D&C 53 by Diplomacy&Commerce magazine

July 2020 | ISSUE No. 53 | Price 350 RSD

10 JUNE

www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

DAY OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION

9772466380002

ONE DOESN’T CHANGE A SUCCESSFUL TEAM IN THE MIDDLE OF THE GAME DAVOR BOŽINOVIĆ

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior of the Republic of Croatia

HAVE WE ADOPTED A NEW TECHNOLOGY?

OUR RELATIONS ARE EXCELLENT AND VERY DIVERSE H.E. PHILIPPE GUEX

Swiss Ambassador to Serbia

Israel

H.E. ALONA FISHER-KAMM Ambassador of Israel to Serbia

PYRRHIC VICTORY

Cvijetin Milivojević, Pragma PR Agency

WE HAVE MADE GREAT STRIDES IN EMBRACING DIVERSITY BRANKICA JANKOVIĆ

Commissioner for the Protection of Equality

HYBRID AND ELECTRIC CARS IN SERBIA 2020

FOREWORD

Liberte, Liberte Cherie FOLLOW US TO STAY UPDATED

ROBERT ČOBAN Director

WEB

FACEBOOK

YOUTUBE

INSTAGRAM

TWITTER

TANJA BANKOVIĆ Editor in Chief tanja.bankovic@color.rs ILIJA PETROVIĆ INDIGOCHILD Art director indigochild.ilija@gmail.com

am writing an editorial for this issue on July 14, the Bastille Day, a French national holiday that celebrates freedom, best described in their national anthem "Marseilles" "Liberte, Liberte Cherie". That "sweet freedom" holds a special weight these days. I am writing the editorial by the pool in the Stanzia Menenghetti Hotel, located in the heart of Istria. There are several groups of tourists from Serbia next to us and all the conversations revolve around the same topic: "Can

JOVANA MARKOVIĆ Advertising manager jovana.markovic@color.rs NATAŠA NEŠIĆ Advertising director

natasa.nesic@color.rs

DRAGANA RADOVIĆ Advertising manager dragana.radovic@color.rs JELENA RANDJELOVIĆ Advertising manager jelena.randjelovic@color.rs VANJA KOVAČEV PR&Event support Nord Communications vanja.communications @gmail.com

RUŽA VELJOVIĆ Magazine director ruza.ristanovic@color.rs ROBERT ČOBAN Director robert.coban@color.rs

Photos GORAN ZLATKOVIĆ GETTY IMAGES Translation SNEŽANA BJELOTOMIĆ Print ZLATNA KNJIGA Jagodina Bagrdanski put bb

”Color Media Communications” LTD, 21132 Petrovaradin, Štrosmajerova 3 TIN 107871532 Matriculation number 20887303 Phone: +381 21 4897 100 Fax: +381 21 4897 126 Office: Vase Čarapića 3/IV/38, Belgrade Phone: 011 4044 960 CIP - Katalogizacija u publikaciji Biblioteke Matice Srpske, Novi Sad 33 Diplomacy & Commerce / glavni i odgovorni urednik Žikica Milošević, 2016, br. 1 (mart)-.Novi Sad: Color Media Communications, 2016 - , -33cm Mesečno. ISSN 2466-3808 = Diplomacy & Commerce COBISS.SR-ID 303269895

we leave the hotel if we have to self-isolate? Does the same apply to travellers from Serbia who have a Croatian passport? Does a negative PCR mean that we can move around? Where can we get tested? " 2020 brought so many restrictions on freedoms all over the world that, at least in Europe, unprecedented since the fall of the Berlin Wall. The dream of "Europe without borders" has shattered against ‘the cliffs’ of national strategies of various countries that are trying to pro-

tect themselves from the plague that is the COVID-19 pandemic. Things that once seemed perfectly normal – getting into your car, going to a neighbouring country and spending a few days of vacation there - have become an unattainable dream for millions of people. The lack of freedom is mixed with the anxiety of what the "second wave" of the epidemic might bring and the economic consequences that we all expect to "show their teeth" only in the fall. On top of all of that, we can add daily protests in the Serbian streets, political turmoil and accusations to this toxic cocktail, so unbecoming of July. This year, we will not drink great wines in the garden of the beautiful Art Deco building of the French Embassy in Belgrade's Kalemegdan. The ambassador, as well as his colleagues from the USA, Canada, Great Britain, Italy and other countries that celebrate their national holidays in the summer, instead sent a video message. We live and hope to taste “Liberte Cherie” again in all its sweetness, even if, in the meantime, we have permanently lost our sense of smell and taste.

Elephant v Dragon

MICHAEL STAUCH

OUR RELATIONS ARE EXCELLENT AND VERY DIVERSE

ZF Serbia Managing Director -Technical

H.E. PHILIPPE GUEX

HOW TO END THE PERILOUS INDO-CHINESE BORDER SPAT

ONE DOESN’T CHANGE A SUCCESSFUL TEAM IN THE MIDDLE OF THE GAME DAVOR BOŽINOVIĆ Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior of the Republic of Croatia

WE HAVE MADE GREAT STRIDES IN EMBRACING DIVERSITY BRANKICA JANKOVIĆ Commissioner for the Protection of Equality

PLENTY ROOM FOR IMPROVING ECONOMIC RELATIONS H.E. ABDELHAMID CHEBCHOUB Ambassador of Algeria to Serbia

WE CREATE NEXTGENERATION MOBILITY

ARE WE READY FOR HYBRID AND ELECTRIC CARS? BRANISLAV GRKOVIĆ PR Manager at Polovni Automobili

PIONEERS OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES

Swiss Ambassador to Serbia

PYRRHIC VICTORY: FROM LANDSLIDE ELECTION RESULT TO FIGHT FOR POLITICAL SURVIVAL CVIJETIN MILIVOJEVIĆ Pragma PR Agency

DEJAN DEŠIĆ

I AM LOOKING FOR TRUST

Transportation & Infrastructure Segment Manager at ABB

IZABELA BRANKOVIĆ

HAVE WE ADOPTED A NEW TECHNOLOGY? MLADEN ALVIROVIĆ Editor-in-Chief of SAT Media Group

Executive Director of the Media Association

LONG-TERM COMMUNICATING VALUES GORDANA TOMIĆ Artist and economist - corporative art adviser

ELEPHANT V DRAGON

How to End the Perilous Indo-Chinese Border Spat To avoid escalation, both sides should agree on the “Line of Actual Control” n the ancient Chinese game of Go, clever players ignore little battles in favour of strategic plays. Leaving local disputes unresolved means that later, when the game tightens and the enemy is off-guard, you can snatch prizes at lower cost. In the 69 years since China truly became India’s neighbour by grabbing Tibet, the world’s two most populous countries have played a similar game. Even as their leaders summited and trade thrived, the Asian giants left a mess of territorial disputes to fester. Mostly these claims, over some 130,000 square kilometres on either side of their 3,488km-long border, have not mattered much. Despite a Chinese “lesson-teaching” invasion in 1962, rare armed skirmishes and less rare fisticuffs between patrols, the border zone has remained relatively calm. Much of it is too rugged and empty to fight over. So long as neither side shifts the status quo, what difference does it make if there are no proper markers on long stretches of border, but instead just a fuzzy “Line of Actual Control”? A brutal clash on June 15th provided a loud and ugly answer. Details remain sketchy. At least 20 Indian soldiers died, many after tumbling into an icy river. India says the Chinese also suffered casualties. China says little. The death toll is the worst in any clash between the two since 1967, and the first loss of life since 1975. Even worse, the skirmish cannot be explained away as an isolated incident. This spring China deployed far heavier forces than usual. It has pushed them forward not at one point but at many, say Indian sources, in effect seizing as much as 60 square kilometres of land that India views as lying on its own side of the line. A particular concern is China’s westward extension along the Galwan river, threatening a strategic road that runs parallel to the border and forms the main link to India’s northernmost outposts. Not surprisingly, this is where the deadly clash erupted. Why would China change the status quo, angering a big nuclear-armed

CHINA MAY ALSO SEE AN INTEREST IN TEACHING INDIA THAT, SHOULD IT CONTINUE TO FLIRT WITH CLOSER TIES TO AMERICA, IT WILL PAY A PRICE trading partner? Because, say Indian cynics, India is distracted just now by a swelling pandemic and shrinking economy, and saddled with a government better at chest-thumping than at strengthening its army or building alliances. Nonsense, say India’s critics. It is India that has changed the status quo, quietly expanding infrastructure in contested regions even as, after stripping its part of Kashmir of statehood last August, its leaders boasted of soon “regaining” other parts, including a chunk that Pakistan gave to China in 1963. China may also see an interest in

teaching India that, should it continue to flirt with closer ties to America, it will pay a price. To their credit, officials on both sides have avoided whipping up popular anger, stressing instead the importance of implementing an earlier deal to pull forces back. Such gentlemen’s agreements have calmed tempers in previous clashes. Yet whatever the efficacy of generals meeting in windblown tents, it is a reckless way to fix problems between two rising nuclear powers that are home to a third of humanity. India has previously suggested

that, as a second-best to a formal agreement over where the border lies, the two sides should at least present maps showing their view of where the line of control runs in practice. China, perhaps thinking itself the more astute Go player, has always refused to do so. This allows it to claim that any Indian move is a violation of its own understanding. It is time to stop playing games. China looks stronger just now but India, if pushed, will find ways to cause it pain. And the last thing the wider world needs is an escalating slugfest between a dragon and an elephant over a lofty patch of frozen earth. From The Economist, published under licence. The original article, in English, can be found on www.economist.com

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

by Boban Spasojević

One Doesn’t Change a Successful Team in the Middle of the Game All the research has shown that citizens have positively evaluated the Croatian government’s response to the crisis caused by the pandemic. That is why we have justifiably regained their trust at the elections, because, in the second half, we will have to repair the economic consequences of the crisis INTERVIEW

DAVOR BOŽINOVIĆ Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior of the Republic of Croatia

ot many countries have faced such challenges as Croatia: the pandemic, an earthquake in the capital city and possible unforeseeable consequences for the tourism industry and many other businesses, and thus people's jobs. However, Davor Božinović, the Croatian Foreign Minister who was directly in charge of responding to the pandemic, believes that the citizens should look at the entire situation, including the recently held elections, from the viewpoint of answering the following question - who would they trust to bring their ship back to a safe harbour? Mr Božinović believes that one should stick to well-tested wisdom that the winning team should not be changed.

In your opinion, how has the situation with the COVID 19 pandemic affected the electorate and the position of political parties? — Croatia reacted to the pandemic early and achieved excellent results that make us one of the most successful countries in the world in the fight against the coronavirus. We scored well in all the parameters - from the number of sick, deceased and cured to the fact that the health system was not overloaded at any time.

READ THIS ON WEB

our citizens who have unquestionably been our greatest allies, conscientious, responsible and standing in solidarity. Such an approach is already called the "Croatian model". Croatia’s capital was hit by a devastating earthquake amid the pandemic, so we simultaneously had to deal with two crises that were sending opposite messages - one was “stay at home” while the other, considering the horror of the earthquake, read “get out to a safe

All of this required responsibility, quick adaptability, and reflection at least one step ahead of an unknown virus and the disease with a "thousand faces" that infected more than eight million people in a matter of months. Citizens were able to compare the situation and the reaction of the authorities in Croatia with the situation in various other countries in real-time. All research has shown that citizens believe that this Govern-

WE HAVE SUCCESSFULLY PROTECTED CROATIA FROM A POSSIBLE WAVE OF MIGRANTS, ENSURED SECURITY AND WERE RANKED AMONG THE RECORDBREAKING TOURIST DESTINATIONS In a situation that has put many health systems to the test, Croatia has achieved a balance between several key factors, namely the lockdown measure, readiness and functioning of all the necessary systems and services, maintaining the necessary economic activities, and most importantly, the trust of

place”. We organized ourselves in the best possible way even in that situation. With intervention measures worth more than 5 billion kunas, we have enabled the economy and citizens to overcome the first period of the crisis and resume normal activities after the lockdown.

ment has managed the crisis efficiently and with well-balanced reactions. There is a strong reason why the citizens continue to trust us because we are facing the second half of the game, i.e. rectifying the economic consequences of the crisis and maintaining the upward trend that we had before the pandemic.

What are the key messages that HDZ sent to the voters, and what did you do to win over the undecided voters? — The key message was that we wanted to be at the helm of Croatia as a safe country, and that means a country of social security, solidarity, inclusion, justice and stable institutions. This also means that Croatia is a well-positioned member and a reliable partner of the EU. Before the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, we had the highest employment rate so far. Pensions rose twice as much and the minimum wage three times as much compared to the terms of the previous governments, while at the same time, we significantly unburdened the citizens and businesses, especially the young people. We have successfully protected Croatia from a possible wave of migrants, provided security to our and European citizens, and ranked among the record-breaking tourist destinations. Now more than ever, the importance of public service efficiency, financial resilience and the role of the state in managing major crises have been demonstrated. In recent years, we have clearly shown that we know how to deal with various crises and challenges of today, from the largest corporate restructuring in Europe in response to the bankruptcy of the largest Croatian and regional corporation, which threatened to cause a chain effect in the entire economy, to numerous issues of economic transition. We have dealt fires, floods, devastating earthquakes, the coronavirus pandemic and the economic shock, and during all that time, we have remained a peaceful, secure and stable country on an upward economic trajectory. We have met all the technical conditions for Schengen

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

membership and with a number of arguments, we can certainly testify that Croatia in Schengen is in the best interest of the EU. When you sum up the results of work done by the Ministry you lead, what is it that you are especially proud of and what could be done better? — I would like to single out the equipping of the Police and the improvement of the material status of Croatian police officers. I am particularly pleased that, in the past three years, we have managed to systematically solve long-standing problems and correct several injustices from past mandates. Interest in joining the police has increased in the last three years. Safety is a Croatian brand. Croatia ranks among the top safe countries. After all, we would not be one of the most attractive tourist destinations if people do not feel safe in our country. In the modern world, many countries, including the richest ones, with the longest democratic traditions, are facing serious problems regarding the safety of their cities and people. That’s not the case in Croatia. Here, you can be perfectly relaxed. The Croatian police are a qualified and reliable partner to all international security and police organizations in the fight against organized crime. Over the past three years, the Croatian police has participated in a series of large international campaigns against drug, arms and human traffickers. Our police have been recording extraordinary results here. We are very successful in protecting the Croatian and European borders from illegal migration and we have the strongest border police in Europe. In addition to meeting all technical requirements, we have demonstrated that Croatia joining the Schengen zone is in the best European interest because Croatia has a balanced, responsible and professional approach to the protection of its own and European borders and dealing with the issue of illegal migration. The so-called Balkan route has opened up after the crisis with COVID-19 erupted. How many migrants have tried to enter Croatia illegally, and what is

done with them when you catch them on the territory of the Republic of Croatia? — The phenomenon of illegal migration, which is associated with severe and cruel organized crime, exists on our doorstep all the time and will continue to exist. Croatia has set itself up in the only possible way - we do not allow illegal migration and we are successfully fighting the crime that comes with it. We have the right to such an attitude and to protect our border, just like any other state. We are in favour of solidarity, but at the same time, we recognize that there is no single European approach to this problem and we support solutions that lead to agreement and that evenly distribute the burden of migration. We are ready to help those who need help, but we are not ready to be a gathering place for illegal migrants. We reject the accusations of various organizations and political groups on the left side of the political spectrum that attribute every injury sustained by the migrants to the Croatian police. In the world of illegal migration, there is a lot of violence and very difficult situations - it is a life on the edge in which migrants are primarily victims of organized crime and mutual confrontations. After trying to cross the border illegally twenty times, they probably think that the accusations against the Croatian police could increase their chances. Ultimately, they are not help-

Croatia or is this crisis maybe too much for any government, considering its global dimension? — Yes, we have the answer and we accept responsibility for such a demanding task. We have a plan and programme with coverage. One of the major projects we will initiate is the reconstruction of Zagreb. We have applied for the EU funds to repair the damage, and an advance of 100 euro million will arrive in the summer. The total damage is 11.5 billion euro. Ten seconds of earthquake brought us 10 years of a complex process of rebuilding the city. In the meantime, we have al-

more resiliently and were able to provide massive support to the private sector - half a million people were paid wages for three months of the crisis, thus preventing creation of a new mass of unemployed people. Since the beginning of the crisis, we have reduced the burden on citizens and the economy by almost 150 million euro. We are doing everything we can to get through this tourist season to the best of our ability in the given circumstances. We are encouraged by the arrival of more than 100,000 tourists, the announcement of over 350,000 arrivals via the EnterCroatia system, and megayachts are also coming.

WE WANT AND ARE CONVINCED THAT WE CAN PROVIDE CROATIA WITH 20 BILLION EURO IN THE NEXT SEVEN YEARS AS A SAFETY NET FOR ECONOMIC RECOVERY ing anyone; neither illegal migrants nor the countries they are trying to pass through illegally. In the first five months of this year, we recorded about 10 per cent fewer illegal border crossings, which is expected due to the situation with the coronavirus epidemic. With the easing of measures, we expect the pressure on Croatian borders to increase, especially since the migrant camps in Bosnia are located directly next to the Croatian border. Do you believe you have an answer to the economic crisis in

ready signed on a USD 200 million loan with the World Bank for the reconstruction of schools and hospitals, we have secured money for emergency interventions through budget revision, and we are also financing rents for citizens who cannot be in their homes. On a wider scale, we are very thoughtfully arranging opportunities for the most favourable borrowing in the domestic and foreign financial markets to overcome the consequences of the corona-induced crisis this year. We experienced this crisis

We can be satisfied with the European Commission's economic recovery plan. 10 billion euro are planned for Croatia, of which 7.3 billion euro are grants, and 2.65 billion are possible loans. The draft of the Multiannual Financial Framework shows that the allocation for Croatia will probably be more generous than the draft that was on the table in February showed. In short, we want and are convinced that we can provide Croatia with 20 billion euro in the next seven years as a safety net for economic recovery.

ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES

We Can be Heroes… Just For One Day!

NATIONAL DAYS in July & August JULY

COLOMBIA

Declaration of independence from Spain in 1810

BELGIUM

Leopold of SaxeCoburg-Saalfeld takes the oath as the first King of the Belgians in 1831

EGYPT

evolution Day, the R revolution of 1952

LIBERIA

Proclamation of the Republic: independence from the United States in 1847

here are plenty of cities named upon some historical figures in the world. Usually “the father of the nation” is the one that gets “his/her city” like Washington in the USA, Lincoln, Nebraska, or Ciudad Bolívar in Venezuela. After the capital of Kazakhstan changed once again the name of its capital from Astana to Nur-Sultan (upon Nursultan Nazarbaev, the first president), the public gained interest in such practice. Some have whole countries, like Colombia or Bolivia, or states like, once again, Washington. Of course, we all remember Leningrad and

Titograd (in former Yugoslavia each republic and province had to have one city named by Tito), and the capital of Tajikistan, Dushanbe, was once called Stalinabad. And when we started to think that Stalin fell out of grace completely, the news came that there are some peculiar changes. Some cities do not change their names permanently, but only few days during the year. And here comes Stalin again. Volgograd, in Russia, changes its name 8 times a year to Stalingrad: 2nd (end of the Battle of Stalingrad) and 23rd (Defenders of the Fatherland Day) February, May 9th (Victory Day),

June 22nd (beginning of the Nazi attack on the USSR), August 23 (beginning of the Battle of Stalingrad), September 2 (Victory Day over Japan), November 19 (beginning of Operation Uranus) and December 9 (Heroes of the Fatherland Day). Donetsk also changes its name to Stalino three times a year, on May 9, June 22 and September 8, on the day of liberation (probably to the displease of the central Ukrainian government). Tskhinvali, the capital of breakaway South Ossetia, changes its name to Stalinir on May 9 and June 22 (probably Tbilisi is not happy either).

PERU

Declaration of

independence from Spain in 1821

MOROCCO

Independence Day

AUGUST

SWITZERLAND

National Day, alliance between Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden against the Holy Roman Empire in 1291

MACEDONIA Republic Day

ZORAN GOLUB new Marketing Director of Grand Kafa

BOLIVIA

Proclamation of

Zoran Golub, former Marketing Manager of the new categories of the Strategic Business Unit Coffee with Atlantic Grupa, in accordance with the organizational changes, took over the position of Marketing Director of Grand Kafa. He joined

Atlantic Grupa in 2017, while prior to that he built marketing experience in the companies like Apatinska pivara, Pepsico International, Strauss Adriatic where he worked as a Marketing Director and West Balkan Group Brand Manager. His advancement within the company's marketing sector is a confirmation of successful business results and rich work experience in the marketing field. In his previous position at Atlantic Grupa, Zoran and his team successfully

developed and implemented important projects and campaigns, some of which included the development of the Black’n’Easy coffee segment, the relaunch of the Barcaffè brand in the capsule category and regional entrance into the RTD category. The last and largest in a series of development projects is the strengthening of the regional position in the instant coffee category, when a new improved portfolio was presented as well as a new Insta Grand brand.

Republic (independent from Spain) in 1825

JAMAICA

Independence Day

ECUADOR

Independence Day

PAKISTAN

Independence Day

INDIA

Independence Day

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

by Ruža Veljović

We Have Made Great Strides in Embracing Diversity The institution has set a very high standard, recognized by relevant international organizations and committees, such as the European Commission Report, and is guided by a very simple rule "Never leave a citizen alone and helpless" INTERVIEW

BRANKICA JANKOVIĆ Commissioner for the Protection of Equality

The 10th anniversary of the institution of the Commissioner for the Protection of Equality was recently commemorated. Your term has expired after 5 years in the office. What challenges did you face and what were your biggest dilemmas? — The struggle for equality and justice is nowhere over, even in the countries in which the rule of law, equality and justice originated from, let alone in young democracies like ours, in which we have not yet created all the conditions for understanding and accepting differences, although we have made great strides. We had to protect the institution from the influence of daily politics, and that was not always easy because equality is a very important political issue and for many public actors provides the opportunity to promote political programmes and ideologies. Furthermore, we had to react in cases of severe and typical discrimination; making sure our public warnings do not lose their meaning through excessive use. On the other hand, we had to do that in a way that it is not

Do you think that Serbian society today is more willing to accept something different? — Yes, it is. Although there are still society members who prove me wrong, that is, there are more reasons for a different opinion. Because of them we will continue to fight. We will certainly not stop with creating a better society. Conclusions should not be drawn based on media headlines, especially tabloid headlines, because, according to them, Serbia is “a dangerous place to live in”. Anyone who has spent a day here knows that is not the case. I made a small contribution to that willingness.

articipating, perhaps even playing a key role in creating conditions for an equal and open society where differences are respected, and in which we are truly equal before the law, is one of the most sensitive jobs. This task requires a keen sense of when and how to use a certain mechanism and which one is available to an independent institution for the protection of human rights. The devil, they say, is in the details, and big things consist of smaller ones (as a famous Serbian poet says)", says Brankica Janković, Commissioner for the Protection of Equality at the end of her term, in an interview for Diplomacy & Commerce magazine.

In terms of the position of women, is Serbia close to creating a society in which the one who breaks the law should be afraid, not the victim? — As far the position of women goes, my take is that we should be faster and better, but we can’t be fast in fighting against the

READ THIS ON WEB

WE HAD TO REACT IN CASES OF SEVERE AND TYPICAL DISCRIMINATION; MAKING SURE OUR PUBLIC WARNINGS DO NOT LOSE THEIR MEANING THROUGH EXCESSIVE USE interpreted as if we were calculating who and when to protect. We had to react when it came to influential social stakeholders, such as professors, leaders of political parties, sports workers, the church, etc. I had to be ready to be exposed to criticism, misunderstanding, condemnation, and even insults because of that (I was not subjected to so much criticism as I initially expected and that is why I am sure it was worth it). Many times I found support where I least expected it - in a small community I would often be congratulated on the condemnation of violence against a member of the LGBT community or a member of a nation-

al minority. I was joined by almost all important society’s stakeholders in condemning a case of sexual harassment of women by "a very powerful local man" (I do not want to mention his name because he does not deserve even a negative campaign which many of powerful people like him enjoy and even encourage). We are full of prejudices and we often think that everything that Belgrade has to offer is the best. No, the best situation is in communities somewhere on the periphery which are free from different notions of “having to do this and that” and the influence of mainstream trends and expected style and behaviour.

centuries-old patriarchy which dominant patterns still play a key role in family and partnership relations. Oftentimes, women are patriarchy’s main guardians, because they are taught that this is how they should be and that this is how they should fulfill their role, i.e. being good wives and mothers. And who does not want to be a good man / woman?! Yet today, women have made strides we could not have imagined until recently, and our institution has often played a key role in improving their position by giving general recommendations of measures and individual opinions in cases of discrimination. Today, women are in the

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

army, police, politics and in many leading positions, which was an almost unimaginable phenomenon until recently. And whatever profession they enter, they quickly become irreplaceable and immeasurably useful. For instance, in 2017, only 7 years after they were allowed to enrol in military schools, the three best students in the cadet class were all women. As for the second part of your question, thank you for literally quoting what I often say as a basic postulate of justice and the rule of law - we are still far away, and global and internal circumstances do not help us. We have a long fight ahead of us, provided that we have the will and strength for committed work. I believe we do so. What has changed in our country when it comes to the notion of discrimination? — A couple of years are not enough to accomplish sustainable and visible results not only in terms of respecting the law, but changing the cultural model. I am one of those people who believe in small steps which have to be made every single day. Every successfully resolved case is helpful which is why I chose strategic lawsuits carefully and analytically – we go to court when we want to file a lawsuit against influential stakeholders, such as large companies, politicians and professors. The elections are over. How tolerant were the participants in the election process, including the media, and how much did they respect the laws and provisions of the Serbian Constitution? — They were pretty tolerant. It seems that the political stakeholders heard and listened to every word from our warning at the beginning of the campaign, in which we reminded about

things that were banned during the election campaign. Unfortunately, there were some exceptions in terms of discriminatory speech and performance, sometimes primitive and vulgar, but it seems to me that the citizens did punish such instances with their vote. I found two public appearances especially worrisome – one election slogan which used the speech detrimental to Roma people (the slogan was “Ne ciganiši se”, where “ciganiši” is a slur word, author’s comment) and one, which happened in the small town of Plandište, where a group of citizens participating in the elections promised to bring women from Belarus and Kazakhstan to Plandište to give birth to enough children “to fill up three classrooms in seven years”. I had a strong urge to say: “For God's sake, people, we don't just serve for childbirth, regardless of where we come from.”

vestments in culture, art, education and science. It is equally important to treat work and knowledge as the only values and criteria for success and advancement. We are not close to that ideal, because certain everyday events demotivate us. However, if we want something to last a long time, maybe even forever, it will take eternity to make that happen. If something is very valuable, it is also expensive, as the Serbian proverb goes. During the pandemic, there were cases where sick people, the returnees from abroad and the elderly were stigmatized. Has the pandemic shown the vulnerability of not only of us, in Serbia, but of the whole world?

way of understanding what that means for our future. We could do a lot after this COVID lesson, although I seriously doubt that will happen, because mistakes that can be forgiven are unfortunately allowed. We especially warned about the inadmissibility of stigmatization of our citizens who returned to their country during the pandemic because they did not violate any law and had the right to return, while, of course, adhering to all protective measures. We also pointed out that the stigmatization and discrimination of patients, but also our elderly citizens, should not be allowed and I am very happy that that had an effect. I am proud that everybody’s lives were treated as equally

How important is it to influence the change of bad patterns of behaviour at all levels and in all structures in Serbia? — It’s very important. This should be the main goal in the long run. I hope that there will be more and more partners and like-minded people who are tru-

TODAY, WOMEN ARE IN THE ARMY, POLICE, POLITICS AND IN MANY LEADING POSITIONS, WHICH WAS AN ALMOST UNIMAGINABLE PHENOMENON UNTIL RECENTLY ly ready to change our society together because that’s all we have. For me, the most important goal is achieving full respect for the law which should treat everyone as equal. I deeply believe that a modern and strong Serbia is created by educating children from an early age to be free and thinking citizens, especially through free media and strong institutions, adherence to the law, equality before justice and large and urgent in-

— Yes, this virus is a tiny, invisible enemy of our greatest value - human health - for which no one, not even the world's leading powers and economies, were prepared. It has demonstrated how intertwined and vulnerable the world is. We are all equal to the impact of this virus, regardless of our skin colour, religion, race, origin and nation. The virus knows no borders and doesn't care about them, and we, as human beings, have no

important because it has not been easy to face this adversity. Many people have worked very hard to make all vital services work efficiently. Those people who have irresponsibly violated the rules or called for violations deserve every kind of condemnation. I would also like to mention there was and there is solidarity, especially in Europe, regardless of the initial misunderstanding and inadequate reactions.

FUTURE PLANS What are your plans for the future? Will you continue to fight against any kind of inequality in some future positions — This is a job that I truly love. I am completely committed to it and invest a lot of effort into it. I enjoy analyzing hundreds of pages of rulings of the European Court of Human Rights and individual cases of discrimination. The state is a serious and connected system, which should work like a clock, so to speak, regardless of it being Serbian or Swiss clock. It is our civic, human clock that measures ‘time’ for all of us. Our institution and our achievements have been developing for a whole decade, thanks to the dedicated work and faith. I have never lacked the will or strength (I also have my character to thank for that because giving up is not an option if something depends on me), so if I get the chance, I will continue doing that at the same pace. I will continue to fight to make my country a better place to live wherever I may be.

by Tanja Banković

Plenty Room for Improving Economic Relations Political ties between Serbia and the African countries are strong and Serbia enjoys high esteem among African peoples INTERVIEW

H.E. ABDELHAMID CHEBCHOUB Ambassador of Algeria to Serbia

he values of tolerance, peace, reconciliation and solidarity emerge always in times of crises whether caused by wars, natural or health disasters as it is the case of Coronavirus spread across the world, which proved that the mankind has no future without a sense of interdependence, cooperation and tolerance, said Algerian Ambassador to Belgrade, H.E. Abdelhamid Chebchoub.

On July 5th Algeria celebrated the 58th anniversary of independence. What is the symbolic moment of this anniversary? — The 5th of July marks the day when Algeria recovered its National Independence in 1962 after a national liberation war that had begun on November 1st, 1954, putting an end to the French colonial rule that had been imposed to the Algerian people for 132 years. It is worth recalling that French colonial troops invaded Algeria on 5 July 1830 subjugating the Algerian people under an unjust, oppressive and inhuman colonial system. This day is celebrated in Algeria as the date on which the country regained its independence, but also as a Youth Day, as acknowledgement for the major role played by the Algerian youth in the national liberation war. This year’s anniversary was under the sign of the return to Algeria of the remains of 24 resistance fighters killed during battles against French occupation in the 19th century. Their heads were decapitated and sent to Paris as trophies before they were kept and even displayed in the “Musée de l'Homme” in Paris. These martyrs have been deprived for more than 170 years of their natural and human right to be buried. So, a national ceremony was organized to pay tribute to them and lay their remains to rest in dignity. It was

READ THIS ON WEB

WE PLAN TO ORGANIZE A JOINT ALGERIAN - SERBIAN BUSINESS FORUM TO FACILITATE CONTACTS BETWEEN COMPANIES AND IDENTIFY INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES effectively a highly emotional moment when the Algerian people recalled its glorious past and epic resistance. How would you describe the political situation in Algeria today, in terms of stability, security and cooperation? — The events that occurred in Algeria last year marked the beginning of a new era in the process of strengthening democratic institutions to adapt them to the imperatives of profound changes which occurred in the Algerian society. Algerian people

expressed its aspirations peacefully, in a way that has aroused the admiration of the world and authorities have decided to respond to these legitimate aspirations. In that spirit, as soon as the President of the Republic was elected, last December, a deep reform program including the revision of the Constitution was launched to enshrine individual and collective freedoms, establish greater transparency in the functioning of State institutions and meet the imperatives of economic, cultural and social development.

How is important today, especially in the time of the pandemic caused by Covid-19, to promote values such as peace, tolerance and national reconciliation? How is Algeria dealing with the pandemic? — Algeria’s commitment to promote peace, tolerance, national reconciliation and solidarity comes from its geographical location at the crossroad of several regions and civilizations, its history and its own experience in putting an end to a long-lasting period of terrorism by restoring peace and implementing recon-

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

ciliation. Indeed, the values of tolerance, peace, reconciliation and solidarity emerge always in times of crises whether caused by wars, natural or health disasters as it is the case of Coronavirus spread across the world, which proved that the mankind has no future without a sense of interdependence, cooperation and tolerance. In that spirit of solidarity Algeria contributes to the African Fund set up by the African Union to fight against the pandemic on the continent. Alongside other countries Algeria is committed to provide a united and comprehensive response to the pandemic. Internationally, Algeria participates in several fora gathered together with the aim to fight against Covid 19, bilaterally, it has an extensive cooperation in that area with several countries, especially with China. The friendship between the then Yugoslavia and Algeria was forged more than 60 years ago. How would you rate relations between Serbia and Algeria? — Before answering, let me take this opportunity to pay tribute to the memory of President Tito for his strong support to the Algerian national liberation struggle, as well as to Stevan Labudović, the cameraman of Filmske Novosti, whose images revealed to the world, the reality of the war in Algeria. Political relations between our two countries are excellent. Although the exchange of visits has been put on hold temporarily due to the current situation, regular contacts have been maintained. The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of our two countries had a phone conversation recently to discuss issues of common interest. On the issue of Kosovo, Algeria position of non-recognition of the unilateral declaration of independence of Kosovo remains unchanged in accordance with the international law. In your opinion, what could be the areas of cooperation to be further explored by economic operators of the two countries? — Areas such as agriculture, ICT, and tourism offer business opportunities that should be explored further by economic operators of both countries. Speaking about tourism as an example, Algeria remains an unknown destination despite

the natural diversity and outstanding monuments it offers. From January to October 2019, exchanges amounted to 194,227 million US dollars, showing that bilateral trade between our countries is far below existing real potentials. Within the framework of the next 21st session of the Algerian-Serbian Joint Committee to be held as soon as conditions are met, pending bilateral agreements in various areas are planned to be signed thus giving impetus to the cooperation. With our partners from Serbia, we plan to organize as well, a joint Algerian - Serbian business forum to facilitate contacts between companies, identify investment opportunities on both sides and outline the legal framework for business cooperation. Some sources of tension persist in your region, in Western Sahara, in Libya, in Sahel. How Algeria contributes to the search for solutions to these crises? — The Algerian position on the issue of Western Sahara is very clear. This territory has been listed on the UN list of Non-Self-Governing Territories since 1963 and as such it is subject to decolonization. Hence, the settlement of this conflict falls within the scope of the UN doctrine on decolonization. The UN and the African Union have always considered that the solution should be sought in line with principles and objectives of the United Nations Charter and implemented through referendum on self-determination. In order to achieve it, the UN established in 1991 the Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). Algeria fully supports the UN efforts to find a just and durable solution by organizing a referendum on self-determination of the last colony in Africa, as foreseen by Security Council and African Union resolutions. Concerning the situation in Libya, Algeria is making efforts to actively contribute to the solution to the crisis. The Algerian position is based on its believes that the solution should be sought through the opening of an intra-Libyan inclusive dialogue, rejection of any foreign intervention and the respect for Libya's sovereignty and territorial integ-

rity.Despite the current difficulties, we continue investing efforts hoping that the guns in Libya will be silenced and that the brotherly people of Libya will regain peace and stability. Algeria whose contribution to the signing of a Peace and Reconciliation Agreement in Mali in 2015 was a success praised by the international community, continues to give aid and assistance to the Sahel States in their fight against terrorism and organized crime affecting the region.

gathered the Serbian business community and African officials in charge of economic affairs. According to experts in economic forecasting and analysis, the prospects of African development are very promising. Agenda 2063 adopted by the African Union is the African master plan for transforming Africa into the global powerhouse of the future. The Agenda identifies a number of structural projects in the field of education, science, technology, arts and culture, as well as initiatives to

ACCORDING TO EXPERTS IN ECONOMIC FORECASTING AND ANALYSIS, THE PROSPECTS OF AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT ARE VERY PROMISING As a Dean of the Group of African Ambassadors to Serbia, how do you rate relations between Serbia and Africa? — Political ties between Serbia and the African countries are strong and Serbia enjoys high esteem among African peoples. Together with the Chamber of Commerce of Serbia, the Group of African Ambassadors, which I have the honor to chair, organized last September in Belgrade, a Conference on business opportunities between Africa and Serbia. The Conference that was opened by Mr. Ivica Dacic, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Serbia

guarantee peace on the continent. Bearing in mind that the continent constitutes a market of 1.2 billion people and could create a trade flow of 3 trillion dollars and an increase of 33% in trade, the African countries agreed to conclude the Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) which entered into force on 30 May 2019. On behalf of my colleagues I can assure that the diplomatic missions of the African countries accredited to Serbia will spare no effort in promoting cooperation between Serbia and the African continent.

CORPORATE

Business Progress and Social Responsibility NIS Company marks a decade of reporting about sustainable development s a successful enterprise with a long history, in the business world, NIS is primarily recognized as an innovative company that drives the domestic economy with its investments. Furthermore, considering its approach towards shareholders and investors, as well as modern corporate practice, NIS significantly contributes to the development of the entire business community in our country. Also, NIS is one of the most important domestic social investors, because the company has invested as much as 3.8 billion dinars in community development since 2009. The last ten years have been a kind of turning point for NIS because, in that period, the company invested over 3 billion euro in its development and modernization. At the same time, more than 13 billion dinars were invested in environmental protection projects. However, this period was marked not only by business progress but also by the responsibility shown to employees, local communities in Serbia and environmental protection. At the same time, NIS is one of the pioneers in our country in terms of reporting on sustainable business. This year, the company marked a significant jubilee and published the 10th

WEBSITE

READ THIS ON WEB

NIS has implemented its key business projects in a way that they simultaneously bring economic benefits and improve environmental protection. Thus, the second phase of modernization is currently underway in the PanÄ?evo refinery, and it will culminate with the launch of the Bottom-of-the-Barrel Project. The new plants, worth 300 million euro, will enable the production of larger quantities of the most valuable crude oil derivatives, and the product range will expand to include coke. Be-

methods, so-called "dry locations", which enable efficient protection of soil, water and environment, are applied in its oil fields. Additionally, since 2013, NIS has been implementing a programme of construction of small power plants in the oil and gas fields in Serbia. NIS has shared its business successes with the community, primarily by investing in young people. Among other things, the company has participated in the renovation and equipping of 37 children's hospitals and

NIS COMPANY PRESENTED ITS ACHIEVEMENTS FROM 2019 IN A RATHER ORIGINAL WAY - THROUGH A UNIQUE INTERACTIVE ONLINE VERSION OF THE REPORT PUBLISHED ON THE COMPANY'S WEBSITE consecutive verified report on sustainable development. NIS presented its achievements from 2019 in a rather original way - through a unique interactive online version of the Report published on the company's website www.nis.eu/ izvestaj-o-odrzivom-razvoju. Operating under the sustainable development principles,

sides, this phase will mark the cessation of the production of fuel oil with a high sulfur content, which will further boost environmental protection. The fact that NIS is one of the pioneers of green energy and that it implements international standards in business is also demonstrated by the fact that modern drilling

health centres, 77 playgrounds and parks, 14 maternity hospitals, 12 laboratories, four museums and four theatres. Also, NIS employees, members of the Volunteer Club which number over 500, were engaged in advancing the general well-being in the society. In 2019 alone, they spent over 1,700 hours volunteering, thus setting an example

for everyone who wants to engage in achieving similar goals. In this way, NIS has laid a solid foundation for the future of the company in the previous period, while establishing a strong connection with the community in which it operates and embarking on a new era of socially responsible business in Serbia and the region. "The sustainable development principles will continue to be the basis of all business processes in NIS. The ten reports on sustainable development that we have generated so far are not only seen as a significant success of our company but also as an obligation to persevere on that path and raise the bar in terms of standards in this segment. Only in this way can we ensure further progress of NIS, while fostering a responsible attitude towards our shareholders, employees, the environment and the community which development we want to make a decisive contribution to, "said Kirill Tyurdenev, the CEO of NIS, in the opening remarks of the Sustainable Development Report for 2019.

CLICK TO GO ď ľ www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

HYBRID AND ELECTRIC CARS IN SERBIA 2020

CORPORATE

WE CREATE NEXTGENERATION MOBILITY

We drive the market and shape the industry together with our suppliers and customers

MICHAEL STAUCH

ZF Serbia Managing Director -Technical

F is an automotive leader that has demonstrated throughout its long and successful business history how strategic thinking, innovative approach and capacity for change can shape and transform the future of one industry. Just two years ago, ZF chose Pančevo and Serbia as a location for the company’s biggest European plant of its youngest ZF E-Mobility division, which construction and equipping cost 160 million euro. This bold decision initiated the Northern Industrial Zone in Pančevo. ZF’s plant in Pančevo is now fully operational, featuring a 50.000-square-metre production facility and new modern R&D centre which is getting ready to open as we speak. The ZF Serbia team today counts 650 white and blue-collar workers, managers, specialists and experts with extensive training and education behind them. This project is bringing new investors and positively developing local community while beneficially affecting every person in Pančevo. We talked with Michael Stauch, one of two Managing Directors of ZF Serbia’s Pančevo plant, in charge of technology and production.

Choosing Pančevo and Serbia as a location for the company’s new plant showed to be an open-minded and brave choice which was supported unconditionally by the Serbian government and relevant institutions which invested a lot of effort to make the investment possible. From today’s perspective, has this decision proved to be the right one and what can you say about this project today? — Even with 25 years of experience in the automotive industry and setting up plants on several continents, I can say that the opportunity to set-up the new e-mobility plant of ZF in Serbia was unique. Serbia is close to our major customers in the European Union. On the other side, there is strong competition with other automotive

suppliers in Central and Eastern Europe. We have the strategic frame and a clear goal with the ability to combine the good qualification and eagerness of Serbian people and participate in the economic development of Europe. Considering our approach and the know-how, we were confident that a new plant would be successful in this environment. We are satisfied with the progress and results we have achieved so far.

We have the strategic frame and a clear goal with ability to combine the good qualification and eagerness of Serbian people

What challenges did you face during setting up the production in Pančevo? How relevant was your international experience and what did you gain and learn from local people and local knowledge? How special would you say this project is? — When launching our business activities in 2018, a core team of 10 people focused both on the construction of the facility and even more on people management. After a few months, we hired 100 well-qualified workers and started with intensive tandem and training concept in Germany. Additionally, the integration of Serbian team members in early equipment pre-acceptance at supplier sites and set-up of machinery in Serbia helped to understand the scope and processes ZF Serbia was expected to handle from now on. Since companies in the rest of the world don’t have that much experience with e-mobility production in general, ZF Serbia is building up a unique knowledge and production

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

competence. Once again, a good mixture of general education of people in Serbia combined with a cultural propensity for finding solutions flexibly, always looking for alternatives and thinking “out of the box”, have been very helpful for starting our operations and setting up the business. It is satisfying to see how the team steered and managed the challenges so far!

What would you say makes ZF stand out from the competition? What is it that makes you believe you are on the right track and enables your company, customers and employees to look optimistically to the future? — E-mobility is the first major advantage is our business segment. This is a global trend that cannot be stopped anymore. The requirement for clean mobility, especially in cities, but already enforced countrywide in many countries, allows ZF to sell the unique and comprehensive product range in this area. Thanks to this growing trend, ZF Serbia does not only have a new plant in a new country but is also a pioneer in a new industry. In Serbia, ZF and its customers are together dealing with fast development and production cycles and demands, including new production technologies. You work closely with all your customers. What is their view on Serbia and how do you see future cooperation in product development combined with client service? — Many of our customers did not know much about Serbia, myself included, so they were very interested to learn more about the country and came to visit us, or rather, to use official terminology, “conducted audits” to verify how things are done here. In just one year, we had several visits from 4 major automotive OEMs and several other automotive and non-automotive customers. All our customers were pleasantly surprised and took with them a very positive impression of our facility and Serbia in general. What are your next steps? How will you capitalize your resources and the know-how? What is the plan for

the new R&D centre and could you tell us about your product portfolio? — As a result of positive experiences with setting up a new production facility in Serbia, ZF’s top management has decided to extend the scope of the company and form a technology centre. This Centre will become operational later this year, but we have already hired the first core team, sent them to Germany for extensive training and continued to hire persons which will now form the Technology Centre, including many test benches. This technology centre is a last piece of the puzzle which will ensure that ZF Serbia can independently handle the complete chain of activities from first customer contact with sales, through project management, development and operation (with all other related and needed functions) in the future. Could you round off an overview of this complex and impressive project from the initial phase to the current developments and give us your business outlook and a clear company message? — My colleagues and I, as well as the company and its partners we can be very proud of this project. We have achieved impressive results so farwe have built a facility in less than a year, while, at the same time, recruiting and training a team of more than 100 people in first 6 months. We have also participated in equipment pre-acceptances at suppliers in Europe and installing machinery in our new plant in Serbia, while also preparing all processes required for normal functioning, including describing these processes and training our workers. By mid-2019, we started working for our first customers, and have increased the number of our customers by one every few months. We had grand opening of the Pančevo plant in June 2019 and embarked on the new investment phase that is now also finished. Current developments in 2020 relating to COVID-19 did affect our business too. During the first wave of the pandemic, ZF Serbia customers reduced their demands due to their plant shutdowns. But some of our customers continued with their production

I FEEL GOOD AFTER LIVING IN SERBIA FOR TWO YEARS Considering how many obligations Michael Stauch has and the fact that he has been living in a new country for him, we wondered how he feels in Serbia today. Michael joined ZF Serbia team at the very beginning, in September 2018, becoming a general manager for technical activities at the Pančevo plant. As a very experienced manager in the automotive industry, he

activities and hence allowed ZF Serbia to also continue production, albeit in a lower volume, during the period of the special measures in Serbia. While being mindful of these measures, we continued with our operations which made it possible to pay out salaries regularly. ZF Serbia did record a lower growth than originally expected, but we will continue to grow. In the meantime, we are continuing with our production, have invested over 100 million euro so far and have 650 employees. We have set up complex production, assembly and testing processes with a wide range of technologies from machining, welding, potting and ensuring that product cycle times range from 1 second per product to 2 minutes the most. The variety and complexity is a challenge for everyone but also a good motivator. Our development plan stipulates ZF Serbia having at least 1,000 workers, development of e-mobility solutions for the future and also producing and exporting them from Serbia. I am looking forward to continuing being part of that in the time to come. The whole process is based on initial assumptions, research, experience and conditions that have been well-planned and well worked out, so we are aware that when ideas and visions are supported with an appropriate strategy, hard work, adequate resources and creative people, the success is only a matter of time. 

We are aware that when ideas and visions are supported with an appropriate strategy, hard work, adequate resources and creative people, success is only a matter of time

approached this task with confidence and has managed to overcome specific challenges and new aspects through the implementation of this unique and pioneering project. As an important private-public investment, ZF Serbia has had great expectations for all interested parties. „As a German, I feel good in Serbia after living and working here for two years. I felt very comfortable from the very beginning, observing an environment that has been influenced by many cultures, and has an open mind, friendly people and good international flair. My family and I live in Belgrade and I can say that we have quickly integrated with life here,” Michael Stauch said.

OPINION

ARE WE READY FOR HYBRID AND ELECTRIC CARS?

In relation to Europe and the rest of the world, the market presence of hybrid and electric cars in Serbia is still modest READ THIS ON WEB

BRANISLAV GRKOVIÄ&#x2020;

PR Manager at Polovni Automobili

hile the number of registered hybrid cars stands at only a few hundred, when it comes to the number of electric cars, we are still talking about only dozens.

WEBSITE

INCREASING SUPPLY FACEBOOK

YOUTUBE

INSTAGRAM

TWITTER

However, judging by the trend in the number of ads for the sale of these two types of cars on the site polovniautomobili.com, we can notice that hybrid and electric cars are slowly but surely breaking into the Serbian market. At the beginning of 2019, the site advertised the sale of only fifty used and several new hybrid cars and only one new electric car, in May 2020, that number was many times higher both in new and used cars category. Thus, in May, polovniautomobili.rs ran sales ads for 190 used and 15 new hybrids and 30 used and one new electric car.

WHAT ABOUT THE PRICE RANGE? Whether you want to buy an electric or a

hybrid car, be prepared to set aside a larger amount of money than usual. In terms of electric cars, mostly BMW i3 (i-three), which price ranges from 20,000 to 46,000 euro, dominate the offer and these cars have proven to be quite good. If you are a fan of Golf and electric propulsion, you will find something in the ads that suits your preference. Also, there is the legendary Fiat 500 in the electric variant. On the other hand, the offer of hybrid cars is somewhat better and the choice is greater. While the prices of the new ones range from 17,000 euro and up, used hybrid cars of the older generation can be bought for as little as 8,000 euro.

WHAT AWAITS US? The question remains whether the trend of growing popularity and sales of vehicles that use alternative and ecological fuels will spill over to Serbia.

Hybrid and electric cars are slowly but surely breaking into the Serbian market

DO YOU WANT A USED TESLA? While only a year ago, it was almost unthinkable to find a certain brand of electrical car in the ads, today quite a few ads are advertising the sale of a car which has piqued the media's interest - Tesla. Admittedly, we are talking about used Teslas. Depending on the model, generation and year of production, the price of Tesla in our market ranges from 45,000 euro to more than 100,000 euro. You still can't buy a new Tesla in Serbia, but we believe that the day when that will be possible is not that far away.

CLICK TO GO ď ľ www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

As of January 1 this year, the owners of hybrid and electric cars (but also all types of vehicles powered by this type of fuel, such as motorcycles, tricycles and the like), are exempt from paying tax (on registration). In mid-March, the Government of Serbia adopted the Decree on the conditions and manner of conducting subsidized purchase of new vehicles with electric or combined (hybrid) drive. For solely electric cars, the subsidy is 5,000 euro, for hybrid 2,500 euro, and plug-in hybrids 3,500 euro. This measure only applies to new, not used cars. In the last few these days, the first contracts were signed. According to the media, a total of 45 requests for subsidies were submitted, of which 10 were approved because the documentation was complete. Also, since the beginning of the year, the site polovniautomobili.com has been recording a constant growth in the number of car ads from these two categories.

All this indicates that there is no reason not to believe that Serbia will join global trends when it comes to hybrid and electric cars.

LIMITED AVAILABILITY How fast is that going to happen will also depend on how much the state encourages this process as well as stimulates and enables as many drivers as possible to turn to hybrid and electric cars. The first steps are encouraging. The first results, as we have seen, show that there is a strong interest among drivers. However, both hybrid and electric cars, even with subsidies, are accessible to a very small number of citizens, primarily those with a "fatter wallet". If a solution were found so it made such cars more accessible to a larger number of drivers, the growth of their popularity in Serbia could relatively fast reach the European and global level. ď&#x201A;Ł

Whether you want to buy an electric or a hybrid car, be prepared to set aside a larger amount of money than usual

REGISTRATION When it comes to electric cars, first and foremost, there are doubts about whether and how they can be registered, as well as about the price of registration. The situation is quite clear. Electric, as well as hybrid cars, can be registered, and the procedure is the same as for the usual cars. Registration is not possible only if your car's classic engine has been modified to run on electricity.

CORPORATE

PIONEERS OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES ABB is a company which relies on 130 years of experience, discoveries and tradition

DEJAN DEŠIĆ

Transportation & Infrastructure Segment Manager at ABB

n the coming period, ABB wants to focus much more to the segment of digitization of all processes that surround us, both in industry and residential construction housing, as well as on alternative energy sources, i.e. sustainable energy sources.

YOUTUBE

ABB cooperates with all leading car manufacturers, on all continents Asia, Europe and America

Has the pandemic caused by the COVID-19 virus expedited industrial development and digital transformation of companies? — Undoubtedly it has, which is, we all agree, inevitable. If we look back through history, every pandemic that had happened always brought revolutionary changes, and today is no different. Throughout history, ABB has always been a pioneer of new technologies, starting back in 1890 when the first electricity transmission network was constructed. Many innovations, such as the first industrial robot in 1974, or the Azipod propulsion in 1990, without which cruisers, an increasingly popular form of tourism, would not be able to dock, are also ABB's products. More recently, at the beginning of this century, ABB built the first integrated DCS800xA industrial process control system. These are just some details from ABB's history, but significant changes are taking place in ABB today as well. Just before the pandemic, ABB decided to make one huge step forward in its business. One segment of the company was sold, which had been generating a quarter of the company’s global turnover, and which was the Core business, on which ABB relied. This illustrates how much the world is changing, that is, how companies like ABB are behaving, planning and transforming in today’s challenging times.

How did you adjust your business to the crisis, in terms of working on current projects? — As far as the business organization itself is concerned, the step forward in the sale of a segment of the company was made due to directing energy and funds, i.e. everything ABB has at its disposal, to a segment on which ABB wants to focus much more. This segment is the digitization of all processes that surround us, both in industry and residential construction housing, as well as focusing on alternative energy sources, i.e. sustainable energy sources. You are aware of the fact that the most adaptable ones have survived, not the strongest and the smartest. In this regard, we try to be as prepared as possible for the new circumstances. As for the projects we are currently working on in Serbia, the segment I come from and cover is the infrastructure and transport segment. We have accumulated a lot of referrals in the last two or three years both in Belgrade and Serbia. You have seen for yourself just how many shopping malls sprung up in the last few years. We are leaders in that segment too since we equipped most of these shopping malls with ABB’s equipment – from substations to panelboards with electrical busbars in the facilities. In some malls, we have also provided lighting fixtures. And as far as the transport segment is concerned, Serbia is still in its infancy in terms of electrical cars and electric mobility, both hot topics in the world. How developed is the awareness of the use of electric vehicles in Serbia and what do we have to do for electric mobility to become our reality? — Nothing can happen overnight. If we were now at the peak of aware-

ness (i.e. the most conscientious), if we treated electric mobility as something we are not able to live without and if someone gave us an electric car each, it still would not be feasible at the moment because our power system would not be able to support it. So, raising awareness is a process that lasts. Nevertheless, it started in Serbia as well and that’s good news. But the whole process will take time. I can also tell you from our experience that until half a year ago, it never occurred to anyone to take a more serious interest and start thinking about electric chargers and electric vehicles if they were not forced to think in that direction in some way. The reasons why there are only a couple of electric chargers in Serbia could be due to the dealers of certain car brands because these brands were planning to sell electric cars here in the future so they were instructed to acquire an electric charger, or maybe it was due to tourism and people transit because we are still a transit country. All in all, only a couple of chargers have been installed in total. Just before the outbreak of this pandemic, there was a sharp increase in demand for electric chargers, and there is a huge range of socalled gamma products that ABB can offer. Not to toot our horn too much, but ABB is number one in the world in this segment.

What has changed in the world when it comes to the use of electric vehicles and what are the predictions when it comes to the development of this segment? — ABB has researched the situation with electrical mobility in the world, and the results show that around 170 different models of electric cars are being developed at the moment

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

and that expectations are that there will be 330 different models of electric cars by 2025. Today, there are 72 models of fully electric - not hybrids, but electric cars - while in five years, there will be 176 different models of fully electric cars, which have a battery and only an electric engine, not an internal combustion engine. In just five years from now, the production of electric cars is expected to be six times higher than today; four million cars will be produced, of which 60% will be solely electric cars and 40% hybrids. If we look at the research on the efficiency and sustainability of development, completely electric cars ranked ahead of vehicles using bio-fuel and hydrogen (the two fuel cells used today) behind.

ABB launched pilot projects in 2010. How do they fare in the world today and tell us a bit more about ABB chargers? — As far as ABB is concerned, we have been dealing a lot with these technologies since 2010 and the development has been very turbulent. There have been quite a few achievements in the last ten years. We started with 50 kW electric chargers, and today we have 350 kW electric chargers. There are two basic types of electric chargers the AC charger, that charges the car with alternating voltage and the DC charger, the so-called fast charger, which supplies cars with direct current. These AC chargers are low power chargers, up to 22kW, and there is a problem with ‘the bottleneck’ that is formed when the car battery is powered by AC voltage, which means that the car has to have a device that will convert that AC voltage to DC and then charge the battery. Car manufacturers, on the other hand, do not want their cars to weigh and cost more. That is why there are DC chargers that charge the battery directly with direct current, when you connect it, thus eliminating the need for additional devices in the car. This also increases the charging power greatly, from 50 kW to today’s 350 kW, thanks to in ABB’s chargers. Premium car models, that have been launched already, have a battery capacity of around 100 Wh. If you take ABB’s 350 kW charger, or perhaps the latest generation that came out for 94,124,184 kW, you’ll charge a car with a 100 kWh battery in 5 minutes, 8 minutes, to 10 minutes respectively. Thus, the technology is advancing fast, both with car manufacturers and ABB, which technology keeps up with these developments. ABB cooperates with all leading car manufacturers, on all continents Asia, Europe and America. When a car

manufacturer wants to launch a new model, they must work with electric charger manufacturers. ABB and car manufacturers are working together on the development of their new models and chargers, and all this must be incorporated and harmonized in the development process so that the car that is launched and the charger are compatible and able to function without problems. As for the global network of electric chargers, the first electric charger road networks were formed in Estonia, Denmark and the Netherlands. At the moment, ABB has sold 13,000 of the so-called fast chargers in the world. One of ABB’s most interesting references, globally speaking, is a 2-billion-USD contract which stipulates the delivery of electrical charges for the US road network in the following four years , signed with Electrify America. This means that ABB will fully cover motorways in the US.

How does it all look like in Serbia and how many fast-charging power stations are there in Belgrade? Is there a plan to expand to the whole country? — We are starting to wake up slowly, and a few months ago, we started receiving more orders for chargers, both for the low power ones, as well as for the fast ones. It is interesting to note that because of the crisis, we skipped a part of the industrial revolution and jumped into the information revolution. Many of our people are currently engaged in creating software solutions for either global or domestic companies, so we use our intelligence. A similar thing has been happening to with electric chargers. Fortunately or unfortunately, Serbia has skipped the first cycle of investments in the first generation of fast 50kW chargers. Europe and the rest of the world are now replacing that generation with a much more powerful one, while in Serbia, we have delivered maybe a dozen fast chargers, mostly to distributors and dealerships of certain brands, which have begun selling electric cars. Of course, in addition to these fast chargers, there are also lower-power AC chargers, which dominate in numbers. All shopping malls that are being built will have to have electric chargers. We have sold 16 AC chargers to the Ada Mol shopping centre and that is now becoming the standard. Every building, that wants to meet the LID standard and be in some way recognized as self-sustaining, installs low-power electric chargers. Serbia is still at the beginning, but it seems that it will catch up to global trends in that segment.

Can Serbia really become the leader of this part of Europe when it comes to experts and solutions offered by companies? — Absolutely! I have no dilemma about that. We just need to get better organized. I see that initiatives and desires do exist and they are all around us. Here, for example, one of the projects that we are proud of is office buildings in Novi Beograd that we have com-

pletely equipped with ABB’s equipment - from substations to electrical sockets. A foreign company plans to hire 4,000 people from Serbia that will provide support services worldwide. The building is currently under construction and will be completed very soon and the 4,000 people who are going to work there will provide support services worldwide with the help of ABB technologies. Of course, that is a road that will lead us to a better tomorrow. We, as a company that operates in Serbia, could not do without people, both ours and our associates. We are very reliant on all our partner companies with which we cooperate and are constructing the building I have mentioned earlier. These include the contractors Energomontaža Južna Bačka, Strabag, Interfast and our distributors Expro, Feluka, Rasina and Sled. There are many companies we work with and without which we simply would not be able to do business in such a successful way. Companies are people and nothing else. I am not afraid for Serbia and our future only if these people stay here and help us all do something better in our country. 

Technology is advancing fast, both with car manufacturers and ABB, which technology keeps up with these developments

COMMENT

HAVE WE ADOPTED A NEW TECHNOLOGY?

Although our car market is mostly price- instead of customer-focused, the progress of hybrid technology on the priority scale is quite obvious. This is even more important to highlight in a country where the level of exhaust emissions is not considered to be a really important thing by anyone READ THIS ON WEB

MLADEN ALVIROVIĆ

Editor-in-Chief of SAT Media Group

ybrid technology seems like the right solution for the near future; a solution that has the best of both worlds - the one we are used to and grew up with and the one that awaits us. We drive our cars exactly the same as we did a few decades ago, and automobile technology that ensures lower consumption and lower exhaust emissions seems to be exactly what the planet needs now. The first production car to launch a hybrid drive was the Toyota Prius. It was launched in Tokyo in 1997 and was immediately declared the Car of the Year in Japan. Prius arrived in Europe in 1999 and Serbia in 2001. So, we have been accustomed to this kind of understanding of the drive technology for only twenty years. During that time, many vehicle manufacturers embarked on the path of hybridizing their production range, so Toyota was alone in that for long. All this development has been going on for the last twenty years and was inspired by the idea of having a cleaner planet without having to revolutionize how vehicles are produced and used. During that time, Serbia lagged behind the world so much that our regulations did not even recognize that hybrid vehicles existed. Today, thanks to this regulation, there are several hybrid vehicles on our roads that are not registered anywhere as hybrid. Fortunately, things have changed in the last few years. The first change ensued when hybrid vehicles were included in one of the vehicle categories in vehicle registration documents. But the key change happened in late 2019 and early 2020, respectively. Hybrids have finally been granted citizenship, so to speak. First, the Law on the Tax on the Use and Possession of Goods was changed. Now, the

Toyota sold

267%

more hybrid vehicles in Serbia in 2019 compared to 2018 without the help of state subsidies

owners of hybrid vehicles do not have to pay the annual tax on use, which is a saving of 1,300 dinars for some, and up to 240,000 dinars for others, depending on the volume of the vehicle's engine. Then, at the beginning of March 2020, the Decree on subsidies for electric and hybrid vehicles was adopted, which was passed by the Ministry of Environmental Protection, and in cooperation with the Ministry of Finance. According to that decree, the owners of hybrid vehicles were finally eligible for state aid. Owners of classic hybrids are now entitled to close to 2,500 euro per vehicle in subsidies, while owners of plug-in hybrids are entitled to 3,500 euro per vehicle. Of course, if their vehicles have the emission limit of up to 100g/km for a classical hybrid or 50g/km with a plug in hybrid. The total amount of the subsidy planned for 2020, both for hybrid and electric vehicles, is 5,000 euro per vehicle or a total of a million euro. One might think that the story ends here and that Serbia has stood side by side with developed countries where owners of environmentally friendly vehicles do receive assistance. However, with this, the story is just starting to unfold. Namely, the key thing has not been regulated yet and that is a reward for those who pollute less. The principle of "polluter pays", as one of the conditions for opening Chapter 27 in Serbia’s accession negotiations with the EU, is inapplicable due to the general low living standard and the fact that the average age of a car in Serbia is 17-18 years. Exhaust emission measurement as an elimination factor at the technical inspection of a vehicle will be applied for the first time in July 2021, plus, nobody cares that much who pollutes more and who less. That does not exist in Serbia because there is no parametre dur-

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

WHAT IS CONSIDERED A HYBRID? There are three types of hybrid drive. A classic hybrid in which the internal combustion engine and the electric motor can work together, and they can also start the vehicle each on their own, while the battery can be recharged while driving. Then there is the plug-in hybrid which gets its ‘fuel’ from an external source, as in classic electric vehicles. And there is a third type of hybrid with the official designation of a ‘mild’ hybrid. It is a compromise solution in which a classic car must get homologation for a lower emission and then an affordable electric assistant is added to its system. This kind of a hybrid vehicle has a small engine that is suitable for certain modes of operation such as, say, starting driving or full acceleration.

Niš has the highest number of hybrid taxis in the Balkans, as many as

400

in active use

ing the use of vehicles and payment of duties that is based on the emission of exhaust gases. In our country, everything is still calculated based on engine capacity or power. However, the fact that customers want hybrids is best illustrated by the example of Toyota, even before the subsidies started. For example, in 2018, in Serbia, Toyota sold 152 hybrid vehicles, which is about 11% of its total sales, i.e. a negligible percentage of the total market. However, only a year later, a total of 406 hybrids were sold in our country which is a 25% share in Toyota's sales. Yearon-year sales of hybrid vehicles grew 267%.

The fact that the city of Niš, where the prices of transportation are drastically lower than, say, in Belgrade, has the highest number of hybrid taxis in the Balkans, as many as 400 in active use, which shows that this is not a coincidence. Niš, and thus Serbia, should serve as an example for Eastern Europe of how it is possible to find a cost-effective and desirable solution even without subsidies for hybrid vehicles. Yes, Serbia wants hybrids and is on the right track, but it will take more time until we reach the point where they are a frequent occurrence on our roads. The key to having this lies with the average salary. 

Successful Business is Based in Responsibility And Trust Food has a big impact on our lives and this is why it is our job, as the world’s largest food and beverage company with over one billion servings sold each day, to produce safe, high quality and tasty food CORPORATE

MARIAN MARINOV Ad interim Country Manager of Nestlé Serbia and CFO of Nestlé South East Market

WEBSITE

FACEBOOK

e in Nestlé strongly believe in the power of food to enhance life of people and their families. As the world’s leader in Food and Bevarages industry, with the best experts from the fields of nutrition and food safety, Nestlé constantly offers best choices for healthy and balanced nutrition, in sustainable way.

Nestlé as the Switzerland based multinational company, is doing business in responsible and sustainable way in regard to individuals and families, local communities, but also to the entire planet. Tell us more about this. — For years Switzerland is among the top ranked countries when it comes to innovation, not only in production but also in the areas of sustainable business and corporate social responsibility. Food has a big impact on our lives and this is why it is our job, as the world’s largest food and beverage company with over one billion servings sold each day, to produce safe, high quality and tasty food. We are not only producing, we believe that the understanding of how to eat well is very important and it is our responsibility to educate people to have a good balance in their nutrition. This is why we invested over 500.000 euros in education of about 50.000 children in schools, on the importance of the proper nutrition and physical activity within „Zdravo Rastimo” project in last nine years. We strongly believe that developing good healthy habits now to kids – will assure healthier future for Serbia. This year Nestlé celebrates 15 years of it's business in Serbia. What are the most important achievements of the company since its arrival, and what are the plans for the next period?

IN NESTLÉ WE LIKE TO BELIEVE THAT WE BORROWED THIS PLANET FROM OUR CHILDREN, SO ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS HAS LONG BEEN THE FOCUS OF NESTLÉ'S BUSINESS — We are more than proud to be a reliable partner to Serbia for 15 years already. Nestlé brought many new products and inovations to Serbia, but at the same time we proudly embraced traditional „C“ brand, continued with production and improving it's portfolio, especially Serbian people's favorite and iconic Zacin C. Nestlé Surcin factory started with production in 2011 and since then we invested more than 15 million euros in plant, equipment as well as in product development. In our factory we produce products of brands C, Thomy, Maggi and Nestlé professional portfolio. With the investments, export expansion of its products is increased 5

times, to more than 40 countries worldwide where Nestlé operates. An investment of 2,3 million euros directly impacted on production increase of 3.500 tones, with the creation of 89 new product recipes, cooperation with additional new 45 local suppliers and making more than 30 new job opportunities in factory. With this investment Surčin factory is not only serving 22 million consumers from the Adriatic region with high quality products, but it serves global consumers from markets such as Western Europe, the Russian Federation, South America and Asian countries. Locally, Nestlé's largest environmental investment in Serbia so far is € 1.2 million, for

the construction of a modern wastewater treatment facility. What is your approach in terms of sustainability? — In Nestlé we like to believe that we borrowed this planet from our children, so environmental awareness has long been the focus of Nestlé's business. The goal set by Nestlé - to use materials and resources repeatedly, on a mission to reach „Zero waste to landfill” goal at the Surcin factory - was achieved in December last year. This means that nothing come out of the factory as waste, but all waste material is being recycled or used to produce new energy. We want to help grow up healthier generations and do everything we

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

can to save the planet for our children. It is our duty, as the world's largest food company, to be responsible for the environment and our inheritors.

Dejan Maslinko, Sales manager of Nestlé Adriatic South, Tanja Zigic, Nestlé Surčin factory manager, HE Philippe Guex, Ambassador of Switzerland to Serbia, with his spouse, Marian Marinov, Ad interim Country Manager of Nestlé Serbia and CFO of Nestlé South East Market, and Nelly Angelova, Communication director Nestlé South East Market

AS THE PEOPLE ARE THE HEART OF OUR BUSINESS, WE WERE WORKING HARD TO KEEP SAFE OUR EMPLOYEES, BUSINESS PARTNERS AND THE COMMUNITIY WHERE WE OPERATE tinued production and products' delivery to all our consumers during the pandemic. Also, we immidiately react-

T IN E. PR LIN IN N O D N A w PA w Y w. M di E pl N om T ac IN C ya ST Em al l nd R ai us co UC l: p or / su mm TIO Ph ret se bs e N on pla nd cr rce S e: ta us ip .r : +3 -d re tio s 81 c@ qu n 11 c es 40 ol t o 44 or n: 96 .rs 0

and successful reaction of our supply chain, distribution, as well as of our retail partners, which lead us to ensuring con-

SU N B O S W C ! RI BE

on the field have all the necessary protective equipment and stay safe and healthy. Also, we are very grateful for such a fast

ed to crisis and donated Nestlé products to numerous hospitals and vulnerable citizens, as well as the very necessary infusion pumps to Clinical Center of Serbia. On this ocassion I would like to thank again all the doctors and medical workers who are our true heroes.

N co ews S Se mm , an co ubs v co rbi en aly b us er crib En mm a, in tary sis, in ag e in es e no gl ish unit dipl on ter s a of w Re , d y. E om eve vie nd dip fo ire v pl liab so lom r co er atic nts w a c a cie a m tly y n o us tfo le a a ty cy pre to mo nd ccu d re efu rm nd r b in , p he n y i l g n o u t e o op io inf Se oli n ffe ffi ur hs, sin g i n o c rb tic siv de in es n rm rin ie up po al ia s, e n s r a g s da tu a t n k . te nit d f tion div info er s a ie or r nd s, t eig abo se ma r n tio u re en t i n se ds nv loc e ar , le s al t ch , m es gisl at ent . io n

What measures did you take during the COVID-19 pandemic? — As the people are the heart of our business, we were working hard to keep safe our employees, business partners and the communitiy where we operate, during the coronavirus outbreak. In addition to our regular high work standards, we have put in place additional safety measures in our factory in Surcin, offices and distribution centers. All conditions were immediately established in order our employees can work safely from their homes, and that our colleagues

ONLY

34€

PER YEAR!

by Tanja Banković

Our Relations are Excellent and Very Diverse Our relations are resting upon very dynamic exchanges between the people from our respective countries, from an economic to social and cultural perspectives economy is of course interdependent with other countries’ economies, particularly those belonging to the European Union, our main economic partner. Concerning our economic relations with Serbia, we are assessing the impact of the pandemic; however, the Swiss companies in Serbia are doing everything in their power to keep their employees at their jobs and to continue to invest.

INTERVIEW

H.E. PHILIPPE GUEX Swiss Ambassador to Serbia

WEBSITE

am particularly proud of the fact that Switzerland has stayed a very important donor country in Serbia during my term, contributing for over 2o millions euros per year, including during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The coronavirus pandemic struck the entire world. What was the hardest thing during the state of emergency, and how did you communicate with the community in Serbia? Were there any special requests from Swiss citizens and companies? — The Swiss Embassy, in particular our consular section, is doing everything it can to assist Swiss citizens in these challenging times. We have been in constant contact with our Swiss community and tried to respond to each request. Thanks to our good contacts with the Serbian authorities and in particular with the Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, we have been able to assist our citizens, inter alia by organizing repatriation flights from Belgrade to Zurich back in April and May.

Economic relations are also excellent, Swiss companies employ over 10,000 workers. To what extent has the pandemic slowed down Switzerland’s economy, and will this affect the investments in Serbia? — The resilience of the economy is being tested in Switzerland during the pandemic as it the case in each country. Since our economy rests on solid foundations and that unemployment is very low in Switzerland, we have the capacity to mitigate the crisis and to support sectors that are particularly hit by the slowdown of the global economy. Nevertheless, our national

There has been a lot of talk about regionalization in the Western Balkans, Mini- Schengen, WB integration into the EU. Will Switzerland, as a NON-EU country, continue to support Serbia on its path to the EU, and what does that mean for the Swiss investors? — We strongly support Serbia and other Western Balkans countries’ integration into the European Union. Switzerland’s position has always been that not only EU membership would be positive for the countries in the region, but also that the reforms in order to achieve that goal are important for improv-

READ THIS ON WEB

e spoke with Swiss Ambassador to Serbia H.E. Philippe Guex, about bilateral and economic cooperation, which are excellent and dynamic. In his interview, Ambassador pointed out that Switzerland provides support to the civil society, central and local governments, the Parliament and local assemblies to promote the citizens’ participation and political inclusion in Serbia.

Switzerland and Serbia have remarkable bilateral relations. What is it that you are especially proud of that happened during your term, and what would you point out? — You are fully right in assessing the quality of the bilateral relations between Serbia and Switzerland. Our bilateral relations are indeed excellent. They are also very diverse. Most importantly, our relations are resting upon very dynamic exchanges

WE STRONGLY SUPPORT SERBIA AND OTHER WESTERN BALKANS COUNTRIES’ INTEGRATION INTO THE EUROPEAN UNION “In Switzerland, we tend to be modest and not to give lessons. In other words, yes, Serbia can learn from Switzerland but Switzerland can also learn from Serbia” concluded Mr. Guex.

between the people from our respective countries, from an economic to social and cultural perspectives. At the time of crisis, solidarity between countries and people is essential. I

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

CORPORATE

We Need Much More Imagination than Before the Pandemic Entrepreneurs and family businesses are generally able to respond and adjust more quickly than others given their agility and flexibility Atenica 001, Street 74/1 32104 Čačak, Serbia +381 (0) 32 543 53 63 info@ basna.net

WEBSITE

part from having serious implications for people’s health, COVID-19 is significantly impacting businesses and the economy. The long-term consequences of COVID-19 are still uncertain, but one thing is clear – leaders need much more imagination than before the pandemic to preserve the health of their employees and clients, provide cash and liquidity, and make changes in their operations and processes. Entrepreneurs and family businesses are generally able to respond and adjust more quickly than others given their agility and flexibility. We are now focused on continued research and market placement of one of the youngest and most promising fields of application of Biochar-Carbohran which is used in animal husbandry as a food additive. Very clean and carbon-rich charcoal is required in order for it to be approved by the EU reg-

Balz and Vesna Baur and H.E. Philippe Guex, Swiss Ambassador to Serbia

There it gets charged with nutrients, prevents purification and enormously increases the fertilizing value (organic farming). Furthermore, methane production decreases and nitrogen losses are reduced. Biochar is permitted for use in conventional

WE ARE NOW FOCUSED ON CONTINUED RESEARCH AND MARKET PLACEMENT OF ONE OF THE YOUNGEST AND MOST PROMISING FIELDS OF APPLICATION OF BIOCHAR-CARBOHRAN ulation. Our charcoal also has the European Biochar Certificate (EBC) for animal food. Today, 80 % of the Biochar produced in Europe is applied in animal husbandry. Because of its crystalline structure, Biochar will not degrade in the animal's stomach but will accumulate in manure.

cattle farming and it is permitted for use as an additive for certified organic agriculture (BIO) in several countries. Despite the COVID-19 contagion, we did not reduce our production output, but have rather implemented specific crisis management annexes thanks to which we can coordinate with

local authorities to provide an effective response to the pandemic threats. Besides that, we think that it’s important to recognize socially responsible companies, encourage their work and show other organizations how they can successfully incorporate social well-being into their mission. In addition to the green economy, as an important tool for our sustainable development, facilitating employee gift matching and allowing paid time off to volunteer, Basna has also partnered with the Rotary Club. Both Basna’s owners are members of the Rotary Club in Čačak. Last month, the Institute of Public Health in Čačak, which is the only independent microbiological diagnostic laboratory that provides a multitude of services and cares about the public health of the residents

of the Morava District, has approached the Rotary Club in Čačak in writing asking for the help in the shape of the equipment for the PCR testging laboratory with the aim of ensuring reliable diagnostics and better control and prevention of the COVID-19 contagion, as well as with the aim of providing better detection of various causes of the disease today. The Morava District, which is located in Western Serbia and has the population of over 220,000 residents, doesn’t have a laboratory which is equipped for the COVID-19 testing and which is nowadays considered absolutely necessary. Based on the performed analyses and the consultation with the scientists, as well as recognizing the required infrastructure and the needs of the community, the Rotary Club in Čačak has made a decision to supply this equipment. With the support of the Rotary Foundation, the friends of the Rotary organization, the business community and the local government, the project can be implemented with a high degree of certainty, as it is significant not only for our local community, but also is considered a national and global priority. Our company got involved in this project since we are aware that the supply of the PCR testing apparatus and the ancillary equipment is the biggest priority for the residents in order to promptly and successfully protect them from the further spreading of the disease.

ABOUT Basna is a Swiss company, founded in 2010 and headquartered in Čačak, which is engaged in the conversion of biomass into heat and high quality charcoal. The company’s vision is to implement sustainable, environmentally friendly technology in Serbia. Balz and Vesna Baur, the proprietors of this internationally renowned export-oriented company, advocate accountable business policy through the responsible treatment of the local community and environment. They would like to thank the Swiss Ambassador to Serbia, H.E. Philippe Guex, for his fruitful cooperation, and voice their wish for continuing prosperity. The company is a member of the Swiss-Serbian Chamber of Commerce.

ing the lives of the people living in the Western Balkans. Other processes, such as the so-called “Mini-Schengen” initiative, are positive as long as they are inclusive and result oriented, in a sense that these processes facilitate the regional integration and do not exclude any country in the region. Switzerland is one of the four biggest bilateral donors in Serbia when it comes to reforms, SME development and public administration strengthening. Do you think that something will change when it comes to the dialogue between the public and the civil sector in Serbia, which is estimated to be at a very low level? — Dialogue is possible if there is a genuine willingness of all sides to engage in it in the mutual interests of the country and its citizens. Switzerland has a long tradition of societal dialogue inbuilt in the legislation and political culture of consensus. In Serbia, we provide our support to the civil society, central and local governments, the Parliament and local assemblies to promote the citizens’ participation and political inclusion. Guided with the principle “Leave No One Behind”, we think that each individual should participate in political and economic life. Moreover, we strongly support and pro-

mote a society-wide dialogue between the state, civil society and the business sector on development priorities of the country and society. Our two countries have also been cooperating a great deal regarding the introduction of a dual education system in Serbia. How do you rate Serbia’s progress on this matter? — Cooperation on the dual education reform is excellent between our two countries, also be-

WE ARE GOING TO LAUNCH AN IMPORTANT INITIATIVE IN THAT SENSE IN THE NEAR FUTURE, STRENGTHENING CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT THROUGHOUT SERBIA FROM A GOVERNANCE PERSPECTIVE ing aware that it is about system building, that is a long-term process. Switzerland supports the reform process with legal advice, the exchange of best practices in monitoring the system and by pointing out specific challenges and sharing possible solutions. Findings and conclusions of our Swiss experts are shared with the Serbian partners in the Ministry of Education. Therefore, we look forward to continue the exchange and to further contribute to the positive developments in this sector with more quality results yet to come. An exhibition of young artists, finalists of the “Private Value” Competition, was recent-

ly held at your residence. How important is that cooperation in the field of culture and art, and which project would you especially single out? — Promoting young Serbian artists has been an important aspect of our cultural exchanges in recent years. The project that you are mentioning, “private value”, showed, for the third consecutive year, to which extent the young Serbian artists are not only talented but also are conveying important messages and reflections in times of crisis. More generally, we are supporting cultural initiatives not only in Belgrade but also beyond, working together with municipalities. We are going to

launch an important initiative in that sense in the near future, strengthening cultural development throughout Serbia from a governance perspective. Is there room for further improvement of our overall relations and what can we learn from Switzerland? — In Switzerland, we tend to be modest and not to give lessons. In other words, yes, Serbia can learn from Switzerland but Switzerland can also learn from Serbia. That is I suppose what we mean by diplomacy, a constant exchange between countries in many areas with the aim of mutual learning and enriching our experiences.

WELCOMING PEOPLE What do you like the most in Belgrade, and is there anything in particular that you would like to point out when it comes to Serbia? — Serbia is a country that has (and everybody who has come here will tell you) wonderful and very welcoming people. Belgrade in particular is a very dynamic capital, full of life and developing itself every day in an impressive way. The artistic and cultural scene is very rich, the gastronomy is excellent and like Switzerland, despite the fact we are landlocked countries, our landscapes are beautiful!

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

THE HUMAN SAFETY NET’S PROGRAMS

Generali Involves Over 30 Thousand People The first report of The Human Safety Net’s global activities has been published after a twoyear journey CORPORATE

GENERALI SRBIJA

THE HUMAN SAFTY NET

FACEBOOK

YOUTUBE

INSTAGRAM

TWITTER

he Human Safety Net, Generali’s global initiative for unlocking the potential of people living in vulnerable contexts, has published a first activity report, sharing its two-year journey of growing Generali’s social impact in the communities where the Group is present in Europe, Asia and Latin America. The Human Safety Net initiative programs (for families, for newly established refugee companies and for newborns) provide support to families with young children and help refugees integrate into the community through work. Since 2018, as a part of The Human Safety Net initiative, Generali Osiguranje Srbija has been offering a family program in Serbia, aimed at providing children living in poverty with equal chances to realize their full potential. As their parents or guardians play a key role in the children’s development, the program is designed to help them acquire knowledge that will enable them to support the development of their children during the first six years of life. The program is being implemented in cooperation with the Novak Djokovic Foundation. So far, 390 workshops have been held, for 600 parents and 1000 children. Two years after its launch, The Human Safety Net is active in 21 countries around the world and running three evidence-based programs to support families with young children and integrate refugees through work. After a rigorous selection process, The Human Safety Net has partnered with 46 leading NGOs and social enterprises, acting together like a net to amplify the impact that each organization might have on its own. Until the end of 2019, it has supported more than 30,000 people, reaching about 20,000 children ages

0-6 years and 10,000 parents, and training almost 700 refugees who created more than 100 start-ups. The Human Safety Net brings together the strengths of non-profit organizations and the private sector. The initiative is designed for social impact

ees and agents dedicated 20,000 hours of volunteering with The Human Safety Net. To maintain close contact with more vulnerable families and refugee entrepreneurs, and to ensure program continuity during the Covid-19 emergency, additional extraordinary in-

iting the social isolation of the most vulnerable. In this way, The Human Safety Net is helping reduce the digital gap in the non-profit sector. The Chairman of Assicurazioni Generali,Gabriele Galateri di Genola, and the Group CEO, Philippe Donnet, explained, “The Human Safety Net is part of our active commitment to society. It addresses some of the great social challenges of our time and is one of Generali’s key contributions to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted inequalities and has made large sections of the population more vulnerable. In this period, more than ever before, The Human Safety Net projects have become important

AN EXTRAORDINARY SUPPORT OF OVER € 1 MILLION WAS ALLOCATED TO FACE COVID-19 EMERGENCY, ENSURING PROGRAMS CAN CONTINUE AT DISTANCE AND REDUCING THE DIGITAL GAP OF FAMILIES AND REFUGEES

through a shared methodology for implementing programs and a common framework for measuring results. As part of the Group’s broader sustainability strategy objectives, Generali aims to increase the impact of this movement of people helping people by mobilizing the skills and resources of the company’s employees, agents, distribution networks, and clients. In 2019, Generali employ-

itiatives worth more than € 1 million have been launched to support immediate necessities (like healthy kits, masks, laptop and tablets) as well as an investment in digital solutions (like online platforms and apps). The latter will allow NGO partners to support families and refugees during and after the crisis, providing them with learning opportunities, maintaining access to essential services, and lim-

in unlocking the human potential of the weakest parts of our humanity and in strengthening the communities in which the Group operates. Alongside these activities of The Human Safety Net are other Generali initiatives to deal with the Covid-19 emergency, as the Extraordinary International Fund launched in March”. The initiative is driven by Fondazione Generali The Human Safety Net Onlus, established in 2017 to support the Group’s business units in coordinating programs and activities in the countries where The Human Safety Net is active. In 2019, the contribution to The Human Safety Net by Fondazione Generali and Generali business units was € 6.3 million. The Activity Report 2019 is available on the website of The Human Safety Net.

by Cvijetin Milivojević, Pragma PR Agency COMMENT

Pyrrhic Victory: From Landslide Election Result to Fight for Political Survival Photo source: Nova.rs

The next Serbian parliament, when constituted, will lack both legitimacy and legality

READ THIS ON WEB

oth the main opposition parties that chose to boycott the parliamentary elections due to unfair electoral conditions, and the small opposition parties, allegedly Vučić’s instant political satellites which failed miserably in the past elections, have been thrown out of Serbian political institutions at national,

ure "the scope and quality of democracy" in Serbia. The political opposition, albeit a constitutional category, has now been reduced to an extra-institutional amorphous political mass which can, paradoxically, aspire to represent a significant portion of more than half of Serbian voters who chose not to participate in the recent

"candidate to top all other candidates", a land-slide victory in elections in which he did not formally participate (according to the Constitution, a President of the Republic does not have the right to participate in local or parliamentary election). Still, he won on all levels: from the elections for the state parliament, through the elections

HOLDING THE ELECTION DURING THE PANDEMIC POSED A SPECIAL PROBLEM SINCE, ACCORDING TO THE LAWS OF SERBIA, JEOPARDIZING PUBLIC HEALTH IS A CRIMINAL ACT regional and local level. Put bluntly, they received regime’s political kick in the butt. The opposition (Alice) does not live in the National Parliament of Serbia anymore. They won’t even serve as a silent decoration for international dignitaries when they come to meas-

elections (i.e. 60 per cent out of a total of 6.6 million potential voters). With political leadership and organization, these voters could have changed the outcome of the elections. Instead, about two million voters gave Aleksandar Vučić, as a

for the provincial assembly of Vojvodina, to the local, city and provincial elections. On all election levels, the winning electoral ticket was called “Aleksandar Vučić – For our Children” (bearing an eerie resemblance to the German National Socialist Party

slogan for the March 1936 elections "Unseren Kindern - Die Zukunft durch"). Interestingly enough, the winning electoral ticket does not even mention the name of Vučić’s governing party – the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) – nor the names of any other candidates. The impression was that on June 21 Vučić personally ran for a seat in the National Parliament, as well as a seat in the Vojvodina Parliament, a counselor position in each of the 160 towns and cities, and for the mayor and president of all municipalities in Serbia, where the elections were held, notwithstanding the fact that (based on Serbian Constitution), as the President of the Republic and the President of the SNS party, he may not perform any other public function. In short, given that the brunt

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

of the true opposition boycotted the June 21 elections, Vučić played a friendly, sparring match, with 20 electoral tickets, of which only five or six were not his ‘satellites’, i.e. instant lists made up by the regime for single-use in the light of Mao-Tse-tung's phrase "let a hundred flowers bloom". Nonetheless, Vučić claimed that these were "historic elections", the first in the world after the COVID-19 pandemic. Holding the election during the pandemic posed a special problem since, according to the laws of Serbia, jeopardizing public health is a criminal act. For reasons yet unknown, it appears the government’s anti-COVID Crisis Unit did not ensure that real data on the number of people infected with the virus and the death toll were communicated to the public and used for pandemic related decisions making. The fact that, a day after the elections, the reported numbers of newly infected people soared drastically, including numerous activists of the ruling party who, apparently, became infected during the election campaign, begs for an explanation. The opposition criticized the regime for misusing the state of emergency declared to control the pandemic, for a ruthless functionary party campaign lead by the President of the Republic and his closest associates while violating electoral laws and abusing their state functions and public resources. The result of Vučić’s meddling with election process has had devastating impact on democracy in Serbia. Seats in the new Parliament were secured only by the electoral lists led by Alexander Vučić and by his longtime coalition partner the Serbian Socialist Party established by late Slobodan Milosevic. Last minute changes to the electoral law, which lowered the electoral threshold from 5% to 3% only 15 days before the election, allowed the modest opposition party of the former water polo champion, Aleksandar Šapić, to also enter the Parliament. So, what happens next? Based on the Constitution, as of June 3, Serbia does not have a legally elected parliament or government since their final term in office has expired on that date. The next Serbian parliament, when constituted, will lack both

the political legitimacy and legality. The President of the Republic, as the architect of this parliament imposed by the political force rather than the will of the people, could not provide him with the mandate needed for strategic decisions regarding state policy and identity issues, such as those related to the future of Kosovo and Metohija. The new government, just like the previous one, will not be the executive branch led by the new prime minister appointed by the Parliament, but yet another government of Aleksandar Vučić. Despite the fact that the Serbian Constitution awards mostly ceremonial role to the President of the

tory notes from international leaders, even from states that traditionally enthusiastically welcomed his electoral victories. For the first time, Vučić was not received by Vladimir Putin or Angela Merkel before the elections, while official Washington and Beijing refrained from "expressing enthusiasm" regarding Vučić’s victory. Three parliamentary caucuses in the European Parliament characterized these elections as undemocratic. For the first time since the accession negotiations with the EU have started, Serbia has failed to open a single new chapter during the last six-month rotating presidency. What lies ahead is probably

and that he would resign from the helm of his mastodon party, and dedicate his time to the position he was elected to, the President of all Serbian citizens. Given that the big opposition parties firmly stated their resolve not to participate in the elections until equal electoral conditions are created for all participants, the only democratic solution to the electoral impasse is to return to the source of the problem in the fall of 2018 when the activists of the ruling party beat one of the opposition leaders, Borko Stefanović, This triggered widespread civil unrest in which the protestors demanded from Vučić to organize round table talks between the

FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE THE ACCESSION NEGOTIATIONS WITH THE EU HAVE STARTED, SERBIA HAS FAILED TO OPEN A SINGLE NEW CHAPTER DURING THE LAST SIX-MONTH ROTATING PRESIDENCY Republic, Alexander Vučić has usurped the executive power of the government, as well as important parts of the legislative and judicial power. That is why it does not really matter who will formally be at the helm of the Government since it is quite certain that the new Prime Minister will not be a politician of authority and credibility, but rather a puppet of Aleksandar Vučić. Diplomatic reaction to his land-slide victory was subdued. Since 2012, when Vučić practically became the omnipotent ruler of Serbia, he received the fewest number of congratula-

not a full four-year term for the new government but, rather, a shorter term, until the next presidential elections due in the spring of 2022. Or, as things appear now, even sooner. It’s Vučić’s turn now to make the next move. If he wanted to set the strongest electoral victory, he has accomplished exactly that. His own election controllers (the opposition did not supervise half of more than 8.000 polling stations) reported that his ticket received 62 per cent of the vote. Secondly, he repeatedly announced that this was the last time he’d let SNS use his name on their electoral ticket,

government and the opposition to reach an agreement on fair electoral conditions. The regime abused goodwill services provided by George Soros’ Open Society Fund and the European Parliament, and did everything in its power to render the round table concept meaningless. That is why this election victory is probably a Pyrrhic victory for Vučić, after which his political support curve will become increasingly flatter. Although this seemed unbelievable at first, it now appears possible that talks between the authorities and the opposition may be his political lifeline.

Leader in Research and Innovation Our purpose is to help people do more, feel better and live longer by using our science and technology to address health needs, making our products affordable and available to all of those in need, while creating an excellent working environment and being a modern employer CORPORATE

MARIJA KRSTIĆ General Manager of GlaxoSmithKline for Serbia, Croatia, Montenegro, Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Albania

WEBSITE

FACEBOOK

YOUTUBE

TWITTER

FLICKR

s a global innovative pharmaceutical company, we research, manufacture, and make available a wide range of medicines, vaccines, and consumer healthcare products. 11,000 scientists in our global R&D team are using their expertise, the state-ofthe-art technology, and our long scientific tradition to improve the quality of life of millions of people around the world, and find a cure for diseases for which there is no therapy today and support global efforts to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.

GSK has a long tradition of finding solutions. What responsibility do you have as a leader in research and innovation? — Our purpose is to help people do more, feel better and live longer by using our science and technology to address health needs, making our products affordable and available to all of those in need, while creating an excellent working environment and being a modern employer. GSK is a pioneer in innovation- We have developed the first vaccines against chickenpox and rubella, and today our portfolio consists of more than 30 vaccines helping to protect people against 21 diseases. The first drug used in HIV / AIDS therapy, the first medication specifically designed for the treatment of lupus were developed in GSK. Today, our research focuses on science related to the immune system and human

ing adequately it can lead to diseases that impact almost every area of medicine, such as cancer, respiratory illnesses like asthma and chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. If we can gain a greater understanding of how the different parts of our immune system work when things go wrong and why it can lead to disease, we can potentially target the im-

differentiated medicines. At GSK, we have prioritized our research efforts into key focus areas that we believe offer the greatest potential to deliver transformational outcomes for patients- bringing innovation to Vaccines, HIV, Infectious diseases and global health, Immuno-inflammation, Oncology, and Respiratory. Rapid advances in science and technology are

WE AIM TO BRING DIFFERENTIATED, HIGH-QUALITY, AND NEEDED HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS TO AS MANY PEOPLE AS POSSIBLE, WITH OUR SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL KNOW-HOW AND TALENTED PEOPLE genetics, while leveraging advanced technologies including functional genomics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning – all of this is driven by the multiplier effect of our Culture. A functioning immune system is crucial to our health. If this network of cells stops work-

mune system to develop innovative new medicines. The distinctive new approach to R&D, to focus on the immune system, the use of genetics, and advanced analytical technologies promise to deliver a more productive R&D organization delivering a higher number of

transforming healthcare, improving the probability of success in R&D, and may help accelerate the process of finding the right solutions. We have a strong foundation in global health innovation, and this continues to play an important role. It’s also criti-

cal to ensure access and affordability of innovation for all patients in need. GSK is focused on making its products available through responsible pricing and strategic access programs and partnerships. We make continuous efforts to secure that patients in Serbia have access to the latest GSK innovative therapeutic options. We seek and offer adequate solutions using the most successful global experiences, encourage scientific debate and exchange of knowledge within the medical community, and adapt the pricing policy to the local market. It is encouraging to see that the state has made significant steps recently by expanding the list of innovative drugs, as well as extending the calendar of immunization, which improves the availability of modern therapy and vaccines and significantly contributes to the improve-

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

ment of public health. Could you tell us a bit more about your key focus areaswhat could we expect in the future? — We aim to bring differentiated, high-quality, and needed healthcare products to as many people as possible, with our scientific and technical knowhow and talented people. We invest in scientific and technical excellence to develop and launch a pipeline of new products that meet the needs of patients, payers, and consumers. In our Vaccines business, we balance our focus on our robust pipeline of innovative candidate vaccines with the active life-cycle management of our existing vaccines, seeking to protect more people through expanded indications and geographies. Self-replicating mRNA (SAM), a technology that can help to make effective vaccines more quickly, can help with that. Once injected in the body, SAM molecule self-amplifies and uses the mechanisms of the body’s own cells to produce the antigens of the disease pathogen. These antigens mimic an early-stage infection and trigger the body’s immune response, generating immune memory for future protection against the pathogen, but without causing disease. The human body becomes the factory for its own vaccine. ViiV Healthcare, a company that was created by GSK and its partners, seeks to enhance local expertise and resources that build towards global goals including the WHO 90-90-90 target, as well as our own dedicated mission of leaving no person living with HIV behind. As a leader in HIV treatment, we are redefining the concept of antiretroviral therapy. We have managed to make available, for people living with HIV in Serbia, the most effective and recent therapeutic options, helping hundreds of people daily. In the near future, we expect new therapeutic options with better healthcare outcomes that will add additional value to public health and society. What we expect from GSK in the future is a revolution in the administration of medicines for immunocompromised populations. We are working on a dif-

ferent formulation of parenteral drugs that would ensure the home care concept. Instead of coming to health care institutions for their therapy, patients will soon be able to receive it at home through self-administration thus minimizing risk of infection. For many years, GSK’s research and development has focused on using cutting-edge innovation to develop potential treatments for cancer patients. Developing a new medicine often takes several years. That’s why our strategic approach to R&D took advantage of the rapid advances in science and technology to identify novel targets, mechanisms, and potential medicines to fuel the next wave of innovative medicines for patients. Continued advances in technology, combined with a greater understanding of science

did COVID influence your approach to innovation? — COVID-19 has influenced us in a way that we use technologies and innovations we have discovered in a different manner. Our adjuvant technology proven in pandemic influenza A virus, type H1N1, is now part of 6 different collaborations with the common cause of finding the vaccine against COVID-19, including unprecedented cooperation with Sanofi. This kind of partnership is bringing together two of the world’s largest vaccine companies, combining scientific expertise, proven technologies, capabilities, and the efforts of our people with the cause of developing an adjuvanted vaccine against coronavirus. From all collaborations we are taking part in, we intent to produce 1 billion doses of pandemic vaccine adjuvant system in 2021,

icine and provide support to patients and health care providers, without risk of virus transmission. We have played a crucial role in supporting educational webinars for different specialties of healthcare professionals, where they had a chance to learn from key experts on how to manage and continue daily activities of providing health services in pandemic conditions. Our acknowledgment of protecting the risk population was demonstrated through the support given to patient web education during the pandemic peak. Globally, we have donated $10 Million USD to WHO and the UN Foundation’s COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund to prevent, detect, and manage the pandemic in support of frontline health workers.3 In Serbia, we have invested nearly 5 million RSD in our healthcare

WE HAVE SUPPORTED THE USE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TO DEPLOY TELEMEDICINE AND PROVIDE SUPPORT TO PATIENTS AND HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS, WITHOUT RISK OF VIRUS TRANSMISSION and the human body means that we can explore new breakthroughs and will aim to deliver them for some of the world’s biggest health challenges such as pandemics. COVID-19 has radically changed lives around the planet and raised questions about the sustainability of the healthcare system and its readiness to respond to the most difficult and unforeseen challenges. Above all, we have seen the importance of innovation across all areas. In what ways

to support the development of multiple adjuvanted COVID-19 vaccine candidates.4 We are reviewing our pipeline medicines to determine if any have potential activity against COVID-19 and have started a clinical trial to assess whether a monoclonal antibody in development can help treat patients who are affected by severe pulmonary COVID-19 related disease. As a part of our daily operational activities, we have supported the use of information technology to deploy telemed-

system by PPE donations, COVID-19 tests, consumer healthcare products donations, and web educations. Since the outbreak, we have been actively exploring ways to help, with our science and expertise, alongside protecting the health and wellbeing of our people and managing our global supply chains to support patients and consumers who depend on our products. We work every day to make innovative therapeutic options equally available to all people, both in the world and in Serbia.

THE DEBT TOLL

The Poorest Countries May Owe Less to China than First Thought Still, China lends more than the members of the Paris Club combined he four-lane, 62km toll road being built between Masiaka, a business hub in Sierra Leone, and Freetown, the country’s capital, promises shorter journey times, fewer accidents and smoother drives. It is nonetheless controversial. Awarded to China Railway Seventh Group, the project added over $160m to the country’s foreign debt, according to the China-Africa Research Initiative (CARI) at Johns Hopkins University. The work has suffered delays, which the company blames on the pandemic and the need to compensate property owners, reports the Concord Times, a local newspaper. The firm has also complained that some lorries pass by the toll booths, not through them. Projects like these have mushroomed across Africa and other developing countries in the past 15 years. “It’s no secret...China is by far the largest bilateral creditor to African governments,” said Mike Pompeo, in June, blaming it for creating an unsustainable debt burden. Plenty else is, however, secret. China does not typically divulge how much it has lent to whom or on what terms. Nor is it a member of the Paris Club of government lenders, which tries to co-ordinate debt forgiveness among its members, making sure that no lender takes advantage of the magnanimity of another. Many, therefore, have wondered how China would play its part in the debt-relief initiative agreed in April by the G20 group of big economies. That initiative will allow 73 of the world’s poorest countries to delay payments on loans from G20 governments, freeing up resources to fight the pandemic. China, a prominent G20 member, signed up. But would it offer the same terms as the others? And if so, how would they know? Proving China is doing its bit is hard if you do not know how much it has lent. Recent weeks, however, have yielded a pleasant surprise. To help monitor the G20 initiative, the World Bank told its board it wanted to reveal more data about the government debts of the eligible countries.

THE COUNTRIES COVERED BY THE DATA OWED $104BN BETWEEN THEM TO CHINA AT THE END OF 2018, $106BN TO THE WORLD BANK AND $60BN TO BONDHOLDERS

Though its board is dominated by its bigger shareholders, including China, the bank’s plan faced little resistance. And so after cross-checking its numbers, the bank has now disclosed what eligible governments owe to bondholders, multilateral bodies, private foreign lenders and other governments. The countries covered by the data owed $104bn between them to China at the end of 2018. The total includes soft loans from China’s government, semi-soft loans from “policy banks”, such as China Development Bank, and profit-seeking loans from state-owned commercial lenders. The same countries owed $106bn to the World Bank and $60bn to bondholders. The data, say Deborah Brautigam and Yufan Huang of CARI, are a “gold mine”. Prior to the release, they had to scour public announcements of

loan pledges, cross-checked with reports from Chinese embassies or ministry documents in the borrowing country. In addition to aiding research, the data should also help the public in developing countries, says David Malpass, the World Bank’s president. The new figures confirm Mr Pompeo’s observation that China is by far the biggest bilateral creditor to Africa, and in many poor countries elsewhere (see chart 1). It accounts for about 20% of the total foreign debt owed by the 73 governments eligible for the G20 initiative (and about 30% of their debt service this year). That is more than all of the Paris Club lenders, including America, Britain and Japan, combined. But it is also smaller than the estimate of over 25% based on figures from Mr Horn, Ms Reinhart and Mr Trebesch.

Indeed their estimates for individual countries often exceed the bank’s by large margins (see chart 2). What explains the gap between Ms Reinhart’s research and her new employer’s data? Some of it may reflect the difference between announcements and disbursements. Just because China says it will lend money, does not mean the entire sum is paid at once (or ever). But even when Mr Horn, Ms Reinhart and Mr Trebesch look at the bank’s figures on commitments, rather than incurred debt, they find some loans missing, suggesting incomplete data. Another reason for the gap may be that the bank excludes some debt owed by state-owned enterprises and special-purpose vehicles but not guaranteed by the government. In other contexts the bank does consider scenarios in which state-owned firms fail or public-private partnerships sour, requiring the government to step in. Counting these as public debt brings the bank’s estimates closer to the Horn-Reinhart-Trebesch figures. Such thought experiments could sometimes stretch the definition of public debt, though. The financing raised for Sierra Leone’s controversial toll road, for example, is supposed to be repaid from toll, not tax, revenues. It would only burden the government if those tolls fell short. The World Bank does not seem to count it as government debt—but it is included by CARI. The bank’s figures for Chinese lending are not always below outside estimates. For Burkina Faso, the Central African Republic and Liberia they are much higher. This, reckons Ms Brautigam, is because they include loans from Taiwan. China’s critics, including Mr Pompeo, may suspect that its true lending is higher than the bank suggests. But even they would not want to chalk up to the People’s Republic what is properly owed to Taiwan. From The Economist, published under licence. The original article, in English, can be found on www.economist.com

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

Development of Nature and Cultural Tourism in the Tisza Region The region of Vojvodina and Csongrad County have so far not had jointly defined products and services in the segment of tourism that they have promoted and branded together. We are creating a new and innovative foundation for future joint development and promotion of tourism with the help of this project CORPORATE

INTERREGIPA CBC

Hungary-Serbia

THE PROJECT AIMS TO IMPROVE THE JOINT TOURIST OFFER IN THE CROSSBORDER REGION, INCREASE THE NUMBER OF VISITS TO NATURE AND CULTURAL TOURIST DESTINATIONS IN THE TISZA REGION he project titled "Integrated development of nature and cultural tourism in the Tisza region" IDENTIS; HUSRB / 1602/31/0048 is currently being implemented under the auspices of the Cross-border Cooperation Programme Interreg - IPA Hungary - Serbia. The project is implemented from 01.05.2018 to 31.07.2020. The total value of the project is 249,709.70 euro, of which the European Union co-finances 85%, or 206,303.25 euro. The Provincial Finance Secretariat provided funds for project co-financing in the amount of 15% of the project value. The region of Vojvodina and Csongrad County have so far not had jointly defined products and services in the segment of tourism that they have

promoted and branded together. We are creating a new and innovative foundation for future joint development and promotion of tourism with the help of this project. The project aims to improve the joint tourist offer in the cross-border region, increase the number of visits to nature and cultural tourist destinations in the Tisza region, which will lead to an increase in the number of tourists and overnight stays, as well as higher income in the tourism sector and services. The development of a joint strategic document is one of the priorities of the project which will stipulate further steps and actions related to the development of joint tourism services in the cross-border region. The project is focused on solving

the existing problem, i.e. the lack of a common tourist offer, primarily cross-border tourist routes, which can initiate the promotion of this area and be a driving force behind tourism development in the region. The project partners defined the unique advantages that this region can offer to its population, but mostly to tourists. The Tisza abounds in natural beauty and has an exceptional potential for the development of tourism, which enables the overall socio-economic development of the region by involving various participants in the promotion of products and THE EUROPEAN UNION CO-FINANCES THE PROJECT

routes. Thanks to a large number of project activities implemented based on a joint analysis of partners and stakeholders, the following tourist routes have been defined: rural tourism, wellness and spa tourism, active and eco-tourism, cultural tourism and industrial heritage, which will be branded and promoted during project implementation. Marketing activities include a digital and non-digital promotion, as well as the use of Android and IOS platforms. The most important tourist locations in the Potisje region of Vojvodina and Csongrad County are presented textually and visually through photos and video material on the website www.identisonline.com, as well as on social media - Facebook and Instagram pages of the Identis project. GOOD NEIGHBOURS CREATE JOINT FUTURE

We are Raising the Bar in Consumer Communication If you are a brand that is positioned in the premium segment, every aspect of consumer experience and communication has to be at an appropriate level, in keeping with high standards of the profession Could you tell us a bit more about the global aspect of this campaign and why Belgrade was chosen? — In collaboration with our business partners, we have selected a location that meets both logistical and creative standards for the new global campaign of the Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc brand. We made the decision based on several important factors. First of all, Belgrade is already recognized on the international production scene as a place that offers quick and easy access to talented actors, professionals and staff who closely follow the production of marketing communication materials. Our partner production company has a very positive experience and is happy to recommend Belgrade as a filming destination. Geographical accessibility, good organization and experience of the local production team, as well as the Serbian capital having a competitive filming offer have all contributed to Belgrade taking precedence over many other, over many other cities.

CORPORATE

NIKOLA MARAVIĆ Global Marketing Director at Carlsberg

hese days, Belgrade resembles any other capital city in the world since it is a location where an advertisement with a global reach is being filmed. We have talked with Nikola Maravić from Carlsberg about the new global communication campaign for premium beer 1664 Blanc. He says:” A rarity is that Vincent Gapaillard is the campaign’s photographer. This is a photographer that has been working with the globally renowned fashion brands such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Burberry and others. It is not uncommon for a photographer of his calibre to work on a beer brand commercial, which shows how much Carlsberg is investing in the aesthetics of this advertisement.

The renowned Wolfberg Prague team was selected to direct the ad. As a member of the team leading the project, I am especially glad that such an important campaign for the world's largest markets, such as Canada, China, Russia and South Korea, is being filmed in the country I come from.”

Could you tell us more about the campaign team? You have a fashion photographer who has worked with the biggest fashion brands, as well as a directing team that has a unique visual style. How important is for Carlsberg to invest in aesthetics and photography, and to raise the bar when it comes

with a Twist". Combining our elegant and playful tone with a contemporary look at French style and heritage, Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc will be communicating with consumers in a rather unexpected yet sophisticated way. The filming of the new global campaign brought together renowned experts and creatives from a number of fields. The renowned British agency, Fold7 is responsible for the creative solutions, while Stink Films from Prague is in charge of the production, with the professional support of the team from the Belgrade-based studio Tuna Fish. The famous Wolfberg duo from the Czech Republic, consisting of Jan Kalvoda and Premysl Ponahly, were chosen as directors. Given the complexity of creative and aesthetic expression, we decided to collaborate with eminent French photographer Vincent Gapaillard, whose experience with the world's largest fashion brands plays an important role in creating a new style of brand communication. If you are a brand that is positioned in the premium segment, every aspect of consumer experience and communication has to be at an appropriate level, in keeping with high standards of the profession. As you have nicely noticed, our intention is to raise the bar and point out to new ways a beer brand can talk to consumers.

WE ARE EMBARKING ON A NEW STAGE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE BRAND, BASED ON THE NEW COMMUNICATION PLATFORM "GOOD TASTE WITH A TWIST" A global ad campaign for premium beer 1664 Blanc is being filmed in Belgrade these days. It is a rarity in the marketing industry for an ad for a global brand to be filmed in Serbia.

to marketing activities? — With this campaign, we are embarking on a new stage in the development of the brand, based on the new communication platform "Good Taste

How much is the beer market affected by the global crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic? Has the beer industry experienced a crisis at all? — Like many other companies,

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

we, at Carlsberg, have been carefully monitoring and analyzing the changes in the world as a result of the pandemic. The marketing plans we are working on require flexibility, the development of alternative scenarios and, most importantly, the revision of plans now more often than ever. Given the responsibility for global growth and brand development, listening intently to the market and responding in a timely manner through innovation will be even more important. In this regard, I would like to highlight the expansion of new sales channels such as e-commerce, which has been rapidly growing since the outbreak, as well as the growing popularity of alcohol-free and low-alcohol products. Marketing will, as always, adapt to these and other trends and it is up to us to always be close to the market through ongoing and relevant communication with consumers and customers. What are the global tendencies in the beer industry? What can we expect in terms of new brands, new tastes and further development? — Craft and speciality beers have gained in popularity in the last ten years. The trend that emerged in the United States at the end of the first decade of the 21st century has spread to the whole of Europe and is increasingly present in Asia. The market for craft and speciality beers continues to grow, given that consumers are looking for an authentic beer consumption experience. Consumers in larger cities have access to types of beer and combinations of flavours that we couldn't even imagine just a few years ago. Although the segment is still relatively small, the growth rate in many markets is in double digits. The global success of the brand I run is partly explained by growing popularity of speciality brews and wheat beer segment in an increasing number of markets. The situation is similar in the alcohol-free beer segment, which has been formed only recently. Worldwide, growth rates are double-digit, driven by people’s growing desire to lead a healthier lifestyle, especially younger adult consumers. Thus, we are witnessing

the proliferation of alcohol-free beers that are often reminiscent of craft beers, having in mind the production process and the ingredients that are combined to create an authentic taste. An increasing number of market players recognize this trend and we can only expect an even better and higher quality offer. As far as Serbia is concerned, the segment is still in its early development stage, but I expect changes in the medium term. The beer market never sleeps, the changes are constant and make the product itself and the consumption experience

spent one of the most beautiful years growing up and going to school in my native Ruma and then in Belgrade. Working for international companies in Serbia, Great Britain, Romania and Denmark has given me opportunities for accelerated growth and development. I am surrounded by people from all over the world, and my results often depend on people I see online or who I don’t even know. On the other hand, I have easy access to the best talent and professionals, as well as financial resources for large, global projects that can im-

are committed and extremely valuable in fair business conditions. Finally, let's not forget our playful temperament, which makes the work atmosphere more engaging and relaxed. I often miss that in the far North. Last but not least, when can we expect to see the premiere of the ad filmed in our city? Are you going to launch the campaign here, in Serbia, first or simultaneously in other countries too? Are you proud of Belgrade being picked up for filming the ad?

Nikola Maravić and Viktor Holm-Larsson, Global Brand Manager, 1664 Blanc

THE MARKETING PLANS WE ARE WORKING ON REQUIRE FLEXIBILITY, THE DEVELOPMENT OF ALTERNATIVE SCENARIOS AND, MOST IMPORTANTLY, THE REVISION OF PLANS NOW MORE OFTEN THAN EVER get better over time. Finally, we can see that, in the context of new circumstances caused by the coronavirus pandemic, there is a rapid growth of e-commerce. Development and proper implementation of assets that are tailored to this sales channel will be increasingly important for successful positioning in the globally leading markets You are originally from Serbia, and you have been working in Denmark for years, from where you cover several markets. What did you use from the experience gained in Serbia, and what can all of us, in Serbia, learn from Danish or European businesses for that matter? — Serbia is my homeland. I

pact the lives of a significant number of people. Large systems teach you how to be focused, efficient and adaptable to constant change. In this way, you gain resilience and experience that you can use in other areas of life and facilitate your personal development. Living and working in Denmark teaches you punctuality, precision and efficiency, and I would especially like to single out the communication style whereby listening and respecting other people’s often different opinions is considered quite important. In Denmark, culture can be described by these three aspects of Danish life: simplicity, politeness, and equality. Serbia is known for high standards of service and great talents who

— The ad was filmed in a great atmosphere, thanks to the teamwork of professionals from London, Paris, Copenhagen, Prague and Belgrade. We will do post-production in Paris and Prague in the coming weeks, and the idea is to start airing our new campaign from August. As a member of the team leading the project, I am especially glad that such an important campaign for the world's largest markets such as Canada, China, Russia and South Korea is being filmed in the country I come from and, moreover, in a city that will forever be my home. I think this is a great opportunity to showcase the quality of local talents and the opportunities this destination offers for various brands and product categories.

By Milena Milićević & INAT Summit team

Digital Solidarity and Smart Cities in the New Normal Digital solidarity is one of the names we should give to the new approach of the society to digital, that should drive to a different way to consider digital economy

CORPORATE

FRANCO COIN Digital Transformation Consultant and Building Information Management PMO at DBA Group SpA

WEBSITE

ranco Coin, a Digital Transformation Consultant and Building Information Management PMO at DBA Group SpA from Italy shared his insights on digital solidarity, IT business in Italy and globally during the pandemic and adapting our cities and infrastructure to new normal. “COVID19 explosively boosts the digital, and creates many opportunities for future business, even because construction and asset management are NOT mature digital markets. The big issue in restart is pace to new normal that includes the agility of institutions to define requirements and release approval for new processes and practice” said Mr. Coin for July issue of Diplomacy&Commerce magazine.

What are some of the best examples of philanthropy that businesses provided in the communities of Italy? Is digital solidarity our golden standard for the future? — I live in Padua that was named "European Capital of Volunteering 2020", and no place fitted more the nomination, being the city in Italy where the first man died for Coronavirus and the centre of the first virus hot spot locked in Europe (Vo’ Euganeo). In Padua, but almost all over Italy, companies did something to help in the pandemic, practically all chemical companies

READ THIS ON WEB

ICT companies here where in the team, and supported the volunteers for digital services, many employees, and entrepreneurs where volunteers themselves, even because the request was you were under 50 to go around and help during the lockdown. Digital solidarity is one of the names we should give to the new approach of the society to digital, which should drive to a different way to consider digital economy. Digital technologies, especially the ones close to infrastructure, because of their capability to

education is financed only in minimal part form ICT through taxes. I am trying to propose to EU parliament to settle a “data mines” tax for Social and Digital big companies whose products are used by European citizens so that tax money to be used exclusively for education. Can we identify now the indispensable technologies on our journey to more resilient and healthy communities? — New normal will see social distancing behaviours as an option we would be able to activate any time, using it as a defence

WE NEED A WIDE DIGITAL EXECUTION CAPABILITY TO ENHANCE CITIZENS’ LIFE PRODUCTIVITY AND MOVE FROM ICT TO ECT FROM INFORMATION TO EXECUTION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY arranged up to produce and distribute sanitizing gels for free. Solidarity in troubles is a tradition everywhere, but in Italy it applies very fast, philanthropy here is incredibly well organized for, probably because Italians have low expectation for fast help from institutions.

be in the middle between individual and social behaviour and to be adopted widely are close to philosophy, in some cases digital looks the arm of a philosophical theory. Think about digital economy more than any other needs educated people to exist, but

from other social issues. Because we’re no longer in the middle age, we can’t in the meantime lose our connections, and connectivity and cloud is the basic technology to apply. Probably it looks trivial still talk about it if you live in a city, but think we are going to live a period of re-

verse urbanisation, and we can’t give for granted connectivity, in terms of what the new normal smart-something (work, education, religion, etc.) needs, is not so common. 5G will be the choice, even though the structure of 5G equipment fits more an urban scenario, so I think there will be some adjustment to apply it widely in the so called “internal areas”. The other general digital value is interoperability, unique global solutions are risky, not only for the physical availability, but because other phenomena like infodemic or cybersecurity, and they are until slow to be able to manage “execution”. On the other side, we know that the only riskier thing is to have a non-integrated information environment. The solution is to use standard digital languages to communicate between applications. I’d like to talk about the case of Veneto region in pandemic. I live here and as you probably know, we’ve been with Lombardy in March the most affected region by the pandemic in Italy.

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

We’ve been able to flatten the curve in Veneto soon because of two reasons: our health system set up a strong organisation to do all the swabs they can to, know the more about the virus diffusion. And, because we had a digital platform called “Digital Enabler” (compliant with *fiware” standards) to support the data collection, allowing to know, even without a personal tracing app, information about who could have been in contact with the infected persons matching them for family, work and health data. These data were NOT in a unique system, that you understand could make them a privacy problem, but they were connectable in case it was needed to take data driven decisions (as in Vo Euganeo). The last technology will be something we could call “dressed blockchain”, that is everything will be able to make digitally executable administrative processes. This involves primarily the public sector, I am in the steering committee of Building smart international regulatory room, a global non-profit organisation to foster the digital interoperability in systems for buildings, infrastructure and environment management. This tech goal is to make digital become the car that run the full process road, not only the windshield or the steering wheel. How will smart and healthy cities look like in upcoming years? Could you share with our audience perspectives in particular from construction engineering and IT security? — Smart and healthy cities of the future will not be cities, but territories, or systems of residential sites (metropolitan regions). The growth of Digital twin approach in smart cities showed that we need to adopt this evolution; and innovation in physical smart infrastruc-

tures is the engine. Changes come from the evidence that sustainability or healthcare management cannot be limited by city borders and must include wider territories. City-as-a-silos concept will be replaced from territory converging networks, where the city is just a place with a higher density; I believe that reverse urbanisation boosted by pandemic will fasten this change too. The disruption of barriers in smart management project is clear from my point of view for I see this in standards convergence. Open standard of GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and BIM (building information management) are now interoperable, and the same is happening for COBIE, the standard used for asset maintenance. If data barriers collapse, different apps can manage a process, but a single app can manage different processes too. This becomes even clearer if you think about railways, or waterways. Different views on

to redesign many Public services and to grant more equity in tax system and to use tax reduction to foster real sustainability changes (to avoid greenwashing tricks ). Who are the new stakeholders needed in building more effective partnerships between institutional authorities and businesses? What is the role of Millennials and Generation Z in this dialogue and ongoing process?

enough to make the institution believe in executable applications of digital. The third is to create a virtual link between social and personal life and technology adoption to support the evolution through consensus. Because of point 2 and 3 we need desperately young people to progress. My perception, as a person somehow involved in political processes, especially in a federal EU perspective, is that this is happening, but the pace is

DBA group at INAT Summit

NEW NORMAL WILL SEE SOCIAL DISTANCING BEHAVIOURS AS AN OPTION WE WOULD BE ABLE TO ACTIVATE ANY TIME, USING IT AS A DEFENCE FROM OTHER SOCIAL ISSUES data required (not all data) by different apps is called Model view definitions and its management is in the core of interoperability standards to grant security and reliability in process execution.Security and interoperability are linked, interoperable thresholds are like fire doors, you can open or close; that is why the semantic of these standards is important, wrong semantics are the clear signal of threats. This means also for institution the capability to rethink completely to bureaucracy, in Finland the convergence of standards for buildings data to an open management is going

— Looking at digital evolution in political systems is like watching to a planetary system where to find the orbit to allow to the digital innovation star ship to reach all the planets, but their position is changing and they are not synchronized. There are at least three aspects to consider in fostering the partnership for the new normal evolution between business, institutions, and citizens: the first is institutional, we need signed acts and laws that includes the digital and these are the milestones that are needed both as closing and as restarting point in process. The second is to foster the trust

too slow because elites, both in business and in institutions, are psychologically resisting to changes, we need Millennials and Gen Z people to be “political nerds”, able to bring on the market their disruptive approach. And I’m very happy to say that the “new nerd” approach is effective: the young students coming from university are conscious of their “social” weight; maybe someone is a little less ready for the effort that sustaining operatively “wide consciousness” requires. Yet for sure, Millennials and Gen Z people are not like many “Boomers” sketched.

CONNECTION TO SERBIA & SERBIAN – ITALIAN FRIENDSHIP How did Franco start collaborate with Serbia? — ”My global business made me work in many countries, but Belgrade has been the place where I founded my most successful international initiative in 2011, now named Engineering Balkan. However, the best achievement of my Serbian experience has been to know and love this country and its people” said Mr. Coin, who is a Digital Transformation Consultant, Building Information Management PMO at DBA Group SpA. Since 1997 Franco was heavenly involved in global initiatives with Confindustria, in Italy and Serbia. In 2018 Franco designed and put in motion with Confindustria Serbia the DIGINDEC initiative, to bridge Serbia and Italy. Franco has been involved in many digital transformation projects in highly regulated environments. Thus, he has deeply studied the impacts of regulatory compliance and international laws on digital evolution.

PEOPLE & EVENTS

10 JUNE

RUSSIA DAY MARKED

The Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Serbia, H.E. Alexander Botsan-Kharchenko, held a formal reception at the Embassy of the Russian Federation on the occasion of marking the Day of Russia. The reception was attended by numerous representatives of the Serbian government, as well as President Aleksandar Vučić, who handed the ambassador a congratulatory message for President Vladimir Putin, which reads: "Dear Mr President, dear friend, I cordially congratulate you and our brotherly nation, the Russian people, the Day of Russia – the international holiday of peace and freedom. In honour of the glory of the modern Russian state”. In his congratulatory message, the President also mentions his gratitude to Russia for its active support to the state of Serbia and its national interests, based on the principles of international law and justice.

11 JUNE

ECEPTION IN SUPPORT R OF THE BELGRADE DANCE FESTIVAL

H.E. Kathleen Csaba

11 JUNE

Serbian Patriarch, Irinej, Ana Brnabić, Prime Minister, Maja Gojković, President of Serbian Ansembly, Aleksandar Vučić, President of Serbia, H.E. Aleksandr Botsan-Kharchenko, Russian Ambassador, Ministers in Government of RS, Nebojša Stefanović, Aleksandar Vulin, Nenad Popović and Bratislav Gašić, Director of the Security Information Agency (BIA)

The Belgrade Dance Festival will be held from September 11 to November 8, 2020, with almost the same programme that was planned for March and April, the Festival director, Aja Jung said at a reception at the Canadian Embassy. Aja Jung and H. E. Kathleen Csaba, the Ambassador

H.E. Maria Virgínia Mendes Da Silva Pina, Portugal Ambassador, H.E. Kathleen Csaba with husbend, H.E.Anthony Godfrey, Ambassador of SAD and Aja Aja Jung Jung, BDF

THE TRADITIONAL SUMMER COCKTAIL OF THE SERBIAN BUSINESS CLUB 'PRIVREDNIK'

The traditional summer cocktail of the Serbian Business Club 'Privrednik' assembled numerous distinguished guests from the business, the political, cultural and public life of Serbia. A cocktail party for directors, edi-

Radojka Nikolić, Editor-in-chief of economic monthly "Econometer" and "Business Magazine" and Ivan Stanković, founder and owner of the Communis agency

of Canada to Serbia, hosted the reception in support of the Belgrade Dance Festival, which is considered a pillar of the Serbian cultural scene and the tourist potential of our country. The reception was attended by numerous distinguished guests and members of the diplomatic corps in Serbia.

tors-in-chief and journalists of media outlets was held last night in the Club. The cocktail party took place in a relaxed but constructive atmosphere at which new contacts were made and old friendships celebrated.

Jasmina Knežević, Belmedic

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

18 JUNE

CROATIAN AMBASSADOR MEETS WITH MEMBERS OF THE CROATIAN BUSINESS CLUB

The Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia to Serbia, H. E. Hidajet Biščević, organized a meeting with members of the Croatian Business Club (CBC) on June 18, at the Croatian Embassy in Belgrade. In an introductory note, the Ambassador said that he was ready to use his experience to contribute to the improvement of relations between Serbia and Croatia based on European values, which are very impor-

Ivan Prtorić, Director of Podravka Serbia and Pero Mijakić, President of the Croatian Chamber of Economy in Serbia

18 JUNE

THE PRIVATE VALUE EXHIBITION AT THE RESIDENCE OF THE AMBASSADOR OF SWITZERLAND

tant for regional stability and progress in the region. Underlining the need to strengthen cooperation between Serbia and Croatia, Ambassador Biščević said that he had prepared project proposals for cooperation in infrastructure and energy, such as restoring the navigability of the Sava and Danube and called on CBC members to propose ideas that would improve relations between the two countries.

Pero Mijakić, Stjepan Glas, the empowered Minister of the Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in Serbia and H.E. Hidajet Biščević, Ambassador of Croatia in Serbia

An exhibition of the artwork of six young artists from Serbia, finalists of the Private Value competition, will be staged from June 20 at the residence of the Swiss Ambassador in Belgrade. The competition jury has announced the winner - Veroljub Naumović and his "Silicone, Concrete" artwork. In his introductory address, H. E. Philippe Guex reminded that the Swiss Embassy has been holding the competition and staging the exhibition for the third time, to

provide encouragement and draw the public's attention to the local artists of the youngest generation. Among more than 180 applicants, the jury selected six artists, who, according to the propositions of the competition, had to be under the age of 30 and have a permanent residence on the territory of Serbia for at least three years. All finalists received financial support of 500 euro to prepare their competition entry, while the winner will receive a prize of 2,000 euro

H. E. Philippe Guex

24 JUNE

HE FIRST FORMAL T RECEPTION AT THE EMBASSY OF KAZAKHSTAN IN SERBIA

H.E. Gabit Syzdybekov, Ambassador of Kazahstan in Serbia and Dragomir Karić

The Embassy of Kazakhstan in Serbia held the first formal reception after the establishment of a diplomatic mission at the ambassadorial level between the two friendly countries late last year. Prominent businesspeople, politicians, and athletes supported the establishment of the Friends of Kazakhstan Club. Ambassador Syzdykbekov pointed out that the Club

would contribute to boosting the cooperation between his homeland and Serbia. He also gave a brief overview of the socio-economic reforms that, after the first president and founder of modern Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev, continued to be successfully implemented by Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in the first year of his presidential term.

Dragomir Karić and Zoran Djordjević, Serbian Minister

PEOPLE & EVENTS

24 JUNE

“DIALOGUE TO RESTART AS EARLY AS JULY”

During his two-day visit to Belgrade, the EU Special Representative for the Belgrade-Priština dialogue, Miroslav Lajčak met with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and Prime Minister Ana Brnabić. During the meeting with President Vučić, Lajčak thanked for the President’s readiness to join the negotiating table and proposed mediation in reaching a comprehensive agreement on Kosovo* that would resolve all pending issues. “We want to

make sure that, once the dialogue has reached the end, we have an agreement that tackles all issues. I expect the EU-facilitated dialogue to continue in Brussels, in July. At the meeting with the Serbian PM, Lajčak said that the Union’s readiness to facilitate the Belgrade-Priština dialogue is a significant indicator of how high on the EU agenda is the importance of the Western Balkan region’s stability, prosperity and the European perspective.

Miroslav Lajčak and Aleksandar Vučić

Photos: Goran Sivački

JUNE

ONLINE CONCERT MARKING THE OFFICIAL BIRTHDAY OF HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN

Due to the global pandemic and health recommendations aimed at reducing the risk of the coronavirus contagion, the British Embassy did not hold a large, annual reception in honour of the Queen's official birthday this year. Instead, the Embassy posted a recording of a short concert on its Facebook page, with live performances by the Isidora Žebeljan Ensem-

ble and the music band Stray Dogg from Belgrade, as well as the performance of the HRH the Countess of Wessex string orchestra. The joint performance of the Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Serbia, H.E. Sian MacLeod, and her colleague, the Ambassador of Serbia to the United Kingdom, H.E. Aleksandra Joksimović, was a special concert segment.

H.E. Sian MacLeod

JUNE

BEO SHOPPING CENTER OPENS

MPC Properties, the largest domestic real estate developer in the region, officially opened the BEO Shopping Center. The Center is located on the corner of Vojislava Ilića and Miss Irbijeva streets, with a total investment valued at over 110 million euro. The Center spans more than 130,000 square metres, and it houses more than 130 glob-

Goran Vesić and Ingo Nissen, CEO of MPC Properties

al and regional brands.BEO Shopping Center stands out with its innovative architectural concept that follows the latest global trends in retail with more open spaces, wide corridors and lots of natural light and greenery. The opening ceremony was also attended by the Deputy Mayor of Belgrade, Mr Goran Vesić.

Ingo Nissen

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

27 JUNE

INTERNATIONAL YOGA DAY

The 6th International Day of Yoga was celebrated in Belgrade with the participants adhering to social distancing rules. About 200 Yoga enthusiasts gathered in front of City Hall of Belgrade. There were yoga celebrations in 17 different Serbian cities on different dates, ranging from 21-28 June 2020, with

about 800 Yoga practitioners participating. Indian Ambassador to Serbia, H.E. Subrata Bhattacharjee, stated in front of the Belgrade City Assembly that, in the context of the coronavirus pandemic, "yoga can help us stay healthy, calm and connected while keeping a physical distance."

H.E. Subrata Bhattacharjee

JULY

Due to the situation with the COVID-19 pandemic, this VIRTUAL US INDEPENDENCE year, the US Embassy did not hold a traditional reception at the residence of the American ambassador on the ocDAY casion of the celebration of the Independence Day, with numerous guests, as it has been the case previous years. Instead, the Embassy threw a virtual party, on Saturday,

July 4, at 11 am. Two days earlier, Ambassador Anthony Godfrey and his family, played hosts to the representatives of the Serbian government, ministers and the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, at the residence, on the same occasion. (Photo credits: The US Ambassador’s Twitter account)

Ministers of the Government of the Republic of Serbia, Zoran Djordjević, Ivica Dačić, Zorana Nebojša Stefanović, Serbian Minister with American Mihajlović and Vladimir Marinković, Vice President of H.E. Anthony Godfrey with his spouse and Aleksandar Vučić, Serbian President Ambassador and his wife Serbian Ansembly

JULY

ALGERIA INDEPENDENCE DAY

On the occasion of 58th Anniversary of Algeria Independence Day , Ambassador of Algeria, H. E. Abdelhamid Chebchoub, accompanied by the Defence Attaché, chaired on Friday at the Algerian Embassy in Belgrade a ceremony of promotion to a higher grade for military officer trainees undergoing professional education in

Serbia. This year’s celebration was marked by the ceremony of burial of the skulls of 24 Algerian martyrs, killed by the French colonizers 170 years ago and put on display in a museum “Musee de l'Homme” in Paris, returned to Algeria where they had a dignified burial on the earth for which they sacrificed their lives.

H. E. Abdelhamid Chebchoub

BUSINESS NEWS

THE FIRST HOTEL IN SERBIA MARKED AS SAFE TO STAY

Since the very beginning of the pandemic, all major hotel chains started to establish health and hygiene standards that will enable and provide a safe hospitality service. Thus, the ALLSAFE label was created in a collaboration be-

tween the ACCOR group and Bureau Veritas, the famous international accreditation company and a global leader in testing, inspection and certification. The ALLSAFE certificate denotes hotels that have implemented international as well as local health and safety standards in their business practice. The ALLSAFE label sets sanitary standards for Accor hotels around the world and enables the reopening and safe operation of catering companies in Europe. During last week, Mercure Belgrade Excelsior was inspected by Bureau Veritas auditors and having passed the exhaustive inspection process successfully, was marked as the first safe to stay hotel in Serbia. This proves once again that Mercure Belgrade Excelsior Hotel and ACCOR is the market leader, not only in the offer and services that provides to its guests, but also in the security and safety measures applied to guarantee best possible protection for its guests and employees alike.

MASTERCARD BRINGS APPLE PAY TO ITS CARDHOLDERS

Mastercard Serbia brought Apple Pay, a safer, more secure and private way to pay that helps customers avoid handing their payment card to someone else, touching physical buttons or exchanging cash — and uses the power of iPhone to protect every transaction. Customers simply hold their iPhone or Apple Watch near a payment terminal to make a contactless payment. Every Apple Pay purchase is secure because it is authenticated with Face ID, Touch ID, or device passcode, as well as a one-time unique dynamic security code. Apple Pay is accepted in grocery stores, pharmacies, taxis, restaurants, coffee shops, retail stores, and many more places,

SUMMER SEASON AT MT. KOPAONIK OPENED

wherever contactless payment is enabled. “Mastercard cardholders in Serbia have been very interested in using Apple Pay and the launch has been anticipated for some time now, so bringing Apple Pay to the Serbian market has great implications for the future development of cashless payments. It is also important to point out that in the current COVID-19 crisis, Apple Pay is giving peace of mind to shoppers seeking to limit time and physical touch points in stores.” said Jelena Ristić, Country Manager at Mastercard. For more information please visit: www. mastercard.rs/sr-rs/consumers/offers-promotions/apple-pay.html

The summer season at Mt. Kopaonik has been opened, and in the next three months visitors will enjoy a diverse offer and supreme service of the largest hotel complex, as well as various outdoor activities, including those presented to guests, leading agencies and media for the first time this weekend. The offer includes visits to attractive and less known locations at Mt. Kopaonik, tour of the highest waterfall in Serbia at the slopes of the sunny mountain, new hiking routes, visits to nearby monasteries, farms and vineries, botanical tours, etc. Those who prefer more active holiday have at disposal safari and quad adventures, mountain biking, summer skiing, paragliding, horseback riding, panoramic ski lift ride and other entertaining activities. At the opening of the summer season, the Grand Hotel capacities are full and we expect a high visit rate in the coming months as well and between 12 and 15 thousand guests by the end of the season. With attractive prices and elements and the implementation of the highest standards in regard to safety of guests and employees, we have fully adjusted to the domestic market, and with the innovative offer and the concept of diverse several-day summer holiday, we aim to confirm the leadership reputation and present Mt. Kopaonik to even more potential visitors during summer months,” said Radoš Đorđević, General Manager of the MK Resort and the Grand Hotel & Spa.

TRAVELLING IS SAFE IN THE COUNTRY AND ABROAD Following the customer centric approach, anticipating the summer period with more frequent travels, DDOR osiguranje has adjusted products for all travellers in the country and abroad. The first one is intended for guests of hotels, spas, resorts and other accommodating facilities – legal entities. The existing, standard accident coverage for all guests has been expanded with coverage in case of hospitalisation due to coronavirus. Second one represents a special supplement to the Travel health insurance policy and has been created for everyone who decides to travel abroad. This coverage, covers the expenses of necessary medical services if the test is positive including testing for COVID-19, as well. Additionally, if necessary, insurance includes help with transport of patients abroad and return to the country. At the end, there is a one-off cash payment, in case of the hospitalization abroad.

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

OTP BANKA’S E-COMMERCE IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS Due to the consequences caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, for many businesses the only possibility for growth and prevention of stagnation was the transition to online sales and online channels. Having in mind these challenging times, OTP banka Srbija has prepared an e-commerce solution for SME sector that provides various opportunities and facilitates business activities. The partner of the project is the Mastercard company. E-commerce offer is intended for those who already have their own webshop but want a better service, for those who do not have their online store or those who want to charge their customers online, but do not need a website. With just a few clicks on the Bank's website, it is possible to realize these offers created by OTP banka in partnership with the Mastercard company. In addition, the costs of forming and maintaining an online store compared to a classic point of sale are lower, and there are no fixed monthly costs for maintaining the service. E-commerce is a channel that contributes to the image of every brand, and thus positions its users as leaders in the application of modern technologies in the eyes of the customers. For more information, please visit the Bank’s website.

UNIQA TRAVEL INSURANCE WITH ADDITIONAL COVID-19 COVERAGE As with its standard travel insurance policy, UNIQA now provides coverage for its clients against the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic with the view of saving clients from having to pay from several hundred to several thousand euros which is how much the simplest medical examinations and hospitalization cost abroad. The COVID-19 travel insurance policy is valid for all European countries, including the Russian Federation and Turkey. It covers the costs of required medical care, diagnostics, an examination by an authorized doctor, testing for symptoms of the coronavirus infection and the purchase of medicines, as well as inpatient and outpatient treatment in the country of residence up to the amount of 30,000 euro. Travel insurance with additional coverage does not include preventive testing for the corona virus and the costs of staying in quarantine isolation. Clients who want to purchase travel insurance with additional COVID-19 coverage, which costs only 1.6 euro per day of stay abroad, can buy an individual policy and pay online (by credit or debit card) in our webshop on www.uniqa. rs or in any of UNIQA branches, but also partner travel agencies and banks. In order to have coverage for COVID-19 in addition to travel insurance, they need to choose the option of additional insurance, i.e. if they purchase an insurance policy in the webshop, they need to select the option that also includes additional COVID-19 coverage.

BISER NUTRI AKADEMIJA - PROPER NUTRITION FOR CHILDREN

As obesity and inadequate nutrition have become serious social problems in our country. Mlekoprodukt company decided to contribute to solving this problem by educating children, parents, preschool and school staff on the importance of proper nutrition in child development through the Biser Nutri Akademija project. Initially conceived as a caravan that would tour cities across Serbia, inform parents, children and school employees about the principles of prop-

er nutrition, the Biser Nutri Akademija was held online and broadcasted via social networks due to the coronavirus. The conference was attended by experts in children's health and balanced nutrition - Dr. Jelena Jovanović pediatrician, Dr. Snežana Dejanović, hygiene specialist and nutritionist, and Leontina Vukomanović, singer, composer and songwriter, who spoke about experiences in obtaining proper eating habits of her daughter.

“THE VENTILATOR FOR SRPSKA” CAMPAIGN COMPLETED

50 respirators purchased in Russia in mid-March, at the beginning of the COVID-19 virus epidemic in the Republic of Srpska with the funds collected in the “Ventilator for Srpska” charity campaign which was launched by the companies TRB and Elvako Metpro, owned by Slaven Ristić, have arrived in Bijeljina. All customs procedures have been completed and the ventilators will be delivered to public health institutions in the coming days - 10 respirators to the University Clinical Centre of the Republic of Srpska, hospitals in Bijeljina and Doboj (7 each), hospitals in East Sarajevo and Trebinje (6 each), hospitals in Zvornik and Gradiška (4 each), hospital in Prijedor (3), the hospital in Foča (2) and the hospital in Nevesinje (one ventilator). In addition to ventilators, in March and April, some of the collected funds have been used to purchase and deliver medical equipment for the Sv. Vrači Hospital in Bijeljina. The Health

Centre in Bijeljina was given 200 hazmat suits (worth 5,916.41 KM), a defibrillator (CARDIO AID 260B, worth 16,777.80 KM), as well as 17 additional hazmat suits, 17 medical visors and 17 goggles (total value 507.39 KM).

BUSINESS NEWS

RAIFFEISEN BANKA BRINGS APPLE PAY TO VISA CARDHOLDE Raiffeisen banka brought to its customers Apple Pay, a safer, more secure and private way to pay that helps customers avoid handing their payment card to someone else, touching physical buttons or exchanging cash — and uses the power of iPhone to protect every transaction. Customers simply hold their iPhone or Apple Watch near a payment terminal to make a contactless payment. Every Apple Pay purchase is secure because it is authenticated with Face ID, Touch ID, or device passcode, as well as a one-time unique dynamic security code. Apple Pay is accepted in grocery stores, pharmacies, taxis, restaurants, coffee shops, retail stores, and many more places. Customers can also use Apple Pay on iPhone, iPad, and Mac to make faster and more convenient purchases in apps or on the web in Safari without having to create accounts or repeatedly type in shipping and billing information. Customers will continue to receive all of the rewards and benefits offered by Raiffeisen banka's Visa cards. For more information on Apple Pay, visit: www.raiffeisenbank.rs/digitalne-usluge/apple-pay.

FOR BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AND SUSTAINABLE FUTURE The Nelt Group presented the 2018/19 Sustainability Report, highlighting that business sustainability is one of key strategic objectives of the company, which has constantly been growing organically for nearly 30 years. In addition to business diversity, new technologies and employee affirmation, the company is focused on the areas and projects which will have a longterm positive impact on both the organisation and the community. In the last two years, Nelt invested 15 million euros in developing smart warehouses and office space in Belgrade and Istočno Sarajevo, expanded the Intermodal Terminal in Belgrade and its fleet in accordance with the latest eco-standards and focused on the importance of recycling. In all the markets where it operates, the company strives to raise environmental awareness and reduce pollution and global warming effects. It also continues to support projects in the areas of youth education and professional training. Another priority of the company is investment in employees and their professional development. Miloš Jelić, the Nelt Group CEO said that the company’s strategic plan includes the continuation of the optimisation process and investment in people. Learn about key data from this publication in the short animation titled The Nelt Group – Excellence and Responsibility for the Future. For the full Sustainability Report, please visit nelt. com/izveštaji.

"CURRENT ISSUES IN THE APPLICATION OF THE NEW CUSTOMS LAW"

On Wednesday, June 24, 2020, the Slovenian Business Club and the Croatian Business Club hosted representatives of the Customs Administration of the Republic of Serbia with the support of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce and on that occasion, and held a seminar titled "Current issues in the application of the new Customs Law" at the In Hotel. Danijela Fišakov and Marija Radulović gave welcome speeches. In their addresses, the representatives of the Customs Administration briefly presented the Ad-

ministration itself, their organization, goals, mission and vision. Then they explained the changes that were made to the new Customs Law and gave an interpretation of the same. These changes related to the transit procedure, simplified customs procedures and other relevant issues. The chambers' members had many questions related to the new Customs Law, as well as the everyday problems they encounter in their work. They were given detailed answers and instructions for further action.

VENTILATORS FOR NINE HOSPITALS IN SERBIA UNICEF has delivered 10 ventilators to the Clinical Centre of Serbia today, while in the coming days, it will deliver three to the Zvezdara Clinical Hospital and the Clinical Centre in Kragujevac. The general hospitals in Čačak, Valjevo, Užice, Novi Pazar, Kruševac and Subotica also got one ventilator each. "The virus is not giving up, and we are not either. At the beginning of this crisis, UNICEF reacted swiftly and procured 50 ventilators for the healthcare system in Serbia. Today, the Clinical Centre received 10 state-of-the-art ventilators intended for patients of all ages and health conditions. These ventilators are fully compatible with our healthcare system. We owe a great deal of gratitude to our donors, representatives of the business community, which, despite the numerous challenges that the economy is currently facing, responded to our appeal and helped us with providing the highest quality equipment. UNICEF pays attention to each individual and all

our support is focused on preserving life in difficult circumstances that the entire planet is now facing, "said Vesna Savić Đukić, Head of the Department for Cooperation with the Private Sector at UNICEF Serbia.

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

FROM BELGRADE TO THE WORLD

Carlsberg Company made a commercial in Belgrade for their Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc brand, which will be broadcasted on global markets. This is the first time that the famous global brand is making a commercial in Serbia intended for

the entire world. The making of this commercial took place in the Geozavod building, as well as at the local “Tuna Fish” production team’s studio, and it gathered the greatest experts and creative people from their fields of operation from all the meridians. The renowned British agency "Fold7" is responsible for the creative solution, while "Stink Films" company from Prague was in charge of the production. It was directed by the famous directorial duo from the Czech Republic, "Wolfberg", consisting of Jan Kalvoda and Premysl Ponahly. The fact that the eminent French photographer Vincent Gapaillard, known for working with the world's biggest fashion brands such as Chloé, Miu Miu, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Cartier, Burberry and many others, was in charge of photography, shows how much emphasis was placed on the aesthetics of this advertisement. The advertisement for Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc will be broadcasted on the markets of Canada, China, Russia, South Korea and many others.

MEET THE S-CLASS DIGITAL

Mercedes-Benz is expanding its digital information platform with an additional news format on the new S-Class, which celebrates its digital world premiere in September. In a total of three episodes started on 8 July 2020, Meet the S-Class DIGITAL will provide the first insights into some of the groundbreaking innovations that will ensure the new luxury saloon further cements its leading position as the best car in the world. The video is now available in a media special on media.mercedes-benz.com/s-class, which is also where all three episodes of Meet the S-Class DIGITAL and its associated content will be published. The first episode, “Meet the S-Class DIG-

ITAL: My MBUX” on 8 July 2020 at 11.30, covers the new generation of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX). Sajjad Khan, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz AG, responsible for CASE, and Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer of Daimler AG, present in detail the new possibilities for interaction and personalisation. The focus of the second episode, “Meet the S-Class DIGITAL: Innovation by intelligence”, which airs on 29 July 2020, is on safety and comfort. And the third episode, “Meet the S-Class DIGITAL: Luxury and well-being” on 12 August 2020, centres on the new luxurious comfort in the interior.

EUROBANK - “MAGIC IS IN TEACHERS’ HANDS” CONTEST

The selection of the best online teaching example within the “Magic is in teachers’ hands” contest is completed and Eurobank, as the sponsor, provided awards in two categories – two laptops with installed software for reading e-books. The special award for interaction with students was granted to Mirjana Stakić-Savković, a professor of the Grammar School of Philology in Belgrade, for the Stories and Tales from the Time of Coronavirus in a students’ e-book in 11 languages, while the award for the best example of use of digital teaching tools was won by Mladen Šljivović, a professor of the Grammar School in Zaječar, for the project Learning via Android Game and an online experiment about functioning of nuclear reactors. “Eurobank joined the “Magic is in teachers’ hands” contest as it supports education, just like our CSR project titled “A School Designed for You”, launched two years ago in order to provide better learning and working conditions in secondary schools across Serbia. We realize this project with the support of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development.” said Dušan Mihailović, a member of the Executive Board of Eurobank. The aim of the “Magic is in teachers’ hands” contest is to reward teachers and professors of primary and secondary schools who have designed and organised online classes in the previous period. Rewards are based on an assessment of an expert selection jury and votes of the public. The contest attracted huge interest, with 600 applications of education professionals from primary and secondary schools across Serbia.

FDA: IQOS IS A MODIFIED RISK PRODUCT The U.S. Food and Drugs Agency (FDA) reached the decision to allow IQOS, Philip Morris' heat-notburn product, be classified in the Modified Risk Tobacco Products (MRTP) category, as well as concluded that informing consumers that exposure to harmful chemicals when using this device is in accordance with the promotion of public health. The IQOS Tobacco Heating System is the first and only electronic nicotine-containing product which the FDA classified among 'modified risk products', explaining its decision with the following conclusions: IQOS heats tobacco and does not burn it; the use of this device significantly reduces the production of harmful and potentially harmful chemicals; studies show switching completely from combusted cigarettes to IQOS reduces the body’s exposure to harmful and potentially harmful chemicals. The decision to allow the MRTP application to Philip Morris, ranking the IQOS system as a modified risk tobacco product, followed an extensive review of comprehensive scientific documentation submitted by the company in December 2016. The FDA previously allowed the IQOS commercialisation in the US market.

Transformation of E-Commerce After the Pandemic The seventh online conference in 2020. Organized by Color Media Communications, E-COMMERCE REVOLUTION, has been dedicated to e-commerce, was held on July 7. There were two panels, E-commerce metamorphosis an E-commerce boom ONLINE CONFERENCE

YOUTUBE

fficial statistics for Europe says that e-commerce has declined and that only certain areas of trade have benefited. The data in our country show progress, in the first three months this year e-commerce increased almost ofr 48,3 percent. For us the problem is more of a logistical and software nature because the numbers show that the interest of Serbian citizens in online trade has definitely increased. Something that has been being worked on for years, flourished in times of crisis and state of emergency. Those who already had developed online activities overcame the crisis of Covid-19 pandemic more easily because they directed clients and customers to perform their claims on existing online platforms, and a large number of companies started to expand their online presence for the first time. Serbian e-commerce re-

tailers’ transaction numbers soared in the first quarter of 2020, as spending reached 5.5 billion dinars ($51 million/47 million euro), deputy central bank governor, Dragana Stanic said. "Internet sales grew significantly, mainly on websites of retailers based in Serbia, where they increased by more than 80% on the year in the first quarter. The number of mobile payment transactions went up by 26% on the year in the first quarter, while e-banking transactions increased by 1%. Instant payment is the most modern form of payment that currently exists in the world. The Republic of Serbia implemented it a month before it was implemented by the European Union." Robert Čoban, president of the Color press group and organizer of the event, said that we are still in the "heart of a perfect storm" and have great economic consequences. This

SERBIAN E-COMMERCE RETAILERS’ TRANSACTION NUMBERS SOARED IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2020, AS SPENDING REACHED 5.5 BILLION DINARS

Milica Ratković, Digital Online and D2D Telesales Team Manager, Vip Mobile

Dragana Stanić, Vice governor, National Bank of Serbia

Vladimir Đorđević, General Manager for South East Europe, Visa

is a new reality for us and our children. Milica Ratković from Vip Mobile pointed out "In just over a month, more than 14,000 people visited the Vip virtual store and the conversion is great because that's where the sale ended, which means it wasn't just curiosity to see what it's all about." Vladimir Đorđević from VISA said "We try to encourage retailers to get involved in online sales. We advise them on how to make a good website, how to keep the users they have and attract new users. We try to make it easier for them to man-

Maja Marković, Head of Media, Mercator S

Darko Jovančić, Digital Group Zorana Milidrag, President, Account Manager, DIRECT eCommerce Association of Serbia MEDIA United Solutions

age their businesses. " Maja Marković, from Mercator S, mentioned "E-commerce has entered the big door and is here to stay. It is our task to create a new normality in which we will all be able to function." Bojan Pavlović, from AIK Bank, said at the conference: "The only area where we can expect growth is e-commerce. The crisis itself has pushed us even further into digital transformation and we now offer all our services in the online version. " The event was supported by: Vip Mobile, Visa, Idea online prodavnica and AIK Bank.

Vladimir Nikolić, Founder, LimundoGrad

Nikola Riznić, Deputy Managing Director, D-Express

Bojan Pavlović, Director of direct channels, AIK Bank

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

by Izabela Branković, Executive Director of the Media Association OPINION

I am Looking for Trust This is not easy for me to say, but I'm afraid that trust has become a planetary resource that is disappearing before our eyes. It melts like a glacier, evaporates like water and is becoming rarer, just like air

READ THIS ON WEB

omehow, I have been thinking more and more about trust. No, I did not fall under the influence of the recent elections (I decided a long time ago not to cast my vote in the ballot box, but to let it reach as far as possible and travel as long as possible). I'm doing the same thing now for my children because I know that my parents did the same for me. That is why I try my best to trust trust. I admit, having that faith is hard for me. I can't reach further than my family. That certainly makes me happy, but by no means carefree… Who can we really trust? The pessimist in me says “noone”, while the optimist claims that I must first trust everyone in order to trust someone. Both "I"s are right, but, again, I don't

tors because I know that I am not cut out to become one even if I lived three lives and to be able professionally stand up to such a challenge. Even when I go in to have an ordinary check-up, I am dead serious as I wait for the doctor to tell me the truth and for the truth, regardless of what it may be, to be based on trust. I am afraid that in this disgusting viral time, the truth is sick along with trust. And there is no vaccine available - neither for the virus, nor for the truth, nor for trust. On top of all that, I read about Novak Djoković’s heartfelt appeal, as he struggles with trust. If he found himself in such a situation, what and how should we (defend) ourselves? Here, trust is built over years and decades, and it is lost in games and sets. The No. 1 tennis player in

the only one. Thinking about trust, I can't ignore the election results, which testify to ever greater and stronger trust. And all of this is happening in a time of complete distrust: towards everything and everyone. What an insane contradiction! I am not disputing the credibility of the election results, but I am not sure that they are the result of trust. They, somehow, look more like a belief to me… Trust and belief have almost the same connotation but mean something completely different. Finally, it pains me so much to see how certain media have distanced themselves from trust. Trust has ceased to be valid. Actually, not only ceased to be valid but ceased to exist altogether. Trust was the first lesson of my old-school journalism teachers. Mutual trust towards readership, viewers and listeners… Trust is just disappearing before my eyes! This is not easy for me, but I'm afraid that trust has become a planetary resource that is disappearing before the eyes of all of us. It melts like a glacier, evaporates like water and is becoming rarer, just like air. It seems to me that the world has betrayed nature, but also that nature is preparing a revenge for the world. Revenge might sound too rough of a word, but it is reasonable. As the righteous Djordje Balašević

softly sings - "order is order, but anger is anger.” People, the figurative rows of almond trees, are disappearing from our streets in all continents. So, trust is, in fact, the keyword that everyone must understand. Regardless of how it is written and pronounced: Trust, Confiance, Fiducia, Doveryat ', Confiar, Vertrauen… Or in which language of the world! Trust is, indeed, more than words – it is a natural instinct and human need. I would like to end this on a hopeful note. I remember a great story about a young writer complaining to Mark Twain that he no longer had confidence in his literary talent. “Do you sometimes feel like that too?” he asked the famous writer. “Of course,” Twain mused. “Once, after being a writer for 15 years, I felt like I had no literary talent whatsoever.” “What did you do then? Stopped writing?” “Well, no. I couldn’t. I was already famous.” I will never be famous and I made my peace with it. I just find it hard to believe that in my world of anonymous people, trust has become irrelevant and meaningless. Here I am, even now, calling and searching for it. And I can’t do it alone! Someone, please help me!

FINALLY, IT PAINS ME SO MUCH TO SEE HOW SOME MEDIA HAVE DISTANCED THEMSELVES FROM THE TRUST. TRUST HAS CEASED TO BE VALID know which one to believe. I am confused and worried. I guess that’s also a matter of trust. I still wonder how laudatory doctoral authorities sometimes collapse because of a few sentences, spoken or not spoken. Regardless… I admit I have always especially appreciated doc-

the world is asking for forgiveness. Is that possible!? Yet, nobody found it fitting to ask who did Novak trust that he would be able to play safely at the tennis tournament in Belgrade. Who actually played Djoković? Who gambled on his trust? He knows that and he's not

by Polaris agency MARKETING

How Covid-19 Crisis Will Affect the Advertising Industry READ THIS ON WEB

Although there has been a short-term economic recovery after the quarantine, the crisis caused by the COVID-19 will have long-term effects on society, business, consumer habits, mobility, media usage and certainly on the advertising industry, as reported by Polaris stimates made before the crisis which predicted growth in advertising spend are now being revised down, while new calculations show that global investment in advertising will be significantly less than in 2019 in all regions and a major portion of advertising channels will be affected by it. Net investment in advertising in 2020 is projected to be -7.2% lower globally than in the year prior. The biggest losses will be suffered by advertising in cinemas (-42%), followed by print with a drop of -32%. It is estimated that OOH will fall by -22% this year because advertisers have largely given up on this medium (especially during quarantine) due to reduced movement and the decreased number of people it

the steep decline. Investment in radio advertising will also be lower by an estimate of -15% because this medium mainly relied on listening while driv-

WHEN IT COMES TO THE COUNTRIES IN THIS REGION, SERBIA IS MOST AFFECTED - INVESTMENTS IN ADVERTISING ARE LOWER BY -24% COMPARED TO THE PREVIOUS YEAR can reach. Although TV viewership increased during the state of emergency, advertising on this medium has declined and it is predicted to fall by -12% by the end of 2020. The reason behind this is the abstinence of many major brands from TV advertising during the crisis; however, the cancellation of big sporting events is also contributing to

ing, and therefore its reach is smaller during times of limited movement. Digital formats are the only ones that are projected to be at last year's level (+ 1%) thanks to greater internet usage by consumers, growing e-commerce, and shifting marketing budgets to cheaper channels, which is typical of any recession.

All regions will be affected by the crisis, but Western Europe and Latin America will suffer the most (expected decline of -10%), while North America (-4.4%) will be least affected, due to the positive spillover of political campaigns ad spend during the 2020 elections. The decline in the Central and Eastern European region is estimated at -7.7%. When it comes to the countries in this region, Serbia is most affected - investments in advertising are lower by -24% compared to the previous year. The Croatian advertising market will decline by -13% in 2020, while Bulgaria expects a decrease in the investment of -8% by the end of the year. Following global patterns, cinema advertising will

suffer the greatest consequences in the region (-61% in Serbia, -50% in Croatia and -20% in Bulgaria). This is followed by OOH and print (between -30% and -35% in Serbia and Croatia, and -15% in Bulgaria). Serbia shows worrisome numbers when it comes to advertising on TV (-22%), while in Croatia and Bulgaria this figure is lower (-13%). Investment in digital media in Croatia is stagnating and thus following the global trend; however, Serbia recorded a decline of -17% in this medium, while Bulgaria, on the other hand, and has a growth of + 6%. Forecasts for 2021 are optimistic - according to IMF estimates, the global economy will recover (GDP + 5.8%), and major sporting events will have a significant impact on the recovery of the advertising industry and ad spend. The data shows that the global advertising market will grow by + 6.1%, but despite the recovery expected in 2021, investments will be lower by $ 9 billion compared to the period before the COVID-19 crisis. In the region, Serbia is projected to recover by almost + 18% compared to 2020, but given the large decline, investments will still be lower than 2019 (187 million in 2021 vs. 209 million in 2019). Croatia and Bulgaria also expect growth of + 13% and + 6%, which brings both countries to the level of investments from 2019.

CLICK TO GO ď ľ www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

CONFERENCE

The 8th ProFemina Conference Organized by the Magazine Lepota i Zdravlje Jovana Ružičić, founder and director of “Mother Centre”, won the ProFemina award! he 8th regional ProFemina Conference, organized by the magazine Lepota i zdravlje and sponsored by the brand Eucerin, took the place at Hilton Hotel Beograd on 1st July. It gathered prominent speakers and world's experts from various professions – media, business, culture and education, science, medicine... One of the biggest women's conferences in the region was opened by Dubravka Negre, head of EIB (The European Investment Bank) office for Western Balkan. Afterwards, Lidija Ćulibrk, editor in chief of the magazine Lepota i zdravlje, welcomed guests and conference participants and stressed the importance of this year's gathering, by saying: “We should be aware of the fact that this especially difficult period in our lives will bring out some new personal and collective qualities. It is very important to became more resilient and stronger to face time ahead of us.” The special ProFemina award for this year was handed to Jovana Ružičić, founder and director of “Mother Centre”, by the conference director Milica Đokić. “We all had a difficult time during the COVID-19 pandemic, but for the mothers, it was especially hard. They had to juggle between work from home and caring for kids. That is why I call for more empathy in our society with mothers,” said Jova-

na Ružičić. Anika Petrović, the gong sound therapist, was in charge for creating relaxing atmosphere in the conference room. The conference opening was marked by very important topic: “The rise of domestic violence – hidden consequence of isolation”. Sanja Pavlović , “Autonome Women Centre” activist, Branislava Antović Aleksić, “Brana's Divine World” blog author and Sonja Knežević, the corporative comunication specialist for Avon brand, took part in this discussion. “The time of escapism in social media has gone. It is not possible to edit just beautiful pictures and nice thoughts anymore,” said Branislava, calling for smarter ways of using social media. Personal stories of woman in media, who change the world around us by their stamina and persistence, were inspiration-

Dubravka Negre, head of EIB office for Western Balkan

Brankica Janković, Commissioner for the Protection of Equality

dar Cvijanović, the member of Innovative Project Team, said that is possible, by using bacteria and pyrolisys, to transform used plastic into biodegradable materials for making new packages. This is innovative process, not just in Serbia, but in the world. Apart from this, there was anoth-

formal organization of citizens “Ne dam Kej”. Panelists agreed that the economy is the biggest pollutant of our planet but, at the same time, we all, as a individuals, citizen organizations and state systems have our role and responsibilities. Inevitable, nutrition and health, as a topics, were of the

ONE OF THE BIGGEST WOMEN'S CONFERENCES IN THE REGION WAS OPENED BY DUBRAVKA NEGRE, HEAD OF EUROPEAN INVESTMENT BANK OFFICE FOR WESTERN BALKAN al. Jovana Joksimović, Ksenija Vučić and Sanja Dragičević Babić shared their intimate stories as a way to inspire others and to show that we, as a individuals, can change things for the better if we are determined enough. As for the ecology and taking care for our planet, Aleksan-

er important topic: Ecology: Red Alarm – what can we do to make things better? This discussion was lead by Ivan Karić, the Secretary of state in environment, Kristina Cvejanov, environmental communication specialist and Sanja Iguman, the representative of In-

Jovana Ružičić, founder and director of “Mother Centre”

same importance to discuss. Renata Matusinović, executive director of food department in the Nestle company for Southeast Europe, stressed the importance of nutrition for the children and said that is possible to make it better, even when we are short of time. Prim. dr sc. med. Biljana Živaljević, prim. dr sc. med. Igor Plješa, dr spec. Aleksandra Pikula and ass dr Dejan Dimitrijević, talked about one of the biggest problems of modern world – infertility. At the last panel od this year's conference, Nevena Nikolić, the brand manager for the Abela Pharm brand, suggested the ways to stay slim during isolation time by using brand's Herbafast supplement.

Pursuant to the Novi Sad City Council Decision, No. 020-94/2020-II dated July 07.2020., on initiating an alienation procedure of the real estate publicly owned by the City of Novi Sad, in Novi Sad, 7 Vojvođanskih Brigada Street,

CITY OF NOVI SAD - A N N O U N C E S -

PUBLIC ADVERTISEMENT on alienation procedure of real estate publicly owned by the City of Novi Sad, in Novi Sad, 7 Vojvođanskih Brigada Street, BY PUBLIC BIDDING ANNOUNCEMENT

CITY OF NOVI SAD

READ THIS ON WEB

SUBJECT OF ALIENATION: Real estate publicly owned by the City of Novi Sad, namely a commercial building with an unspecified field of activity, building number 1, gross surface area 526 m2, usable surface area 6,463.80 m2, number of floors: basement, ground floor, and 13 floors, built on the cadaster lot 7952 C. M. Novi Sad II with separate building parts, and with the construction lot 7952 C. M. Novi Sad II, with the surface area of 850 m2, in Novi Sad, 7 Vojvođanskih Brigada Street 7. The commercial building with an unspecified field of activity from the previous para-

graph consists of 19 commercial premises, namely the following: commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part 1/3 on the mezzanine, usable surface area 134.28 m2; commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part 1/1, in the basement, usable surface area 280.52 m2; commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part 1/2 on the ground floor, usable surface area 450.76 m2; commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity – TRANSFORMER STATION, number of separate part 2, on the ground floor, usable surface area

19.63 m2; commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part ¼, on the 1st floor, usable surface area 429.02 m2; commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part 1/5, on the 1st floor, usable surface area 25.65 m2; commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part 1/14 on the 10th floor, usable surface area 421.06 m2; commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part 1/15 on the 11th floor, usable surface area 421.37 m2; commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number

of separate part 1/16 on the 12th floor, usable surface area 421.72 m2; commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part 1/17 on the 13th floor, usable surface area 419.21 m2; commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part 1/18 on the 13th floor, usable surface area 7.13 m2; commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part 1/6 on the 2nd floor, usable surface area 462.74 m2; commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part 1/7 on the 3rd floor, usable surface area 447.30 m2; commercial premise

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part 1/8 on the 4th floor, usable surface area 421.41 m2; commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part 1/9 on the 5th floor, usable surface area 420.41 m2; commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part 1/10 on the 6th floor, usable surface area 420.83 m2; commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part 1/11 on the 7th floor, usable surface area 420.66 m2; commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part 1/12 on the 8th floor, usable surface area 419.59 m2, and commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity, number of separate part 1/13 on the 9th floor, usable surface area 420.51 m2. Transformer Station in the commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity – TRANSFORMER STATION, number of separate part 2, usable surface area 19.63 m2, located at in the ground floor of the commercial building with an unspecified field of activity, building number 1, constructed on the cadaster lot 7952 C. M. Novi Sad II in Novi Sad, 7 Vojvođanskih Brigada Street, shall be relocated at the City of Novi Sad expense, within the period of six months, following the date of concluding the contract on selling the afore stated real estate. LOCATION: Novi Sad, 7 Vojvođanskih Brigada Street LOT INTENDED PURPOSE: According to the General Regulation Plan for the mixed purpose space between Europe Blvd, Cara Lazara Blvd, Stražilovska St, Žarka Zrenjanina St, Mihajla Pupina Blvd, Jevrejska St, and Futoška St, in Novi Sad (‘City of Novi sad Official Gazette’ No. 40/11, 30/12corr, 45/15, 63/15, 9/16, 19/16, 34/17, 21/18, 22/19, 50/19 and 9/20) and the Detailed Regulation Plan of the Radnički University in Novi Sad (‘City of Novi sad Official Gazette’ No. 36/06) the afore stated real estate is located within this area in its entirety, i. e. within the general city

center and line center zones. LEVEL OF EQUIPMENT: The location is equipped with water supply network (existing connection to the street installations Ø 110) and sewer network (existing connection to the street installations Ø 400), as well as with power network and Transformer Station. Vojvođanskih Brigada Street. Conditions for connection to the existing installations are to be obtained by the future owner from the authorized public and public utility companies. The missing facilities and infrastructure of required capacity shall be constructed in accordance with the stipulations of the Decision on determining the contribution for construction land equipping and of the Construction land development program. ALIENATION CONDITIONS The subject real estate is alienated on the sold-as-seen-basis, whereby the buyer has no right to any subsequent warranty. The buyer shall cover any potential costs of relocating, securing, and protecting the installations or the facility infrastructure (both registered and unregistered within the Line cadaster excerpt), of removal of trees and other greenery, garbage, construction rubble and debris, as well as ground filling and levelling. Starting purchase price of the subject real estate is 5,835,946.75 EUR. The basic criterion for selecting the most favorable bidder is the highest amount of the offered bid, in EUR, during the public bidding process. Final purchase price of the subject real estate shall be established following the completion of the public bidding process. The payment of the purchasing price for the subject real estate shall be in dinar equivalent at the NBS middle official exchange rate on the day of payment. Purchasing price payment deadline is 8 (eight) days from the purchasing contract conclusion day and its validation. The subject real estate is handed over to the buyer within 5 (five) working days following payment of the purchasing price, with the

exception of the commercial premise with an unspecified field of activity – TRANSFORMER STATION, separate part 2, at the ground floor of the subject commercial building which is to be handed over to the buyer within 5 (five) days of relocation of the transformer station. Following the payment of the entire purchasing amount, the buyer acquires the right to be registered as property right holder of the subject real estate. Purchasing contract validation expenses by the notary public, the cost of taxes on the transfer of absolute rights and other potential expenses that might be incurred during this legal procedure shall be borne by the buyer. TERMS OF APPLICATION Bid applications shall be submitted within 30 days from the days of advertisement is announced, inside of closed envelopes via postal service or the Registry Clerk of the Novi Sad City Administration for Property and Property/Legal Affairs, at Novi Sad, 53 Narodnog Fronta Street, with notation ‘NOT TO BE OPENED – APPLICATION FOR THE PUBLIC ADVERTISEMENT OF ALIENATION OF REAL ESTATE PUBLICLY OWNED BY THE CITY OF NOVI SAD, IN NOVI SAD, 7 VOJVOĐANSKIH BRIGADA STREET’ /„НЕ ОТВАРАТИ – ПРИЈАВА

З А Ј А В Н И О ГЛ АС РА Д И ОТУЂЕЊА НЕПОКРЕТНОСТИ У ЈАВНОЈ СВОЈИНИ ГРАДА НОВОГ САДА У НОВОМ САДУ, ВОЈВОЂАНСКИХ БРИГАДА БРОЈ 7“.

The envelope shall have basic data on the applicant (name and family name/business name/phone number and email address). Applications can be submitted both by legal or by natural entities. Foreign legal entities have right to participate in accordance with the law. Foreign legal and natural entities provide the application in Serbian or in a foreign language with official translation into Serbian verified by a certified court interpreter, as well as the required documentation issued in accordance with the regulations of the country of applicant’s seat/registration office, certified by the authorized by body or institution of appli-

cant’s seat/registration office, also with official translation into Serbian verified by a certified court interpreter origin. Applicant is allowed to submit only one single application. A complete and orderly application shall contain the following applicant’s data: — For natural entities: name and family name, address, ID card photocopy or its readout, phone number and email address, — For entrepreneurs: name and family name of the entrepreneur, name of the entity and its seat, entrepreneur’s ID card photocopy or its read-out, phone number and email address, original copy from the business registry or a certificate that the entrepreneur has been registered in the appropriate registry (not older than 30 days), certificate on the tax identification number and email address, For legal entities: name of the entity and its seat, original copy from the business registry (not older than 30 days), copy of the contract on opening an account and its keeping at a commercial bank where its bank account is, certificate on the tax identification number, name and family name of the person authorized represent the entity, phone number and email address. The application must be signed by the applicant – natural person, authorized person – legal entity or a representative who is to be provided with proper power of attorney verified by the notary public. The applicant shall deliver, along with the application, a proof of an advance payment and a statement accepting all the terms and conditions from the public advertisement, that subject real estate is purchased in as-seen stat, as well as a waiver of all further claims, such as rights to reimbursement of the contribution for construction land development, in case a decision is made later on to remove the subject building for which a charge had been paid for construction land development according to previously valid regulations (on July 02nd 2020, contribution for construction of the commercial premises in the extra zone, 7 Vojvođanskih Brigada Street, for paying in entirety would equal 15,065.51 RSD/

m2 of the building net surface area) and construct a building of another purpose, number of floors, and surface area, for which a smaller amount of contribution is paid, i.e. for which no contribution is due. The applicant shall make an advance payment/deposit in the amount 1,167,190 EUR in dinar equivalent at the NBS official exchange rate on the day of payment: 840-115880402. Purpose of the payment: Advance/deposit payment for public advertisement for real estate alienation in Novi Sad, 7 Vojvođanskih Brigada Street. The applicant shall, along with the application, deliver the name of the commercial bank holding the account and the account number to which the return of the advance payment/ deposit can be paid, in case the applicant’s bid is not selected as the most favorable one. The applicant whose bid is selected as the most favorable one has their advance payment/ deposit factored in as a part of advance paid purchase price. Applicants whose bids are not selected as the most favorable ones and those who failed to submit their applications in due time or completely, shall have their deposits/advance payments returned within 10

(ten) work days from the day the Committee selected the most favorable bidder. In case the applicant whose bid is both complete and in due time does not take part in the public bidding process, it shall be considered they decided upon withdrawing from the application, and is not entitled to deposit/advance payment return. In case the applicant whose bid is selected as the most favorable one, does not conclude the contract within 8 (eight) days from the day the invitation to conclude the contract had been sent, it shall be regarded as the applicant’s withdrawal from the purchase, and forfeits the right to deposit/advance payment return. Such right is forfeited also in case the applicant fails to pay the full amount of the purchase price within 8 (eight) days from the day the contract was signed. Applicants with belated or incomplete applications are barred from participating at the public bid, of which they are informed. In case the entity on whose behalf the real estate is alienated does not conclude the contract within the specified deadline or if the contract on alienation is terminated due to failure to comply with its provisions, a procedure to nullify the deci-

sion on alienation of the real estate will be initiated. Public bidding procedure shall take place even in case at least one timely and complete application is submitted, on the basis of which the applicant is registered and in case accepts the initial price as the purchase price at which the real estate is alienated from the public property, such applicant is selected as the buyer. In case it is not accepted as purchase price, forfeits the right to to deposit/advance payment return. City of Novi Sad shall not bear any cost or liability nor be obliged to compensate any damages possibly incurred or suffered by the applicant regarding participation in the procedure. PUBLIC BIDDING PROCEDURE The public bidding procedure for alienation of the subject real estate from the City of Novi Sad public property is conducted by the Committee appointed by the Novi Sad City Council (Novi Sad City Council Decision No. 020-94/20202-II dated July 10.2020., hereinafter referred to as Committee). Participation at the public bidding is allowed exclusively to the applicants previously having paid the deposit/advance.

The applicant or a person duly authorized by the applicant (special power of attorney verified by the notary public) is obliged to be present at the public bidding procedure. DURATION OF THE ADVERTISEMENT AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION The advertisement is open 30 days from its announcement. The subject real estate can be viewed during the advertisement’s duration at times on which more information is available by calling 021/489 00 17, 021/489 00 20. All the information required regarding this advertisement, as well as the time and location to view the documentation regarding the subject real estate, can be obtained at the Novi Sad City Administration for Property and Property/Legal Affairs, 53 Narodnog Fronta Street, Novi Sad, or via telephone 021/489 00 17 and 021/489 00 20, from 08:00 till 13:00 o’clock. Public bidding is to be conducted on August 25. 2020, at Novi Sad City Administration for Property and Property/Legal Affairs, 53 Narodnog Fronta Street, Novi Sad, 1st floor (the conference room) starting at 13 o’clock.

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

HOME ENTERTAINMENT

Chekhov’s Trip to Sakhalin Puts Lockdown in Perspective When he crossed the strait to the island prison colony, the writer felt he was entering hell long the Siberian highway, between Tyumen and Tomsk, Anton Chekhov stayed the night in a coach driver’s cabin. Two months earlier a gentlewoman had stopped there with her newborn boy. Suspecting that he was illegitimate, and childless herself, the driver’s wife offered to take him in. The lady left him with the couple while she decided—and then vanished. Was he theirs or not? “Please help, for God’s sake!” the driver implored as his wife, besotted with the baby, fled the room in tears. It was May 1890 and Chekhov was on his way to Sakhalin, an island north of Japan which was then a huge Russian penal colony. For the stir-crazy, his trip is a consoling reminder of travel’s hazards. Chekhov nearly perished in a collision with a mail troika and might have drowned in a flood. Notionally it was spring, but on the approach to Tomsk there was deep snow. And the terrible rutted roads, the oceans of mud, the endless taiga, the maddening mosquitoes…When at last he crossed the Tatar Strait to Sakhalin it was ablaze with forest fires. He felt he was entering hell. Unlike some writers who trekked across Siberia, Chekhov went voluntarily. The journey took almost

three months, and he spent as long again on the island. His aim was to survey the prisoners and publicise their conditions—which make the confinement of lockdown look

like paradise. On Sakhalin, chains clanked incessantly and the floggings gave Chekhov nightmares. Virtually all the women, convict or free, had been forced into prostitution. Bears

CHEKHOV NEARLY PERISHED IN A COLLISION WITH A MAIL TROIKA AND MIGHT HAVE DROWNED IN A FLOOD. AND THE TERRIBLE RUTTED ROADS, THE OCEANS OF MUD, THE ENDLESS TAIGA, THE MADDENING MOSQUITOES… scooped salmon from the rivers, but the human food was terrible. And the boozing! The bedbugs! Like covid-era readers taking their licensed strolls, many inmates were able to roam around, but they could never see their loved ones. They made doomed bids to escape, often butchering each other in the process, desperate to cross the strait and breathe the air of freedom before they died. Today, two museums are devoted to Chekhov on Sakhalin, which is dominated by giant energy projects. The island left a mark on him, too. It coloured his view of authority and redoubled his commitment to describe life as it was, compassionately but without illusions. Just before he set out, his play “The Wood Demon” had flopped. Afterwards he wrote many of his finest stories, as

well as “The Seagull”, “Three Sisters” and “The Cherry Orchard”. Even in “Sakhalin Island”, his account of the expedition, the artist in Chekhov keeps elbowing aside the

social reformer, and amid the demographic details that he amassed are a trove of exquisite vignettes. After confessing to killing her child a prisoner wept bitterly, but then (in Brian Reeve’s translation) “wiped her eyes and asked, ‘Fancy buyin’ a nice little bit o’ pickled cabbage?’” Despite lashings and stints in a punishment cell, an old con had refused to work; in the end the guards gave up, and he strolled around, singing. Murdered in a bakery, a cruel official “fell into the kneading trough and stained the dough with blood”. Alas, you never find out what happened to the gentlewoman’s baby. From The Economist, published under licence. The original article, in English, can be found on www.economist.com

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

Corona of Culture In some future sociological almanacs, the year 2020 will be viewed as the end of popular culture, rather than as the history of contemporary art COMMENT

ZLATKO CRNOGORAC Ex Art Producer

t all started with the general democratization of the aforementioned culture, when the hipster movement of Brooklyn and Berlin, as the last social movement of aesthetics, allowed everyone to become a DJ or art photographer. Now, this ends with the impossibility to live life outside the online space. The digital world of on-demand platforms and social networks, on the other hand, has overdosed on choice and the rational use of time. Between billions of video views, pointless content from YouTube and Tik Tok, and millions of meaningless sentences and troll information on Twitter and Facebook, there are dozens of unseen feature films and Netflix and HBO series, as well as a few hundred unread books in an ever more receptive publishing production. The COVID-induced quarantine has only exposed such a factual situation, namely, there is no such thing as a new audience, i.e. new kids whose interest will be piqued by institutions like Dom Omladine and SKC, as they did during the 1980s, or KC Grad, Parobrod and Mikser House, a festival in our time from the previous decade. Unfortunately, the last instance of classical culture that had continuity and possessed an audience – that is the Serbian theatre - will suffer in the logical transition from acting and creative potential to television hyperproduction. To that extent, the tragic departure of Igor Vuk Torbica, who was able to reform not only domestic but also regional theatre and save it from the mediocrity and banality of the so-called celebs of the theatre subgenre, can be likened to lighthouses that are disappearing because there are no lighthouse keepers. Also, the Serbian rock and roll has been long dead, while the moratorium on concerts and festivals will bring down not only that culture of living as such but also collateral entertainment as a venue of "cre-

READ THIS ON WEB

ative industry". At least during the 1990s, there was an alternative to musical pilgrimage to Budapest or Vienna. Our children will be profiled musically, not even by the country road genre characteristic for 'the establishments' on the Ibar motorway, as much as by the IDJ trap influencers. If we are going to

be happy, we should protect the "loud noise of rock 'n' roll" by law while there are still venues like the Bajloni ex-brewery and Cetinjska Street. Last but not least – cinemas, or rather multiplex cinema theatres in shopping malls - will also go bankrupt amid the 2nd peak of the first coronavirus

THE DIGITAL WORLD OF ON-DEMAND PLATFORMS AND SOCIAL NETWORKS HAS OVERDOSED ON CHOICE AND THE RATIONAL USE OF TIME

wave. Domestic feature films and small co-productions, even if they somehow survive (among the Telekom competition of TV series), will be made again, with the significant help of the state (the national film centres), for the needs of the showrooms of festival juries at B-category film festivals. If we can count on such help from the Ministry of Culture in the future, the largest part of the domestic economy, the one that has been generating revenue for the fiscal budget for months, and maybe for a limited time in the future, cannot and will not be able to pay taxes and contributions. In a sanguine fashion, the fact that when there is no money, love (read project financing) is the first to go not only in the Ministry of Culture but also in the secretariats of culture in local governments, should be seen as the end of the simulation of independent scene culture whereby illusive non-governmental organizations, only recently formed by political parties, are used for money laundering. In the end, and in the context of the huge real estate expansion in the Serbian capital and Novi Sad, the real question is when will the new financial-political elite begin to reinvest in contemporary art. Choosing an artist, like a prestigious winery, boils down to one gallery ('November') or the new popularity of graffiti artists like The Pianist - Andrej Josifovski, can only make the art scene more self-sustaining. But only when Ikea’s concept of apartment furnishing is replaced with a signature design of personal living space. The new pending museum, marked for renovation, preservation of industrial cultural and archaeological heritage, spectacular retrospectives or events such as 'Novi Sad - European Capital of Culture 2021' will become a memory of the recent better past and what we could have done if there were more hours in a day.

by BVKorkodelović REVIEW

One Year of Mr. Tokayev’s Presidency For someone not very familiar with the processes and peculiarities of the Kazakh political space and relying on second sources it is obvious that Kazakhstan has entered a new stage of political and socio-economic transformation in the first year of the presidency of Mr. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev s the first President Mr. Nursultan Nazarbayev stepped down in March 2019, his successor Mr. Tokayev marched onward. That political currents in Kazakhstan have been shifting which was signaled by the fact that President Nazarbayev left office voluntarily, something which no Central Asian leader had done since independence. From that moment on, President Tokayev continues to implement the state's current course. At the same time, he brought a new impetus, ensuring evolutionary development. Furthermore, Mr. Tokayev devised a new direction of state development based on dialogue with the society, pluralism of opinions and diversity of views. In his address to the nation in September 2019, Mr. Tokayev advanced the notion of the “Listening State,” which “quickly and efficiently responds to all constructive citizens` requests.” There are reports that many Kazakhs have welcomed the ongoing changes and reforms. President Tokayev’s reforms are also receiving positive feedback from certain local and international observers. Few of them even cynically observed a relative decline of protest activity. But in order to solve the challenges of domestic reforms in Kazakhstan, international tur-

READ THIS ON WEB

The impression is that President Tokayev is continuing to build a social welfare state, where special attention is paid to improving the quality of life of every citizen. Payments and benefits have been increased, the most vulnerable citizens have received support, student

EXPECTATIONS ARE THAT KAZAKHSTAN’S ECONOMY WILL GROW ON AVERAGE BY FIVE PERCENT ANNUALLY BY 2025 bulences and the COVID-19 pandemic of late, it’s essential to continue building and maintaining a platform for an interactive dialogue with the respective citizens and attend to their needs.

scholarships have increased, and people who were left homeless due to man-made disasters and those who lost their incomes during the coronavirus pandemic have not been forgotten. One of the key ini-

tiatives of the President of Kazakhstan was the formation of the National Council of Public Trust (NCPT), which leads the conversation about the most pressing issues on the domestic agenda and has become a true direct communication platform with the civil society. The welfare state relies on a strong national economy. Expectations are that Kazakhstan’s economy will grow on average by five percent annually, by 2025. This will be helped primarily by export of its huge reserves of oil, uranium, and other raw materials. But, in the immediate future, the development may be affected by a threatening global recession. So, as Mr. Tokayev has as-

serted earlier, agriculture is the main resource for Kazakhstan. The country is well-positioned to be a major provider of grains, livestock, and seed to China, and Asia. Also, the implementation of structural reforms and the modernisation of state apparatus and business standards, as well as an improvement of education and medical services have been obvious even before COVID-19. The tragic phenomenon has accelerated and outlined the power of the digital dimension of human interaction, and necessity for the authorisation of national digital agenda in economy, trade relations, social changes, as well as security issues. The Tokayev government, ea-

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

ger to oversee a peaceful transition, underlines continuity and stability. The government has an intention to adopt many new policies and programmes, and they are deemed as significant. Such are political reforms, including sensitive issues like public assembly, the law on political parties and elections which should also be gradually changed. In an effort to engage the society more deeply in governance, Kazakhstan's authorities institute and seek to manage the aforementioned reforms. President Tokayev is oriented towards "maintain continuity" yet nonetheless calls for "systemic reforms." He appears to mean both. New domestic political paradigms have been declared: different opinions single nation, successful economic reforms are impossible without modernizing the country's sociopolitical life, a strong president, an influential Parliament, and - an accountable Government. In his Address to the Nation, President called it the “Listening State” which “quickly and efficiently responds to all constructive citizens' requests”. Mr. Tokayev is well aware that today’s citizens of Kazakhstan, and particularly young people, differ sharply from his own generation. He is among the most active users of social media of all Eurasian leaders and realizes fully that the government must now deal with organized groups of environmentalists, new media, mothers, civil libertarians, Islamists, and others, all of them seeking immediate change. Mr. Tokayev understands that alternative opinions and public debate are some of the main requirements of development. “We will base our work with focus on the highest development goals. There should be no place for populism,” he said during the second meeting of the NCPT in December 2019. Like reformers everywhere, Tokayev rails against his coun-

try’s ineffective and corrupt bureaucracy, especially provincial governors and their staff. It is obvious that the reform programmes could prove stressful for large segments of population, who are already burdened with debt. Therefore, reformists actions will require a rare combination of deftness and firmness. So, moderation and caution are the hallmarks of the new administration in Nur-Sultan. President Tokayev believes that

steps towards liberalization are important in principle, absolutely necessary, and unavoidable. But in his Address to the Nation Mr. Tokayev underlined that “explosive, unsystematic political liberalization,” could lead to instability and ”loss of statehood”. Kazakhstan authorities may have ample reasons, both domestic and international, to be cautious and to apply its stepby-step approach. It seems Mr. Tokayev has chosen a strictly top-down approach to reform. The government has to take the initiative. It is beneficial that the transition of leadership and policy began several years before First President Nazarbayev formal-

ly stepped down. Those early moves included the first steps towards administrative decentralization and the strengthening of parliament. As a result, the new leadership had ample time to plan strategy, rank priorities, and assemble a team. Therefore the new leader was not caught unawared or unprepared. If President Tokayev persists in his cautious but publicly declared effort to reform and open Kazakhstan’s governmental system, it will doubtlessly have a

all the countries of the Eurasian space should be included in the process of developing common security measures and visions. Such viewpoints fit with opinions that the current version of Kazakhstan’s foreign policy will not diverge too markedly from the path traced in the last three decades. In observing the principle of balance in its foreign policy, the Government, that has pursued continuity in many policy realms, will probably not introduce drastic

WE WILL BASE OUR WORK WITH FOCUS ON THE HIGHEST DEVELOPMENT GOALS. THERE SHOULD BE NO PLACE FOR POPULISM significant impact across the region. Otherwise, Mr. Tokayev declared at the Munich Security Conference in February that Kazakhstan would continue to remain the “locomotive” of Eurasian integration, together with Russia. It should be assumed that Kazakhstan's political establishment wishes to be the subject of international relations without limited space for that and other countries of Central Asia to manoeuvre politically. The best option would be that

change in an area as crucial as foreign policymaking. Nevertheless, a perfect storm has struck international relations. The crisis in the Middle East continues, the frictions around the OPEC and the sharp drop in oil prices occurs, the dilemma of arms control is growing, and the global COVID-19 pandemic rages. Above all, the aggravation in the wavering relations between the US and China will be a cornerstone of the international balance of power.

FOREIGN POLICY Indications are that a very difficult geopolitical period awaits the countries of Eurasia in which Kazakhstan has a central position. For official Nur-Sultan, the ability to adapt and manage changes at the foreign policy level is a strategic necessity. It is very good that in such sensitive times, President Tokayev is at the helm of the state. He has rich experience in politics and diplomacy acquired over decades serving as Chairman of the Senate, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, Director-General of the UN Office at Geneva and diplomat posted abroad. This would help to shape Kazakhstan’s future and foreign policy outreach.

The Pearl of Croatian Tourism Renovated and polished traditional buildings, modernized and put to specific use, surrounded by nature and relax zones, are veritable pearls in the Croatian tourism portfolio STORY

MENEGHETTI WINE HOTEL & WINERY

READ THIS ON WEB

eneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery is located in Istria, Croatia’s largest peninsula in the Adriatic sea. Croatia, a country with a population of 4.28 million, is a true gem in the Adriatic Sea. It boasts a rich history, exceptional cuisine, spectacular coast and a countryside waiting to be dis-

covered. Following the vision of Miroslav Plišo, lawyerturnedgastroenology enthusiast, who converted the derelict estate into the crown jewel of Istria’s hedonistic offering, its hotel is a member of Relais & Châteaux, an exclusive global association of independent luxury hotels.

THE HISTORY The small Istrian town of Bale is not the first association of first rate tourism destination in Croatia. Just how a well-placed hotel accommodation can change an image of a place is proven by renovated high-class wine hotel, the Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery near Bale.

MENEGHETTI RESTAURANT, MICHELIN RECOMMENDED A LA CARTE RESTAURANT, IS A MODERN INTERPRETATION OF TRADITIONAL CUISINE USING LOCAL INGREDIENTS

The history begin in 1813 when Mr. Meneghetti (no one knows his first name), a clever man originally probably from the Venice area, started building stone houses, planting vineyards and olive groves, raising goats, sheep, cows and pigs in order to feed the 600 hungry soldiers in the military base. In April 2000, a new era in the history - or better said future – of Stancija Meneghetti began, when Romana Kajfež and Miroslav Plišo bought the derelict and forgotten, but still beautiful ruin. They carefully restored it, planted new vineyards and olive trees, built and equipped the new winery, catering to the needs of modern life, but fully respecting the tradition they inherited. NOWADAYS The Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery belongs in a group of only four Croatian hotels of the

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

exclusive hotel and restaurant chain Relais et Chateaux. Within only a decade, Meneghetti team has completely transformed the estate and established the brand which is synonym for excellence in the Adriatic region and across South-East Europe. Renovated with care and finesse, Meneghetti represents the high end of luxury in Croatia and regionally. The Meneghetti restaurant is among the best in Croatia and in the wider region. The Meneghetti winery, although small, produces wines which are now recognisable across Central and Southeastern Europe. Meneghetti olive oil is repeatedly year after year included in the list of 50 best olive oils in the world. RURAL SPIRIT MEETS URBAN COMFORT AND LUXURY There you will find utmost

WITHIN ONLY A DECADE, MENEGHETTI TEAM HAS COMPLETELY TRANSFORMED THE ESTATE AND ESTABLISHED THE BRAND WHICH IS SYNONYM FOR EXCELLENCE IN THE ADRIATIC REGION privacy, where the rural spirit meets urban comfort and luxury, all on an impressive 12 hectares of wonderful landscape in the middle of endless vineyards, olive groves and birds singing. Completely natural, food grown locally by the “0 kilometer” principle, is combined with the great Meneghetti wines, but also other Istrian, continental, Dalmatian and global wines. It is no surprise the The Meneghetti Wine Hotel was declared in 2016 as one of ten best European food hotels by the Geo Saison Magazine, while the restaurant was listed among 1.000 best world restaurants, chosen by La Liste. The entire magical estate dates

to the 19th century and was carefully, luxuriously and lovingly restored in 2016, continuing the tradition of the Vila Meneghetti. Six additional rooms were added to the hotel, while the salon, restaurant, kitchen, spa, pools and other hotel facilities were enlarged or added. The complex was supplemented by 15 new luxurious accommodation units (Residences). Two years later, additional six Villas each with a private swimming pool, were developed. The majority of the units comprise two floors, each with its own porch and a south-facing garden. Built around the hotel, the Residences and Villas create an intimate complex with

the impressive old Meneghetti Villa in its center. WINE AND OLIVE OIL PRODUCTION It is not a coincidence that Meneghetti is also a winery whose wines are at the top of the Croatian wine range, especially after some ten years ago oenologist Walter Filiputti left his mark on the wine production. Modern winery with annual production of more than 100,000 bottles of first-class wine, includes a tasting room, the only place where one can purchase limited editions of Meneghetti wines from the estate archive. Along with wine, Meneghetti also produces its own extra virgin olive oil, a wonderful cherry on top of the entire concept. Unique colour and pungent taste of Istria’s and Meneghetti’s olive oils are the result of the fact that Istria is among the coolest regions where olive trees grow in the entire world – and the best olive oil region in the world according to Flos Olei.

A BLEND OF TRADITION AND ELEGANCE Passion and talent to make nothing less than the best is set towards achieving another objective – to create an exceptional high-end resort, which will be inimitably grounded in the specific Istrian lifestyle and architecture, and will be a congregation of everything that the Meneghetti name stands for today: peace, serenity, privacy, sense of chosen seclusion from the rest of the world, connection with nature, superb wine and olive oil, superior gastronomy, a blend of tradition and elegance.

by Žikica Milošević

Music Outlaws Heading in the Right Direction Serbian music by world standards

INTERVIEW

BUČ KESIDI

inally, Serbia has a real alter-mainstream poprock attraction. They are called Buč Kesidi and are named after the infamous outlaw because they "deviated" from the mediocre thrash mainstream of domestic music scene and are heading in the right direction. They call themselves "left-handed disco boy band" and they come from Pančevo. Vojvodina has always been synonymous with good melody, as a well-known adage in music circles goes. Buč Kesidi are a continuation of the alter and indie pop-rock tradition of Great Britain, America and Serbia. Their fans are young people who are living the era in which "music says nothing to me about my life" but still their music touches thousands of people. They are Luka Racić and Zoran Zarubica and they are a new attraction on the Serbian pop scene.

Butch Cassidy was an outlaw and an adventurer who sought happiness and found death "on distant shores". Does the name Buč Kesidi imply identification with a character who pushed the envelope? As the name of your band is written phonetically (in the Serbian language), is that a symbolic sign that yours is

READ THIS ON WEB

sound, our goal is that when people hear our music at parties, along with songs by, let's say, Tame Impala or The Strokes, our music can hold its own and sounds all right. Our producer Milan Bjelica helped us immensely to be aware of that, as did Pera and Vuk Stevanović from the Krokodil Music Stu-

GIRLS ARE STILL NOT FALLING FOR US LEFT AND RIGHT AND WE STILL HAVE PLENTY OF MATERIAL FOR A COUPLE MORE RAW ALBUMS world music but with the Serbian top coat? — We would rather call it "our music but by world standards". Bands around us mostly look up to each other, which is okay for forming a nice community to hang out with, but compared to the sound of world-famous bands, they sound noticeably worse (with some exceptions). This is the limit we strive to eliminate. In a society where everyone is used to the thrash

dio where we record our songs because they have been doing that for years and they always find a way to do things better than the current norm. The first album was a good indie-pop album, but the second one pushed the envelope and raised the bar on the sleepy Serbian music scene. When did you come up with the idea of electro-rock as a crossover? — It came to us naturally with

the song "Nema ljubavi u klubu". Since our bassist left, we got a chance to see a much broader picture of music than a traditional rock band is limited to, and that helped us define the songs as concretely as possible, with as little excess as possible. They are either good or not, and it doesn't matter that much anymore who plays which instrument. Synthesizers, electronic basslines and more flexible production were a logical step forward, and they also fit the theme of the song. We could have emulated many bands we love Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys, White Stripes - who all did it in a slightly different way.

it to write lyrics that cut that deep and how difficult will it be to stay in that "reality" after you become popular? — It was easy because we were motivated to do exactly that. Honest and direct songs have always been our main goal, and we worked on that the most, namely to emulate the atmosphere of lyrics and music so that they depict the situations and emotions that the audience will recognize. That is why we are doing music, and it is unlikely that popularity will change that. Girls are still not falling for us left and right and we still have plenty of material for a couple more raw albums.

Young people, but also older ones, see the everyday life in Serbia and the world embodied in your verses, as they saw it in the songs by The Smiths and The Cure in the 1980s, i.e. as a realistic picture of their world, not an imposed image of a fake-wannabe life as IDJ TV promotes today. How easy was

This year's Exit and the happenings on its Main Stage are postponed. What are your plans for the future, when all this madness passes? — We will continue with concerts where we left off, and in the meantime, we are going to make music videos, live recordings, and of course, new music.

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

by Robert Čoban REPORTAGE

Olgica From a Shoebox The life story of Ester Bajer (78), a Jewish woman who was born at the Staro Sajmište concentration camp, weighing at only 900 grams met Ester Bajer two years ago on the terrace of the Old Palace at a reception organized by the Israeli Embassy in Belgrade on the occasion of the Israeli Independence Day. I was one of the many people who was captivated by the liveliness and energy of this elderly lady in her late seventies, so we all took photos with her. When she saw the photo, Marija Vasić, a woman from Novi Sad who has been researching the Nazi raids and the Holocaust in this part of the world, told me that Ester Bajer’s life story was made for a film. A few days before the state of emergency was introduced, I spoke with Esther about her incredible life. While singing in the Ester Albahari Choir, a woman, who was a Sephardic Jew, met Aleksandar Bajer, a Protestant from Germany, whose grandfather came to Serbia to become a gardener at the Obrenović family’s court and summer houses. "When my mother heard one day that, after the Germans entered Belgrade, her parents, who

Ester and Aleksandar Bajer at the wedding

Ester Bajer talks about the horrors of the war at the reception on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the movie "Gone with the Wind" in the House of King Peter I

READ THIS ON WEB

lived in Dorćol, in Dušanova Street, were taken to the Staro Sajmište concentration camp, she was determined to go to visit them, while heavily pregnant with me,” Ester begins her story. Determined to find her parents, while being in the final stage of her pregnancy, she came to George Washington Street, where all Jews had to register first. As she was married to a German man, who was also a Protestant, they told her to go home but she persisted. In the end, they took her to the Staro Sajmište camp. The systematic extermination of Jews in occupied Serbia took place in two phases. During the first phase, which lasted from July to November 1941, as part of retaliatory measures carried out by Wehrmacht forces, Jewish men were immediately shot. In the second phase, between December 1941 and May

SINCE THE GERMANS FREQUENTLY STOPPED AT THE ORPHANAGE TO CHECK IF THERE WERE ANY JEWISH CHILDREN THERE, THE BABY WAS GIVEN A SERBIAN NAME – OLGICA

Riverboat captain Willem Bayer with his wife

1942, women and children were interned in the Sajmište camp, from where they were transported to Jajinci by the notorious “soul-killers” (in German gaswagen, in English gas vans) in which they would suffocate to death and their bodies would be thrown into a mass grave. "Everything that happened in the camp caused my mother to go into premature labour and give birth to me, while she was seven months pregnant. I weighed only 900 grams at birth. My uncle was there, in the camp, as medical personnel. My mother, grandma and grandpa knew I would not have survived if I stayed in the camp so my uncle snuck me out in a canvas bag," Ester says. The baby, weighing less than a typical loaf of bread, was taken to the orphanage in Zvečanska Street and put in a shoebox padded with cotton. Since the Germans frequently stopped at the orphanage to check if there

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

were any Jewish children there, the baby was given a Serbian name – Olgica. A couple of days after baby Olgica was smuggled out of the camp, her parents and grandparents were loaded into a "soul killer" (see box below) where they were suffocated en route to the mass grave in Jajinci. Little Olgica stayed at the orphanage in Zvečanska Street until the end of the war when her paternal grandfather, the captain of the Willem Bayer riverboat, who took part in rescuing the Jews from the Kladovo Transport (see box below), came to pick her up. "In memory of my mother, I later changed my name to Ester and kept the surname Bajer, as a big thank you to my grandfather who raised me," says Ester, who later moved to Bjelovar, where she married in 1960. After the divorce, she returned to Belgrade, worked as a cook on ships and travelled all over Europe. Although she was the granddaughter of a riverboat captain, she never learned to swim. Ester is today an active member of the Jewish community in Belgrade. She travels to Belgrade Synagogue from Sremčica, where she lives, twice a week, to spend time with other members of the community. She is also a regular at all receptions organized by the Israeli Embassy and is very open about the recent conflicts in the Jewish community. The story of Ester Bajer is a testimony of how life, like water, always finds its way through and if someone is born under a lucky star, even in a concentration camp, weighing only 900 grams, can live happily until very old age. HORRENDOUS DEATH IN SOUL-KILLERS The "soul-killer" in which Ester Bajer’s mother, grandmother and grandfather were killed was first brought from Berlin to Belgrade in February 1942 to take part in the mass extermination of Jews in Serbia. The decision to send this death truck was made by the head of the Security Police and the Security Service of the Third Reich, Reinhard Heydrich. Soul-killer was a five-tonne Zaurer truck that could take up to 50 people. The victims were suffocated in

the hermetically sealed interior of the truck by exhaust fumes containing carbon monoxide. This was happening on the way to Jajinci, where mass graves had already been dug up. Witnesses talk about the horrible scenes where prisoners, who were supposed to take the corpses out of soul-killers in Jajinci, saw mothers and children, whole families, embraced in a hug as they were dying, which

struction, General Lehr said that the Jewish issue was resolved in Serbia, so the soul-killers withdrew to Germany. Our renowned novelist David Albahari writes about "soul-killers" in his novel "Gec i Majer". Gec and Majer were real people. There isn’t much available information about them, except that they were SS soldiers who took Jews from the Staro Sajmište camp to their deaths

"Soul-killer" - a truck in which people were killed by exhaust fumes

over 1,200 Jews who fled the territory of the Third Reich in 1939. They moved along the Danube from Vienna and Bratislava to the Black Sea and Palestine. Their journey was halted after less than a month (mid-December 1939) on the Yugoslav-Romanian border in Prahovo after Romanian authorities denied them the right to cross into their territory without possessing a Palestinian immigration certificate. Furthermore, the ice on the Danube River completely halted their voyage. Located in Kladovo for months, they were transferred by boat to Šabac in September 1940, where a small but respectable Jewish colony lived. The same ships that provided refuge to Jewish refugees on the Danube for months ("Tsar Dushan", "Queen Maria" and "Tsar Nicholas II") were used to transport German emigrants who were transferred from Bessarabia, Bukovina and Dobrudža, after the German-Soviet division of spheres of interest in August 1939, to the territory of the Third Reich. Just before the German at-

THE STORY OF ESTER BAJER IS A TESTIMONY OF HOW LIFE, LIKE WATER, ALWAYS FINDS ITS WAY THROUGH AND IF SOMEONE IS BORN UNDER A LUCKY STAR, EVEN IN A CONCENTRATION CAMP

Jewish refugees from the Kladovo Transport below deck during a journey from Kladovo to Šabac

made it very difficult to separate them for burial later. In the period from early April to late May 1942, about 8,000 Jews and 500 partisans were suffocated in these killer trucks in Belgrade. The victims were taken from the Sajmište and Banjica camps. After this mass de-

every day. There are no photographs of them in the archives and nobody knows what they did before or after the war. THE HAUNTED KLADOVO TRANSPORT Kladovo Transport was the term used for the transport of

tack on Yugoslavia, about two hundred young people from the Kladovo Transport were given the required documentation and were transferred to Palestine via Greece. The majority, who stayed in Šabac during the occupation, was imprisoned on July 15 in the newly established "Jewish camp in Šabac". That was the first group of Jews to be interned en masse on the territory of Serbia. The men from the Kladovo Transport were shot as part of General Beme's punitive measures on October 12 and 13, 1941, near the village of Zasavica, close to Šabac, while women and children were transferred to the Staro Sajmište camp and executed there during the spring of 1942. The remains of several hundred Jews from the Kladovo Transport killed near Zasavica were not burned in the Operation Sonderkommando 1005. They were exhumed after the war and in 1959, transferred to the ossuary at the Sephardic Jewish cemetery in Belgrade.

by Tanja Banković

Long-Term Communicating Values The works of local artists in the workspace have a CSR character, but they are also a powerful tool for motivating your employees INTERVIEW

GORDANA TOMIĆ Artist and economist corporative art adviser

e, in the Art Parliament team, certainly like the most when great examples of contemporary art directly communicate exactly what art means - a high level of energy, aesthetics and simply the beauty of the artwork in the business environment, vibrancy of colours and high alertness and efficiency of joyful observers and associates in a beautiful and pleasant space intended for work and success

READ THIS ON WEB

What is the difference between private and corporate collections? — Individuals and Companies are collecting Art from different reasons. On one side, personal collections are build based on personal taste and preferences of Owner/Collector, and on Corporate side main driver is based on responsible investment. That usually include quantified investment with certain ROI (Return of Investment) of Art works, based on market values, that include growth estimations, sales statistics of certain Artist as well as appropriate balance of values inside of Corporate collection in total number of Artworks included. Our practice is that Corporate collections has to have growth index around 5-6% (Forbes) and 80% of value is coming from 20% of Artworks in Corporate Collection.

OUR TARGET GROUP ARE THOSE COMPANIES THAT HAS STRONG AND DEVELOPED HR SECTOR, WITH MASSIVE INVESTMENT IN EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION Which companies are recognized corporate collectors in Serbia and how some company start their investments in corporate collections? — We have several great examples, even with classic and encyclopaedic artworks in banking, ICT and insurance sectors. Some of them invested in contemporary art, in projects that has their beginning and the end, and others were successors of collections, after some

complex business processes, like major merging, acquisitions of other companies or even some privatisation and/ or transition process. Some of them continuously invest and upgrade their collections and present to the public. Our target group are those companies that has strong and developed HR sector, with massive investment in employee satisfaction, strategic marketing, real-estate and interior design upgrading.

Is top management excellence needed for such PROJECTS? — Certainly, it requires strong advocacy from top management level, and it is important that those leaders are also strong supporters of the creative motivation of their employees, either through purchase either through our rent-a-painting model, when they decide to establish their Artwork collection. It is always connected with specific kind of managers that apply all kind of motivational models with their employees, but on the other side, they are also visionaries, progressive and modern leaders that have seen art collections in a num-

ber of their partner and vendor companies, and recognized that environment as the most positive, global imperative as well as corporate responsible act. What values are communicated through the art collection in the Company? — The values that communicate through the art collection today are: • Motivation of employees • Personalization of the workplace (our method through questionnaires) • Strengthening the team spirit, because sometimes we embrace the visual task of the work in space according to the spe-

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

cific team or office • Responsible investment, especially for the rent-a-painting model • Solvency, for the purchase of paintings • Modernity and inclusion of the social community • Sharing global values of high domains Often companies communicate prestige, as well as market diversification in comparison with main competitors.

Management and Insurance. Of course, every collection and our Team is led by Art Curator, then we have Facility management, as well as serious and well trained team for logistics and transport. We take into account the cop-

Who is in your Team? — My specialty is that Art and Business are working parliamentary, side by side, and that exactly represent our name – Art Parliament. That also explains our focus on business aspects of our Art projects – Legal, Logistics, Analytic, Project

yrights of our artists, but also the rights of further production, especially of the expo activities, of our clients. We have a special team for processing the questionnaires according to which we choose the colours, motifs, and compositions of the work for people of a certain sensibili-

ty, and for art tasks based on the client assessment of an internal and external HR specialist. Of course, we always have at least one project manager from the client-side and our project management is at the senior profession level.

also review from which series the painting comes, to which story it belongs – and in those cases you need to know the details, and in some occasions to work on logistic and on import. Some of our Artists are well recognized on the world-wide

EQUIPPING PAINTINGS WITH FRAMES AND OTHER DETAILS ARE ALSO AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL, TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH THE PAINTING GOES Equipping paintings with frames and other details are also at the highest level, taking into account the business environment in which the painting goes, what style it belongs to: for example - art noir interior, modular and modern, or today's popular industrial LOFT design. We

markets, for the paintings that have a well-known and unique price on the global market represented by international galleries, therefore the special part of our expertise is international professional cooperation, which we are extremely proud of.

by Robert Čoban IN MEMORIAM

The Party is Over!

ometime in the early 2000s, at a reception at the Italian Embassy, Sandra and I were approached by a nice polished elderly man who introduced himself as a filmmaker. Since then, I have seen Miodrag Bogić at almost every diplomatic reception in the city. Kind, nice and funny, he became the "good spirit of Belgrade", a trademark of a time when social distancing did not exist. Subsequently, we adopted the rule "No Bogić - No Party" and over time, we invited him to events organized by Diplomacy & Commerce. Him singing ABBA songs at the St Lucia celebration, which we organized together with the Embassy of Sweden, remains yet

to be copied on the Belgrade dance floors. When the pandemic started, I sent him a message to see how he was. His answer arrived in a few minutes: "Thanks for asking. I am pretty good. Before the coronavirus, I finished the film MINJADEDIĆ-THEATREVISIONARY. Just to remind you, he was one of the best theatre directors

in Serbia. He directed “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof”, with Olivera and Rade Marković. He was also a professor of acting at the Faculty of Dramatic Arts. Lečić, Ceca Bojković, Snežana Bogdanović, Nada Blam, Milena Trobožić Garfield, all of them spoke enthusiastically about their favourite professor Minja in the film, as did Dr Petar Volk, Bratislav Petković and Gorica Popović, who was his class assistant. When the film has its premiere, in the foreseeable future, it will be my pleasure to invite you and your wonderful co-workers to grace the premiere with your presence. This corona recess really suits me well because I can continue shooting the film DR MOZER - FRIEND OF THE SERBS. But, still, I can't wait for all this to pass so that we can hang out with renewed zeal again. How

are you, by the way? Regards from Bogi. " He was, as always, tireless. Later, he ‘decided’ that this insane practice of social distancing has been lasting for too long and that he would continue his ‘dancing’ at another ‘party’. Miodrag Bojić was born on June 10, 1941, in Požarevac. He finished elementary school in Belgrade, high school in Velika Plana, and enrolled in the Academy for Theatre, Film, Radio and Television in Belgrade in 1961. He has directed more than two hundred television and radio programmes, documentaries and TV series. He is the winner of a large number of domestic and international awards for film and TV programmes. Dear God, as far as we are concerned - the party is officially over!

CLICK TO GO  www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs

CLICK HERE AND

TO OUR NEWSLETTER

CLICK TO GO ď ľ www.diplomacyandcommerce.rs