but also in the administration and, most of all, in the rule of law, in the primary interest of citizens and the further purpose of speeding up the pace of accession negotiations. It is difficult to foresee what will happen to European foreign policy after this spring, but I would certainly bet on Italy’s continued interest in promoting EU enlargement to the Western Balkans, and especially to Serbia. to progress on the EU accession process through a continuation and even intensification of reforms and reform implementation. I think that Serbia has achieved already quite substantial progress on its reform path. But allow me also to express my hope that Serbia will continue and even intensify her reforms. However, looking at it through the prism of the EU accession process I would hope that real progress can be made in the area of the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, the fight against corruption and organized crime, the freedom of the media and the strengthening of independent institutions. These reforms will also have a positive impact on the economy. There is a lot of potential to increase economic growth and prosperity in Serbia. The Austrian business community is among the

largest investors in Serbia. We have an interest to see Serbia continue on its economic growth path. And we stand ready to fully support Serbia on its path towards becoming a member of the European Union. I am convinced that it will remain on the EU agenda because it is in the interest of EU. Austria will certainly remain a staunch supporter and advocate of EU enlargement to the Western Balkans and to Serbia in particular. Just to highlight one example: in February this year, the Austrian Federal Minister responsible for European integration, Gernot Blümel, invited his counterparts from the “Western Balkans Six” to Vienna to discuss their ideas on the future of Europe. We think that the future members of the EU should participate in the debate on the future of Europe already now and have a chance to give their input.

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REFORMS IN SERBIA ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACK DANIJELA FIŠAKOV President of the Slovenian Business Club

Judging by their geographical location, Serbia and the Balkan region cannot be immune to the developments in the global community. And the smallest “wave« at another end of the world produces a response in this area. Closer and stronger the source, the bigger the impact of the wave. The United Kingdom, the EU led by Germany and France, the United States, Russia and China are countries which interests intertwine with this region and which impact on the region is significant. In this sense, apart from the aforementioned examples, we should also focus on the development of relations in the US-Russia-China triangle. We should view the seemingly distant upheaval in Venezuela, as well as the events in Syria and Ukraine, in the same context, although they have somehow disappeared the headlines recently.

SERBIA HAS ITS EUROPEAN AGENDA JELENA PAVLOVIĆ Chairwoman of AmCham's Managing Board

Bearing in mind that two-thirds of our exports end up in the EU, and that the most important investments come from there, the biggest external risk to our economic growth is a slowdown of the EU economies. The entire region is exposed to this risk, which would result in a decline in the demand for our products in the countries of the region that, in turn, would have an additional negative impact on us. The most significant internal risk is political in nature and refers to resolving the issue of Kosovo and Metohija. A recent decision of Pristina to impose a 100% tax on goods from Serbia has already caused damage. Any possible further worsening of the relations would negatively affect economic activity, investments and growth throughout the region. Last year, Serbia achieved economic growth, and managed to maintain low inflation and a stable exchange rate. The budget is consolidated, the share of public debt in the gross domestic product declined, employment was on the up, according to the available statistics, and progress was made in the reform of public enterprises. All of this represents a good

basis for implementing the long-awaited structural reforms that we need to achieve the above-average economic growth in the future and not to lag behind the European countries which is what we have been doing for years. In terms of the structure of future economic growth, we expect and hope for greater participation of domestic private investments. In the Business Climate Survey, the private sector highlights the following obstacles as crucial - shadow economy, corruption, inefficient court procedures, non-transparent and unpredictable tax policy, and inconsistency in the implementation of regulations. That is why building the institutions to suit market economy and the rule of law is the hardest and most important order of business that Serbia has to do this and the following years. AmCham will be a constructive partner of the state in this endeavour. The enlargement process will be on the European agenda this year too, however, the question is, how fast will the chapters going to be opened. The answer to this question equally depends on the dynamics of our internal reform processes, as well as on the situation in the EU itself, where the May elections for the European Parliament hold special importance this year. In any case, Serbia has its European agenda and the reforms foreseen by it should be implemented as soon as possible, in order to regulate and improve our the living and working conditions in our society for our and the generations to come.

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Without a doubt, reforms in Serbia are on the right track and heading in the right direction. However, the roots of negative developments are too deep and have been strongly resisting the faster progression of positive changes. As a child of an agronomist, I cannot resist the comparison that is understood not only by every farmer, but also, I am sure, every other man with a close understanding of rudimentary natural laws. In order for the field to be fruitful, weeds must be rooted and healthy seed should be planted. This must be a systemic priority, not only next year, but also in all the years to come. While there may sometimes be different views in political circles, the prevailing view is that EU enlargement to include the countries of this region is in the interest of the Union itself. The strategic significance of this region, regardless of its current economic inferiority, is too great to be so forgotten. If, however, the EU withdraws enlargement from its agenda, America and Russia are still interested in the region. Serbia needs to take advantage of this interest y but also to steadfastly continue on its path towards achieving EU standards, not for others, but for itself.

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REFORMS ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACK

of the European market or United States-China relations, etc.

YANA MIKHAILOVA Foreign Investors Council President

Serbia has the strongest trade relations with the EU and is determined to join the Union, so events that impact the EU market have a certain impact on Serbia too. We live in a global world and having in mind that Serbian internal market is relatively small, it makes it more vulnerable to outside influence, namely the state

NALED APPEALS FOR FASTER REFORMS DEJAN DJOKIĆ Chairman of NALED’s Executive Board

A global recession, that could develop by the year-end, would surely be the riskiest event. At a time when we are trying to reach the growth rate of 5-6% per year, the new world crisis would lead to stagnation and have adverse effects on the economy and citizens. I hope that negative forecasts will not be come true. The possibility of the global recession happening is a warning to us to expedite the work on boosting competi-

tiveness and developing a better business environment. There are many reforms that are either started to be implemented or are already implemented. NALED has always been appealing for these reforms to be expedited and more determined. By this we mean curbing shadow economy, continuing to work on developing e-government, resolving property issues, spatial planning and construction, and strengthening agriculture and health care. In addition to the need to adopt a new action plan for the implementation of the National Programme for Curbin Shadow Economy, NALED has outlined a number of priority measures contained in the Gray Book 11, among which I would like to highlight the reduction of salary tax and contributions, the

The reforms are on the right track but we need to expedite them to reach the set goals which are fully sustainable and competitive business climate, strong economy which can match developed markets, and high living standard. We see the priorities for this year as follows: further development of sustainable fiscal consolidation, improve law implementation and provide more transparency in public consultations with focus on reforms in priority topics such as tax and labour, digitalization& e-commerce, real estate, inspections, food safety, and overall legal

The Western Balkans will never disappear from the European agenda, but it depends on us where we will be positioned in that agenda. If there is progress in resolving the issue of Kosovo, this, together with the progress made by North Macedonia in relations with Greece, would be very important for expediting the process of EU integration.

DJORDJE PETROVIĆ Founder and Director of the DutchSerbian Business Association

I think that the situation with Priština introducing tax on Serbian goods caused very strong tensions, but also great problems for all the companies operating here, since they

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The EU has had a strategic orientation towards enlargement since its establishment. Up until now, it has been only a matter of momentum and pace and not of a strategic orientation. So, we believe that EU enlargement to the Western Balkans will remain on the EU agenda, especially knowing that the new strategy for the Western Balkans was presented last year. On the other side, we are aware of the upcoming EU elections for the new European Commission and Parliament this year which might have an impact on the EU foreign policy.

establishment of an electronic public procurement system, a public tax and fee register, e-archives, electronic registration procedures for agricultural holdings and allocation of incentives. Businesses are also very interested in the Tax Administration improving its procedures, namely the electronic issuance of tax certificates and digitization of documents for entrepreneurs who pay flat tax rate.

REFORM PACE SHOULD BE FASTER

framework, with emphasis on regulations on bankruptcy and foreign exchange operations.

are prevented from selling goods and thus making profit. There is progress in the right direction, which is certainly encouraging, but I also think that the pace of reforms should be much faster. From the business point of view, there is plenty of room for improvement of the business climate, which would make it easier for all companies operating in Serbia, both domestic and foreign, to do and improve their business. Some of these steps would be reducing

salary tax and contributions, simplification of bureaucratic procedures and additional cooperation between institutions in paying attention to the needs of businesses, as well as implementing subsequent actions in accordance with those needs. I think that, at this moment, all the countries in the region are far from the EU membership and I don’t see them becoming members in the near future.

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BUSINESS CLIMATE HAS IMPROVED CONSIDERABLY ZAFIRIS LAMPADARIDIS President of the Hellenic Business Association of Serbia

Brexit will clearly affect countries currently pursuing the EU membership. The United Kingdom, together with its former partners in the EU, has been a major player in the European integration endeavours of the Balkans and Serbia, and has been

allowing these countries to look beyond divisions and disagreements. The current situation leaves room for possible deterioration of trade conditions, business cooperation and economic development. The business climate in Serbia, compared to previous years, has improved considerably, but nevertheless, the government needs to make concrete reform proposals and build a business portal for communication with the authorities in Serbia in order to have an effective business performance. Priority in that case should be given on promoting solid business ethics and high corporate governance principles within and towards

local companies, the government and investors. We want to believe that the EU enlargement to the Western Balkans is feasible and possible because it will act as a catalyst to stronger business cooperation among European countries themselves. The economic cooperation is an important mechanism/process/policy which leads to reconciliation in this post-conflict region and secondly, through connecting, networking and adjusting of business environment, it enhances the growth of trade and investments - particularly foreign direct investments - thus providing an important prerequisite for a faster economic growth.

WORK SHOULD BE DONE ON RAISING LIVING STANDARD

energy sector. Serbia has very good political relations and economic ties with those countries. We have witnessed the US and the EU sanctions towards Russia. Serbia will surely not follow such a policy which may cause some problems, because the EU demands a unified approach from all its members.

PERO MIJAKIĆ

It is evident that the reforms in Serbia are being implemented and they have yielded results that can be seen by macroeconomic indicators. Of course, reforms need to be implemented faster in all areas. It is necessary to open as many chapters as possible in the negotiations with the EU and, of course, to close even more. The approach to the EU membership should not be political, but economic. One should listen to economists when

President of the Croatian Chamber of Economy’s Office in Serbia

I would single out the relations between the US and China as the riskiest event at the moment, plus there are also relations between Russia and the US. China and Russia want to expand their economic influence in this area, which the US and the EU are not too pleased about, especially when it comes to

WESTERN BALKANS WILL REMAIN ON THE EU AGENDA HUGO VAN VEGHEL President of the Belgian-Serbian Business Association (BSBA) Belgrade

The geopolitical theatre has its influence and Brexit is in focus, but the growing populist anti-EU trends are more worrying. Since the Schumann declaration the EU has become a unique economic and political union between countries and is now obliged to prioritise on its own internal challenges. I see

no new accessions until internal matters have been solved. Let me focus on one item and stay positive. If we look at the 2016/2017 Annual report on European SMEs, we have enough evidence to call SMEs the backbone of the EU’s economy. Large investors bring more immediate employment, but the strongest resilience in any economic downturn is created by the SMEs. Initiatives to support new entrepreneurship should be boosted. We noticed in a recent presentation of RAS (Development Agency of Serbia) that there are new incentives but mainly focus only on manufacturing and services sectors which may be subject to international trade. On January 28th, the Ministry of Economy launched support to new entrepreneurship. Both

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initiatives are too weak to initiate change. Interest in export-oriented activities is quite understandable, but it is time to think about socio-economic development in a more holistic context. In 2010, the EU Institute for Security’s paper titled “Western Balkans and Turkey: Unfinished business in Europe” shows that the Europen “business” is far from being finished. The ‘Balkan question’ remains a ‘European question’. If we look at it from the economic development view, than we are faced with different speeds, maintained by specific interest groups. Only if all parties realize (and admit) that there are common goals and shared interests they will work on joint actions. The Western Balkans will remain on the agenda even long after 2019.

they talk about the benefits of membership in such a large and regulated market. Serbia needs to reform its education system in order to prepare young people for those jobs that are really in demand in the labour market. I am aware that my colleagues from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia are actively working on the proposal of the dual education model. You also need to work on raising the living standard in order to prevent brain drain since lack of workforce is going to become a huge problem. No, it will not disappear from the agenda. I am confident that both Serbia and the EU are on the same page when it comes to enlargement. Serbia and the Western Balkans are a part of Europe.

CORPORATE

MIKTA: Cooperation and Development We decided to come together, as friends and partners, to promote common priorities and explore innovative strategies to face global challenges

JULIÁN VENTURA Mexico’s Deputy Secretary of Foreign Affairs

Mexico is convinced of the irreplaceable value of diplomacy, with an outstanding multilateral tradition and a demonstrated capacity to engage in dialogue and build consensus. It is in this spirit that we participate in MIKTA, an informal consultation space with Australia, Indonesia, the Republic of Korea and Turkey. The five countries have our own significant presence in the international stage. We decided to come together, as friends and partners, to promote common priorities and explore innovative strategies to face global challenges. We are located in different regions, and we possess unique historical identities and cultural richness. We also have shared interests, which motivates us to come

closer together, to enhance our mutual understanding, and to expand our economic and social ties. At the Vice-Ministerial meeting held on February 7th, 2019 in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, we took over MIKTA’s coordination. The agenda

cro, small and medium enterprises into global supply chains. We will also bolster tourism cooperation, by sharing best practices and technical expertise to generate greater benefits for the receiving communities. The second area is the strengthening of multilateralism and collaboration in international organizations. MIKTA will join efforts to increase efficiency, transparency and equality in international organizations, and to mainstream the gender perspective. We will uphold a strong, open and rulesbased international system that contributes to economic and social development, the protection of human rights, international peace and security, and cooperation. Thirdly, we will promote sustainable development with an

THE FIVE COUNTRIES HAVE OUR OWN SIGNIFICANT PRESENCE IN THE INTERNATIONAL STAGE proposed by Mexico was adopted, which seeks to directly address the needs and aspirations of our peoples. With the theme "Social development, global governance and a sustainable future", we will seek to increase MIKTA’s collaboration in three main areas. First, economic cooperation for social development. We will promote trade and investment, both among ourselves and in other key markets. We will foster a greater integration of mi-

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emphasis on achieving the 2030 Agenda. Our societies demand greater actions to address climate change and other major global challenges, as well as greater cooperation for the reduction of natural-disaster risks, which we are all exposed to. Furthermore, as maritime countries, we share the interest to protect the oceans and their biodiversity. Social inclusion is also a common goal; we will continue to work in the fields of education and internet access.

An additional innovation of Mexico’s MIKTA coordination will be to convene the first meeting of our national agencies for development cooperation. In this context, at the meeting in Yogyakarta we shared the ongoing actions to implement the Comprehensive Development Plan launched by El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico, as an example of human-centered cooperation. The work of MIKTA expands throughout the world. Our embassies and consulates are in constant communication. This year they will undertake activities of public and cultural diplomacy to disseminate our historical richness and our cultural customs and traditions. We have a MIKTA Academic Network that has organized a number of seminars and scholarly publications. We will incorporate other civil society actors into our joint efforts and actions. We will also work together with them to boost economic and tourism promotion. No country can effectively address international challenges individually. MIKTA continues to evolve as a multilateral space that aims to play a constructive role in a complex international scenario. During 2019, Mexico will strengthen collaboration among MIKTA’s five countries, with the ultimate goal of making our societies more inclusive and prosperous.

CORPORATE

Growth of Insurance Market is Inevitable Time is working for us, insurance market will increase, both economically and in terms of raising the awareness of the importance of insurance, which will lead to fast implementation of the solutions that Generali provides worldwide

life insurance segment posted a somewhat stronger growth, and we matched it, which actually shows that higher living standard in Serbia doesn’t result in an increase in life insurance sales, yet. Clients still don’t feel the need for long-term insurance when it comes to protection and risks, and eventually savings, but they mainly give their trust to short-term policies they use to resolve some quick issues. But time is working for us, and I am certain that the life insurance segment in Serbia will reach European level in the following years.

DRAGAN FILIPOVIĆ President of the Executive Board and CEO of Generali Osiguranje Srbija

Generali Osiguranje Srbija is the second largest insurance company in Serbia and a leader in Life and Health insurance. They recently initiated a joint project with the Novak Djokovic Foundation, as part of The Human Safety Net global initiative. The company is constantly launching innovative products on the insurance market in Serbia. They ended the year 2018 with new operative records. We are talking about this and about the company’s plans for 2019 with Dragan Filipović, President of the Executive Board and CEO of Generali Osiguranje Srbija.

What did 2018 bring you in business sense? — Generali Osiguranje Srbija set a new record in its business opera-

tions in 2018, in terms of its profit and operating results. We continue to be leaders in Serbia’s insurance market in regard to profitability, and in health insurance sector, in regard to the premium. We hold

Did last year’s growth of the GDP and purchasing power of the population reflect in life insurance sales? — The GDP growth was more felt in the sale of other types of insurance, like household insurance, insurance for SMEs, Casco insurance, travel insurance, etc., but

I KEEP SAYING THAT THE TWO MOST IMPORTANT PILLARS FOR SUCCESS OF A COMPANY ARE – A SATISFIED EMPLOYEE AND A SATISFIED CLIENT second place in the market by the size of our premiums, and the first place in the life insurance segment for a number of years – each third life insurance policy is Generali’s, as well as each second health insurance policy. All in all, we are very satisfied with last year’s results. If the market grew by 4% in the life insurance segment, we grew 4 times faster than the market, and we practically pushed the growth of the entire market. Non-

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not life insurance. This requires a much faster growth and a higher living standard of our people, in order for part of the money that is not deposited in savings now, to be allocated to life insurance. However, I say that life insurance should not be observed from the aspect of savings, because banks provide interest rates on deposited assets. Life insurance should be something that will protect families in case of unwanted events, and yet

on the other hand, in the event of survival, it returns invested money with yields that are better than depositing money with a bank to earn an interest.

You’ve been holding the leading position in the market for years, and you have launched innovative products each year. Which of the products would you like to single out? — Aside from products that we launched in 2016 and 2017, which relate to digital sales of travel insurance and household insurance, we were the first in the market last year to launch a smart package – phone insurance that covers damage to the mobile phone screen. You can file an insurance claim via a mobile app, in 10 just clicks. What awaits us is something that we finished at the end of 2018 and will be launched in the first quarter of this year – we are talking about pet insurance. We are aware that there are a lot of pets in Serbia, and that they are treated as family members. This is precisely why we developed this product.

How widely accepted are the digital options you offer with travel insurance and household insurance? What geographic and age trends have you noticed? — Since we launched the mobile app, we’ve had very good results. We sold dozens of thousands of policies in this way, thanks to our internal sales force that found the right way to approach the clients, by explaining them all the advantages and benefits. The entire process is much faster than having to wait your turn in one of our branch offices.

As a member of Generali Group, you must follow European trends. How is that possible considering the different structure of insurance products in this market?

Purchase of insurance policy can be completed in two minutes with the mobile app, regardless of where you are making the purchase from. Demographically speaking, it is used mainly by younger population living in bigger cities. It is up to us to reach all the clients across Serbia, since we have a wide and extensive internal sales force so that we can facilitate purchase of insurance policy for everyone.

Employees are an important resource. How do you take care of them and what programmes and benefits do you offer to the employees in your company?

— I keep saying that the two most important pillars for success of any company are – a satisfied employee and a satisfied client. Precisely in this order! Because, if you have a satisfied employee, they will transfer this satisfaction, smile, energy and a positive attitude to the client, and the client will return this energy to the company. Care for employees is something that Generali has been exercising from the very start. We have been investing in our employees in Serbia for years, and we are proud of the fact that we became the first institution in the financial sector to get the Family Friendly certificate last year. This practically means that we are a company that has harmonized the private and professional life of our employees through our activities, projects and events. This is not a certificate that says that we strive to accomplish something, but that we have already proven with our work that we have harmonized the private and professional life of our employees. And we managed to do this by listening to our employees, by talking to them about what

WE WERE THE FIRST N THE MARKET LAST YEAR TO LAUNCH A SMART PACKAGE – PHONE INSURANCE THAT COVERS DAMAGE TO THE MOBILE PHONE SCREEN, VIA A MOBILE APP they’re missing and what we need to do to make them more satisfied and happier. We did a great deal in this aspect. We also take care of the chil-

dren of our employees, regardless of their age, and take care of their needs. With each year, this story will continue to develop. We are very proud of this certificate.

— Everything cannot be applied immediately; there are a number of things that our market is not prepared to accept. We are fortunate that Generali Osiguranje is an international, large and strong company with years of experience, and it has a lot of ready solutions for all the insurance segments. However, it is not easy to release a product in the market, because the market’s consciousness must mature in order for this product to be accepted. But we see, modify and apply a lot of things. There are also a number of areas where we made faster progress within the Group, like agriculture, because Serbia is an agricultural country, after all. Then there are the innovations that we applied in Serbia, like a drone that records damages, and a mobile app that we developed in cooperation with the Biosense Institute which allows you to get an information via mobile phone at the moment the damage has occurred, the location of the damage and the GSP coordinates so you can go directly to the site of the damage. These are all solutions and innovations that members of our group accepted from Serbia, so we are quite innovative in some segments. I wish to point out again that time is working for us, insurance market will increase, both economically and in terms of raising the awareness of the importance of insurance, which will lead to fast implementation of the solution that Generali provides worldwide.

“SUPPORT, NOT PERFECTION” The Human Safety Net is a global initiative that Generali Group initiated two years ago. You established partnership with the Novak Djokovic Foundation in Serbia. What is this project about? — We are very proud and happy to be recognized by the Novak Djokovic Fondation as partners, and vice versa, in this major joint project which will last for a number of years. In fact, I would say that we don’t have a time limit. Generali Group reached a decision at a global level to enter several segments of assistance to the social community, while Generali Osiguranje Srbija joined The Human Safety Net movement last year. Also, we chose to participate in the implementation of the project for families in Serbia, which promotes the right of all children to equal opportunities in life. The purpose of this project is to provide parents, foster parents and guardians of the children under the age of 6, with knowledge, skills and support in per-

forming the most difficult and most important work – developing children’s potential. We organized the first workshop under the auspices of the “Support, Not Perfection” project together with the Novak Djokovic Foundation, and thus marked the start of the partnership on this project. At the workshop, Novak and Jelena Djokovic shared their dilemmas when it in raising children with other parents. They were full of wonderful energy, and I have great impressions from the first workshop. We will be active participants in workshops across Serbia, in order to help and provide a better future and equal conditions for development of children in Serbia. I would like to conclude that we are doing this out of the goodness of our hearts and a desire to help, without any ambition to link it in any way to insurance.

CORPORATE

We are Constantly Improving Our Curriculum Through our curriculum we educate professional staff capable of adopting new approaches to health and health policy. In order to better integrate into European processes, we will soon begin implementing European directives

CHRISTOS ALEXOPOULOS, PHD Director of the College of Applied Health Sciences in Ćuprija

The College of Applied Health Sciences (CAHS) Ćuprija is a state-run, accredited institution with the curriculum educate the most sought-after medical worker profiles. In a modern building, spanning 6,400 square metres in an excellent location, the college is accessible and popular among young people from all over the country. "We are making a great effort to provide the education of as many students as possible, and year-onyear, there is a growing interest for studying at our school. In addition to the social programme, for which we received the award as the socially most responsible institution in Serbia, I would like to underline the continued investments in infrastructure, teaching and equipment, education of teaching staff and developed international cooperation,"Christos Alexopoulos, PhD, Director of College of Applied Health Sciences Ćuprija.

What countries do your students come from and how many are attending the classes at your college with an idea of leaving for abroad once they graduate? If they do leave for abroad, what

kind of advantages does your diploma have?

— The College of Applied Health Sciences Ćuprija is one of only two independent state-accredited schools in Serbia that provide higher education for nurses. Young people are very interested in studying at our school, and they come not only from Serbia but also from abroad, particularly from neighbouring countries. Almost every day, parents from Montenegro, Bosnia and Macedonia schedule interviews to find out more about how to enroll their children to our school.

experience and establishing mutual cooperation in the country and abroad. In addition to regular English language classes, the school holds free German courses with the view of students obtaining the TELC certificate that our graduates need if they want to find employment in German-speaking countries where the demand for medical staff is the strongest.

Which accredited study programmes do you offer?

— The school currently has five accredited study programmes at basic studies; Professional Nurse,

THE SCHOOL HOLDS FREE GERMAN COURSES WITH THE VIEW OF STUDENTS OBTAINING THE TELC CERTIFICATE THAT OUR GRADUATES NEED IF THEY WANT TO FIND EMPLOYMENT IN GERMAN-SPEAKING COUNTRIES Our college’s diploma is recognized worldwide, as witnessed by numerous members of our alumni club who just found work in countries such as Switzerland, Germany, Norway and the United Arab Emirates (Dubai). Our school’s Alumni Club is a voluntary association which students who have completed basic and / or specialist studies at the CAHS Ćuprija can join without charge, with the aim of connecting all generations of students to exchange knowledge,

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Professional Physiotherapist, OBGYN Nurse, Professional Pharmacist and Professional Medical Radiologist. Our study programmes last for six semesters or three years and bring 180 ESPB points. After completing the study programme and passing the final exam, that consists of undergraduate dissertaion and verbal presentation, our students have obtained a vocation. The purpose of our study programmes is to educate the required staff in the light of new approaches

to health and health policy based on the protection and improvement of health, which require the application of medical functions and competencies. With the help of the high quality teaching process, our students master basic theoretical and practical knowledge which provides them with guidance for the future. Professional nurses, midwives, radiologists, physiotherapists and pharmacists are trained for work in hospitals, health centres, dispensaries, counseling centres, health care services, health care facilities, sanatoriums, nursing homes, schools, and preschool institutions, and they occupy an important place in the health care system. We are currently undergoing accrediation for our Master’s studies, that will last two years. They bring 120 ESPB points and once our students finish their Master’s studies, they obtain the title of the nurse-organizer in the health care system. We also have a series of short study programmes that last semesters in the segment of anesthesia and reanimation, domicilary care, rehabilitation, dermatological cosmetology and interventional radiology.

To what degree do your school's programmes comply with EU standards? — In order to better integrate into European processes, we will soon

begin implementing European directives. Consequentially, we have recently signed a cooperation agreement with University of Rijeka’s Faculty of Health Care Studies, which curriculum complies to the EU Directive 55/13. In order to complete the required preparation, we have established communication with an institution that is more experienced and from which we can learn how we can implement the directives as soon as possible. Soon we will submit the new curricula for accreditation, as we want them to be based on these directives.

Your school was recently rewarded for excellence in social responsibility? What does this award mean to the school?

— I would say that the last year in our school was all about social responsibility. We have fulfilled our social obligations through several strategies, thus giving an example to other institutions and inviting them to join in. By signing a contract with the Ministry of Defence, we gave scholarships to children of deceased soldiers and employees of the Serbian Army, while the students from families with four or more children can now attend our school for free. Also, the same goes for students with special and for these students we facilitated better access to the school and provided special parking spaces. We are also planning to install a lift in the school. For several consecutive years now, we have been employing

people with special needs, and we are also preparing free IT courses for senior citizens.

How much are you focusing on training your teachers and investing in equipment?

sors, our students attending higher education institutions in Norway and us implementing projects which results are applied in the accreditation of basic, specialist and master study programmes. Scientific, educational and research

THE LAST YEAR IN OUR SCHOOL WAS ALL ABOUT SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY, AND WE THUS SET AN EXAMPLE TO OTHER INSTITUTIONS, AND INVITED THEM TO ALSO PARTICIPATE IN THE CREATION OF AN INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT — The College of Applied Health Sciences in Ćuprija is continuously working on improving professional and research work, while it stimulates the existing and creates new conditions, and implements research results in the teaching process. We are recognized by the highly developed international cooperation that is reflected in the exchange of students and profes-

activities are also developed since we are a member of the European Nursing Module (ENM) network. In the past period, investing in equipment was one of our school’s priorities. We can boast new cabinets and multimedia classrooms, and as of recently, a server room with an optical link so that students can master the IZIS programme. There is also a pharmacy block

with pharmacy, and a galenical and chemical laboratory. I would also like to mention the ongoing construction of simulation centre which is the first and so far, the only such centre in the region that has the latest teaching aids and equipment. The President of the Republic of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić will officially open the centre. Mannequins Juno and Chloe help students to familiarize themselves with real-life situations through various health care scenarios.

Considering that the sate authorities have decided to stimulate not only dual education high schools but also vocational colleges, what are your ambitions in this respect?

— In its very nature, our school has always provided some form of dual education. Since the school’s inception, the students of the then Medical College carried out their work practice in hospitals, health centres, spas and other health care institutions. It is impossible to educate medical staff separate from the work that they are being educated for.

What values do you instil in your students? — Although nurses, midwives and technicians are not obligated to take Hippocratic Oath, we try to transfer the values that bind them to ethical work in their respective professions. In addition to the traditional educational values that teachers instil in their students, we also remind them of the humane and moral values they have to have as caregivers, as well as the confidentiality they are obligated to keep in relation to patients. We strive to raise awareness that their future profession is one of the noblest and most responsible profession around and, accordingly, that they develop a relation with their future vocation.

NATIONAL DAYS

in March & April

ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES

MARCH

IZTOK JARCE The new ambassador of Slovenia to Serbia

Iztok Jarce was born on August 21, 1963. in Novo mesto. By 2018, he was a member of the Cabinet of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Head of the Real Estate Working Group. Prior to that, he was Ambassador of Slovenia at the OECD in Paris for three years, and also in London for three years as ambassador. From 2007 to 2008 he was Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Food in the Government of the Republic of Slovenia, President of the Council of Ministers of the European Union for Agriculture and Fisheries (1st half of 2008). He was the Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia to Israel was from 2004 to 2007, and from 2001 to 2004 he was the State Sec-

retary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food, Member of the EU Negotiating Team and President of the Committee for Monitoring EU Financial Support for Agriculture. In the course of his career, he also served as the Head of the Sector for European Integration, Economic Affairs Advisor in the Mission of the Republic of Slovenia to the EU, Head of the Department of Bilateral Economic Relations at the Ministry. economic affairs. He got a degree in political science of international orientation, speaks English, French, Serbian. Married, father of three grown children. Decorations: Legion of Honor, Ordre National de la Legion d'Honneur (FR), Chevalier.

DJORDJE SAVIĆ

IRELAND

St. Patrick's Day

TUNISIA

Independence Day

PAKISTAN

Declaration Day

GREECE

Independence Day

MALTA

Freedom Day

APRIL

GUINEA

New executive director of Messer Tehnogas AD

Djordje Savić was appointed the new executive director of Messer Tehnogas AD effective as of January 1st, 2019. The appointment took place after Ernst Bode, who very successfully held this position for 14 years, was promoted to the chief operating officer of the Messer Group GmbH. Mr. Savić has also been appointed the member of the executive board of directors of

Independence Day

this company. Đorđe Savić joined Messer Tehnoagas AD in 1985. He successfully performed several management functions in the company including the position of the sales director. His expertise in sales and vast professional experience in the field of industrial gases will continue to contribute to the further development of the company's operations and its employees.

SYRIA

National Day

NETHERLANDS ational Day N (King’s Day)

SOUTH AFRICA Freedom Day

MIROSLAV KOREN The new general manager of Kaspersky Lab for Eastern Europe

Miroslav Koren took over the position of general manager of Kaspersky Lab for the Eastern European region. Koren will coordinate and lead the team from Prague in Eastern Europe and will be in charge of the long-term business and profitability growth of the consumer as well as in digital and business segments with large companiesacross this region. Miroslav Koren has 14 years of experience in IT industry, acquired at positions in field of programming, sales and management in leading companies in this sector. To a new position he comes from from SUSE, where he successfully performed the function of manager for the Czech Republic

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and Slovakia and contributed to significant growth in company income from year to year. He worked for SAP, Oracle and Capgemini. Miroslav Koren has completed an MBA at the University of Prague, fluently speaks Czech, English and German language, loves all kinds of sports, especially running and football, and lives in a small place near Prague. The Eastern European region consists of the following territories and markets: Serbia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Slovakia, Croatia, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Greece, Hungary, Romania, Northern Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Slovenia and Ukraine.

CORPORATE

Culture of Innovation Together with our client we go back to the basics, using “first-principle analysis” we determine the core, key differentiators, key pain points for the company. Following that we build organization and processes from ground up, having culture of innovation and agility as key goals to achieve

having new projects. Our key markets are Switzerland, Germany and Austria where we are growing rapidly, faster than the market itself.

Who are your clients? Is digital transformation in Serbia understood properly?

GORAN DJORDJEVIĆ Managing Director - CDC Serbia

Digital transformation means that organization of the company, including all its business processes need to be revised. There is no one definition or one way to perform digital transformation as every company is different and every company needs to be approached in the specific way.

How Consulteer sees digital transformation?

— Digital transformation is very often mistaken for having new software package in the company or having new IT department that will deal with technology related questions. Unfortunately, that is not even remotely correct, in fact if it is not recognized on time, it can play negative role in the development of the company. For the last ten years Consulteer is working with number of companies, from small local ones to the big multinational companies in Switzerland, on performing analysis and implementation of new organization and processes. Together with our client we go back to the basics, using “first-principle analysis” we determine the core, key differentiators,

key pain points for the company. Following that we build organization and processes from ground up, having culture of innovation and agility as key goals to achieve. Various kinds of software and hardware are just tools that are applied with precisely defined purpose. We make sure that technology is adjusted to the processes and not vice versus.

— Our clients are mainly multinational corporations in Switzerland and Germany, we work with Swisscom, Swiss Post, Deutsche Bahn, nine.ch, Visionary AG, Formula V {avaloc}, etc. for them we are preparing end to end solutions, digital platforms that are used by tens of thousands of people. Our platforms are concentrated on optimization of business processes, i.e. one of our clients started to use mobile app

FOR THE LAST TEN YEARS CONSULTEER IS WORKING WITH NUMBER OF COMPANIES, FROM SMALL LOCAL ONES TO THE BIG MULTINATIONAL COMPANIES What are key markets for Consulteer?

— Consulteer in Serbia was started five years ago with idea to optimize software development costs, however from that time, by realizing potential of great talent that we have in Serbia, we developed into full end-to-end service provider that is taking equal role in preparing solutions for our clients. We are performing business analysis, preparing, executing software development, deploying and maintaining solutions. We are proud to say that we are developing long term relations with our clients, and usually when cooperation starts it lasts for years with

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to report business trips cost and having all other related processes automated and executed in background – we have built whole end to end solution. We are very proud on our joint venture company CTS, which we created with iTaxi from Zrenjanin. Together we have created new transportation platform, that ena-

bles transport of “anything” from points A to B, in the most effective way. Here we are using machine learning and prediction algorithms to minimize the costs, while in the same time offering increased customer satisfaction trough faster reaction times and very pleasant user interface and experience. This is truly Serbian product, that is based on the latest technology that we are going to bring also to the market of Western Europe.

If we talk about investments and creation of jobs, what are potentials for further development of Serbian IT sector? — We just scratched the surface, demand for IT services and solutions in the world continues to grow and it is not slowing down. Looking at Industry 4.0 requirements, automations in all the fields… it is very important that we come out at the right side of the change. I feel that we need to be more in end-to-end delivery and creation of the solutions instead of only executing it. We have natural curiosity and vit in our culture that we just need to “unleash” and let it thrive. Potential is practically limitless, this does not mean that everybody should become IT engineers and developers, however everything is already based on technology and it depends solely on us as a society how we will use our chance.

TRANSFORM AND CHANGE In Serbia, we are happy to say that we see that companies are getting aware of the need to transform and adapt; however, it is also visible that it is still on the level of the “hype” and that more guidance is needed. We are working with business unions such as Serbian Association of Employers, ZREPOK, etc. supporting events, talking about the change.

CORPORATE

Campaign for Saving Villages in Serbia On the example of two villages near Zaječar, Delta wants to demonstrate that life in Serbian villages can be good, just like in other countries, such as Italy, Germany and Austria. The prerequisite for this is to boost agricultural production for which we need knowledge and secured sales of agricultural produce.

Serbian villages are disappearing. Back in 2012, the Serbian Academy of Sciences warned of the alarming demographic data about Serbia, which shows that a quarter of rural settlements in our country will vanish. These data also say that out 4,700 villages in Serbia, 1,200 of them will disappear in the next fifteen years. More than 1,000 villages have fewer than 100 inhabitants, and 200 have no inhabitants under the age of 20. Four hundred villages do not have a shop, and more than 200 do not have a school. Can people live in such an environment, and, if they can, how so? Although this information has been released a long time ago, very few people have tried to solve the problem of rural Serbia. And even when there were sporadic attempts to do so, they were mostly

based on the wrong premises. Agriculture, as a basic farming activity, is usually treated as a social, rather than an economic category. Cooperatives, as a way to boost a village, were treated as a gathering place for farmers, but not as a place where they can acquire knowledge and create a market. That is why, over the past years, the only thing that was done was to admit that villages were dying out, and in turn, that also meant the demise of Serbia. A different project was started to

be implemented late last year. Delta Holding’s has launched a campaign called “Our Village”. The underlying idea was to demonstrate, in selected locations, how agricultural production could be improved, and as a result, revive villages to resemble those in developed countries – Slovenia, Italy, Austria, etc. After several months of research, Delta decided to take two villages in Eastern Serbia, in the Zaječar municipality, under its wing. These were the villages of Dubočane and Mala Jasikova.

THE UNDERLYING IDEA WAS TO DEMONSTRATE, IN SELECTED LOCATIONS, HOW AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION COULD BE IMPROVED, AND AS A RESULT, REVIVE VILLAGES TO RESEMBLE THOSE IN DEVELOPED COUNTRIES – SLOVENIA, ITALY, AUSTRIA, ETC

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In these villages, and with the full-fledged support from Zaječar authorities, a complex campaign was launched which entailed modernizing agricultural production, as well as restoring social and cultural life. „We are dealing with a huge problem – that is the disappearance of our villages. If they disappear, Serbia disappears too,” said Delta’s President, Miroslav Mišković while visiting the two villages where he spoke with the villagers and invited them to join the Our Village project. “The most important thing that we, in Delta, will provide is the knowledge. You will see for yourself how much our suggestions differ to what has been done so far. In the past, when wheat yield was low, the wheat price went up and the farmer earned almost the same amount of money. Today everything has

moved to the global stock market. When wheat yield in Serbia drops, the wheat price on the global stock markets still remains the same, but the loss that farmers feel is huge,” Mr. Mišković added. A total of 45 households registered for the project’s first phase – 23 are engaged in cattle breeding and 22 in fruit growing. The project started with the education about the contemporary agricultural production, because knowledge is the basis of profitable and successful agriculture. The villagers first visited the properties of Delta Agrar in Čelarevo and Stara Pazova. They could see the stateof-the-art apple orchards spanning over 500 hectares, with drip irrigation systems, anti-hail protection nets and frost protection system. They visited pig farms where animals are kept in almost sterile conditions, and the results of these farms stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best European ones. The education continued in their respective villages, where the Delta Foundation first renovated the premises of local communities, cleaned them up, and provided heat so that they could serve as efficient classrooms for presentations and lectures. Since then, week-on-week, these premises have been used by lecturers and students who have been learning about cooperatives, plant protection, drawing up a business plan, funding opportunities for agricultural production and many topics that are important to farmers. The project participants say that the completely new perspectives have opened up to them. Based on the first information, they have changed the way they feed their livestock, and they use different methods for pruning fruit trees, while crucial changes are yet to follow. Nenad Stanojević is one of the villagers who has 20 cows and has registered to participate in the Our Village project. „We have been doing cattle breeding the way our forefathers did it. We are shocked to find out how by using a different feed method and different, more affordable stables, we can increase the milk yield. I intend to buy more cows, and I am already thinking of getting cows of different breed because Delta has cows that give much more milk than ours,” Nenad explained. The average age of a Serbian villager is quite high. Luckily,

there are younger villagers in Dubočane and Mala Jasikova, and even school children in lower grades. Also, there are quite a few women who not only live off agricultural production, but also show great interest in becoming entrepreneurs and advancing their

immediately saw that Delta's project is the right thing for our village and our household. We intend to increase our strawberry production to 50 acres and build another, more modern greenhouse that will span 140 square metres." Some of the people who have

THE PROJECT STARTED WITH THE EDUCATION ABOUT THE CONTEMPORARY AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, BECAUSE KNOWLEDGE IS THE BASIS OF PROFITABLE AND SUCCESSFUL AGRICULTURE

business. Nevenka Joncić is one of the women who breed cattle. She is apt at driving both tractors and combine harvesters, and is proud that her two children, who go to school, prefer working in the field to playing video games. Anita Pipić, one of the younger villagers, lives here with a husband and two children. “We grow strawberries on about 30 acres of land, and we have a vegetable greenhouse that spans 120 square metres," says Anita and adds: "We

never been seriously engaged in agriculture are now preparing to launch their own agricultural production. Delta likes to single out the sustainability of this project. The company picked agriculture for their project, because agriculture is their core business and the company can transfer the best knowledge from that segment to its new collaborators. “Our Village” is a sustainable project in the long run. Its goal is to empower the villag-

ers Dubočane and Mala Jasikova, boost their production and make them able to market themselves so their families and the entire village will live a better life. A plan that has the broadest social significance has been selected, as demographic research shows that hundreds of villages have been deserted because their population sought better living conditions elsewhere. They were on search not only for higher income, but better living conditions for their families. There are no major cultural events in these villages, there is no social life, the roads are bad, and the Internet and mobile phone signal is weak. This is the reason why a segment of Delta’s campaign focuses on reviving social and cultural life in the two villages. The first such event was a New Year’s Eve play by the Zaječar Theatre. Many villagers have admitted that that was the first time that a play had been staged in their culture centre. We won’t even go into the joy that children felt when they saw Santa Claus coming to their village. Under the auspices of the project, the plan is to also restore local schools, and open playhouses, clubs and other premises where villagers would socialize and spend quality time together. Delta’s campaign already enjoys a strong support in the community. Local authorities in Zaječar welcomed the idea with open arms. Erste Bank joined in with its agricultural credit line which will enable villagers to obtain funds for their investments under very favourable terms and conditions. The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia has also joined the project team and will educate villagers about accessing domestic and international funds. The Keramika Company from Kanjiža helped the reconstruction of two halls in culture centres. Several other large domestic and foreign companies in Serbia have also expressed their wish to join in. The long-term goal of the Our Village campaign is to stop the migration of the villagers from these areas, since many of them already work in Western Europe, or workers from Zaječar and the nearby cities in Eastern Serbia. When they see for themselves that they can live off their work in their village, and that the life here is decent and comfortable, then migrations might go in the opposite direction.

GEOPOLITICS

The New Scramble for Africa This time, the winners could be Africans themselves

THE FIRST great surge of foreign interest in Africa, dubbed the “scramble”, was when 19th-century European colonists carved up the continent and seized Africans’ land. The second was during the cold war, when East and West vied for the allegiance of newly independent African states; the Soviet Union backed Marxist tyrants while America propped up despots who claimed to believe in capitalism. A third surge, now under way, is more benign. Outsiders have noticed that the continent is important and becoming more so, not least because of its growing share of the global population (by 2025 the UN predicts that there will be more Africans than Chinese people). Governments and businesses from all around the world are rushing to strengthen diplomatic, strategic and commercial ties. This creates vast opportunities. If Africa handles the new scramble wisely, the main winners will be Africans themselves. The extent of foreign engagement is unprecedented. Start with diplomacy. From 2010 to 2016 more than 320 embassies were opened in Africa, probably the biggest embassy-building boom anywhere, ever. Turkey alone opened 26. Last year India announced it would open 18. Military ties are deepening, too. America and France are lending muscle and technology to the struggle against jihadism in the Sahel. China is now the biggest arms seller to sub-Saharan Africa and has defence-technology ties with 45 countries. Russia has signed 19 military deals with African states since 2014. Oil-rich Arab states are building bases on the Horn of Africa and hiring African mercenaries. Commercial ties are being upended. As recently as 2006 Africa’s three biggest trading partners were America, China and France, in that order. By 2018 it was China first, India second and America third (France was seventh). Over the

same period Africa’s trade has more than trebled with Turkey and Indonesia, and more than quadrupled with Russia. Trade with the European Union has grown by a more modest 41%. The biggest sources of foreign direct investment are still firms from America, Britain and France, but Chinese ones, including state-backed outfits, are catching up, and investors from India and Singapore are eager to join the fray. However, engagement with the outside world has mostly been positive for Africans. Foreigners build ports, sell insurance and bring

China, but it comprises 54 countries, not one. African governments could strike better deals if they showed more unity. No one expects a heterogeneous continent that includes both anarchic battle zones and prosperous democracies to be as integrated as Europe. But it can surely do better than letting China negotiate with each country individually, behind closed doors. The power imbalance between, say, China and Uganda is huge. It could be reduced somewhat with a free-trade area or if African regional blocs clubbed together. After

IF CHINA BUILDS A BRIDGE IN GHANA, AN AMERICAN CAR CAN DRIVE OVER IT mobile-phone technology. Chinese factories hum in Ethiopia and Rwanda. Turkish Airlines flies to more than 50 African cities. Greater openness to trade and investment is one reason why GDP per head south of the Sahara is two-fifths higher than it was in 2000. (Sounder macroeconomic policies and fewer wars also helped.) Africans can benefit when foreigners buy everything from textiles to holidays and digital services. Second, Africa’s leaders need to think more strategically. Africa may be nearly as populous as

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all, the benefits of infrastructure projects spill across borders. Third, African leaders do not have to choose sides, as they did during the cold war. They can do business with Western democracies and also with China and Russia—and anyone else with something to offer. Because they have more choice now than ever before, Africans should be able to drive harder bargains. And outsiders should not see this as a zero-sum contest (as the Trump administration, when it pays attention to Africa, apparently does). If

China builds a bridge in Ghana, an American car can drive over it. If a British firm invests in a mobile-data network in Kenya, a Kenyan entrepreneur can use it to set up a cross-border startup. Last, Africans should take what some of their new friends tell them with a pinch of salt. China argues that democracy is a Western idea; development requires a firm hand. This message no doubt appeals to African strongmen, but it is bunk. A study by Takaaki Masaki of the World Bank and Nicolas van de Walle of Cornell University found that African countries grow faster if they are more democratic. The good news is that, as education improves and Africans move rapidly to the cities, they are growing more critical of their rulers, and less frightened to say so. In 1997, 70% of African ruling parties won more than 60% of the vote, partly by getting rural chiefs to cow villagers into backing them. By 2015 only 50% did. As politics grows more competitive, voters’ clout will grow. And they will be able to insist on a form of globalisation that works for Africans and foreigners alike. From The Economist, published under licence. The original article, in English, can be found on www.economist.com

CORPORATE

Institutions are Crucial for Implementation of GDPR

The commotion that the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) caused in Europe and the world has somehow spilt over into Serbia too. Companies have shown a great interest in this topic, especially those that do business with the EU countries

SLOBODAN KREMENJAK Technology, Media and Telecommunications Partner at Živković Samardžić Law Firm

The GDPR has generated a lot of public attention, especially after its adoption in the EU in May last year. Our country has harmonized its legislation with the GDPR in early November. We have talked with Slobodan Kremenjak, Technology, Media and Telecommunications Partner at Živković Samardžić Law Firm, about what awaited companies in the future following the Law on Protection of Personal Data (LPPD) coming into force.

What can we expect to happen following the implementation of the GDPR in Serbia?

— The easiest thing to do is just to translate a directive. However, the problem arises when you have to understand the reasons behind such a directive being adopted by the EU. Harmonization is generally good, and we have to think in the context of these rules being devised with developed countries in mind and about institutional capacities for their implementation. It is important that we therefore work on the digital transformation of society and improving competences. We need to develop bodies and institutions, because without them it would be very difficult to implement a regulation in practice. The problem arises with cross-border and overseas data transfer. It should be noted that we are not in the EU and that, for instance, the EU-US treaties about the protection level do not apply to us. That’s where the problem lies.

Your peers have been talking about the Commissioner for Personal Data Protection being given an extended authority, although the Commissioner’s Office does not have enough capacity to deal with the GDPR provisions. What is your view on that?

— The regulation that was simple has already been harmonized. This is how things are done in the personal data protection segment too because some things were com-

to you with questions?

— The commotion that the GDPR caused in Europe and the world had somehow spilt over into Serbia too, even before the relevant law was adopted. Companies, especially those that do business with the EU countries, have shown great interest in this topic, because they realized that something serious was happening over there and were informed about possible sanctions. Of course, there will

IT IS IMPORTANT THAT WE THEREFORE WORK ON THE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF SOCIETY AND IMPROVING COMPETENCES pleted almost 10 years ago. Now, we are dealing with details and upgrade that require fine measurements, judgments and capacities. The most important issue now is whether we have the required capacity, because all that is left to do is nuances and I don’t think that we have either knowledge or capacity to do them.

How does all of this affect companies in Serbia? Do they come

always be large companies targeting the Western market, as well as companies that are part of some international groups that have done more on the harmonization, while small and medium-sized enterprises have been lagging behind a little bit. The institutions play a big role because they should educate people about it. Most of the questions were related to the period before the adoption of laws and harmoni-

zation with the GDPR. The most frequently asked questions related to what extent is directive applicable to them, if at all.

What were the reactions to the penalties for not implementing the GDPR being much lower in Serbia than in the EU? What do you think of this decision made by lawmakers?

— Yes, penalties here are much lower than in the European Union. However, what would really cause a problem, also in the EU, would be if you authorized various bodies and institutions to charge those penalties although you are not really sure that they are competent enough to implement the GDPR and determine an adequate penalty. It remains to be seen how ready, trained and capacitated are our authorities to deal with this new and complex regulation and on top of that, determine pretty hefty penalties. The fact that the penalties are much lower here can still cause worry that penalties will not be respected, but on the other hand, it leaves room for the authorities to catch up so that the initial mistakes they make do not have drastic consequences.

MEDIA STRATEGY Slobodan Kremenjak is probably the only attorney in Belgrade to receive a journalistic award. As an expert on media law, in 2006, he received ANEM’s Lighthouse Ward. Since, he has also been assisting with the development of the Media Strategy, our next question is about the progress made so far with this. I started representing the media in Serbia twenty year ago. In fact, we started as attorneys for B92 in the 1990s. Working with journalists is difficult because they don’t trust you that easily, but when trust is established, then it becomes a pleasure to work with them. The whole story about the journalistic strategy is complicated because the previous one expired in 2016, and drafting of a new one has been delayed. There is a public debate about the Draft Strategy, based on which additional corrections are expected to be made. After that, the Strategy is going to be adopted, followed by the adoption of an Action Plan which is important because it prescribes adequate measures and determines who implements them. The key aim of this Strategy is evaluation, or rather facilitating its valuation. Boosting the state’s capacity is very important in this context because oftentimes strategies are never implemented. At the moment, it is important that we regulate the subsidizing of the media.

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CORPORATE

Highest Diagnostic Standards

Our first duty to the patients is to offer them an excellent medical expertise in an atmosphere of safety and comfort. From the first patient´s contact with WPK, to the aftercare and follow-up, we provide them with high quality, sustainable care

Primarius WALTER EBM Wiener Privatklinik

Well known for its expertise in Austria for a number of years, Wiener Privatklinik is increasingly becoming a first choice for patients coming from abroad. “We are very proud that the international patients have recognized what we represent and that we have gained their trust”, says Primarius Walter Ebm. ”The patients at Wiener Privatklinik are treated with the best and latest methods”, Dr Ebm adds.

How has the expertise of the Wiener Privatklinik (WPK) evolved since its establishment?

— We at WPK are working continuously on developing every aspect of the clinic. Our main focus is on patients and providing our patients with the outstanding care which, at the same time, means providing our affiliated physicians with optimal working conditions, the top notch technology and modern, constantly improved hospital management. All of this combined results in quality on the highest level. Our clinic has 145 clinical beds, 4 state-of-the-art theatres, advanced radiology centre and more than 300 remarkable doctors. Our proximity to the Vienna University Hospital and the intensive cooperation with their top-level researchers and clinicians, contribute to the fact that patients at Wiener Privatklinik are treated with the best and latest methods. We are also aware of the importance of our patients’ well-being and are dedicated to offer them an environment which is not only lux-

urious, but also creates the atmosphere of safety and comfort, thus contributing to patient healing process. Of course, that includes the highest degree of confidentially and discretion. From the first patient´s contact with WPK, to the aftercare and follow-up, we provide them with high quality, sustainable care.

What are the leading medical services are you offering today?

— First duty to the patients is to offer them an excellent medical expertise in an atmosphere of safety and comfort. Wiener Privatklinik is renowned for its successes in the fields of internal medicine, oncology (WPK Academy Cancer Centre)

diagnostic standards, plus the top notch medical devices, techniques and physicians with the highest international reputation. But I would like also to point out that our marketing and international department, which is constantly growing in response to the growing patient’s requests, help patients with arranging appointments,

THE NUMBER OF INTERNATIONAL PATIENTS IS GROWING AND WE ARE BECOMING INCREASINGLY KNOWN FOR OUR SERVICES INTERNATIONALLY , trauma surgery, sports surgery and orthopaedics, cardiovascular diseases, gastroenterology, general surgery and general diagnostic. For an example, at our Academy Cancer Centre we offer a whole range of cancer treatments, from chemo therapy to the latest immune therapy and surgery. We are in the process of building the modern state-of-the-art radio therapy centre. Of course, we are also offering the best diagnostics, including lab tests, PET scans, MRI, biopsy tests etc.

What international patients can expect from you? — Our distinctive features are a combination of the latest treatments combined and the highest

issuing cost estimates, assistance with visa invitations, organizing ambulance transport, etc. We provide all these services in different languages besides German, such as English, Russian, and Romanian.

It seems that you have strong international connections and lot of international patients. — We are very proud that the international patients have recognized what we represent and that we have gained their trust. The

number of international patients is growing and we are becoming increasingly known for our services internationally. We are very happy and pleased to be able to offer our patients the best possible service and care. We also visit and stage events in different countries such as Romania, Russia and others, replying to public and media’s questions about WPK, but also offering second opinions, or answering patient’s questions. During the selected exhibitions we attend, mostly in Russia and Ukraine, we publicly present our clinic, as well as present ourselves to potential cooperation partners, all with the view of building stronger connections abroad. We are also very proud to say that we have a WPK Office in Bucharest and Timisoara, as a result of the increased interest from patients in Romania, where patients can visit us directly during our working hours, or contact us over an e-mail or phone, and have their questions regarding appointments, cost estimations and other things answered.

HOW TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT To book an appointment all you need to do is to send an e-mail at info@wpk.at, or to call us on +43 1 40 180 8700. Our international marketing department will answer any questions you might have.

CORPORATE

We are a Good Example to Other Free Zones Only by having more favorable conditions for doing business we can attract investments and new technologies that are the key to job creation and the growth of living standard in our country. Our concept zone is very modern and has been recording excellent results, and together with other free zones in the Western Balkans, we can further improve it

DRAGAN KOSTIĆ Director of Pirot Free Zone

Pirot Free Zone was opened in 1998 when it spanned a total of 17 hectares of land. In 2019, the Zone covers 122 hectares and is preparing for yet another extension of additional 30 hectares. A total of 23 production and 100 trading companies operate in Pirot Free Zone including large and small and medium-sized companies that have close to 6,500 employees. In 2018, the Zone’s users recorded a total turnover of nearly a billion euro. Automotive and rubber companies here generate the highest turnover. For the sixth consecutive time, Pirot Free Zone was declared Top 50 Best Free Zones in the World by fDi magazine, published by the Financial Times. Last year, the Zone was declared the best in Europe and the third best in the world. „The company that manages Pirot Free Zone offers a range of services to the Zone’s users which facilitate their business and help

them to execute their core activities. In addition to the basic benefits that free zones offer to their customers, namely operating in custom-duty and tax-free environment, our free zone also provides a range of benefits for its users including customs brokerage services, domestic and international transport, transshipment and storage services at the very favourable and competitive terms

As of recently, Pirot Free Zone has represents and performs the duties of the Regional Office of the World Free Zone Organization (WFZO) for South East Europe.

What are your expectations from the summit of the Free Zones of Europe in Skopje? What is your role in co-organizing the conference as the WFSR’s Regional Office?

DEVELOPMENT OF SOFTWARE TOOLS WHICH CONNECTS CUSTOMS AND OUR USERS ESPECIALLY IN INWARD PROCESSING IS VERY IMPORTANT IN TERMS OF FACILITATIONG USERS CORE BUSINESS and prices,” says Dragan Kostić, Director of Pirot Free Zone. "We have also developed software tools that facilitate user operations by keeping electronic records and completely archiving all documents in all procedures related to freight forwarding and customs in terms of inward processing and other customs procedures in the zone," he adds.

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— In order to prepare the Free Zones of Europe Summit in Skopje, which will take place from 2nd to 4th May, the Republic of Northern Macedonia will hold several meetings with the co-organizers of the summit, the Directorate of Technological Industrial Development Zones (DTIDZ) and the Free Zone Pirot as Regional Offices of the World Organization of Free

Zones (WFZO). The summit will bring together leaders and stakeholders of the most influential free zones in the world with the view of presenting the latest concepts, models and achievements of free zones in terms of attracting investments, supporting their customers, and their impact on economic and technological development. At the meeting, we have agreed on the organizational plan and prepared the Summit’s agenda which is taking place in a Western Balkan country for the first time ever. In addition to our experience with the participation and organization of the international conferences, we are going to invite all representatives of free zones and other stakeholders from the neighbouring countries, with whom we can jointly contribute to accomplishment of the Summit’s goals.

This is the first time that such a gathering is organized in the Western Balkans. What kind of potential do we have in this region and do we market ourselves in the right way? Have we

joined forces with other countries or the regional countries are in competition with each other?

— There are over 10,000 free zones in the world. 80 of them are in Europe and 39 in the Western Balkans. In Europe, or the EU, to be more precise, the special economic zones in Poland are definitely ahead of the rest in terms of efficiency. In the Balkans, the best free zones are in Serbia (14) and the Technological-Industrial Development Zones in Macedonia (15). Our common goal is to create a modern concept of free zones that will attract as many investments in production as possible and provide users with the best conditions for doing business. The modern concept of free zones is reflected in simplified administrative procedures, efficient processes and ensuring high security of goods and persons, along with trading and manufacturing in line with the highest global standards. The huge potential of free zones lies in their geographical location and transport network. Pirot Free Zone is located on the crossroad of three Pan-European corridors – Xc, VIII and IV, which connect our users to the Danube river, Bulgaria, Turkey, Italy, Greece and Romania. Since we are located on the main transport corridors, this establishes good links to the ports of Thessaloniki, Burgas, Varna, Bar and Constanta. Via the Free Zones Group at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, the free zones in our countries are members of the biggest international free zone association – World Free Zone Organisation (WFZO). Pirot Free Zone has represents and performs

OUR GOAL IS TO CREATE A MODERN CONCEPT OF FREE ZONES IN THE WESTERN BALKANS THAT WILL ATTRACT AS MANY INVESTMENTS IN PRODUCTION AS POSSIBLE AND PROVIDE USERS WITH THE BEST CONDITIONS FOR DOING BUSINESS the duties of the Regional Office of the World Free Zone Organization (WFZO) for South East Europe. Together with the WFZO, we have launched the Safe Zone project, which aims to certify procedures in free zones with the goal of better monitoring the flow of goods and the complete eradication of illegal trade. There is no trafficking in our zones which means that our experiences could be very beneficial to other zones in dealing with daily challenges, especially when it comes to illegal tobacco trade. The second large-scale project that we are jointly implementing with the regional free zones is the introduction of the Izdihar Index that aims at improving the performances of all free zones

and is based on 3 support pillars: Best in Class (knowledge, safety and technical integrity), Innovation (entrepreneurship, SME development and innovation) and Sustainability (environmental protection, favourable living and business environment and social responsibility). By implementing and monitoring these parameters, free zones increase their capacities and work as partners rather than competitors.

Some people think that the zones that are focusing on just one industry, as opposed to a few of them, are becoming dominant today. What can you tell us from your experience and from research done in this field?

— There are different concepts in the world, and different types of free, specialized and economic zones that carry different names and provide different conditions for doing business. The name is not important. What is important is that they provide the best possible conditions for doing business. Only by having more favorable conditions for doing business we can attract investments and new technologies that are the key to job creation, the growth of living standard in our country, foreign currency balance and overall prosperity. Our concept zone is very modern and has been recording excellent results. In the last ten years, free zones in Serbia have attracted 2.5 billion euro and created 35,000 new jobs, while the annual turnover of their users is close to 5 billion euro, half of which is export value. For the sixth consecutive time, Pirot Free Zone was declared Top 50 Best Free Zones in the World by fDi magazine, published by the Financial Times. Last year, the Zone was declared the best in Europe and the third best in the world.

WORKER TRAINING PROGRAMMES Yes, there is a temporary lack of qualified workforce, and yes, we are working together with the city of Pirot to resolving this issue. We believe that through providing more job trainings in the next period we are going to qualitatively improve the workforce in Pirot County. Pirot Free Zone is cooperating with the Pirot Chamber of Commerce, the Pirot administration and Pirot Office of the National Employment Service on eliminating this problem. In 2018, we organized together 21 business events, two scientific conferences and 6 workshops, offering training and education. The City of Pirot has adopted the Local Employment Action Plan for 2019, which en-

visages the implementation of 4 employment programmes: a public works programme, work practice programme, self-employment programme and training program for deficient professions. The City of Pirot has allocated 19 million dinars for the implementation of these programmes. Following their implementation, a 70 new jobs should be created. In cooperation with HELP, the City of Pirot has funded 450 people the last few years through stimulating entrepreneurship. The ZIP Centre, the Local Economic Development Office, the Jug Regional Development Agency and many others that contribute to curbing unemployment are working on eliminating this problem.

CORPORATE

Digitalization – Coupling of Experience and Innovation It’s not about the size of the company, but speed of adaptation

DIANA GLIGORIJEVIĆ Executive Board member and Executive Marketing Director of TeleGroup

Diana Gligorijević, an Executive Board member and Executive Marketing Director of TeleGroup, reveals how to develop a serious regional company from a small family business and how much patience, strength and will is needed for achieving such success. „There are no coincidental stories. I worked for big companies, like JAT, back in the day, and then I started working for Bell Helicopters which, at that time, had 186,000 employees. When I returned to the country in 1992, after living in the United States and Belgium, it was all about downsizing – from the work volume to the size and the number of employees in the companies in which I worked. At the time, it was very brave to have a private company, and it was natural to work only with those people that you could always rely on – i.e. your immediate family. My vocation is marketing officer and I graduated from the Wharton School with an MBA in marketing management. Back then, many people had never heard of Wharton. Most of them thought that the school had to do something with the NBA in which Divac played, and they usually asked me what was I doing in basketball. People don't know how much studying,

analytical and market research there is in a marketing job“, says Mrs Gligorijević.

How is TeleGroup positioned in its respective sector?

— My husband is a telecommunications engineer, so he knows the profession well, and I know how to present and to promote the company. There were some private companies in the market when we started, but TeleGroup recognized that it had to be positioned in a separate niche. We are ready to collaborate with everyone in order to

in the communication segment. In less than a year, we have become a leading partner for the entire region thanks to five people who have mastered all the required technological know-how. The gist is not in the size but in the speed of the adaptation, the acquisition of new knowledge and its transfer to the users whom you are servicing. People are always looking for support in someone. We were one of the first companies to introduce a 24/7 work model, i.e. a help desk centre, so that our customers can contact us at all times.

Speaking from your abundant foreign working experience, what is Serbia's position on the map of technological innovation and change?

— Serbia has the inferiority complex and it doesn't realize that small countries needn't feel poor and weak. However, you need to have a strong sense, will, motive and serious negotiating capacity to fit in as an important link. Immediately after the company's inception, we partnered with Ericsson

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You did a lot of work with young leaders under the auspices of the American Chamber of Commerce. Is Serbia going to experience an entrepreneurial boom with start-ups?

ones. Digitalization is very poorly understood here. It is a completely new way of communicating, accepting, and processing information. Technology does not allow for idleness, and this is a fundamental change for this society.

— It's hard to figure out what young people want. I try to listen to what the generation of my son, with whom I work closely, has to say and who received the first Young Leader in Change Award from AmCham. We work together and in harmony to demonstrate to young people that having a difference of opinion is only logical and that good results can stem from that. As a tandem, for the past two consecutive years, we were the recipients of the AmCham Award for being the best. We have also shown that we do not always agree with the AmCham and that it is not necessary to always nod your head in agreement. You have to revise your stance when faced with a strong argument, not with a status or a title.

How can we boost the domestic economy?

What are your plans in 2019 and 2020?

Is digitalization a major challenge for our society?

— It is a challenge because the society has to change its habits. This means first breaking the old habits and then getting used to the new

PROCESSED, SYSTEMATIZED DATA FACILITATES THOUGHTFUL DECISIONMAKING AND THIS IS A RESULT OF DIGITALIZATION obtain the biggest and most important projects. It is always important to have a high quality, strong technological back, so to speak.

model. This should be done at least quarterly and changed as needed. Business people can no longer rely on intuition, and today there is no room for this model. Processed, systematized data facilitates thoughtful decision making and this is a result of digitalization.

— We should read, learn and think more because digitalization brings a wealth of data. You need to think carefully how to use them, and to know how to distinguish between useful and surplus information. Only after executing a good analysis and selection, you should apply what is required for your business

— Back in the day, we worked with over 40 vendors, today with work with less than 20. Our plan is to create a TeleGroup product, alongside the upgraded semi-finished products that others companies are selling. This is product that we would design and upgrade to fit the needs of our markets.

CORPORATE

In Good Speed In 2018, Star Import achieved growth in all sales segments, and we can proudly say that the growth of sales of the Mercedes-Benz brand exceeded the growth of the entire automotive market. We expect to continue at the same pace in 2019 too

ŠTEFAN VÖRÖŠ Managing Director Star Import d.o.o, General Distributor for Daimler of Mercedes-Benz, smart, Setra and Fuso vehicles in Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Albania

We have talked to Managing Director of Star Import, Štefan Vöröš just prior to the International Car Show in Belgrade.

Could you give us a photo-robot of the average buyer of your cars in Serbia? Which model and equipment do they usually pick?

— By choosing the Mercedes-Benz brand, the customer chooses security as their priority. Our vehicles are well-known for their safety. The safety of vehicles and passengers is inextricably linked to digital innovations in which MercedesBenz is an absolute market leader. The attractive design of the Mercedes-Benz vehicles is also recognized by customers. The gamma of our vehicles is very wide and gives an ample range of possibilities for the customer to choose the model according to their needs and preferences. Our customers can be divided into two groups - one group remains traditionally loyal to sedans, first and foremost to E-Class, while the

other group opts for our new models from the SUV segment, which is dominated by GLC.

How satisfied are you with the business results from 2018 and what are your expectations from 2019? — 2018 was a successful year for Star Import. We achieved growth in all sales segments, and we can proudly say that the growth of sales of the Mercedes-Benz brand exceeded the growth of the entire automotive market. Additionally, we managed to keep the costs at a low level.

March of this year. We are confident that a number of new models that we will premiere at the Car Show will just validate our leading position in the premium segment.

You cover the markets in Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Albania. How similar and how different are these markets?

WE ARE CONFIDENT THAT A NUMBER OF NEW MODELS THAT WE WILL PREMIERE AT THE CAR SHOW IN MARCH WILL JUST VALIDATE OUR LEADING POSITION IN THE PREMIUM SEGMENT The macroeconomic situation in the markets where we operate (Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Albania) was conducive to economic and GDP growth. We expect to continue at the same pace in 2019 too. We will traditionally exhibit at the 54th International Car Show in Belgrade, which will be held from 22nd-31st

— In all of these markets the Mercedes-Benz brand is widely recognized and accepted which we consider a great success. The basic postulate of our business is that our approach is the same for all partner standards and conditions. The professionalism and expertise of our distribution network is something that is common to all

our markets. We invest a lot in all the employees in our network. The political and economic circumstances in the markets of these countries are different, and in different ways they reflect on our business. Together with our partners, we have succeeded in having services and products that are tailor-made to the customers in every individual market.

What is your share in the luxury car segment and what trends have you noticed in that segment?

— The luxury car segment in Serbia is stable and numbers at around 2,200 cars, which is close to 8% of the total market. In 2018, this segment recorded a 12% growth. The share that the Mercedes-Benz brand has is 36% which is also an increase relative to 2017. The constant advancements in digitization, and introduction of alternative fuels is what we have noticed as dominant trends. We expect to achieve a stable growth in the years to come too.

SPECIAL OFFER FOR BUSINESS SECTOR Business sales are very important in our company. The process of selling is not longer in focus in the modern business world because mobility has become an imperative. Instead of just buying a vehicle, today's companies are putting an emphasis on full service (servicing, winter tires, financing) and cost cutting. Star Import has recognized the great potential that this sales segment has. Therefore, in the previous period, we worked on the development and implementation of a special sales concept for business users that we named Bussines Solutions. Very attractive sales campaigns for companies, and special terms of financing with the offer that includes regular servicing and an extended warranty have given excellent results. That is why, for the upcoming 54th International Car Show, we have prepared flexible financing conditions and special campaigns for this customer segment. The most popular vehicles of the target group in this sales segment are C-Class and E-Class.

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Come Home to the Riviera Lifestyle Countless artists and writers have flocked to the shores of Montenegro in pursuit of its living secrets. Tradition here is the outcome of countless cultural influences and conquests a fact that Luštica Bay proudly reflects in the pure authenticity of its new rising town. Whether at the pro-level golf course, worldclass marinas, five-star hotels, wellness centre or charming restaurants and exciting nightlife venues, a world of life-changing experiences awaits

Planned to become a show-stopping town on the idyllic, worldsaway Luštica peninsula, integrated town development Luštica Bay in Montenegro is carving out an exceptional way of life. A life that combines the gentle traditions of Montenegrin riviera living with state-of-the-art contemporary facilities.

GUESTS, VISITORS AND HOMEOWNERS ARE ALSO PERFECTLY POSITIONED TO EXPLORE THE WIDER TEMPTATIONS OF THE MARINA VILLAGE AND ITS BRAND NEW MARINA An alluring setting, agreeable climate, diverse scenery, worldclass facilities and top-quality construction and finish make owning

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a home here first and foremost a pleasure. There is great sense of community and an opportunity to put down roots and connect with

the local scene, whether you are a permanent resident or enjoying your property during the holiday season. But at the same time, your Luštica Bay haven is a very attractive investment. The first big milestone for the development was achieved during 2018 with Marina Village opening, which makes the lifeblood of Luštica Bay; a stylish

harbour hub, a social scene, a space to admire Luštica’s signature views. With the new marina, The Chedi five-star hotel and selection of authentic shops and restaurants, its bustling promenade has never been busier. Alongside 111 rooms, including 60 condominium suites, the 5* Chedi hotel boasts three restaurants, a lobby bar, a business centre with a ballroom, a private beach, an outdoor heated pool, a wellness and fitness centre with indoor heated pool and a range of resort shops. Guests, visitors and homeowners are also perfectly positioned to explore the wider temptations of the Marina Village and its brand new marina. Protecting waters that are among the cleanest in Europe, the marina is a pinnacle of sus-

tainable design. It offers a range of services and facilities, as well as 24-hour yacht assistance to help sailors on their way. In addition to that, newly opened marina promenade offerings champion local talent,

for sale, so buyers can capitalise on significantly lower purchase prices during construction. Getting in early means not only discounted pricing but also the expectation of price increases over the construction period. Buying off-plan

BUYING OFF-PLAN ALLOWS BUYERS TO BENEFIT FROM A VERY ADVANTAGEOUS PAYMENT PLAN – AS WELL AS ADDING EXTRA OPTIONS DURING THE BUILDING PROCESS bringing authentic Montenegro to Luštica Bay, with restaurants serving up seasonal, local dishes and shops that combine world-renowned brands with local designs and one-of-a-kind treasures. Luštica Bay currently offers both off-plan and built products

allows buyers to benefit from a very advantageous payment plan – as well as adding extra options during the building process. And it’s not just your own perfect property that you are buying into. Alongside the villas, town-

homes, condos and apartments that comprise Luštica Bay there is a wealth of infrastructure that makes both residency and vacations here so much more attractive: the marina, the future golf course, varied sports facilities, restaurants and cafés are all on the doorstep, along with schools, medical services and other essential amenities. As if this wasn’t enough - beyond the embrace of Luštica Bay, the coastline of Montenegro offers a dizzying variety of towns, cities and beaches. Still, whatever the adventure, Luštica Bay will be there on your return: a place to re-centre and reconnect; somewhere not to pass the time, but to live every moment. As well as enjoying Luštica life yourself, why not let your property work for you?

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Business is Always "Human to Human" Love is a crucial ingredient of our French Way formula. When you genuinely care about what you’re doing, people can feel it. It is a crucial lesson that I learned from a young age. Today, bringing the French Way to the business world is our mission TONY LUX The CEO of Tony Lux, Marketing Luxury Goods the French Way

Tony Lux marketing consultations are designed to reveal the untapped opportunities that can help businesses to grow their sales and profits by making people fall in love with their brands. Tony Lux, the CEO, explains what makes their approach unique.

Please tell us first a little bit more about the founder of the company?

— Bonjour! I grew up in France born to a military father and a cleaning lady mother. I did not come from a family of millionaires or business-minded people for role models. I never won the lottery,

and nobody gave me the money to forge my own path. I started like many, from the bottom, working at McDonald’s during the day and developing my online business at night. I don’t like the term ‘self-made’ because no man is an island. I had to invest a lot and learn from others to succeed. But, to follow the cliche, it is true that I am a high-school drop-out. Once I became successful and started doing consulting for international brands, I realized how my French accent was perceived as

exotic. So I decided to study what we the French do, that is natural to us but exotic to others. Based on extensive research and one-on-one interviews with more than 50 of the most legendary CEOs of luxury brands in the world — from Louis Vuitton and Coco Chanel, to Dom Pérignon, Montblanc and Rolex — I identified how the most elite brands have applied the French Way to their marketing. Today, bringing the French Way to the business world is our mission.

OF COURSE, WE OFFER LUXURY SERVICES TO OUR CLIENTS FOR AN INVESTMENT. HOWEVER, WE DO NOT SELECT COMPANIES BASED ON THEIR INDUSTRIES OR SALES NUMBERS. WE ONLY WANT TO HELP CARING BUSINESSES

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What does the French Way in marketing stand for?

— That is a very interesting question which deserves a detailed answer. In fact, I am currently writing the first book on the topic. To summarize, most marketing companies depersonalize customers and treat them like a random number in an excel file. For them, business is all about how many leads you have, what is the conversion rate, which units are the most profitable, etc. People usually say to me, “I have a B2B business” or “I sell B2C”. But you know what? There is only HtH. In other words, your business is always "Human to Human." Because the reality is, the one thing that makes your marketing really work is not how many leadgen funnels you have, or how hard you’re bombarding your prospects

with product launches, or even how persuasive your sale scripts are. The only thing that works is making people fall in love with your brand. That’s the thing: that special something that most of your competitors are not willing to do. So love is a crucial ingredient of our French Way formula. When you genuinely care about what you’re doing, people can feel it. It is a crucial lesson that I learned from a young age. It’s about you caring about the people you’re helping. Because when you care, you’re willing to go that extra mile. You’re not doing it for the money. You’re doing it for the pure joy of creating an experience that people will remember. And here’s the thing: that’s something most of your competitors are not willing to do. That shift in thinking will put you ahead of everyone else.

Baring in mind that you are connected to luxury brands, please tell us which industries and clients you are targeting in Serbia?

— A few weeks ago I was having a conversation in Paris with someone who helped to develop the iconic “La Robe Noire” perfume for Guerlain. Our discussion was about the research they conducted to find out what women really want to wear as a perfume. For more than a year, they asked women how they want to feel? Why? Which clothes would they wear with it? What would be perfect for them...? This developer didn’t focus on researching for the money, but rather focused on enhancing the female experience and seducing Guerlain clients. In the same way, Serbia has a lot of caring entrepreneurs, innovators, artists and companies worthy of media attention. They do it because they are passionate. For example, there is a Serbian company called Bambino founded in 1990 making high-quality children's clothes in Serbia. They may not make millions, but they are really making a difference. When mothers know that they don’t have to buy a new shirt for their child after a few washes due to bad quality, it helps them to manage the family budget better. This creates a partnership of trust with the brand, and demonstrates that the brand really cares about the client.

Which consulting services are you offering?

— Our marketing consultations are designed to challenge the status quo, and to reveal untapped opportunities to grow sales and profits, while increasing the numbers of people falling in love with our clients brand. A typical consulting day with us would consist of performing an X-ray of a business. In particular we cover 7 key leverage points:

potential clients as you would like? Conversion sequences. How good are you at turning visitors into clients? Your irresistible offers. Are most of your offers leading to a “Yes” from your potential clients? Your orchestrated referral strategies. For example, one of the best tactics to double sales in less than 6 months is to create a system

A BIG SECRET OF OUR SUCCESS IS THE ABILITY TO PLACE OUR CLIENTS EGO ASIDE, AND ENABLE THEM TO SEE A NEW APPROACH Your positioning and branding. Are you perceived as the first or the best in the world at what you do? If not, studies show that you may have to rebrand yourself to be a market leader, instead of just becoming another brand. Remember, simply believing you are the best does not make it so. Real lead generation strategies. Are you having as much traffic or

where your clients are bringing you new clients. If they trust you, they can become ambassadors of your brand for you, and people will trust them more than your sales team. Advanced techniques of client loyalty, tailor-made to your specific market. Do you measure the satisfaction of your clients? Do you have a strategy to win back unhappy clients? Are you able to

THE SUCCESS COMES WITH MUCH TRIAL AND ERROR The media often promotes “overnight success stories” because it sells papers, however it’s rarely that easy. Any serious business person will tell you that any public accolades received for success comes from many years of hard work done in private. This success has come with much trial and error, and many missed opportunities along the way. However it seems that the world rewards value. Therefore my final advice would be to focus on creating real value, and changing people’s lives. I often hear fears about the economy in Serbia. The reality is, in any economy, in any country, the most valuable employees, people or products, will always win. Be the most valuable at what you do and you won’t have to worry anymore.

make your clients buy your brand (almost) indefinitely? And finally Like all chefs, our secret French Way ingredient!

What is a typical reaction from your clients when doing such an in-depth analysis of their business?

— What’s interesting is how managers, marketing directors and even CEOs can be blind to innovation because they have already fallen in love with their own ideas. They are no longer objective. This determination is not a bad thing. However, when you have invested months or years into an idea, it is hard to accept that there are missing profit centers, or even better, smarter ways to increase sales. A big secret of our success is the ability to place our clients ego aside, and enable them to see a new approach. But seeing without fixing and without concrete improvements makes no sense. That is why after our consultation, they receive a consulting report in the mail. The essence of our work is safely kept in a sealed black box, confidential, and tailor-made for their unique needs. This perk allow them to be perfectly autonomous in the implementation of their new marketing strategy. They are usually very surprised to receive it.

How do you perceive your position in the Serbian market?

— This is a tricky question. We are the first French Way marketing agency in the world, and we have come to Serbia to show businesses a new way. It is both an exciting and a big responsibility. I believe we offer something very unique, but you be the judge. Our agency is by appointment only, and our flagship office is located in the Hyatt.

One of the interesting things is that your Marketing House is the first to offer a full refund on your consulting offers. What has been your clients response to this offer?

— Indeed, our consulting offers are fully guaranteed: If you are not absolutely satisfied with the action plan given to you, then you will be refunded. No questions asked. As a result, clients have been positively surprised and reassured by this “fall in love or do not pay” policy.

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Partnership Relations With Investors

Sombor is the first and the fastest town in issuing building permits in Serbia. In 2018, the Financial Times ranked the town third on the list of the cities of the future. Investors here come from the food processing and automotive industry and appreciate Sombor's highly educated workforce

DUŠANKA GOLUBOVIĆ Mayor of Sombor

„Every investor that comes to Sombor has a loyal partner in the town's government because all of us are investing a lot of effort into attracting and promoting investments that will bring new technologies“, says Dušanka Golubović, Mayor of Sombor.

Why is Sombor appealing to foreign investors?

— From the very beginning, I came to the helm of the city, I am, for the most part, committed to improving the business environment, as well as strengthening the cooperation between the administration and investors. What distinguishes us from other local self-governments is that we have achieved a high degree of efficiency of the city administration and have become the first and the fastest town in issuing building permits in Serbia. Also, a very important achievement that we are particularly proud of is the fact that, last year, the Financial Times ranked us third on its of the cities of the future. We are trying to attract investors by low fees and affordable land. Before the end of 2018, we were audited for the BFC certification, which investors recognize as an attempt by the local

self-government to create business conditions and standards they are familiar with and which are implemented in the EU member states. Potential investors, who intend to invest on the territory of our city, will find the geostrategic position of Sombor very important because the city is located in the far northwest of the country and borders with two countries that are EU members - the Republic of Croatia and the Republic of Hungary. It also has three border crossings - two with Hungary and one with Croatia. The biggest European river, the Danube enters

qualified workforce. Today, investors recognize the town of Sombor as a place where it is possible to launch production in the food processing and automotive industry, because the town has sufficient human resources for these industries, production halls of former large companies, and 40 hectares of industrial zones, with a complete infrastructure and transport links, available to potential investors in the form of greenfield areas. Recently, thanks to the IPA cross-border funds, we started reconstructing the road connecting Sombor to Baja (in the Republic of Hungary). Sombor also has two key natural resources - the availability of fertile land and abundant waters. The town of Sombor encompasses 17 cadastral municipalities, spanning 110,000ha, with

SOMBOR ALSO HAS TWO KEY NATURAL RESOURCES - THE AVAILABILITY OF FERTILE LAND AND ABUNDANT WATERS Serbia near Sombor and with the port in Bezdan and Apatin, just twenty kilometres from the city, we have an excellent traffic and transport connection not only with our immediate neighbours but also with entire Europe. The developed road infrastructure will get you fast to Corridor 10 which is only 50km away and connects Sombor to important European centres. Sombor has a great and significant industrial heritage that attracts investors, and by industrial heritage, I mean the educated and

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almost 30,000ha of agricultural land owned by the Republic of Serbia. The largest percentage of this land consists of arable land, classified as the second or third class. Sombor is known for its crop production, with fruit growing and cattle breeding expanding in recent years, which forms a solid raw-material basis for the development of processing capacities of quality food products.

How many companies are there in Sombor, which sectors do they operate in and what does their arrival mean for the town?

— In terms of the number of companies here, it is not sufficient only to quote their number and not talk about them any further. Today, on the town's territory, there are over 1,200 small and medium-sized companies. We can say with certainty that, in the last 5 to 6 years, Sombor has been recognized by investors as a safe investment destination that, besides the fully equipped industrial zone, also of-

fers greenfield locations and a number of brownfield locations that are especially interesting for investors who are coming to the Serbian and regional markets for the first time. As a result of everything that we have managed to accomplish in the last two to three years, and our ambitious plans for the upcoming period that are incorporated into our strategic and planning documents, we have partners in globally renowned brands and companies that have recognized our efforts and invested in Sombor and which today make the backbone of our agricultural development. These are the companies like Agriser, which planted hazelnut fields for the world-renowned Ferrero Company, or Apple World which exports its entire apple production, grown on over 300 hectares of land, to the Russian Federation. There are companies that are the result of foreign direct investments in the metal industry, textile and footwear production, but also there is a noticeable in-

crease in the number of local firms engaged in the production and processing of cereals, milk, cheese and pastry products. The local self-government views, treats and values all these companies equally, and we are ready to provide each of them with full administrative assistance in building production

ing economic development?

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; In early 2019, we completed the infrastructure in the industrial zone and put 40 hectares of land, ready for greenfield investments, which are only 3km from the town, at the disposal of potential investors. There is a possibility that this zone will be expanded in the upcoming period. It is important to

WE HAVE FULLY EQUIPPED OUR INDUSTRIAL ZONE AND HAVE 40 HECTARES OF LAND FOR GREENFIELD INVESTMENTS. THE INDUSTRIAL ZONE IS ALSO A FREE CUSTOMS ZONE TOO capacities, raising the quality of human resources and connecting with other companies, as well as with the Chamber of Commerce, and state institutions.

What are your plans for 2019 when it comes to improving the business climate and services which the local self-government provides with the view of boost-

note that the zone has also become a free customs zone, which is an answer to one of the frequent questions that investors interested in investing Sombor had. Naturally, as before, the town of Sombor and its government offers potential investors a series of investment incentives, like tax incentives. For instance, a company which employs unemployed

persons has the right to a refund of a portion of the tax paid depending on the number of newly employed persons. Also, depending on the income that is being generated, the investor can be exempt from paying certain local utility fees. We should also not forget to mention the incentives granted by the higher state authorities, with investors mostly interested in exercising their right to grants when creating new jobs or building production facilities. Finally, in cooperation with the National Employment Office, the town of Sombor provides self-employment support in the form of professional assistance to the unemployed and in the form of subsidies for self-employment. In addition, the Professional Practice Programme has been implemented for several years now, where the unemployed person are trained to work independently with an existing employer, after which they can either start their own business or continue to work for their existing employer.

PARTNERS Our key message for any prospective investor, who has been thinking about choosing a place to invest is that if they pick Sombor, they will find a partner in us, because we, in the local self-government, invest a lot of effort into attracting and promoting investments that will bring new technologies. I am primarily referring to processing plants, but also to the implementation of IT elements in agricultural production. Furthermore, we are constantly improving the infrastructure which provides investors with better connections, cheaper transportation of goods and services and more economical business. I would also like to underline that the city

seeks to link different sectors and thus create a kind of service package for investors. Simply put, this means that it is sufficient for an investor to contact the local self-government, and it is up to us to present the town in the most efficient way, to network all the necessary stakeholders - from the education system that will provide trained workers, through the health and social care that will take care of the workers' and investors' rights, to administrative services, where civil servants have to perform the required tasks in order for the investment to be implemented in the fastest and most transparent way possible.

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Recipe for Success Jahorina is a mountain that satisfies everybody's tastes and likes. Our goal is for Jahorina to be alive 365 days a year because it has the potential to offer enjoyment, rest and fun to its visitors at any given moment

best examples and devised my own approached, adapted to our environment and the needs of our people. When you are a skier and see everything from that perspective, the ideas come by themselves, regardless of where in the world you are. I think that the main thing in this job is to be a good host, and to take care of every little matter, every cost and every possible saving.

What novelties did your team bring in terms of managing the ski centre and how satisfied are you with the season that is behind us?

DEJAN LJEVNAIĆ Director of Jahorina Olympic Centre

"With good ideas, an adequate team and a desire to work, success is really possible," says Dejan Ljevnaić, Director of the Jahorina Olympic Center, who demonstrated on the example of Jahorina, what a good team, who has ideas, can do.

Could you please tell our readers something about yourself? Who is Dejan Ljevnaić? What is your recipe for success? — I graduated from the Police Academy in Belgrade, after which I completed specialist studies at the Faculty of Political Sciences, also in Belgrade. From 1997 to 2008, I worked at the Republic of Serbia's Ministry of Interior, and from 2008 onwards, at the public enterprise Skijališta Srbije (Ski Resorts of Serbia), first as the executive director and later as director general. My

career in managing ski centres is over 10 years long and I have to admit that, during my career, I had ample success and received a lot of recognition. The secret of my success with Jahorina, which was not coincidental, is, first and foremost, a long

— I think that, together with my team, we have brought a new approach to business and guests, and we have implemented very important projects for Jahorina. Still, there is a lot left to do. A snowmaking system, which, for the first time ever, guarantees that Jahorina will have at least 120 days of snow

AFTER OVER THE 3-MONTH-LONG, VERY SUCCESSFUL WINTER SEASON, THE SNOW IDYLL ON JAHORINA CONTINUES. MY ADVICE TO EVERYONE IS TO USE THE UPCOMING PERIOD TO SKI AND HAVE FUN IN THE SNOW experience, constant education and training and picking the right people for our management team. Knowledge is the most important thing in this line of work because mistakes cost dearly. I have been travelling a lot, and still do because that is what my job of a manager entails. Together with my team I have visited many ski resorts around the world, talked to the people there, learned from

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annually, is the biggest project implemented in Jahorina ever, apart from the 1984 Olympic Games. Thanks to the state-of-the-art snowmaking system we built this year, we were the first in the region to open our ski slopes to skiers on November 29th. Skiers, ski slopes and, of course, the popularization of skiing in children and youth are our priorities. By „ski slopes“ I mean slopes that comply with FIS

standards, homologous, smooth, wide, with new signalling, protected by wind-breakers and pressed to the highest possible standards, which, after we carried out the works, are 40km long. By „skiers“ I am referring to everything that creates a comfortable feeling for skiers on the mountain – the newly opened sales outlets, two new ski courses for beginners, 1,000 new parking spaces, heliport, Olympic circles, Olympic podiums and comprehensive entertainment and competition programme. All the parameters that we are monitoring show that we are having the most successful winter season on Jahorina ever. We have already had a millionth pass on Jahorina in mid-season, and 7 days into the season, we recorded the most visited day during the current season when 6,000 visitors skied and snow-boarded on Jahorina. Soon, we are going to have a two-millionth ride which is unprecedented in the history of Jahorina. Selling the Bistrica Hotel to the Swiss investment fund, Batagon, is another good move that we have made. They are planning to invest 30 million euro in the hotel. In terms of numbers, we can boast unprecedented good results. On the day when we did the last review, we have come to the conclusion that we have surpassed the revenues from the entire ski season in 2017 by over 100%, as well as relative to the entire last season. The number of skiers grew by over 150% in relation to the entire season, and the number of rides by over 130% relative to the entire season.

How much did the habits and needs of your visitors change over time? What do they want now?

— Today's tourists and skiers are, first and foremost, big hedonists who expect and strive for perfection in every segment at a tourist destination. I think that Jahorina now has that, but we can also boast the best price-to-quality ratio in the region. I can say with certainty that our skiers on Jahorina receive service of enviable quality considering the invested funds. We also compared prices at ski centres in the wider region which showed us that we were the most affordable and that we provide the best service and the best experience for skiers. In comparison to Serbia, our ski pass is cheaper by almost 50%. I think that Jahorina can now satisfy, even surpass the needs of the most demanding tourists. However, our excellent package which includes a good price can be adapted to those skiers who are not that well off.

The construction of the Technoalpin snowmaking system has extended the skiing season. What potential does Jahorina have for becoming an all-yearround destination?

have a humanitarian character. To be more precise, our plan is to build a mountain coaster that will stretch from the mountain's summit all the way to the lake and then to the foot of the mountain, i.e. the Poljice plateau. This will be a real summer attraction. At the very top, next to the lake, we want to put up benches and little houses, as well as open restaurants so that visitors can enjoy Jahorina during summer too. In the central part of the ski resort, we are building an adventure park that has adrenaline-packed activities.

What can your event marketing service offer to visitors who don't ski?

CONSIDERING THE GROWING NUMBER OF VISITORS TO JAHORINA, WE NEED ADDITIONAL SLOPES AND VERTICAL TRANSPORTATION IN ORDER TO AVOID THE SITUATION WHERE THE NUMBER OF VISITORS EXCEEDS THE CAPACITY OF THE SKI CENTRE

— Our goal is for Jahorina to live 365 days a year because it really has the potential to provide visitors with a special kind of pleasure, relaxation and entertainment all the time. After we have maximally extended the winter skiing season with the snowmaking system, we are also planning to extend our summer activities, primarily adrenaline-packed ones, as well as provide additional entertainment and competitions, concerts, and races that could be just for fun, competitive ones or the ones that

— Event marketing is an indispensable part of a ski centre. Guided by the principle of creating a rounded-off ambience for the skier, we come up with an idea to have a series of concerts and events for all tastes. Jahorina is still frequented by non-skiers, so we have provided fun for everyone so that they leave satisfied and with a desire to come back as soon as possible. So far, we have had very successful concerts by Ceca Ražnatović, Crvena Jabuk, Lepa Brena, Nikola Rokvić, Aca Pejović, Dragana Mirković, Nikolina Kovač and Dejan Petrović and his Big Band, as well as EXIT Festival. As you can see, we have covered all musical tastes and trends since we are trying to transform Jahorina into a mountain for everyone. We are also planning to hold a big humanitarian concert at the end of the season. I still cannot reveal who is going to perform but you can trust me when I say that, once more, Jahorina will be known as a mountain with the best entertainment in the region.

NEW AMENITIES Although spring is coming, Jahorina's ski slopes are still functioning perfectly and have 60cm of snow, even after 100 days of use. I would also like to announce that our snow idyll is going to last until April. Apart from warmer weather, sunny ski slopes, and the fact that days last longer, special discounts are another benefit that our visitors can enjoy. Following Women's Day, on March 8th, when all ladies skied for free on our mountain, I would also like to announce our Paradise Discounts on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, that will go up 40% and last until March 11th. Then we have the third promotional weekend, from March 28th to 31st, when discounts on all ski passes used in the aforementioned period will be 20% cheaper. This year, Jahorina has truly lived up to its Olympic reputation that the mountain has been known for since the XIV Olympic Games that took

place here. After 100 days of the best season ever, we are continuing to provide interesting activities and content. I would also like to announce an event that is great fun – its's the adrenaline-packed competition Red Bull Home Run, that takes place on March 16th, as well as Snowmakers Days, from March 21st to 23rd, which will assemble the most renowned individuals from the ski world on Jahorina. April will also be full of interesting events – from additional discounts on ski passes and veteran race to humanitarian concert. In terms of the next winter season, we are going to strive to improve ourselves in every business segment. Our goal is constant improvement and following trends in world ski centres. One of the plans for the next winter season is to construct a gondola lift and new ski slopes. Having a gondola lift would be great progress for Jahorina which would increase our capacities for vertical transport.

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We Transform Our Vision Into Overall Growth of Society Aleksandra Stojanović, Corporate Affairs Director at MK Group, reveals how the founders' idea and a successful team have led to the change in visual identity of one of the biggest Serbian companies

ALEKSANDRA STOJANOVIĆ Corporate Affairs Director at MK Group

This year, MK Group has celebrated its 35th anniversary with a new visual identity which has been publicly presented, among other places, at the 26th Kopaonik Business Forum. We are talking to Aleksandra Stojanović, Corporate Affairs Director at MK Group, about the impressions from the Forum and the company's important jubilee. ”I am very proud of the fact that MK Group has traditionally become the host of the Kopaonik Business Forum. This conference is an excellent opportunity for the most important stakeholders in the region, from business people to the representatives of state institutions and non-governmental organizations, to, once a year, discuss the most significant economic and social issues. In addition to being the host, our company also actively participates in panel discussions every year. This year, Financial Director of MK Group, Dušan Radičević, Chairman of Executive Board of AIK Bank, Jelena Galić, Director General of Carnex, Mohan Shrestha and Director of Digitalization and Development Sector at MK Group, Aleksandar Bjelić participated in panels. They shared their experiences and expertise, as well as our company's results, thus validating that we are not only an interlocutor, but an active participant in improving the economic conditions in this part of Europe," said Aleksandra Stojanović.

You publicly and officially revealed MK Group's new visual identity and purpose in late January. How did you define the Group's purpose?

— During 35 years of business, together, we, as a Group, have progressed and achieved excellent results in three key areas in which we operate: agriculture, tourism and finance. Expanding into new activities, we changed our appearance, and it became necessary to represent our new size and success with a new visual identity. First, we defined our purpose, i.e. the broader character of MK Group, which is reflected in transforming the vision of the company's founder into the growth of business, people and society as a whole. What does that exactly mean?

— The purpose was the starting point for the adoption of the new logo of our company which, apart from the initials of our founder, depicts the strength of our team, vision and infinity of business. After that, we have defined an effective yet comprehensive slogan that unites all that we are. Everything started from our

MK GROUP IS A RELIABLE PARTNER AND SUPPORT TO ALL COMMUNITIES IN WHICH IT DOES BUSINESS Thanks to our efficient operations, from initial 3 employees we grew to over 7,000, and from a single company to 75 of them. Our company pays 109 million euro annuals on the basis of taxes and contributions. We are actively working on improving the quality of life, not just of our employees, but also their families and the entire community. Our work enables not only growth of profit, but also economic development of the region in which we operate.

How did the definition of purpose influence your visual identity and slogan?

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founder's vision, and our longterm business results are achieved thanks to the people who make smart decisions every day. Hence the slogan itself - One vision. Smart decisions.

How does this new visual identity affect your corporate culture and values?

— At the heart of each corporate culture, there are values that cannot be imposed on employees, but they need to be nurtured and lived. When we started working on our re-branding strategy, we tried to highlight the essence of our company. Consequently, this also

impacted the shaping of our values - reliability, team spirit, innovation and responsibility. MK Group is a reliable partner not only to our business associates, but also to all the local communities in which we operate, a total of 74 of them. Our ambitious business plans and excellent results would not have been achieved without the team spirit of our colleagues and the entire system. Every day, we make smart decisions together and contribute to the success of MK Group. We implement the most up-to-date sustainable business models by raising the standards of business and working on the digitalization of all business processes, which reflects our innovation. Finally, and perhaps the most important value of all, is our responsibility. In the last 5 years, we have implemented over 500 socially responsible campaigns, with the aim of improving the conditions and quality of life, and for this purpose, we have allocated over 4 million euros. Above all, we nurture family values, through continuous support to parents working in our system. As a result of all of this, MK Group is recognized as a safe employer, but also a stable support not only in Serbia, but also in South East Europe.

CORPORATE

First Digital Guide for Children Online Safety Based on the relevant survey, the first digital guide for children online safety in Serbia called "Children and the Internet - Smart from the Beginning“ has been devised

The Safe Internet for the Whole Family project, which is being implemented under the slogan "Children and the Internet - Smart from the Beginning", has been launched by UNICEF and Telenor, and realized in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development and the Užice Centre for Children's Rights. The project was launched in 2017 and aims to empower parents, nursery and school teachers for safe use of digital technologies and the Internet and to reduce children's exposure to online risks. Five cities in Serbia are involved in the project - Belgrade, Kragujevac, Novi Sad, Niš and Užice. Based on the relevant survey, the first digital guide for children online safety in Serbia called "Children and the Internet - Smart from the Beginning“ has been devised.

The guide is intended for parents / guardians, nursery and school teachers of children aged four to eight, children in general and everyone involved in their education, with the aim of informing and supporting children in preschool facilities and how to safely and constructively use digital devices and the Internet . During the project, a series of cartoons was made for the youngest target groups. Most children use digital devices already at the age of four. Elementary school children begin to use a computer and a mobile phone when they turn 5, while those children under the age of 5 start using these devices around the age of three. 2/3 of parents and educators do not have enough knowledge and skills to protect them from possible abuse, the survey has showed. "Children are starting to use digital devices and the Internet at a progressively earlier age. At

AVAILABILITY OF THE GUIDE The digital guide for the children online safety will be used in schools and nurseries, as well as in parents 'and teachers' associations across Serbia. Parents see it here - www.digitalni-vodic.ucpd.rs

the same time, parents, educators and teachers do not have enough knowledge and skills to direct children how to use digital technology in a constructive way, and how to help them be safe on the Internet. This digital guide offers a variety of specific tips, as well as a dictionary for the digital age. For children, there are educational cartoons, as well as a quiz to check their digital literacy skills,"said Regina De Dominicis, UNICEF Director for Serbia. She especially thanked Telenor, a UNICEF project partner for many years, for their effort in creating a safe digital environment for children. Vesna Nedeljković, Assistant Minister of Education for Preschool and Elementary Education, reminded that the Ministry had developed the "Digital Teacher Competence Framework" in 2017, which serves as a framework for boosting the digital competencies of teacher. "In this digital world, the challenge is twofold: how to maximize the benefits of the Internet for each child and mitigate the damage that can be caused by online abuse. One of the Ministry's priorities is the development of digital literacy and digital competence in children in order for them to be informed, engaged and safe online, and to use digital technologies in a quality manner and for learning purposes," she added. The private sector, especially in the field of technology and telecommunications, has a special responsibility and a unique opportunity to shape the impact that digital technology has on children. Telenor, a long-standing

partner of UNICEF, is one of the best examples. „We, in Telenor, have been strategically focusing on the topic of safe use of the Internet and digital technologies by children and young people. From 2012 to date, we have educated more than 35,000 children about safe online behaviours, with the strong support from the Government, UNICEF and numerous partners. The digital guide we launched today provides practical knowledge and is available to every parent, teacher and child in just a few clicks. We believe it will represent a good basis for creation of a safe and positive digital environment for children and families in Serbia," said Mike Michel, General Manager of Telenor Serbia. „Children's rights, guaranteed under the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child, are in force in digital world too, as are the obligations of both the state and parents to help their chidlren to exercise and enjoy their rights. The guide we have developed contributes to the protection and realization of the children's rights, which, in this fourth digital revolution, is a major challenge. Primarily, it refers to the right of the child to enjoy protection against violence and discrimination, protection against harmful and inappropriate content, protection of privacy, as well as the right to freedom of expression and the availability of information that is relevant to children's development, and the right to quality education, play and partake in cultural activities,"said Jelena Žunić Cicvarić from the Užice Children's Rights Centre.

PEOPLE & EVENTS

11 THE 40th ANNIVERSARY FEB

OF THE VICTORY OF THE ISLAMIC REVOLUTION IN IRAN OFFICIALLY MARKED

On Monday, February 11th, in the ceremonial hall of the Metropol Hotel in Belgrade, the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran marked the 40th anniversary of the victory of the Islamic Revolution in Iran. At the beginning of the ceremony, H.E. the

Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Serbia, Hosein Mola Abdolahi, expressed his gratitude to the guests who came in large numbers to the reception, together with Iranians living and working in Serbia, mark this significant jubilee.

H.E. Hosein Mola Abdolahi

12 KNIGHT OF THE FEB

ORDER OF ARTS AND LETTERS

H.E. Frederic Mondoloni

of Arts and Letters to Tijana Palkovljević Bugarski, the head of the Gallery of Matica Srpska and literary compiler Miloš Konstantinović. Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia Maja Gojković was also present at the ceremony.

Tijana Palkovljević Bugarski

20 REAL ESTATE FEB

Tijana Palkovljević Bugarski conferred Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters. At the ceremony held at the Embassy of the Republic of France in Belgrade, H.E. Frederic Mondoloni the French ambassador to Serbia, conferred Knight of the Order

DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE

A cocktail party on the occasion of the Fourth Serbian Conference on Real Estate Development and Infrastructure and sponsored by the Embassy of Israel was held. Ambassador of Israel

to Belgrade H.E. Alona Fischer Kam organized a cocktail at the Embassy Residence. The cocktail that was held gathered many Israel’s partners and friends in all areas.

Symeon Tsomokos, CEO and Founder TGI Group International d.o.o. and H.E. Alona Fischer Kam

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21 DEFENDER OF THE FEB

FATHERLAND DAY WAS MARKED AT THE RUSSIAN EMBASSY

At the Russian Embassy in Belgrade, Defender of the Fatherland Day was marked in the presence of Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, Serbian Patriarch Irinej and BiH Presidency Chairman Milorad Dodik. H.E the ambassador of Russia Alexander Chepurin said that Russia and Serbia had to

Milorad Dodik. H.E Alexander Chepurin with spouse and Aleksandar Vučić

21 TASTING OF FEB

CROATIAN WINES

21 OPEN DOOR FOR EUROPE: FEB

H.E. Alexander Chepurin

The Croatian Chamber of Economy held a tasting of Croatian wines in the Kalemegdanska Terasa Restaurant. The Winemaking Association of the Croatian Chamber of Economy, called Vina Croatia - Vina Mosaica, held the wine tasting in Belgrade,

H.E. Godran Bakota. Croatian Ambassador and Marija Radulović. President of Croatian Business Club

OPENS 2019 PRESENTED IN BELGRADE

defend their independence and sovereignty on several occasions and that it was precisely that that formed the character of our people. "We have strong armies, but the most important Russian and Serbian weapons are the courage of soldiers and officers and the forces of their spirit - that is an axiom," the ambassador said.

during the Tourism Fair, which took place from February 21st to 24th, and the 10th International Beowine Wine Fair. Fans of Dalmatian and other Croatian wines enjoyed the promotion and tasting of wines from 13 wineries, mostly from the region.

Wine presentation

In the House of King Peter the First in Belgrade, the ambassadors of 20 countries from Europe and the world, as well as high representatives of state, provincial and local

institutions, presented the program, activities and plans of OPENS2019. Youth organizations have never received so much attention as they do now, under the auspices of the European Youth Capitals.

Zdravko Jelušić, President of the Assembly of the City H.E. Denis Keef, British Ambassador to Serbia and his wife, H.E. Jan Erik Mikael of Novi Sad Lundin, Swedish Ambassador and Mr. Hans Friedrich Schodder (UNHCR)

Ivan Djoković, Provincial Secretary

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PEOPLE & EVENTS

22 BILINGUAL FEB

EDITION "HELLO! TRAVEL: ZAGREB"

The bilingual edition of the magazine "Hello! Travel: Zagreb "was promoted at the residence of the Croatian ambassador. "It's nice to be in Belgrade and present the good results achieved by Zagreb, which I have been heading for 19 years," said Zagreb Mayor Mr. Milan

Robert Čoban CPG, H.E. Gordan Bakota and Milan Bandić

23 LEBANESE DRAMA FEB

“CAPHARNAÜM” BY NADIN LABAKI SHOWN ON FEST

H.E. Nada Al Akl, Ambassador of Lebanon

Wife of Croatian Ambassador, H.E. Kathleen Csaba, Canadian Ambassador, with her husband, and Nevena Scott, wife of the US Ambassador

Lebanon’s drama was screened at the 47th FEST. The drama “Capharnaüm“ is directed by Nadin Labaki, a famous artist and activist from Lebanon, who is also a co-screenwriter. The film is about a boy who sued his parents for giving birth to him but ignoring him. “Capharnaüm” was candidate

Stjepan Glas, charge d'affaires of the Croatian Embassy, Dušan Janjić, H.E. Kyle Randolph Scott, the US Ambassador, and Dragana Ferlinc

for the Golden Palm at the Film Festival in Cannes in 2018, where it was awarded the Jury Award. The film was nominated as the representative of Lebanon for the 91st Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Film, making Nadin Labaki the first Arabian director to be included in the selection.

H.E. Hossein Molla Abdollahi, Ambassador of Iran and H.E. Sheikh Mubarak Fahad J.M. Al-Thani, Ambasador of Qatar

23 EGYPT, PARTNER COUNTRY FOR FEB

Bandić. H.E Croatian Ambassador to Serbia, Gordan Bakota said that "Hello! Travel: Zagreb "is an outstanding quality magazine about Zagreb, the city that has been developing rapidly in recent years and that, he says, has grown into a respectable European metropolis.

TOURISM FAIR 2020 IN BELGRADE

At the Belgrade Fair, the ceremonial partnership handover between Bulgaria and Egypt was held at the 41st International Tourism Fair. The handover ceremony was attended by H.E. Radko

Vlajkov, Ambassador of Bulgaria, on behalf of this year’s partner country, and the Governor of the Red Sea Ahmet Abdalah, on behalf of Egypt, the partner country of the Tourism Fair 2020.

Ahmet Abdalah, Ivica Dačić, Serbian Foreign Minister and H.E. Radko Vlajkov

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27 FIRST ISSUE OF

DIPLOMACY & COMMERCE AUSTRIA MAGAZINE FEB

A launch party in celebration of the first issue of Diplomacy & Commerce Austria took place at the residence of the UK Ambassador in Vienna. After the Serbian and Croatian edition, this is the third consecutive issue in the series that Color Media Communications has launched in collaboration with the London-based magazine, The Economist. The reception was attended by numerous officials from the diplomatic, economic and cultural life of the Austrian capital: Camilla Habsburg Lothringen, a greatgreat-great-granddaughter of Empress Maria Theresa, Walter Hanzmann and Mag. Nicolaus Buhlmann from the Stift Klosterneuburg Foundation, Papal Nuncio in Vienna, Monsignor Dr. George Panamthundil, H.E. Mr. Sergio Barbanti, Ambassador of Italy, H.E. Dr. Ivan Sirakov, Ambassador of Bulgaria, H.E. Mr. Hermann A. Toledo, Ambassador of Mexico, H.E. Ms Gloria Navarrete Pinto, Ambassador of Chile, H.E. Mr. Roland Bimo, Ambassador of Albania, H.E. Dr. Uma Al-Nashy, Ambassador of Iraq, H.E. Mr. Nebojsa Rodic, Ambassador of Serbia, H.E. Mr. Bruno Faraone Machado Botschafter, Ambassador of Uruguay, H.E. Mr. Miguel Camilo Ruiz Blanco, Ambassador of Colombia and Mr. Wolfgang Meixner, Honorary Consul of Cape Verde.

Camilla Habsburg Lothringen and Ambassador Directors of Chambers of Commerce: Kamel Mohamed Elabaseery (Egypt), Ayse Sule Özdogan of Italy, H.E.Sergio Barbanti (Turkey), Nada Knežević (Serbia) and Juan Ignacio Diaz (Argentina)

Selma Užičanin, Deputy Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to Austria, and Tanja Mrvoš Director of the Chamber of Commerce of Croatia in Austria

Diplomats from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia, Slovenia, Italy and Hungary

H.E. Roland Bimo, Ambassador of Albania and Svetlana Nenadović Glušac

Ambassador Hermann A. Toledo (Mexico), Camilla Habsburg Lothringen, Deputy Ambassador Jonas Norling (Sweden) and Dr. Ernst Huber, Chief of the Cabinet of the President of the Chamber of Commerce of Austria

Princess Camilla Habsburg and Robert Čoban

H.E. Nebojša Rodić, Ambassador of Serbia to Austria with his spouse and Dragana Mirković

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03 KPB COCTAIL MAR

PARTY

This year's Kopaonik Business Forum was informally opened with a welcome cocktail party. On behalf of the Forum’s organizer, the Association of Economists of Serbia, the Association’s Presi-

dent, Aleksandar Vlahović welcomed the participants and guests. He underlined that the number of people attending the Forum had never been higher with the Forum gathering over 1,300 participants this year.

Aleksandar Vlahović, President of the Serbian Association of Economists

04 NATIONAL DAY OF MAR

THE REPUBLIC OF BULGARIA

The Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to Serbia, H.E. Radko Vlaykov, held a reception on the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Bulgaria at the Metropol Palace Hotel.

H.E. Mohammed Amine BELHAJ, Ambassador of Morocco, H.E. Abdelhamid Chebchoub, Ambassador of Algeria, H.E. Sheikh Mubarak Fahad J.M. Al-Thani, Ambassador of Qatar and H.E. Hossein Molla Abdollahi, Ambassador of Iran

H.E. Radko Vlaykov

06 THE EMBASSY OF THE KINGDOM

MAR

OF MOROCCO ORGANIZED CONFERENCE ON THE WORK OF MAHI BINEBINE

H.E. Mohammed Amine BELHAJ, Ambassador of Morocco

The reception was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps, religious communities, international missions in Belgrade, political, cultural and public life of Serbia.

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In a celebration of the Month of the Francophonie, the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Belgrade organized a conference on the work of the Moroccan writer, painter and sculptor, Mahi Binebine. He is one of the greatest

contemporary Moroccan painters and novelists. At first professor of mathematics, he quickly abandoned teaching to devote himself to painting, sculpture and writing with a first book published in 1992. He has since published ten novels.

BUSINESS NEWS

PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE ONE OF SOLUTION FOR EFFICIENT HEALTH SYSTEM

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES FOR BELGIAN COMPANIES IN SERBIA The Development Agency of Serbia, Economic and Trade Office of the Embassy of Belgium, and the Belgian-Serbian Business Association jointly organized and held the presentation called “Business Opportunities for Belgian Companies in Serbia” in Belgrade with the view of providing information about subsidies and support programmes for the Belgian companies that are doing business in Serbia, as well as for the Belgian companies interested in initiating or expanding their presence in Serbia. At the beginning of the event, H.E. Mr. Koenraad Georges L. Adam, Ambassador of the Royal Belgian Embassy, and acting director of Development Agency of Serbia (RAS), Mr. Rados Gazdic gave welcome speeches. The Belgian Ambassador, Mr. Koenraad

Georges L. Adam, stated that he supported the idea behind such an event, with the goal of connecting and providing relevant information for those companies that were interested in doing business. Moreover, he underlined the importance of the cooperation between two countries, in every segment, especially the business one, adding that the Belgian Embassy would always support the good relations between the two countries.

COCA-COLA HBC LAUNCHES ACQUISITION OF BAMBI

Coca-Cola HBC Serbia is pleased to inform the public that Coca-Cola HBC AG started the acquisition of the leading domestic confectionery company, Bambi from the Mid Europa Partners fund, worth 260 million EUR. The final agreement will be defined through final harmonization, and the acquisition remains subject to the normal conditions

and approvals of the competent authorities, which is why the process itself is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2019. „Our strategic intention is for this acquisition to enable the company to utilize new development opportunities in Serbia and the region, as well as the possibility of expanding into complementary product categories. This acquisition represents an excellent opportunity for creating additional value for our company, customers and shareholders. We will add the leading brands of well-known beverages, complementary brands, as well as innovative skills and knowledge to our existing portfolio with this acquisition,” Chief Executive Officer of Coca-Cola HBC AG, Zoran Bogdanović, said.

In 2018, the health care system in Serbia advanced in two places and ranked 18th out of 35th health care systems in Europe, according to the results of the European Health Consumer Index. One of the most important results was shorter waiting lists for operations and utilization of different diagnostic methods in state hospitals across the country. Although significantly shortened, there are still more than 72,000 people on waiting lists in Serbia who have to wait for medical treatment between several months to several years. “People in Serbia are increasingly turning to the private health sector where they spend on average 300 euro a month. For the same amount, that is, 25 euros a month, private health insurance can cover more than 1,000 euro worth for treatments and diagnostic check-ups. Affordable premiums, speed and comfort are the reasons why private health insurance has been recording constant growth, which reached a record 21% last year,“ said Željko Jović, Director of the UNIQA Insurance Health Sector Panel at the Kopaonik Business Forum.

MERCEDES-BENZ AT THE 54TH INTERNATIONAL CAR SHOW IN BELGRADE

TEOFIL PANČIĆ RECEIVES AWARD The award for outstanding contribution to the promotion of culture and art in the media, given by the Tanja Petrović Foundation, went to this year's winner, Teofil Pančić. The award ceremony took place at the Yugoslav Film Archive. The award was presented by the last year’s winner, Ivan Medenica. Teofil Pančić, journalist for Vreme magazine, is one of the most recognizable authors. His articles are read without even blinking, and they are often quoted and talked about. For Teofil, culture is the starting point from which from which we view and define the world around us. In his articles, he talks about the current

developments, in his theatre reviews he talks about what goes on behind the scenes. His work has long transcended the boundaries of this region and even the continents. During his lustrous career, Teofil Pančić also wrote 21 books.

Star Import, the general distributor for MercedesBenz, Smart, Fuso and Setra, will be traditionally exhibiting from March 22 to March 31 at the 54th International Auto Show in Belgrade in one of the biggest hall of the Belgrade Fair - Hall 3. On an area spanning 3,000 square metres, Mercedes-Benz will present more premiere models. The Show’s visitors will have the opportunity to see the famous SUV, GLE in a completely new light. The smallest four-door coupe, CLA, which premiered at the beginning of this year in Las Vegas, is also coming to Belgrade. In addition to these novelties, the Belgrade Car Show visitors will have the opportunity to see, for the first time ever, the new B-Class. A special focus will be on the attractive AMG models, primarily on the exclusive GT AMG 4-door, which will also have its premiere at the show. Furthermore, we are going to present the GT R, as well as the A35. In the segment of light delivery vehicles, we are going to showcase the redesigned V-Class, which comes to Belgrade from the Geneva Motor Show.

BUSINESS NEWS

REGIONAL PROJECT "THE BIGGEST 100” IN SERBIA FOR THE FIRST TIME

10th CONFERENCE ‘THE INTERNET DOMAIN OF SERBIA DAY - DIDS 2019’ The Internet Domain of Serbia Day (DIDS) conference was held on March 5th for the 10th jubilee time. Almost 350 conference visitors gathered at Belgrade’s Metropol Palace Hotel, including those visitors who downloaded the conference online. They all had the opportunity to get acquainted with the process and the multifaceted significance of digital transformation that has already begun in Serbia. Like previous years, this year, the DIDS was organized by the Serbian National Internet Domain Registry (RNIDS). Director of the RNIDS, Vladimir Manic officially opened the conference saying: "Digital transformation has become an inseparable part of our

everyday lives. It is present in whatever we do on a daily basis, in business, and in the private and public sector, while the Internet has become one of the key factors in this transformation. Our Foundation is aware of the significance of digital transformation, and therefore, we have decided for the 10th jubilee DIDS to deal with this topic. "

REPORTS 2018 NET PROFIT OF RUB 831.7 BN UNDER INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARDS (IFRS)

Sberbank has released its Annual consolidated IFRS financial statements for 2018. “2018 was an important year for Sberbank. Not only did we report a record net profit and reach a Return-on-Equity of over 23%, we also successfully completed the first year of the execution of our Strategy 2020. Furthermore, we embraced the ambitious challenge of carrying out our technological transformation. We completed the revision of all major IT initiatives, hired

experienced IT experts, radically redesigned our production process, and integrated our businesses with IT in order to develop our platform. We learnt to implement changes faster, improve our processes and products faster, making them more convenient and time-saving for our clients. Yet we have a long way to go in perfecting client experience, introducing new services to the Sberbank platform and developing new skills among our team in order to build a data-driven company with a high level of collaboration. Accomplishing our strategic goals is the key to our confidence in facing external challenges and to providing for the sustainable growth of shareholder value,“ said Herman Gref, Chairman of the Executive Board, CEO.

Total revenue generated by the 100 most successful companies in the region in 2018 was about 100 billion euro. In Serbia, the largest companies generate revenue in the amount of 34 billion euro, in Slovenia 29bn, Croatia 24bn, Bosnia and Herzegovina 11bn, and Montenegro 4 billion euro – it was said at a press conference apropos the launch of “The 100 Biggest” project in Serbia. While presenting this regional project, which aim has been to create better conditions for small companies for over a decade now, and promote the most successful examples of large corporations in local markets across the region, Project Director, Ana Knežević, pointed out that networking and promotion, as well as adequate education, are decisive factors not only for success, but for the survival of companies in Serbia.

ADDIKO BANK FIRST IN SERBIA TO OFFER MKREDIT

PEPSICO WESTERN BALKANS RECEIVES TOP EMPLOYER AWARD PepsiCo, which operates in the Western Balkans through the companies Marbo Product and Marbo d.o.o., is the winner of the prestigious Top Employer Award in Serbia, for the fifth consecutive time, and in Bosnia and Herzegovina, for the second consecutive. This prestigious award is given by the Top Employers Institute in the Netherlands, based on more than 600 best HR practices in human resource management and human resources processes. “This year’s Top Employer Award confirms the continuity we have had in creating a stimulating work environment for our employees since 2008 when we became part of the multinational PepsiCo

Company. Exceptionally high standards of global HR practices and working conditions now include 1,300 employees, most of whom work in our two factories – in Maglic, near Bački Petrovac and Laktaši, near Banja Luka “, said Tijana Tadić, PepsiCo Human Resources Manager for the Western Balkans and the Baltic.

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Addiko Bank has presented mKredit, a unique product in the Serbian market that enables submission of claims, processing and payment of loans without the bank clients having to go a branch office. Clients only need their mobile phones to do the entire procedure, i.e. access the Addiko mbanking application, which is available 24 hours a day. Another important functionality of Addiko Bank’s mbanking application is granting current account overdraft. "MKredit represents a novelty in the banking market and it creates new opportunities via mbanking. We want to meet the needs of our clients. Now, you have all the bank operations in the palm of your hand, as everything you need, can be completed via only one application on your mobile phone. I am pleased to say that Addiko Bank validates its role of a leader when it comes to introducing new services in digital banking in Serbia," said Vojislav Lazarević, Chairman of Addiko Bank’s Executive Board.

FOUR -TIME WINNER OF TOP EMPLOYER AWARD For the fourth consecutive time, Philip Morris Serbia is the winner of the Top Employer Award, since the company, thanks to the exceptional conditions it provides for its employees, was ranked among the best employers in the country in 2019. The certificate Top Employer, awarded by the Netherlands-based international institute of the same name, once again confirms that Philip Morris is distinguished by its strategic, well-designed programmes that create the working environment in which employees are empowered and are given extraordinary opportunities for further development. "Philip Morris has been on the road to achieving a bold vision for the next four years - a future without tobacco smoke. The fact that during this period we have received both recognition at the local, as well as at the European and global level, proves one important thing - that the people, our employees, who are the most important link in the process of transformation, have stayed with us.

NESTLÉ EXPEDITES EFFORTS TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP POSITIONS BY 2022

Nestlé presented an action plan that aims to increase the number of women in leadership positions at the global level, which further highlights and builds on the company’s commitment to providing equal opportunities for all employees. In the Adriatic region, Nestlé employs 717 people, of whom 57 percent are women, and 43 percent are men. In terms of leadership positions, 62 percent of these positions are occupied by women, and 38 percent by men. “Gender equality is a key component of Nestlé’s approach to diversity and inclusiveness. Nestlé in the Adriatic region reflects this approach. Diversity

and inclusiveness are part of our culture and are proven to motivate and engage employees, leading to high performance and innovation. This is the way we operate and one of the ways in which Nestlé lives its values,“ said Yana Mikhailova, Regional Director for Southeastern Europe at Nestlé.

CORPORATE

Dedicated to Gender Equality Members of the Alliance for Gender Equality signed a joint document on the companies' commitment to gender equality at this year's Kopaonik Business Forum The commencement of joint work under the Alliance for Gender Equality was officially marked on March 5th when a document on the companies' commitment to gender equality was signed. The initiative to establish the Alliance was launched by IKEA in cooperation with the Association for Female Affirmation (AFA) and with the support of the Kingdom of Sweden's Embassy in the Republic of Serbia. Brankica Janković, the Commissioner for the Protection of Equality, underlined the significance and impact of the support of the corporate sector and invited other companies to join the initiative. Stefan Vanoverbeke, IKEA's Director for Southeastern Europe said following the signing of the

document: "I believe that we, as business leaders, are responsible for creating an equal opportunity working environment for women and men in our companies. That is why we have initiated the inception of this Alliance and we want it to become the driving force behind change. By doing so, we want to inspire others to take an even big-

stronger together and we can have a greater impact.“ The Alliance is a network of companies that advocate boosting the number of women in management and other places and equal wages for the same work done by women or men. The goal of the Alliance is to spread inclusive culture in which

WE WANT TO INSPIRE OTHERS TO TAKE AN EVEN BIGGER LEAP IN ACCEPTING THE INCLUSION CULTURE IN THEIR COMPANIES ger leap in accepting the inclusion culture in their companies. We want to learn from each other how to create more equitable working environments because they are better for our business, colleagues and society as a whole. We are

women and men are equally respected for their unique contributions at work, in society and in the family. Companies like Mastercard, Telenor, Delta Holding, Asseco and UniCredit Bank have already joined the initiative, and the call to

join in is open to all other companies in the corporate sector. Almost 50% of the world's population is women, but they are still far from achieving full equality in comparison with men. According to the latest report on the state of gender equality by the World Economic Forum, the greatest female inequality is visible in the political sphere, followed by the economy. At the moment, the Alliance for Gender Equality brings together companies that employ close to 5,000 people in Serbia, and the aim is to expand it to include as many companies as possible in order to exchange knowledge and internships in an effort to achieve a gender-balanced work environment, equal wages for the same work and equal representation of women and men.

AFTER KAISER KARL

The Future of Chanel Without Karl Lagerfeld How will the French fashion house fare without its influential creative director?

“I am very grounded, just not on this earth,” was one of numerous bon mots from Karl Lagerfeld, who died on February 19th. Mr Lagerfeld, born in Hamburg 85 years ago, may not have felt he belonged on this planet but he knew very well what its wealthier inhabitants wanted to wear. As one of the great artists of French couture alongside Christian Dior, Coco Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent, Mr Lagerfeld made Chanel, where he was creative director for over 35 years, the multinational brand it is today. His death will ensure that Parisian gossips, already abuzz with rumours about the future of the fashion house, will have plenty to chat about. Chanel’s owners, Alain and Gérard Wertheimer, owe their vast fortune to Mr Lagerfeld’s tenure at the fashion house. When the brothers hired him to take over, the brand had become “old hat” in Mr Lagerfeld’s words. The boxy suits

that had been Coco Chanel’s signature design appealed mostly to middle-aged women. Mr Lagerfeld modernised the Chanel look with longer, thinner lines and snazzy details. A workaholic, he hardly ever took time off, designing around 14 collections a year ranging from couture to high-street fashions. “To design is to breathe, so if I can’t breathe, I’m in trouble,” he often said.

also hugely profitable accessories such as sunglasses and perfume. Those around him also had an unusual instinct for the fashion business. Jacques Helleu, the firm’s long-serving head of marketing, understood the importance of protecting a luxury brand. Chanel fought for its intellectual property long before other fashion houses realised the importance of doing so. A once closely guarded secret—

“TO DESIGN IS TO BREATHE, SO IF I CAN’T BREATHE, I’M IN TROUBLE,” HE OFTEN SAID The extravagant and costly fashion shows for which Chanel became renowned also had a purpose. A 115-foot rocket that simulated a blast-off surrounded by models, or a fake supermarket stocked with Chanel washing powder, ketchup and pasta, created a stir which helped not only the sales of exquisite, expensive frocks but

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the rewards of the diverse portfolio of handbags, scent, cosmetics, clothing, jewellery and shoes, and fierce protection of its brand— was revealed last year. The firm’s financial results, released for the first time in its 108-year history, showed revenues of $9.6bn in 2017 and an operating profit of $2.7bn. Chanel’s cash and cachet are at-

tractive propositions. Bernard Arnault, the boss of Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH), the world’s biggest luxury-goods group, is said to have coveted Chanel for years. Philippe Blondiaux, Chanel’s chief financial officer, last year denied any plans to sell or seek a stockmarket listing. An insider says the Wertheimer brothers had vowed to keep Mr Lagerfeld in his job until he died. Will the plans for Chanel now change? A sale still looks unlikely, according to Dirk Boventer of Atreus, a retail consultant. Alain, the chief executive, announced that Mr Lagerfeld would be succeeded by Virginie Viard, his closest and most trusted associate for some 30 years. Ms Viard will need to make a mark. Until she does, Chanel without Mr Lagerfeld is less of a trophy for potential investors. From The Economist, published under licence. The original article, in English, can be found on www.economist.com

INTERVIEW

Spring Part of the Season in Belgrade American funk diva, singer and protégé of the legendary Price, Nik West will perform on March 26th, at the Bitefartcafe club members. I’m still not sure how it fully happened. We know this is a common question, but we are sure you understand, because you worked with this legend. How was it working with Prince?

NIK WEST Bassist, singer and songwriter

Musicology Barcaffè Sessions concert series will continue the successful season number 3 with the performance of maestro on bass, the American funk diva, singer and protégé of the legendary Price, Nik West. She will perform on March 26th, at the Bitefartcafe club. Explosive stage presence isn't enough to describe the way Nik West moves, wows, and shocks crowds everywhere. With credits that include work with artists such as, Dave Stewart of Eurythmics fame, Prince, John Mayer, Glee and more, bassist, singer and songwriter Nik West is anything more than just another pretty face. Where does this interview find you? Is there music playing in the background?

— I’m actually on a plane leaving Amsterdam heading back home. The music playing in the background is a rotation of new mixes for my new album. I’m critiquing and sending notes. It is your first time in Serbia’s capital, but you have already performed in Serbia. What were your impressions about your fans

here and audience in general?

— Yes! My first time in Serbia was so welcoming! I love that Serbia loves good live music. The audience was full of life and full of love! I can’t wait to come back and feel that! What can we expect from your set at Musicology Barcaffe Sessions, Belgrade?

— Some old school and definitely some new school! Some funk, some rock, some soul. You’ll feel lots of energy coming from us on stage and you’ll get to know me more intimately this time. You almost gave up a career in music at the age 18 when a guy said that you 'sucked', what made you pick up the bass again?

— He was full of surprises and you just went with it. Some days, he want to jam all day and some days, he’d just listen to us rehearse from afar. He knew exactly how he wanted something to sound but I think having a lot of Millennials around inspired him as well. We were all a little crazy in our own ways. He expected excellence but still allowed me to be me. He knew I was an artist and respected me as such... and THAT is why I love him so much. Growing up, did you always want to be a musician? Was there a time where you thought of doing something completely different?

— I never wanted to be a musician. I wanted to be an engineer or high school math teacher. I didn’t

want to be broke or a starving artist but I saw positive things that kept happening for me in each step I took that made me feel like music is where I should be. You are famous for your energetic performances. Does that come naturally to you?

— Definitely comes naturally for me. At first, I was very withdrawn from showing energy onstage because I never saw bassists going crazy on stage besides Verdine White (Earth Wind and Fire). But my sister told me that I needed to take all that I am in real life and put it on the stage. In real life, I am wild, highly energetic and the life of the party. So I took her advice! Do you have a message for your fans in Belgrade?

— I can’t wait to see you... and make sure you come with lots of energy because we are gonna dance together and laugh together! Tickets for this concert are available through Tickets.rs (formerly Eventim) and DDtickets.rs services.

IN BELGRADE I WILL PERFORM SOME OLD SCHOOL AND DEFINITELY SOME NEW SCHOOL! SOME FUNK, SOME ROCK, SOME SOUL

— Ironically, it was a guy that made me pick up the bass again haha! It was a boy I liked! I was modeling on runways and he said that I can do so much more by using my music talents as well. So I got inspired and dusted off my bass. You worked very closely with Prince, how were you introduced?

— He randomly called me around midnight the first week of Nov 2012! He may have gotten my number from John Blackwell or Hannah, who was one of the 3rdEyeGirl

INTERVIEW

Serbia as a Centre of Film Industry We are not a country of tackiness and kitsch

dian productions. Since the incentives that we provide are so high, the costs of filming are lower than in other countries. You were quoted as saying recently that Serbia did not censor its films or books. However, there has been such a rumour about the films „The Load“ and „The Favourite“. What is your take on these two cases?

JELENA TRIVAN Director of Official Gazette and Chairwoman of Managing Board of Film Centre of Serbia

In the last two years, Jelena Trivan has been at the helm of a very successful organization, the Official Gazette (Službeni Glasnik), which, to the surprise of many, was declared the publisher of the year, and at the helm of the Film Centre of Serbia. Our country is increasingly becoming a film location of choice for global production companies, while famous actors and actresses have been frequenting Serbia a lot. We are talking with Ms Trivan about film industry, publishing, culture and politics. Film crews can been seen almost everywhere in Belgrade. They say that there is no such thing as an unemployed cameraman or sound engineer in Belgrade and that they have all been hired by foreign production companies that are doing movies here. How did all of this come about?

— Today, almost every serious Serbian film producer or director

is very busy, and apart from many foreign movies being filmed here, domestic ones are not lagging behind at all. The number of films made in our country has reached the figures from the former Yugoslavia, and Serbia is the number one in the entire region in terms of the funds it invests in the film industry. Tax incentives and experienced film crews are our trump cards in attracting foreign production companies, and Serbia generates a substantial revenue from the film industry. We realized quite some time ago that this was the way to attract foreign investments and we have succeeded in that. There are a lot of diplomats, representatives of foreign chambers of commerce and companies among our readers. What does Serbia offer to foreign film companies and potential investors in film industry?

— It offers incentives for making films in Serbia, the well-equipped film studios and outdoor locations, film crews who have worked with the top Hollywood producers and the entire catering and service industry that goes with all of that. There are Hollywood films being filmed here, as well as complex In-

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— There are no „cases“, but rather made-up stories. In Serbia, the majority of films are being made with the help of state funds and there is no serious artist who has never been granted those funds. Also, there is no topic from the past that has not been filmed about. We are a modern democratic country and this shouldn't be even a topic of discussion. This year, the Serbian film industry won four awards at the Berlin Film Festival, thanks to

don't fall in the same trap as Boris Tadić did?

— Processes are the same in every democratic society and are described in political theory, as is the way of internal dynamics of the political party after years in power and the reactions it got from the public. Some problems cannot be ignored, such as unrealistic expectations that are not being met, the expectation that the state assumes responsibility for everything, and parallel power forces gaining independence. Nevertheless, this is a country with a stable political situation and a stable majority where one party has over 50 percent of political support. Everything that led to the demise of the previous government - instability, blackmails inside the coalition, and inability to make decisions - is not comparable to the current situation.

I STILL ADVOCATE THAT WE ARE A COUNTRY WITH A SERIOUS CULTURAL OFFER, ALTHOUGH WE ARE CONSTANTLY BEING BRANDED AS THE COUNTRY OF KITSCH the film „The Stiches“ („Šavovi“) that depicts a theme from the past, namely the disappearance of babies from maternity hospitals. The film attracted a lot of interest. Many say that the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) is now behaving like the Democratic Party (DS) in the last years of its rule. In a way, you have an inside information from that period. Which advice would you give to the people who are currently leading Serbia so that they

You are very critical of the 1in 5 million protests. Do you really think that the opposition does not possess the same power as the one that brought the goverment down following the October 5th protests? Or the power that the opposition in Kiev had in 2013 and 2014?

— I have never been critical of the protests because I was 'weaned' on protests and lost a job during Milošević's rule because of that. I am critical of the lack of civil values, the silence from the intellectual

community when the protestors are being threatened, Aida Ćorović not being allowed to speak because she is Bosniak, or actress Mira Karanović being criticized for speaking about war crimes. I am critical because citizens are being misused for something that is not civil values. You also said the following about the culture in Serbia – „Everybody views Serbia through the filter of reality shows, while, on the other hand, our theatres are chock

THE NUMBER OF FILMS MADE IN OUR COUNTRY HAS REACHED THE FIGURES FROM THE FORMER YUGOSLAVIA, AND SERBIA IS THE NUMBER ONE IN THE ENTIRE REGION IN TERMS OF THE FUNDS IT INVESTS IN THE FILM INDUSTRY full with people, we have the biggest book production in the region, and the festivals like BITEF and BELEF remain as popular as ever. We want to portray ourselves worse than we actually are.“ Can we, for a

change, focus on the better segments of our society?

— The renovated National Museum and the Museum of Modern Art are re-opened in Belgrade. After the Frankfurt Book Show, the Belgrade Book Show is the biggest

book fair in Europe. BITEF and the Belgrade Dance Festival are among the most popular contemporary festivals. FEST has become a synonym with a good traditional European film festival. Digitization of cinemas in smaller towns is nearly completed. Isn't all of this enough? Of course, we can always do more, especially when it comes to guiding younger generations towards real cultural values. Still, I advocate that we are a country with a serious cultural offer, although we are constantly being branded as the country of kitsch.

PUBLISHER OF THE YEAR The Official Gazette has been declared the publisher of the year, while its financial results are excellent. How did you manage to achieve this considering that you have never been at the helm of a big publishing company? — Politics is a good school for everything providing it is coupled with formal education. You also know very well how the insitutions and legal system function, but on the other hand, you have learned to fight each day for results and you never get complacent. I thought that a public enterprise should be

managed just like any other business, mainly not to rely on state's aid and state deals and look for business outside the country's borders. Our printing facility is one of the largest in the Balkans and now works for the clients from Germany, Slovenia, the Netherlands and the Czech Republic. In terms of publishing, there is almost no language from which we do not translate and thus bring closer different cultures to Serbia. Today, the Official Gazette is a public enterprise that generates profit, has no debt and is constantly investing in its production.

CALENDAR & NEWS

BELGRADE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

MAR 20:00

WISDOM 4

KOLARAC

Concert hall

CONCERT PROGRAMME March & April 2019

Grand Hall of the Kolarac Foundation

Conductor: Howard Griffiths Soloist: Maja Bogdanović, violoncello

MAR 20:00

CHILDREN’S CONCERTS

F. KÜNZLI: THE WITCH AND THE MAESTRO

Grand Hall of the Kolarac Foundation

Conductor: Aleksandar Kojić Narrators: Tamara Marinković & Slavica Perić Belgrade Philharmonic Hall

Friday, 1st at 20.00 Concert Hall

BELGRADE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA/ FREEDOM

Conductor: Uroš Lajovic Christian Poltéra, violoncello Programme: Borodin, S. Prokofiev, P. I. Tchaikovsky Production: Belgrade Philharmonic Saturday, 2nd at 20.00 Concert Hall

CONCERT FOR TWO HYBRID PIANOS

CYCLE: AN ENCOUNTER WITH AN ARTIST

Music for Oboa & Strings Borislav Čičovački, Oboa & English Horn Jelena Dimitrijević, violin Nataša Petrović, viola Dejan Božić: violoncello Programme: Mozart, Žebeljan, Tikmajer, Trajković... Production: Music Centre Wednesday, 13th at 20.00 Concert Hall

Sunday, 3rd at 20.00 Concert Hall

Admission free

Conductor: Daniel Geiss Programme: Dvorak, Schoenberg Production: Faculty of Music Friday, 7th at 20.00 Concert Hall

BELGRADE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA/ HANGING OUT

Conductor: Daniel Raiskin Anna Tifu, violin Programme: M. Ravel, Chausson, P. de Sarasate F. Poulenc, J. Offenbach Production: Belgrade Philharmonic Friday, 8th at 20.00 Concert Hall

BELGRADE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA/LOVE

Conductor: Daniel Raiskin Anna Tifu, violin Programme: M. Ravel, Chausson, P. de Sarasate, F. Poulenc, J. Offenbach Production: Belgrade Philharmonic Saturday, 9th at 20.00 Concert Hall

KOLARAC YOUR MUSIC WORLD!

Music of Latin American composers Antonio Serrano, harmonica Constanza Lechner, piano Programme: Music of Latin American composers Producton: Music Centre Sunday, 10th at 11.00 Concert Hall

CHOPIN AS INSPIRATION

www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

Wednesday, 13th at 18.00 Music Gallery

LP DUO Sanja Lončar & Andrija Pavlović Production: Fabrika, CENU

EUPHONY YOUTH ORCHESTRA

Cycle: Kolarac Podium of Chamber Music Production: Music Centre

CONCERT OF MUSIC SCHOOL VUČKOVIĆ

Thursday, 14th at 18.00 Music Gallery

WINNERS OF THE INTERNATIONAL VOICE COMPETITION “LAZAR JOVANOVIC” Production: Music Centre Thursday, 14th at 20.00 Concert Hall

CONCERT OF MUSIC SCHOOL STANKOVIĆ

Admission free

Friday, 15th at 17.30 Music Gallery

CONCERT OF MUSIC SCHOOL VUČKOVIĆ

Admission free

Friday, 15th at 20.00 Concert Hall

BELGRADE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA/ WISDOM

Conductor: Howard Griffiths Soloist: Maja Bogdanović, violoncello Programme: Z. Hristić, Golijov, Scriabin Production: Belgrade Philharmonic Saturday, 16th at 20.00 Concert Hall

RTS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA/ PREMIERE

Neda Hofman, piano, Goran Kostić,double bass Conductor: Alessandro Crudele

PROGRAMME: HOFMANN, BOTTEZINI, DVORAK

Production: RTS Music Production

Sunday, 17th at 11.00 Concert Hall

KOLARAC PODIUM OF CHAMBER MUSIC

Sofia Grek, mezzo- soprano Sanja Stefanović, piano Programme: Schumann, Poulenc, Berlioz Production: Music Centre Monday, 18th at 20.00 Concert Hall

STEINWAY CONCERT SEASON

Elisabeth Leonskaja, piano Programme: Mozart, Berg, Schubert Production: Piano Land

Wednesday, 20th at 18.00 Music Gallery

CYCLE: AN ENCOUNTER WITH AN ARTIST

Ivan Pejić, violin Jovana Nikolić, piano Production: Music Centre

From 21st to 30th March/ Concert Hall

THE 49TH INTERNATIONAL JEUNESSES MUSICALES COMPETITION BELGRADE

category PIANO

Thursday, 21st at 20.00 Concert Hall

OPENING CEREMONY CONCERT

Eugen Indjić, piano RTS Symphony Orchestra Conductor: Bojan Sudjić 28th & 29th MTMO Final

FINALISTS WITH RTS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Conductor: Bojan Sudjić

Saturday, 30th at 19.30 Concert Hall

CLOSING CEREMONY & GALA CONCERT Nataša Veljković, piano Programme: Mozart/ Piano Concert no 9 Sunday, 31st at 11.00 Concert Hall

CYCLE: KOLARAC PODIUM OF CHAMBER MUSIC

Programme: Mussorgsky, Chopin, Milanković, Rachmaninoff Piano duo Maja Rajković & Veronika Koprivica Production: Music Centre