D&C 62

April 2021 | ISSUE No. 62 | Price 350 RSD

16 MAR

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ROUND TABLE OF THE GROUP OF

FRANCOPHONE AMBASSADORS

9772466380002

SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT ALESSANDRO BRAGONZI

Head of Regional Representation for Western Balkans at European Investment Bank (EIB)

EMBASSY OF BELARUS

Škarka's villa - one of Brašovan's first masterpieces

THE JAPANESE PEOPLE NEVER FORGET SUPPORT FROM SERBIAN PEOPLE H.E. TAKAHIKO KATSUMATA Ambassador of Japan

FROM AUSTRIAN AND TURKISH SOLDIERS TO PETS Across Vojvodina on a bicycle

UNDERSTANDING IS A CRUCIAL STEP TOWARDS EQUALITY BRANKICA JANKOVIĆ

Commissioner for the Protection of Equality

Austria

America

H.E. NIKOLAUS LUTTEROTTI Austrian Ambassador to Serbia

H.E. ANTHONY F. GODFREY U.S. Ambassador in Serbia

Fidelio bered, where restaurants and clubs are closed and the secret "social life" has been flourishing like never before?

Are we going to have our own Scott Fitzgerald to write about that? Who is Belgrade's Great Gatsby in 2021? People say that, regardless of the ban, most restaurants and clubs are open. All you have to do is announce beforehand that you want to come, and like in Chicago in 1921, knock on the establishment’s door and say the secret word "Fidelio", just like in the movie "Eyes Wide Shut", to enter.

The history of Belgrade’s ‘roaring twenties’ is still being written, and it will certainly be interesting to see what our December 5, 1933, will look like.

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FOREWORD

ROBERT ČOBAN Director

rohibition, an official ban on the production, import, transportation and sale of alcohol, lasted in the United States from January 17, 1920, to December 5, 1933.

History remembers that decade as ‘the roaring 1920s’.

The reason for the introduction of prohibition in the United States in 1920 was "public morality, order and peace." One hundred years later, the reason for restricting the work of bars, restaurants and nightclubs is "to protect public health". As much as it was forbidden fruit to break the rules back then, the same goes for today, no matter how schizophrenic that may seem considering the numbers of infected and dead from the coronavirus in our country, region and Europe.

How will the "roaring twenties" in Belgrade be remem-

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CONTENTS

06

SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT ALESSANDRO BRAGONZI Head of Regional Representation for Western Balkans at European Investment Bank (EIB)

08

THE JAPANESE PEOPLE NEVER FORGET SUPPORT FROM SERBIAN PEOPLE H.E. TAKAHIKO KATSUMATA Ambassador of Japan

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UNDERSTANDING IS A CRUCIAL STEP TOWARDS EQUALITY BRANKICA JANKOVIĆ Commissioner for the Protection of Equality

38

40

50

OUR RELIGION IS NATURE TRINE DITLEVSEN

WE CANNOT RESET SOCIETY AND ECONOMY WITHOUT CULTURE

Spouse of Ambassador of Norway

SNEŠKA QUAEDVLIEG-MIHAILOVIĆ Secretary General of Europa Nostra

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OUR FAMILY CELEBRATES TWO EASTERS

52

MILICA LUNDIN

FROM AUSTRIAN AND TURKISH SOLDIERS TO PETS

Spouse of Ambassador of Sweden

Across Vojvodina on a bicycle

47

S P E C I A L

THE PLUM TREE BEHIND WHICH QUEEN DRAGA'S BROTHERS HID

E D I T I ON

SERBIA GOES GREEN

History

48

NATIONAL LIBRARY OF SERBIA - OUR PHOENIX Culture

EMBASSY OF BELARUS Residences and buildings

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HARMING ARMIN

Germany’s Ruling Party Takes a Serious Hit in Two State Elections Armin Laschet, the new party leader, may attract much of the blame ermany’s ruling Christian Democrats (CDU) had been expecting a rough night. But the blow delivered on March 14th by voters in Baden-Württemberg and Rhineland-Palatinate, two states in Germany’s rich south-west that together account for around a fifth of the country’s population, was brutal. In Baden-Württemberg, an industrial powerhouse that the CDU once ruled for nearly six decades, forecasts suggest the party may have slumped to just 23% of the vote, its worst result in a big west German state for generations and four points less than it got last time, in 2016. The CDU was also on course for its worst-ever result in neighbouring Rhineland-Palatinate. Just a few months ago the party had high hopes of winning in both places.

The two state elections kick off what Germans call a “super election year”, in which six of Germany’s 16 states elect new parliaments ahead of a federal election on September 26th, after which Angela Merkel has said that she will stand down as chancellor.

Neither of the states that have just voted is likely to see radical change: Winfried Kretschmann, the Greens’ popular premier in Baden-Württemberg (and the party’s only state leader), will begin his third term, and in Rhineland-Palatinate Malu Dreyer of the Social Democrats (SPD) will probably maintain her “traffic-light” coalition with the Greens and the liberal Free Democrats.

But the results could have national consequences, in two ways.

First, Mr Kretschmann may now opt to eject the CDU, the Greens’ junior coalition-partner in Baden-Württemberg, in favour of his own traffic-light arrangement.

To do so would inevitably increase the speculation that such a coalition could take charge of Germany after the general election—meaning that Mrs Merkel’s party would leave government at the same time that she does. More immediately, the dreadful results for the CDU will affect its own prepa-

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THE PARTY MAY HAVE FURTHER TO FALL, ONCE GERMAN VOTERS FULLY REGISTER THE FACT OF THE STILL-POPULAR CHANCELLOR’S IMMINENT DEPARTURE rations for the election, and potentially the prospects for Armin Laschet, its newly elected leader.

Having sailed through the early stages of the pandemic with soaring poll numbers (see chart), the CDU is suddenly facing trouble on several fronts. Most serious is a cluster of scandals involving MPs from the CDU and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU). Two CDU/CSU MPs were forced to resign after it emerged that they had earned hundreds of thousands of euros in mask-procurement deals last year. Others have been accused of accepting goodies to lobby the German government on behalf of Azerbaijan. The scandals have not yet affected the government, a “grand coalition” of the CDU/ CSU with the SPD. But last week the leaders of the CDU/CSU par-

liamentary group felt sufficiently spooked to oblige all its MPs to confirm that they had not personally profited from the pandemic.

Some in the party fear further revelations may lie ahead.

The scandals have contributed to a broader sense of malaise, as bureaucratic snafus have slowed Germany’s vaccine roll-out and the government’s once-smooth handling of the pandemic has hit the buffers. Earlier this month, amid growing public displeasure with one of Europe’s tougher lockdowns, Germany’s leaders agreed on a reopening strategy even as caseload numbers were rising and more infectious strains of the coronavirus were spreading quickly. The growth in cases has since accelerated, leaving the country teetering on a third wave even as schools and muse-

ums have started to reopen. As public backing for the government’s management of covid-19 has faltered, so has the CDU/CSU’s support.

All this presents Mr Laschet with a giant headache. After narrowly defeating a right-wing candidate for the party leadership in January Mr Laschet, a centrist in the Merkel mould, had started to win over some of his internal doubters. Yet outside the party he has done little to combat a growing reputation for complacency and listlessness. He was slow to condemn the misconduct of his parliamentary colleagues in public, and has brushed off any suggestion that he bears responsibility for the CDU’s performance in the state elections. (Many of his party colleagues disagree.) His approval ratings are dismal.

At some point in the six weeks after Easter, Mr Laschet and Markus Söder, the leader of the CSU, are meant to decide which of them is to lead their two parties, which choose a joint chancellor-candidate, into the general election.

The nominee will become oddson to succeed Mrs Merkel. And yet the party may have further to fall, once German voters fully register the fact of the still-popular chancellor’s imminent departure. After the latest debacle, some may start to wonder why anyone would want the job.

From The Economist, published under licence.

The original article, in English, can be found on www.economist.com

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INTERVIEW

by Ruža Veljović

Significant Contribution to Economic and Social Development Better connectivity and improved economic and trade relations are strongly welcomed by the EIB. As one of the strategic goals outlined in the Economic and Investment Plan, the creation of a common market in the region will facilitate integration into the EU value chain and production processes

As the Serbian writer Momo Kapor once wrote: “This city will mesmerise you, while never revealing the code of that uncommon love that cannot be explained”. I am fascinated by the contrast of the old section of Belgrade and the rapidly developing New Belgrade, two worlds connected by the bridges crossing the Danube and Sava rivers, over the confluence of which you can admire the stunning view of the sunset from the edge of the park of the Kalemagdan fortress.

The city of Belgrade is one of the oldest cities in Europe and – alongside the whole of Serbia – has gone through a tremendous transformation over the last decade, and keeps thriving. At the same time, a number of challenges remains to be tackled, in particular concerning urban mobility, waste and wastewater management, and better energy efficiency of the city’s building stock.

All the above are areas where EIB can and is already providing support to Belgrade as well as other cities in Serbia.

EXCLUSIVE

ALESSANDRO BRAGONZI Head of Regional Representation for Western Balkans at European Investment Bank (EIB)

n times of global crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen that what enables industries and businesses to keep functioning is the continuity of supply chains. In this context, there is a huge development opportunity for the Western Balkans that can be enhanced by providing modern transport and digital and energy networks, as well as development of IT and innovation capacities, human capital and know-how. The EIB will step up its support for a bet-

”I

ter-connected WB in cooperation with EU-led Initiatives such as the Team Europe. These can contribute greatly and help create a more prosperous region, which is why we will work to support their implementation” said Alessandro Bragonzi, who is at the beginning of his term as the Head of the EIB Regional Representation for the Western Balkans.

covered Albania, North Macedonia and Kosovo* in the previous term?

— Thank you for the opportunity to speak to Diplomacy & Commerce. Indeed, I am familiar with the region from my previous post and very glad to continue my career working in the Western Balkans from Belgrade. I expected a vibrant, cosmopolitan city and I

This year seems to be just as challenging as last. What will be the priorities on your agenda in 2021?

— I will have the responsibility and the opportunity to reinforce Team Europe’s efforts to fuel faster post-COVID-19 recovery in the region. As one of the largest multilateral investors in the region, the EIB can contribute significant-

A MAJOR TASK FOR US WILL BE SUPPORT FOR THE ROLLOUT OF THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION’S ECONOMIC AND INVESTMENT PLAN (EIP), INCLUDING ITS €9 BILLION IN GRANTS Did you have any impressions of Belgrade before coming here, given that you are very familiar with the region because you

am very happy these expectations were fully met. The Western Balkans region is known for its warm hospitality and I see that this holds true for Belgrade as well.

ly to its sustainable economic and social development. It will be a huge professional challenge to ensure the Western Balkans capitalises on recovery opportunities,

* This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244/1999 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence.

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moves forward with the green and digital transition and stays on its path to EU accession.

A major task for us will be support for the rollout of the European Commission’s Economic and Investment Plan (EIP), including its €9 billion in grants for strategic investments in sustainable development. This is a unique multi-billion euro opportunity to finance the digital and green transition, inclusive growth, sustainable transport and the creation of the common regional market.

Moreover, this long-term sustainable financial support does not jeopardise the financial stability of the economies in the region. As the EU bank, we are ready to sustain the EIP with our affordable financing and technical advisory support to help mobilise the €20 billion in investments targeted by the plan. The aim is to make sure that the WB including Serbia can prepare as many projects as possible and attract investments, finance and grants into their local economies.

Our focus will on the green and digital transition, improvement of healthcare capacities and the transportation network, especially in the sectors of urban, waterway and railway transport. We plan to continue financing environmental projects, such as the construction of water and wastewater infrastructure that will enable improved sanitation and access to drinking water. The EIB will start investing in more efficient and renewable energy resources.

On top of that, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) will continue benefiting from new credit lines facilitated by the EIB. In 2020, the EIB Group unlocked €320 million with some of the most favourable conditions on the market for small businesses across the region, in a year when they were facing unprecedented constraints in keeping themselves afloat, preserving jobs and

raising liquidity. In Serbia, the EIB signed the first-ever impact loan that promotes inclusive employment, jobs for youth and women entrepreneurship. Under the COSME Digital Pilot Programme, the European Investment Fund, part of the EIB Group, signed the first guarantee agreement that supports business development and the digitalisation of SMEs. We expect to further scale up these kind of investments for the entire region.

Has the pandemic slowed down EIB projects, and which projects will the EIB focus on in Serbia and the region?

— In spite of the pandemic, the EIB has demonstrated that it can

grants for new infrastructure projects and SME development.

In 2021, the EIB intends to continue our support for small and medium enterprises. New investments creating more accessible sources of financing for local SMEs will be signed soon. These investments will make Serbia an even more attractive location to do business.

How important is raising company awareness when it comes to sustainable development?

— The combination of climate change and the destruction of ecosystems poses an increasing risk of environmental collapse with enormous human consequences. Environmental sustain-

OUR FOCUS WILL ON THE GREEN AND DIGITAL TRANSITION, IMPROVEMENT OF HEALTHCARE CAPACITIES AND THE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK work and deliver just as efficiently as in normal circumstances. From the very start of the COVID-19 crisis, to mitigate the economic fallout and address the most urgent needs in the healthcare and private sector, the EU bank introduced several key measures: (i) we offered a €1.7 billion financial package as part of the Team Europe support to the Western Balkans’ socioeconomic recovery; (ii) we have introduced exceptional, flexible disbursement of existing and new funds; and (iii) we offered technical advisory services to Western Balkans partners for preparing projects and increasing resilience and preparedness for future emergencies.

As a result of our robust and comprehensive set of measures, in 2020 the EIB Group mobilised over €1 billion for the region. On top of that, we doubled our investments compared to 2019 and provided €873 million, in loans and

ability has become key to the way we do business in the post-COVID world. It implies growth that is socially and environmentally justified, and where the impact of economic activities on climate change is neutral.

In November 2020, the EIB Group published its Climate Bank Roadmap 2021-2025, which outlines our goals for climate finance that supports the European Green Deal and helps make Europe carbon-neutral by 2050. It maps the next stages in the journey to a sustainable planet and provides a framework to counter climate change.

As the EU climate bank, the EIB stands ready to support the Western Balkans’ green transition. Coal is still fundamental to the energy sector in the WB, accounting for around 70% of electricity produced in the region, and in some countries even 97%. Under the Green Agenda the transformation

includes a more sustainable and inclusive economic model with more diverse and efficient energy resources, moving towards a full switch to renewable, carbon-neutral energy. This is a long-term process, but it has to start from somewhere and now is the right time to embrace the change. With its ground-breaking commitments on climate action, the EIB, as the EU climate bank, is well established as leading on expertise in the field thanks to its toolbox: advisory, financing and blending.

This will help reduce air pollution and carbon footprints for the benefit of public health and better living conditions for people across the region.

What can Serbia expedite regarding reforms and the EU accession to make the economic environment more attractive for investors?

— Moving forward with structural reforms and EU accession processes will help create more a reliable market that will attract new investments. These reforms are necessary for a more inclusive society and an economic transformation that will enable sustainability in the Serbian economy. The EIB welcomes reforms to public investment management and state-owned enterprises, which will make it possible to create a more private sector-oriented economy while improving judicial court efficiency, anti-corruption legislation and the rule of law.

These processes will generate a new, more stable business climate for investors to foster investments, job opportunities, competitiveness and growth. As the EU bank, we will continue to help the region to make these necessary reforms on the path to the EU, and help increase the connectivity and integration of the regional market with stronger trade and economic ties.

FORECASTS How will the ongoing crisis affect the financial aspects and the economy in 2021?

— According to European Commission, economic activity recorded a strong rebound in the third quarter of 2020, reflecting the recovery from the spring 2020 lockdown period. The contraction of real GDP was very low in 2020 (0.9%), mostly thanks to pre-crisis economic growth, the structure of the Serbian economy and recovery measures introduced. However, real GDP in 2022 is expected to be 4 percentage points below pre-COVID-19 projections, according to estimates from the IMF. Until the economy rebound forecasted for 2022, there is another challenging year ahead, when it will be essential to stay on a recovery path despite the ongoing pandemic and financial constraints that companies and households are facing on a daily basis.

The EIB welcomes further strengthening of the public investment framework to accelerate implementation of new projects, crucial for bridging the infrastructure gap. Modern transport, energy and digital infrastructure will prepare Serbia for joining the common market to support competitiveness, foreign investments, alignment with the EU value chains and competitiveness in the global economy.

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INTERVIEW

by Nevena Kuveljić

The Japanese People Never Forget Support from Serbian People Next year, the two countries will celebrate the 140th anniversary of the establishment of friendship H.E. TAKAHIKO KATSUMATA Ambassador of Japan

erbia and Japan, regardless of geographical distance, nurture great mutual respect, sympathy and interest in learning about cultural heritage and tradition. These two peoples were there for each other in difficult times which made their friendship even stronger. We talked with the Ambassador of Japan H.E. Takahiko Katsumata about the 10th anniversary of the Fukushima accident, cooperation with Serbia, as well as the Olympic Games that should be held in the summer.

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The relations between Serbia and Japan are good. After the Fukushima tragedy, Serbia was one of the countries that gave the biggest amount of help to Japan, and subsequently, the visas were abolished. How do you assess the political relations today?

— Just ten years ago, on March 11, 2011, Japan was struck by the Great East Japan Earthquake which caused tremendous casualties and damages. This was indeed an unforgettable tragedy of the history of Japan, however, the Japanese people also never forget the warmest sympathies and supports from Serbian people at the time of the tragedy. Japan has also extended economic and humanitarian assistance toward Serbia immediately after the most difficult times of Serbia in late 1990s. I believe these are the proofs of our long-standing friendship.

Our relations has been continuously progressing. In 2018, Prime Minister Abe was at an official visit to Serbia and the summit meeting with President Vucic has paved a way to strengthen our bilateral relations and regional cooperation through the the “Western Balkans Cooperation Initiative”scheme, which was launched on the occasion of Mr.Abe’s visit. High level political dialogue has been further activated by the following visits of For-

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I’M CONFIDENT THAT WE CAN MAKE A GOOD COORDINATION IN THE TOURISM eign Minister Kono to Serbia and Prime Minister Brnabic to Japan in 2019. We are now in the dynamism of our new cooperation.

Next year, the two countries will celebrate the 140th anniversary of the establishment of friendship. I strongly believe that this will be a good opportunity to deepen mutual understanding and friendly relationship between our two countries.

— The best ways to get closer are economic development, culture and tourism. Where do we stand when we are talking about economic aspects of cooperation?

— Yes, economic cooperation is a major driving force to strengthen our relationship. As I men-

tioned above, the Western Balkans Cooperation Initiative was launched by the Prime Minister Abe to promote socio-economic reforms in the Western Balkan countries including Serbia toward EU accession. Based on the Initiative, Japanese economic cooperation focuses not only on the scale or amount, but also on the high quality and value for the future of recipient country and people. In relations with Serbia, there are various cooperative programs are going on, such as ODA finance to environmental protection project, technical cooperation in prevention of natural disasters, grass roots grant programs for local communities, capacity buildings and education in priority spheres.

In parallel with inter-governmental economic cooperation, FDI from Japan is sharply increasing in recent years, and now nearly 30 Japanese companies are doing business in Serbia. Japanese companies are eager to find new investment opportunities in Serbia with much potential and located in the crossroads of the region.

They are creating new manufacturing bases, employment, promotion of clean energy and waste disposal in environmental field.

For instance, in Sofia and Moscow I saw many Japanese restaurants, much more than in Serbia.

How can we improve the economic cooperation?

— Food is one of the most important tools to understand the characteristics of a country's culture.

“Sushi” is now one of the most popular cuisines in the world

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with many attractiveness like its healthiness, handiness and taste of freshness which have been created in Japanese lifestyle. In order to understated each other's food culture, the first step is to taste the food and enjoy its flavor. Similarly, in the field of economic cooperation, the first step is to have a good understanding of the characteristics of each other's products and services, the level of technology, and business ethics.

The Embassy of Japan would like to provide Serbian people with more opportunities to understand our economy and culture and its backgrounds.

It seems that the Serbs are really into Japanese culture and it is very much appreciated. J-Pop is quite popular, manga and anime have thousands of fans, Japanese is taught frequently. Can we make the cultural cooperation even better?

— I am grateful to see that many Serbian people are interested in Japan and students are actually studying Japanese language and culture. Pop culture is a center of interest of Serbian youths. Sports is also a good platform for the exchange of our people. Now the top tennis players are from Serbia and Japan! Next year on the 140th anniversary of our friendship, it will be a great opportunity to even promote cultural cooperation. We would like to cooperate with Serbia to make this anniversary a milestone for further evolution of bilateral relations.

What can we do to make it popular among the Japanese tourists, and vice versa?

— Serbia and its neighbors are rich in tourism resources. Kalemegdan and magnify rivers are the spectacular for foreign tourists. Japan as well has been successful in doubling and tripling the inbound tourists from all over the world in recent years.

I’m confident that we can make a good coordination in the tourism.

I hear that the Serbian embassy

the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 this summer as a symbol of global unity in overcoming COVID-19.

What are the economic consequences of the delay so far and do you expect spectators and visitors to flock to Tokyo this July?

— I am not in a position to evaluate the economic influence of the delay of the Games, but what I can say is that now the global society is fighting against the current pandemic crisis, and Japan as the host country of the Olympic Games is doing all necessary preparations in cooperation of the relevant organizations and the global community to realize it.

As a matter of spectators and visitors to the Games in Tokyo, I understand that necessary format and guidance will be worked out as soon as possible through the decision process of responsible organizations and people to realize safe and secure Games.

JAPANESE COMPANIES ARE EAGER TO FIND NEW INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN SERBIA in Japan is holding online events in cooperation with the Friendship Association to inform Japanese people about Serbian culture. Currently, it is still difficult to travel overseas due to the influence of the COVID-19, however, we have many opportunities to obtain various information online and interact with each other. Embassy of Japan in Serbia actively disseminates information about our culture and tourism by official Facebook page (JapanEmb.Serbia ) and Instagram ( ambasada_japana_u_srbiji ). I hope these activities will be useful for promoting tourism in both of two countries.

The delayed Olympic Games are rescheduled for this summer.

How the situation is going on?

— As you mentioned, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic was rescheduled to this summer and the Japanese Government and all people concerned are now making utmost efforts to open the Games as scheduled. With the Olympic Torch Relay beginning on 25 March, and 18 test events taking place from April onwards, momentum is now being built up and preparations are going on in Japan. Also, the organizers are now working to implement a flawless system of preparations for the Games, in order to make the Games safe and secure. The United Nations and the G20 land the G7 leaders also declared that they would support Japan to host

How do you assess the difficulties and challenges for this year’s Olympics from the health point of view?

— As we all know, the fight against the virus is a tough and challenging one. However, as IOC President Mr. Bach mentioned, since last year many international sports events have been organized and no single one of these events that turned into a virus spreader. All of them had rigorous health and safety protocols in place. This means we have clear and obvious proof that very big international sport events with a large number of international participants can be organized while safeguarding the health of everyone as long as the organizers take every measures they can.

Regarding the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games as the largest international sport event, all efforts have been and will be made in order to take effective countermeasures and thus deliver a safe and secure games this summer. I wish understandings and support allow you.

WE WILL DO EVERYTHING TO ORGANIZE THE OLYMPIC GAMES How do you assess the difficulties and challenges for this year’s Olympics from the health point of view?

— As we all know, the fight against the virus is a tough and challenging one. However, as IOC President Mr. Bach mentioned, since last year many international sports events have been organized and no single one of these events that turned into a virus spreader. All of them had rigorous health and safety protocols in place.

This means we have clear and obvious proof that very big international sport events with a large number of international participants can be organized while safeguarding the health of everyone as long as the organizers take every measures they can. Regarding the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games as the largest international sport event, all efforts have been and will be made in order to take effective countermeasures and thus deliver a safe and secure games this summer. I wish understandings and support allow you.

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INTERESTING FACTS

NATIONAL DAYS

The Tragedy of Centralization

here is usually a wide-ranging debate in countries about whether to regionalize or not. The answer is the following: huge countries like the USA, Canada, Australia, Russia, Brazil, Mexico, China and India must be regionalized. However, all countries benefit from regionalization, even if they are as small as Austria. A good example is the fairly even development of countries such as Germany, Spain or Italy, while, on the other side of the spectrum, there is the very uneven development of France, England or Poland. France has been an example of a unitarian state for several hundred years. The country is centralized to such an extent that only the Ile-de-France region (Paris) is high above the EU average, and only one area is above 100% of the Euro-

T

pean average at all. And we are talking about a G7 country here.

The centralization is so great that even the heating in the schools is turned on the same day as in Paris, so the students in Colmar or the Alps are freezing. All startups are forced to relocate to Paris sooner or later. On the other hand, there is an uneven development along the north-south line in Italy or Spain and in Germany along the east-west line, but nowhere does it happen that the country is uniformly poor outside the capital as in France. The situation in England is similar - everything is focused in the south, around London, which in why the "left behind regions" massively voted for Brexit. Poland, which has been imitating France in terms of centralization, suffers from a similar pain - Warsaw is drastically wealthier than the rest of the country, just like in the case of Vilnius and Lithuania.

Croatia and Serbia are in the same situation - Belgrade, the capital of centralized Serbia in which the Vojvodina’s autonomy is not treated in line with the Constitution, is 170% above the state average, Vojvodina is 99.4% and Western and Eastern Serbia are at 67% and 66% respectively. The poverty map shows that some regions, which could function better as autonomous, such as Sandžak, Šopluk, Torlačko, Podrinje and even some regions of Vojvodina, are very poor. The DSS's proposal from 2004 regarding Serbia and its autonomous provinces was never realized.

Centralization eats its children, who are afraid of secession. What happens is that the population starts to massively move out to the capital or abroad, so regions de facto are disappearing.

APRIL

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NETHERLANDS ational Day N (King’s Day)

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SOUTH AFRICA Freedom Day

MAY

03 POLAND

ational Day N (Constitution Day)

08 ICRC, IFRC

I nternational Red Cross Day

09 EU

ational Day N (Schuman Day)

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ISRAEL

Independence Day

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NORWAY

Constitution Day

ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES

MATTEO COLANGELI Appointed new EBRD Director for Western Balkans Matteo Colangeli has been appointed new Director for the Western Balkans region and Head of Serbia for the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). He will oversee the Bank’s operations in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia, where he will be based.

Last year alone, the EBRD invested €1.3 billion in the Western Balkans. The Bank is focusing on the strengthening of the private sector, the promotion of green transition and on boosting connectivity within the region and with European neighbours.

Mr Colangeli, who is currently heading the EBRD’s operations in Albania, said: “I am very proud to take

up this role and determined to continue strengthening our delivery in the region. We will focus on building back better after the Covid-19 pandemic and work with our partners towards greener, more inclusive and digitalised economies in the Western Balkans”.

An Italian national, Mr Colangeli joined the EBRD in 2005 as a banker in London. He went on to regional banker roles in Ukraine and Bulgaria, especially in the field of energy, before being appointed Head of Albania in 2016. Mr Colangeli holds a master’s degree from the London School of Economics and Political Science.

Starting on 17 May 2021, Mr Colangeli will succeed Zsuzsanna Hargitai, who has been appointed EBRD Managing Director, Central Asia.

MILAN GOSPIĆ New General Manager of Microsoft Serbia As the general manager of Microsoft Serbia, Milan is in charge of the company's strategic development and close cooperation with domestic clients and partners.

Also, Mr. Gospić will be responsible for supporting the digital transformation in the country, given that this is one of Microsoft's top priorities locally.

"The Serbian market is constantly evolving and represents an important region in Southeast Europe, so it is a great honor for me to join Microsoft to lead

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its team in Serbia. I am extremely pleased to be able to contribute to digitalization of business and society with my colleagues, our clients and partners, government and society's stakeholders,” said Milan Gospić.

A graduate in telecommunications, Mr. Gospić also studied computer science and information technology, has over 20 years of experience working in international companies and more than a decade of experience of successfully leading international teams.

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INTERVIEW

by Tanja Banković

Understanding is a Crucial Step Towards Equality Helping yourself, and then those around you, no matter what your religion or nation is, has become an imperative of today's life, because only in a safe environment, you, as an individual, are safe too media cannot be treated as taking someone's side. If someone has spoken publicly about being a victim of rape, harassment or any other type of violence, it is normal to support the victim because they usually spent years on overcoming fear, guilt, trauma and questioning themselves. This a very complex phenomenon related to gender-based violence, especially multiplied in power relations.

In this case, supporting the victim does not mean sentencing a potential abuser.

BRANKICA JANKOVIĆ Commissioner for the Protection of Equality

hanges are happening, even though some of them are not visible on the surface. I would like everything to be much faster and I am working on it using all allowed mechanisms, but social changes have regularities. There is no society in which everyone stands and fights for the same values, but the readiness to understand each other is a key step towards equality, "said Brankica Jankovic, Commissioner for the Protection of Equality.

"C

How are we going to change our society so that we have more trust but also reduce violence against women?

— Changes happen, even though some of them are not visible on the surface. I would like everything to happen much faster and I am working on it while using all allowed mechanisms. Still, social changes have regularities.

The latest cases of young actresses who have mustered courage and reported violence show that the political and social climate is changing. Some of my colleagues and politicians believe that statements and warnings about negative phenomena in society are unnecessary but it is precisely consistency and persistence that are needed in the process of building an equal society. After all, the reaction of the majority of the public is a solid indicator that we are closer to a society in which the abuser, not the victim, is the one who should be afraid.

We passed the first test of maturity because, unfortunately, the speed of change depends on our reactions to any kind of violence. People often first think about what they would do if they were victims and start criticizing because they think they would act differently. Then, they usually

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I WOULD LIKE THE NATIONAL PARLIAMENT TO ANTICIPATE OUR REPORTS WITH THE SAME JOY BECAUSE THEY CONTRIBUTE TO BUILDING A BETTER AND STRONGER SERBIA side with either the victim or the perpetrator which is completely unnecessary because no one has the right to judge anyone. But this seems to be a flaw of the human race all over the world. However, what matters the most is what the authorities say in the end - timely, non-selective and consistent justice is the key.

Yet again, the presumption of innocence is violated when the media and society judge before the court does. What needs to change to rectify that?

— The media are a key ally, with some helping and some hinder,

while most lack reporting on justice. After "the affair that sells the front pages and reaches a certain number of click", the epilogue, sanctions and justice rarely make headlines. No wonder victims are afraid to report crime. The media must refrain from sensationalism and tabloidization of someone's misfortune, because inadequate reporting affects not only the victim and the abuser, but also their families, people close to them and all of us. The public passing on a verdict before a court does is inadmissible.

On the other hand, publishing someone's confession in the

What should society and institutions do?

— Society matures through efficient work of state institutions. Institutions are often criticized that they do not do their job well but that is not true. Many hard-working, professional people do their job superbly, but unfortunately, sometimes there aren’t enough of such individuals who are especially sensitive to gender-based violence against women.

Violence is not exclusive only to our society. Rather, it is a global trend that was especially pronounced during the pandemic.

There is no magic wand to solve this problem. What we need is a synchronized action by society and the state in which court rulings are crucial. Sometimes a court judgment is a turning point in the society’s development. Let's not forget that citizens have an important role to play - violence should be reported turning your head away from it. Serbia was among the first countries to ratify the Istanbul Convention, which is one of the highlights in my work so far, because back in 2013, I received the unanimous support from the members of the National Parliament, as well as the Ministry of Justice beforehand.

There was a terrible accident in the Roma settlement in Belgrade when children were gravely wounded. How can we prevent

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this from happening again and who should get involved in solving a problem like this?

— Poverty is the number one problem of most Roma people, and slums in which they live, in inhumane conditions, are home to the poorest of them who have been abandoned by everyone. We must not allow such a tragedy to happen again for someone to react, but the people living in these slums must be provided with adequate living conditions, including water and electricity, and have illegal landfills that surround them removed. Local authorities must deal with this problem and solve it in cooperation with all relevant public services.

Immediately after this accident, which took place in Belgrade’s quarter of Čukarica, we had a meeting with the Roma organization ‘Opre Roma Serbia’ after which we urgently appealed to the authorities, as well as submitted recommendations for implementation of certain measures in line with the relevant law.

The problem with the social position of the Roma community is very complex and as such is recognized at the EU level, which has also been making effort to prevent discrimination against this very vulnerable social group. Various action plans and strategies have been adopted by the Union itself, but unfortunately I’m sometimes under the impression that their implementation is running out of steam, so to speak.

You submitted the 2020 report in March. Are you satisfied with the results achieved last year?

— Since the end of the Second World War, all countries have tried to raise the level of safety and have measured this level by the number of their multiple rocket launchers, the speed of supersonic planes or the invisibility of their submarines. Boosting their country’s defence, few thought they should invest in nurses, doctors and hospitals, and even those countries that had the best visions did not contemplate that instead of a supersonic plane maybe

worried about those people who claim that the law would destroy the foundation of our society. I think completely differently because I believe in the strength of our foundation. Although things are going slowly (although speed is also a matter of experience), only 10 years ago it was almost impossible to imagine a peaceful and well-attended Pride Parade in Belgrade, which has now been taking place for years. Five years ago, it was unthinkable for the law to regulate the mutual rights and obligations of people living in same-sex unions, and today, we have such law right in front of us.

Therefore, Serbia has shown readiness to respect the human rights of all its citizens.

THE PANDEMIC WILL NOT BE STOPPED BY ISOLATED ACTIONS, BUT ONLY BY JOINING FORCES they should invest in a super multi-practical machine used by hygienists, technicians and caregivers. As a result, after 75 years of facing the first great global crisis, the world seemed to have fallen apart again. It’s been a year since the outbreak of the pandemic and most countries still do not seem to realize that full military warehouses will not protect people's lives, just as living in an eastern or a western country is no guarantee that the virus will skip you.

Last year was particular in many aspects, primarily because each step required striking a balance between protecting the population’s health, respecting human rights and minimizing the various consequences caused by the health crisis. Measures to combat the pandemic have led to the restriction of human rights, which are the civilizational foundation of every modern society, primarily the right to move, assemble and work, as well as the

right to social security, health care, education, and the basic human right, the right to live. Based on the opinions of both citizens and organizations during the state of emergency, we noticed a space for fine-tuning the measures that were adopted and we submitted recommendations to the Government of Serbia and other institutions to protect the rights of the most vulnerable social groups. Almost all of our recommendations were accepted and applied, which still does not make me completely satisfied because we could have avoided many difficulties. Anyhow, let's move on with more knowledge and experience.

What do you think of the Law on Same-Sex Union? Is our society ready for it?

— This law should solve some important issues for our fellow citizens, members of the LGBT community, and I see no reason not to complete that work. I am

What are you most proud of and what were the biggest challenges?

— I am proud that in my career, that spans 20+ years, I can go back to every institution I have helmed with a smile and without fear of people’s judgement, despite the mistakes I have inevitably made in my work. I made no mistakes that I should be ashamed of, I have established quite a few mechanisms that have been functioning successfully to this day, such as various services for senior citizens, and did many other useful things.

I am glad that I learned to listen to the most vulnerable people, because Serbia is not only made up of people around you and those with whom you share the same attitudes and views. That is why I am especially happy when, 250 kilometres from Belgrade, I come across a woman who is farming in the field and who tells me "well done, I understand you when you speak". I would like the National Parliament to anticipate our reports with the same joy because our reports are a cross-section of things that oppress citizens and creates problems for them. We don’t criticize for the sake of criticizing, but are rather contributing to building a better and stronger Serbia. Let’s say that this is one of the challenges for me.

CHALLENGES IN 2021 What will be the biggest challenges for our society this year?

— First and foremost, preserving human lives, maintaining mental and physical health, then the economy, and then whatever comes after that. At the same time, we need to work on facilitating and promoting human rights with an understanding that requires careful listening, especially of people who are different. There is no society in which everyone stands and fights for the same values, but the willingness to understand each other is a crucial step towards equality. No crisis justifies neglecting people and human rights. The institution I am heading and I will work relentlessly on that.

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CORPORATE

Everything is Simpler With API Bank The financial sector is strong – capital adequacy and liquidity are at a high level, inflation is low, the dinar is stable

MARIJA STEPINA President of the Executive Board of API Bank

eing flexible and dynamic in business, monitoring changes in technologies and regulations, maintaining stability in risk management - are the key priorities for the development of API Bank. Also, API Bank works with foreigners, who can get the service in Serbian, English and Russian. We spoke with Marija Stepina, President of the Executive Board of API Bank, about the services they offer to clients and the impact of the pandemic on business.

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API Bank is the first bank in Serbia that offers housing loans to foreigners. Under what conditions can a foreigner take out a

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loan and what kind of possibilities do you offer them?

— Yes, that’s right. API Bank is the first in this niche. We are proud that the idea of having something very special on the Serbian market is successfully realized.

You know, nowadays it is very important to feel the needs of

based on non-employment contracts. It is important to mention that no residence permit is required from foreigners who want to buy real estate in Serbia and looking for the bank’s support.

At the same time, after the deal is completed, the existence of a mortgage does not create any ob-

API BANK IS THE FIRST BANK IN SERBIA THAT OFFERS HOUSING LOANS TO FOREIGNERS consumers and be the first to satisfy them.

So, now we evaluate the creditworthiness and reputation of a borrower based on documents issued abroad. We also accept wider sources of income than just salary, meaning that we accept income from rent of property, dividends received and remuneration

stacle to obtain a residence permit for the owner based on real estate ownership. This is important.

Regarding financial conditions, including interest rate, level of downpayment and tenor of the loan – we consider that they are marketable. Our webpage provides detailed information as well as illustrative examples and a cal-

culator for client convenience.

However, each case is individual. I can mention that minimum downpayment is 20%, interest rate varies from 4,5% to 6,5% + 6M Euribor.

We target our potential audience as young families with or without children, who want to invest in their future and can work remotely from the biggest cities in Serbia; we also target seniors – retired people who want to enjoy a friendly environment, exceptional climate and amazing nature of Serbia. Other target customers include Serbs working abroad who wish to buy real estate in their homeland – Serbia.

You see now, that our primary goal is to cover a segment that never before could count on banks’ support. And we feel our responsibility to continue this

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approach to our services in this manner - making possible what previously was not.

We are in close communication with leading real estate developers in Serbia and once the client contacts us and wishes to get information about available properties, it will be our pleasure to share contacts.

Keeping one’s valuables safe is an important segment of security. What can your customers count on when it comes to API’s safe deposit boxes?

— Keeping valuable things in safe boxes is just a good and right habit – a habit of people who are ready to pay a small amount for having peace of mind. Mental comfort which comes from knowing that things that are important to you are safe, safe all the time, allows you to live a happier life and focus on what’s important.

Unfortunately, things that never happened before do happen once in a while and that’s why even drivers with great driving skills buy car insurance.

For the price of three cups of coffee, you can rent a safe box for the whole month! You can choose the size of the safe box and the duration of rent that’s right for you.

Right now, we have a special offer which will last until the end of summer – it is not required to open a current account if a client needs only to rent a safe box.

API Bank offers an individual approach to clients and believes that clients value our service level as really very high.

The bank significantly increased its capital in the second and third quarters of 2020, when the world was facing a pandemic. What are the bank's goals in 2021?

— The capital increase brings growth potential to the bank. Utilizing additional capital invested by the shareholder, API Bank has made a significant increase in corporate loans portfolio and invested in re-shaping of the team and working environment. Our plan for 2021 is not just to ‘survive’ the pandemic, but to use new market opportunities so that we come out of it as a stronger and better-positioned bank. I see that Serbia is doing the same – namely, moving forward and becoming a stronger and more attractive place to invest than before the pandemic.

Has the crisis caused people to

FOR THE PRICE OF THREE CUPS OF COFFEE, YOU CAN RENT A SAFE BOX FOR THE WHOLE MONTH think more about savings now and what savings options does your bank offer?

— Saving is the best good habit, I would say even more important than storing values in safe boxes. And the culture of saving wasn’t changed a lot last year. I feel that people in Serbia inherited this habit from their parents and grandparents probably. People approach saving with high responsibility – they analyse the market and banks before decision making, they know that the state guarantees all savings up to up to 50,000 euro to each depositor in a particular bank. To encourage clients to keep money with us, API Bank recently started campaigns for term deposits for 12, 24 and 36 months, meaning that interest rates for deposits placed during the campaign will be higher than standard. We have noticed that, even though people in Serbia prefer to save in euros, there is a developing trend towards saving in dinars. The primary reasons for this are stable domestic currency and more attractive interest rates for savings in dinars.

What do you think of the current financial market in Serbia? Will the banks offer another morato-

rium on repayment of corporate and retail loans?

— As always, financial markets are those which react first to any crises. Through banks, government stabilizes the economy. Moratoriums, state guarantee schemes - all these instruments provide sound support for the economy- companies and citizens. So, basically, banks do not initiate moratoriums, they realize the respective decisions of the regulator- the National Bank of Serbia. What banks are doing is monitoring each borrower and in the case of triggering of certain risk indicators, developing risk mitigation solutions on a case-bycase basis. I do not remember the situation when a client, being a debtor and having some difficulties with debt repayment came to API Bank and we were not able to reach an agreement.

What challenges await the banking market and the bank you helm this year, in the context of the ongoing crisis?

— First of all, I see that the creditworthiness of private individuals and small businesses will continue to deteriorate due to the consequences of lockdowns. Therefore, moratoriums and other support-

ive measures from the government will probably continue in 2021.

I also expect that banks will have a higher need for liquidity and will fight for depositors.

Of course, banks will invest in technologies and use this “slow period” for a different kind of internal processes optimization.

However, I’m very optimistic about the banking sector in the next 3-4 years mainly because of a reasonable expectation that, as a result of efforts of the Serbian government and the National bank Serbia will obtain an investment grade. So far, Serbia has been overcoming the crisis successfully, the financial sector is stable – capital adequacy and liquidity are at a high level, inflation is low, the dinar is stable and so-called dinarization is increasing in the banking sector. This means that international investors’ interest in Serbia will continue to increase and propel the development of the financial sector. API Bank needs to be prepared to realize all possible chances to become a serious niche player. To achieve this, our team is focused on raising of service level to our clients. We believe that the best way to promote our services on the market is when our existing clients share their experiences with API Bank with others because, in the end, everything is simpler with API Bank.

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CORPORATE

We Have Set Ambitious Plans for Our Firm We aspire to expand our client base and increase our presence on the regional market

WEBSITE

VLADIMIR MILOŠEVIĆ Attorney-at-Law

ilosevic Law Firm is an innovative law office in the Western Balkans, which provides comprehensive legal services in all areas and aspects of business law of the Republic of Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro. We talked with the Founder and Managing Partner of Milosevic Law Firm Vladimir Milošević about the impact of the pandemic on business, about the legal challenges of Serbia on the road to the European Union, as well as the plans for this year.

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What are your areas of expertise and which industries are your clients typically from?

— Milosevic Law Firm is a modern full-service law firm providing legal services in all areas and aspects of the Serbian business law. Our focus is primarily on corporate/M&A, real estate and construction, banking and finance, dispute resolution, commercial, administrative, and regulatory matters, energy, restructuring and insolvency, labor, industry and manufacturing. Most of our clients are in the construction industry and other heavy industries, like mining and chemicals, and we particularly pride on being part of some major infrastructural projects at the national and regional level. Nevertheless, we provide legal support and advice to entrepreneurs, SMEs and corporates in all stages and aspects of their business operations, regardless of their base industry.

significantly affected by the crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, but its impact on the overall economy and financial markets is indisputable. Although at this point the economy might not be substantially slowed down, we will certainly witness some serious consequences in the forthcoming period, especially for SMEs and the hardest-hit sectors like tourism, accommodation, transportation, arts and entertainment.

What is your opinion about the impact of the pandemic on the operations of companies and financial markets? According to the experiences of your clients, has the crisis significantly slowed down the economy?

— Last year has showed us that the industries in which most of our clients operate have not been

Are you more optimistic when it comes to this year, based on your professional experience and relations with your clients?

— This year, having weathered the initial storm, we have the advantage of knowing what possibly to expect and how to deal with it. I sincerely hope that, given the Government support, the struc-

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Photo: Vuk Vukotić

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AT MILOSEVIC LAW FIRM, WE ARE AWARE THAT IN THESE TURBULENT TIMES THE CLIENTS NEED US MORE THAN EVER tured, well-targeted measures, and the vaccination that has been underway, we will regain control in the foreseeable future, allowing the business cycles and results to go back to the pre-pandemic normal.

At Milosevic Law Firm, we are aware that in these turbulent times the clients need us more than ever, hence we strive to remain a reliable partner, maintaining relationships based on trust and the highest standards of expertise and professional ethics – someone our clients can always count on for valuable advice, assistance, pragmatic and commercial solutions.

Which legal challenges await Serbia on its path towards the EU integration, given that Chapters 23 and 24 have not yet been closed?

— To close these chapters, many reforms and activities must yet be implemented. The main priority is to meet the basic requirements regarding the reform of the judiciary, aimed at achieving its independence, objectivity, and efficiency. Further accountability and impartiality of judges is necessary for good results in protecting the rights of the citizens, and, more importantly, for ensuring that the citizens begin to trust the judicial institutions. The challenges in this regard are huge, requiring a change in the mindset of the holders of the highest judiciary functions, but also attorneys, expert community, and judicial administration. It was with these goals in mind that the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Serbia drafted the National Strategy for the Judiciary Development in the Period from 2019 to 2024.

Chapters 23 and 24 also highlight the importance of anti-corruption policies, and the negotiations will be directed towards achieving visible progress in that respect, which would facilitate our work as legal advisors as well.

What are your law firm’s plans for this year?

— Despite the uncertain and volatile economy and financial index, we have set some ambitious plans for our Firm. In addition to maintaining and upgrading relations with our clients, we aspire to expand our client base and increase our presence on the regional market. A part of our business development strategy will be the gradual regional expansion towards the markets of Bosnia and Hercegovina where we have been very much present for the past five years, and Montenegro, where we already have some major clients and are currently working on setting up the office. Aware that good things never come overnight, our growing team will keep up the hard work, investing even greater efforts and energy to achieve organic growth, letting our results speak for themselves.

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CORPORATE

We Will Modernize the Logistics Sector in Serbia and the Region The new projects we are working on will position our company as pioneers in the provision of services related to digital logistics solutions, which will be provided in the Republic of Serbia and the region for the first time our ability, expertise and commitment which have led many clients to entrust us with security in transport, logistics and customs clearance, knowing that we are committed to achieving a common goal.

DRAGANA SIMOVIĆ Sales & Marketing Manager, M&M Militzer & Münch Serbia

ut of all logistics companies in the area, our company has the fastest growth. M&M‘s biggest advantage is its team with many years of experience in the transport and logistics sector, who is committed to meeting all the client requirements within the set deadlines.“

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The COVID-19 pandemic has slowed economic development.

How did it affect the logistics sector and how did Militzer & Münch organize its business?

— Our impression is that, during the COVID-19 pandemic, logistics companies experienced an incredible expansion where the focus was on B2C business, i.e.

E-commerce. We are also witnessing the impact of expeditious adjustment of businesses to E-platforms, which, in a rather short period, have managed to compensate for the closure of stores in Serbia that has been going on for a year now, with a variety of goods ordered via online stores.

When it comes to Militzer & Münch, we have proven to be a reliable partner and that we were able to successfully implement a new online business for our client from the fashion industry, where we have established the entire logistics process for them.

Consequently, when it comes to other clients, we have adapted to all their needs and requirements in a short time and offered the optimization of logistics processes, bearing in mind the expansion of digitalization in this sector.

In early 2020, M&M recorded a remarkable growth whereby in January 2020 alone, it had only 35 employees, and only a year later a total of 150, which is proof that we have managed to grow and develop during the pandemic, thanks to the rapid reaction of our man-

OUR ABILITY, EXPERTISE AND COMMITMENT HAVE LED MANY CLIENTS TO ENTRUST US WITH SECURITY IN TRANSPORT, LOGISTICS AND CUSTOMS CLEARANCE agement and all employees.

From the onset of the pandemic, we have been implementing all protection measures, so that our employees, first and foremost, are healthy, but also able to perform their daily tasks without interruption.

Could you tell us about the potential for networking of logistics companies in Southeast Europe and the Western Balkans?

— M&M Serbia has its network, both in Europe and the world, and we are connected from China to America, from South Africa to the Baltic. Hence, our network is a key factor in the development of M&M. In countries where we do not have our branches, we have excellent cooperation with partner companies, which is a win-win situation for both parties. M&M Serbia sees its potential in connecting neighbouring countries.

What logistics services do you

offer and could you single out your comparative advantages over the competition?

— Like any logistics company, we provide a wide range of services, ranging from project logistics, custom-tailored solutions, to triple, which is an integral and inseparable part of online business.

M&M Serbia is present in almost every part of the industry, especially in the automotive and fashion industry, where the so-called just-in-time service (B2B) is required. Also, we are proud of our cold chain which transports and distributes goods for the large food and pharma companies.

Teamwork, trust, precision and financial security are some of the most important components for building good relationships, both in the company and with our clients and suppliers. We are part of a group that, on April 1, this year celebrated its 141st anniversary. Our added strength lies in the flexibility and adaptability to our client's requirements, and

What results and challenges did you enter this year, and what will you focus on in 2021?

— M&M has been operational for a relatively short time, but in less than two years since our establishment, we have opened five branches in Serbia and became an exclusive provider for two large companies from the automotive and fashion industries. We have 10,000 square metres of storage space and 3,000 square metres of office space. Our client list is getting longer by the day and most of them are multinational companies that have their production in Serbia, as well as transport companies that drive exclusively for us.

The economic policy implemented in Serbia greatly influences foreign investors’ decision to come here, and these are mainly production companies. The logistics and international transport market is growing, and our goal is to have a slice of the logistics cake for ourselves. We are developing successfully and if we continue with the current growth trend, we will become one of the top three logistics companies in Serbia.

Our focus is on opening M&M branches in Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Albania by the year-end, in order to provide our clients with the same services in other areas too, while optimizing logistics processes.

I would also like to use this opportunity to announce projects we are currently preparing relating to additional investments in Serbia, as well as the development of something completely new in the country and region, which will ensure our greater growth and development.

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CORPORATE

We See Changes as New Opportunities Choosing the name ‘Moravacem’ speaks of our great respect for domestic values, laws, business ethics, but also of diligent people in Serbia

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CRH

MORAVCEM

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ROMAN MENZ MD of Moravacem, member of the CRH Group

ince August 2015, when CRH came to the Serbian market, the company has been recording good business results, has participated in significant national infrastructure projects and expanded its business in the concrete production and distribution segment. After more than 5 years, the company, which owns the cement plant in Popovac and concrete plants in Belgrade, changed its brand and logo to Moravacem.

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Why did you decide to change the company’s name and logo considering the already established position of the CRH brand on the Serbian market?

— Our company is part of a large multinational company, CRH Group, which operates in 30 countries and employs close to 80,000 people. CRH Group has been present on the Serbian market since 2015 when it became the owner of the Popovac cement plant and concrete plants in Belgrade. Three concrete plants in Belgrade and a subsidiary company, Sapphire, which deals with waste disposal, operate under our company.

Choosing the name Moravacem speaks of our great respect for domestic values, laws, business ethics, but also educated, professional and diligent people from Serbia.

We are proud of our roots and the history of the Popovac cement plant which spans more than 100 years. We value our past and use it as a solid foundation for building a great future.

On the other hand, Ireland-based CRH is our parent company. We will take the opportunity of being a part of a very successful global family to share know-how, innovations and experiences.

Will there be any other changes besides the company’s name and logo?

— There won’t. As a local company, we do not change our priorities which include providing out-

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standing products and services to our customers, offering great career opportunities for our people, ensuring the highest standards of health, safety and environmental responsibility, and making a positive contribution to our local communities.

We do not anticipate any disruptions for our partners, customers, suppliers or distributors.

It is very much business as usual for us.

rope did much better, and construction was declared a vital industry.

In Serbia, the situation at the onset of the epidemic was unclear, but demand improved as the months passed. In our business that is the production of concrete, there was strong initial uncertainty but we were able to continue with the implementation of important projects such as the Belgrade Tower under the aus-

WE ARE PROUD OF OUR ROOTS AND THE HISTORY OF THE POPOVAC CEMENT PLANT WHICH SPANS MORE THAN 100 YEARS Has Covid-19 affected the cement industry in Serbia in the past year? What business results did you achieve in 2020?

— The global pandemic is a complete novelty in our individual experiences and has brought society and governments to extremes.

Many industries, mainly in the service and tourism sectors, have been hit hard and many jobs have been lost. As for our cement industry, the situation wasn’t the same for everyone. In Western Europe, the crisis was felt strongly and large-scale projects were mostly suspended. Eastern Eu-

pices of the Belgrade Waterfront development.

The Cement Division of CRH Serbia has been working hard on some of the key infrastructure projects such as the Preljina-Požega highway. Another important project was the reconstruction of the copper mines in Bor and Majdanpek. The influx of the Serbian diaspora and the fact that people stayed at home led to very good demand for cement in bags, too.

Could you tell us how your company used the crisis to achieve sustainable growth and

development?

— Despite the difficult circumstances, we managed to realize many projects. During 2020, we promoted the new brand of our subsidiary waste disposal company, Sapphire, as well as a new product called ZidoMal, launched a business segment with a help of a new product for the construction industry, Construfil, maintained the uninterrupted flow of production and sales of concrete and cement, and conducted a large number of campaigns related to the safety and health of our employees and their families. We have done a lot despite the situation in the country.

What are the plans for the current year? What will the company focus on?

— In addition to changing the company's brand, this year brings new perspectives and goals to the business environment.

We will continue focusing on providing quality products and services to our clients, ensuring the highest standards of responsible behaviour in terms of health, safety and environmental protection, and making a positive contribution to the communities in which we operate.

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CORPORATE

First and Only 5* Resort on the Mountain Featuring bold design, unparalleled service & enriched culinary experiences, Viceroy opens a new chapter in Serbian luxury tourism Serbian specialties – from an informal post-piste meal to fine dining fare in the resorts all day dining restaurant.

Pique Ski Bar – With light snacks and a relaxed atmosphere by day and an energetic scene by night, this place will ignite the mountains night life. A prime location, inventive light bites and a jaw dropping view of Pancic’s peak, follows the authentic Viceroy rhythm played by a DJ or live bands.

Mountain Kitchen – The beating heart of Viceroy Kopaonik, this warm and inviting restaurant allows guests to rest and recharge for all day dining, with rich heartwarming healthy dishes, leaving the guests ready for their day or nights adventures.

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leading luxury hotel brand - Viceroy Hotels & Resorts, known for its breathtaking and dynamic locations around the world, chose Kopaonik for its first European debut, enriching Serbia’s tourism potential and highlighting its authentic and culturally rich heritage.

Viceroy will inspire and welcome travellers with one-ofa-kind, authentic experiences that bring together provocative design and intuitive service. Being the first and only 5* resort on the mountain, Viceroy Kopaonik aims to be a reflection of the local culture, offering a uniquely authentic experience.

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SPACIOUS ACCOMODATION As a part of Viceroy Icon collection, Viceroy Kopaonik stands for pure unadulterated luxury and captivating experiences offering a collection of 119 spacious rooms and suites, considered as some of the largest guest rooms on Kopaonik, starting from 35sqm to 70sqm, and a remarkable 180sqm Penthouse Suite. With inspiring design and thoughtful luxuries, guests can enjoy their own private balcony with breath-taking views of the

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treatment rooms, a beauty lab, indoor vitality pool, hammam and scrub room, or soothed by an array of holistic wellness experiences using organic ingredients and products.

Some of the additional features include 2 meeting rooms and a boardroom for conferences and medium sized social or team building events and the Generation V Kids club – a place for the Creative Mavericks who are searching for a play space that is as vivid and as inspiring as they are.

NOURISHING LOCAL VALUES Designed by the prestigious internationall architect studio WATG and Wimberly Interiors, the resort wears a locally-infused inspiration of the “Suvo Rudiste”

VICEROY KOPAONIK OFFERING 119 SPACIOUS ROOMS AND SUITES, CONSIDERED AS SOME OF THE LARGEST GUEST ROOMS ON KOPAONIK AND 180SQM PENTHOUSE SUITE picturesque mountainside.

AUTHENTIC AMENITIES AND FEATURES Devoted to an unmatched guest experience, Viceroy Kopaonik tells its own story at every step: from the guests arrival, where they are welcomed by the Marshalls or greeted with a warm local beverage. It is all in the detail, including the bespoke Library book collection in every Suite, inspiring art collections or the personalised breakfast offering.

Along with General Manager, Goran Kovacevic’s exceptional culinary experience in Belgrade Serbia and across Europe, the Viceroy team welcomes Executive Chef Andrew Jones, winner of prestigious international awards, and expereince working alongside three-Michelin-star chef Michel Bras, cooking for the British Royal Family.

Inspired by the mountain vibe and the local culinary scene, guests can expect a gourmet offering of international and

The Library - Located in the resort lobby, this is a space that will always beckon you to stop. The perfect hiding space to enjoy in a quiet haven and a wide array of critically acclaimed best-selling books accompanied by artisan coffee, herbal teas or other speciality beverages that will awaken the mountain atmosphere.

The Spa by Viceroy – This fullservice luxury spa will become the mountain’s indoor sanctuary, where guests can relax with six-

style, and unique mixture of local elements. A team of over 150 colleagues which of more than 40 employees hail specifically from the local Raska area, enables an even truer connection to the region – something Viceroy strongly stands for.

For more information, visit www. viceroyhotelsandresorts.com or follow Viceroy Kopaonik on Facebook and Instagram. For all booking inquiries please contact vks.reservations@ viceroyhotelsandresorts.com and book your stays for 2021.

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SERBIA GOES GREEN 2021

INTERVIEW

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION WILL BECOME A PRIORITY IN THE COMING YEARS

EU accession creates an opportunity for Serbia to improve and harmonize its standards, which will definitely lead us to achieve our goals much quicker IVAN KARIĆ State Secretary at the Ministry of Environmental Protection

he priorities of the Ministry of Environment are solving the decades-long problems of air pollution, proper treatment of wastewater and regulating the problem of illegal landfills.

million euro to finance these projects.

When all the projects are implemented, I expect that ecological situation in Serbia will be much better, and that is the most important task of the new Environment Ministry. We are confident that we are going to succeed because environmental issues are at the top of the priorities of the Serbian government and especially President Vučić.

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You have said that this year’s environmental budget will be bigger than ever.

What are the priorities on your 2021 agenda?

— Since the new government was formed, air pollution has become an important topic. In the first three months of this year, we launched competitions and started implementing projects relating to replacement or overhaul of boiler rooms and individual fireplaces, in order to switch to more environmentally friendly energy sources as soon as possible. So far, we have supported more than 50 local governments.

Due to the fact road and public transport also pollute the environment to a certain extent, we have also set aside funds to subsidize the purchase of electric and hybrid vehicles.

When it comes to wastewater, we plan to build wastewater treatment plants in 28 towns. We are going to pay special attention to the sewerage grid. The first steps in terms of project design have already been made, and financing has been provided through the credit line of the Council of Europe Development Bank in the amount of 200 million euro.

The Ministry will also help local self-governments in the rehabilitation of illegal landfills, and Minister Vujović called on cities and municipalities to map them on their territories. Furthermore, we have a longterm plan to construct eight regional wastewater treatment centres in line with European standards. We have are negotiating with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to get a credit line of 100

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Raising people’s awareness of the importance of preserving the environment must be constantly in focus and our Ministry has been continuously working on that

Chapter 27 is extremely complex and requires large financial resources. How far has Serbia come in this process?

— In January 2020, Serbia submitted the Negotiating Position for Chapter 27 to the European Commission for consideration and opening of the chapter. The negotiating position is the most important tool for solving environmental problems and the mechanism by which we will establish an environmental protection system to ensure a better quality of life for all people in Serbia, whilst following the example of EU countries.

While preparing our negotiating position, we identified environmental problems in Serbia and concluded that the biggest investments should be made in the waste and waste sector.

Preparing for negotiations and developing a negotiating position is a necessary part of accession, but not the ultimate goal.

Putting to use the experience accumulated in the EU is the most important thing considering that the EU has managed to secure good air quality, clean water, a high recycling rate and reduce industrial pollution.

The negotiating position is a means to achieve better living conditions for all people. EU accession creates an opportunity for Serbia to improve and harmonize its standards, which will definitely lead us to achieve our goals much quicker.

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By signing the Declaration on the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans in Sofia, the countries of the region have committed themselves to a series of concrete actions. What exactly does this mean for Serbia and what have we committed ourselves to?

— The Green Agenda for the Western Balkans is one of the priorities to which we are committed. By adopting it, we have shown a strong will and determination to tackle all environmental and economic challenges related to environmental protection and climate change.

Nowadays, environmental problems and climate change can only be solved in a regional framework.

The Ministry of Environment fully supports this initiative. We must recognize that environmental protection and the fight against climate change in the Western Balkans are segments in which we need to invest in the coming period.

I believe that a comprehensive, regional programme of adaptation and mitigation of climate change is needed. This is an area that has the potential to be a link in the region, as it is unencumbered by political differences.

The most important thing to raise the quality of life and health of present and future generations, but also to improve the economy in the Western Balkans region through the development of the green and circular economy, which represent the future of the European Union.

Regional countries have committed themselves to working together with the EU to make Europe a climate-neutral continent by 2050.

The Serbian Assembly adopting the Law on Climate Change last month is a step in that direction.

The EU and the European Investment bank and quite a few other institutions have been supporting Serbia on its ‘green’ road the green economy. What questions does this transition raise?

— EU accession provides a good opportunity for Serbia to improve environmental protection and the share of the green economy, which are essential for achieving better quality of life for people in Serbia.

Together, as the Government, we strive for cleaner transport, less polluting industries, the use of high quality fuels, changing the environmental behaviour of both businesses and individuals, and sustainable household heating systems which implementation we want to expedite. Substantial investments in green infrastructure and transi-

tion already have a positive impact on improving health, quality of life and regional development, as does a long-term stimulus for economic growth of the entire country.

The construction of the railroad to Budapest and a transport link to Thessaloniki, on which President Vučić and the Government have been working hard, will certainly significantly contribute to the reduction of carbon emission, especially in the area through which the Belgrade-Niš motorway, one of the key Balkan roads, passes.

Air pollution is a complex environmental problem and its solution requires large investments.

What crucial changes will take place to mitigate this issue?

— Our air protection laws are largely in line with the EU requirements, and we will continue harmonizing them with the EU regulations this year too.

In order to reduce the pollution that is especially pronounced during the heating season as a result of the use of primarily fuel oil and coal, for the first time this year, we have launched competitions in which local governments can participate to switch to more environmentally friendly energy sources.

We have allocated 300 million dinars for this purpose, as well as 100 million for afforestation and landscaping of public areas. Thanks to the engagement of Minister Vujović, the competitions were implemented quickly and the funds were disbursed to over 50 local governments. In terms reducing pollution caused by road and public traffic, we need to have more vehicles that are in line with the new Euro standards and norms, but also increase the number of electric and hybrid vehicles, which is something that our ministry is already working on.

Do you plan to cooperate with other ministries, such as the Ministry of Energy, on carrying out decarbonisation by 2030?

— The Ministry of Environment overlaps with other ministries in numerous areas, and we have particularly close and common challenges and goals with the Ministry of Mining and Energy. Energy development and environmental protection are inextricably linked and our common goal is to get closer to European standards year-on-year.

We have formed a working group that will be engaged in jointly eliminating environmental and economic problems.

In both economic and environmental terms, people in Serbia and the region will benefit from the National Investment Programme presented by President Vučić, which focuses on environmental issues, water protection, treatment plants and construction of sewers for all.

This highlights the fact that environmental protection is becoming a priority in the coming years.

How would you rate the overall environmental awareness of people in Serbia?

— Raising people’s awareness of the importance of preserving the environment must be constantly in focus and our Ministry has been continuously working on that. People must be aware that it is only up to us to decide what kind of environment we will leave as a legacy to future generations. I am confident that we are going to feel the benefits of environmental investments very quickly by having a healthier environment. Investments in environmental protection should be viewed as modern patriotism in the fight for the health and nature of the country we love and live in. 

The Green Agenda for the Western Balkans is one of the priorities to which we are committed

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SERBIA MUST GO GREEN

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Serbia is a great place for investments. Green energy is not an alternative, it is the future. I think that both the authorities and people are aware of this fact

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Elicio, Country Manager Serbia TWITTER

We are now waiting for the Assembly of the City of Pančevo to adopt a Decree on the Detailed Planning Regulation. We have already spent significant funds on preparing the relevant documentation.

What are the benefits for municipalities in which you develop and implement projects?

— The Municipality of Alibunar has received significant funds from the annual property tax. Also, we have started the implementation of the Profit Sharing Agreement, according to which the municipality receives part of the profit generated

by WF Alibunar every year. Based on the Framework agreement with the Alibunar Municipality, the primary school in Banatski Karlovac was selected for the donation. A new, better performing, heating installation was installed. The school, community and children were very happy to start the new semester in a comfortable learning environment. That is how we operate in every municipality that treats us like a reliable investor.

licio is Belgian company in Serbia that generates electricity from wind energy and has built two wind farms in Serbia - Malibunar (8MW) and Alibunar (42MW) - and started developing new projects in South Banat area. Moreover, Elicio is one of founders of RES Serbia, Association established in March 2021, with the support of EBRD.

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As a Belgian company, are you satisfied with the investment environment in Serbia?

— We are glad that we have managed to transfer the knowledge in Serbia and to invest. Our two wind farms make up 12 per cent of the wind energy market in Serbia. We have invested more than 90 million euro. The World Bank’s IFC Group and several privately owned banks from Serbia have participated in the financing of the Alibunar WF project, which shows a lot about the quality of the project.

We have been operating in Serbia for more than 10 years. In the beginning, it was difficult, but with the adoption of contemporary Law on Energy and the Law on Planning and Construction, the investment environment has significantly improved.

Elicio has built two wind farms in Alibunar and announced new projects in South Banat area.

— We have started developing several projects in South Banat area, in the territory of the City of Pančevo. The total capacity of all projects is over 200MW. We have cleared all legal and property issues and rented land plots from private owners.

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We, as serious investors, are ready to support Serbia with our projects in order for the country to fulfil its international obligations

What are your and Elicio expectations in the RES sector in Serbia in the next period?

— We are happy to hear that the Government of Serbia adopted Renewable Energy Law. I think that it is a very good job, which was done in a very short time. The next step should be adoption of the Decrees.

We hope it will be transparent and not so a quick process. Preparations for auctions request time, transparency and detailed plan of processes

which will be implemented in coming years.

Our company has projects in France and Belgium and we participated in auctions there. We are ready to help Serbia with our knowledge and experience in auctions.

Also, we believe that, in the future, it will be possible to implement projects without state incentives which are completely commercial. But we will need the state’s support in terms of faster adoption of planning documentation, grid connection approvals, possible tax relief, etc. In return, Serbia will get more green energy, which is a direct contribution to a healthy environment.

What distinguishes Elicio as a serious investor in the field of RES, in Serbia and generally?

— We trusted the state, invested money, and obtained bank guarantees even when the sector was new and unpredictable to Serbia. We have the know-how for project development, construction monitoring and operation of wind farms in Serbia with the cooperation of our HQ in Belgium. We participated with 20 million euro of equity in the financing of Alibunar WF, while IFC and commercial banks allocated 60 million euro as a loan.

We manage and maintain our power plants. We are socially responsible to the local community. During development, construction and operation, we employed, directly or indirectly, a significant number of experts and workers. We fulfil all obligations towards the state and municipality such as paying tax. 

COOPERATION We submitted request to City of Pancevo, 18 months ago and we didnt receive any clear answer from municipal administration . We asked for meeting, but instead invitation, we have silence. It is not a good signal for investors, especially for investor form EU, who constructed two wind farms and who is paying almost 250 thousands EUR property tax per year.

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ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY HAS NO ALTERNATIVE

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Beverage cartons as a most sustainable packaging format

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DRAGAN RAJKOVIĆ

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Regional Sustainability Director Europe & Central Asia - Tetra Pak TWITTER

OVID19 crisis has demonstrated how important is to have a resilient food system and make food safe and available everywhere. At Tetra Pak we kept on working to support our customers and Serbian citizens by providing food and drinks in a most sustainable packaging format Today more than ever our business is very dedicated to climate neutrality, biodiversity preservation and effective waste management.

Plant-based raw materials such as wood and sugar cane are essential to our low-carbon circular economy approach.

The recycling rate of beverage cartons in Europe has increased from just over 5% in 1993 to more than 51% in 2019. Our aim is to collect 90% of all used beverage cartons waste and recycle 70% of it by 2030. As a party to the EU Plastics Pledge, we have committed to work with the industry partners to ensure that by 2030 recycling solutions are in place for all components of beverage cartons across Europe.

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DEPOSIT SYSTEM AS A SOLUTION FOR SERBIA Over the past 10 years, we have worked hard to increase beverage carton recycling in Serbia and invested significantly in collection systems and a local paper mill. But if we want more recycling there must be more waste collection.

Increasing collection rate is possible through both Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) and improved Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) as a scheme based on the shared responsibility model for everyone in the value chain DRS system requires consumers to pay a small deposit at the point of purchase, which they get back

when they return the empty container for recycling. Globally, it contributes up to 40% higher collection rates for plastic, aluminum, and glass beverage containers than other collection methods. The best results are achieved when they include all package categories and are run by the industry.

With innovations in the reverse vending machines and smart bin technologies and digitalization, Serbia has an opportunity to set up a broad DRS that will significantly improve packaging waste collection and recycling results. Inclusion of PET, alu cans, glass and cartons is a must, but the system should not be limited only to those packages. Serbia has opportunity to install modern, innovative system and step up from the conservative deposit systems already developed in several EU countries.

Introduction of so called “smart” DRS, with broad scope allows high collection results and high quality of various collected packaging as a raw material for recyclers. Further to this, broad system will result in reduced costs per unit, reduced consumers’ confusion on how to contribute to the collection, much higher influence on achieving climate goals and conditions to use collected material as recycled content for new production, which will also support busting local recycling capacities development.

“Smart” DRS will create highly integrated system with improved collection efficiency, by allowing use of not only RVMs, but also smart bins and hand scanners where suitable.

System has improved fraud protection, real time data collection and possibilities for integration of different collection systems and convenience for consumers through inte-

gration with smart devices. This will allow tailor made solutions for different conditions we might have, like urban and non-urban areas, small and large shops, on-the-go and home consumption, covering all possible conditions where packed product is consumed.

Our aim is to collect 90% of all used beverage cartons waste and recycle 70% of it by 2030

SERBIA CAN LEAD THE PACK IN TERMS OF PACKAGING WASTE MANAGEMENT Tetra Pak welcomes government’s commitment to sustainability and is looking forward to helping Serbia achieve its ambitious environmental goals.

As a country advances economically, its consumption of packaging per capita increases proportionally.

The estimate of packaging placed on the Serbian market in 2020 is at 66 kg per capita and the projection for 2030 is 78 kg per capita. Main recommendations for the Serbian packaging waste management system include: introducing an operating model of a Packaging Recovery Organization, the obligation for households to sort waste, the inclusion of the informal collection sector, ensuring equal rules for all actors, a well-functioning monitoring system, and that full net cost of waste collection, sorting and treatment is covered all producers and brand owners. Improved EPR system should have positive effects on the Serbian economy, through its impact on the investment climate, employment increment, and responsible consumption. 

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CREATING A POSITIVE AND SUSTAINABLE CONTRIBUTION

We look forward to more collaboration and investments to work toward our common energy and climate change goals ŽELJKO DJURIĆ

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General Manager of Tesla Wind TWITTER

or the special issue Serbia goes green, of Diplomacy&Commerce magazine, we spoke with Mr. Zeljko Djuric, General Manager of Tesla Wind about the project - The Čibuk 1 wind farm, Vetroelektrane Balkana (WEBG), cooperation of the UAE and Serbia, and future plans.

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Čibuk 1 created approximately 400 local jobs during construction, while also delivering 50 kilometers of new roads

Čibuk 1 is the largest wind farm in the Western Balkans and Serbia.

Could you tell us more about the project?

— The Čibuk 1 wind farm, with a capacity of 158-megawatts, is the largest utility-scale wind farm in Serbia.

Spanning an area of 37 square kilometers, it is situated around 50 kilometers outside Belgrade in the municipality of Kovin. The wind farm comprises 57 wind turbines. It delivers enough electricity to power 113,000 homes and displaces more than 370,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.

Vetroelektrane Balkana (WEBG) is the project company that owns the Čibuk 1 wind farm, and WEBG is completely owned by Tesla Wind, a joint venture between Masdar, one of the world’s leading renewable energy companies (60%), Finnish energy infrastructure developer Taaleri Energia (30%), and DEG, the investment arm of KfW, the German government’s development bank (10%).

Besides helping to minimize the environmental impacts of Serbia’s power sector, Čibuk 1 created approximately 400 local jobs during construction, while also delivering 50 kilometers of new roads.

What challenges did you face in

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last year, given the pandemic?

— Our priority during the COVID-19 pandemic is our staff and ensuring their safety. At the beginning of the pandemic, we put in place the necessary business continuity management measures to ensure that we could protect our staff while continuing operations. We faced some slight delays in our maintenance schedule for the wind farm, however, these were minor, and we were able to continue providing electricity to the 113,000 homes powered by the wind farm.

How important is the cooperation between the UAE and Serbia and is there room for increasing investments in our country?

— The UAE and Serbia have a mutually beneficial relationship that is successfully advancing clean energy through the development of projects such as Čibuk 1. To enable further partnership, the UAE – Serbia Business Club was founded to connect the investors from both countries and to present them with business opportunities in these two markets.

We look forward to more collaboration and investments to work toward our common energy and climate change goals.

— Creating a positive and sustainable contribution to the local communities where we develop and invest in is a key component of our investment decision-making process. We target to deliver tangible and real positive impact in the local communities in the vicinity of our projects by supporting and contributing to the success of various local projects and participating in community-based CSR initiatives. For example and as part of the Čibuk 1 project, we committed a portion of the profits generated from the wind farm to the relevant Municipality to fund community-related infrastructure and social projects and initiatives. 

For years, WEBG has been supporting activities on small projects, such as infrastructure repairs, improvement of educational and sports programs and support programs for vulnerable groups. How important is socially responsible business, especially in the segment in which you operate?

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WE DEVELOP COMMERCIALLY VIABLE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECTS

stablished in 2006, Masdar, Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company, is a global leader in renewable energy and sustainable urban development. Masdar means "source" in Arabic. Masdar`s mandate is to help maintain the leadership of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the global energy sector, while supporting the diversification of both its economy and energy sources for the benefit of future generations.

Wholly owned by the Abu Dhabi government’s Mubadala Investment Company, Masdar is supporting the UAE’s transition towards a knowledge-based economy.

A catalyst for renewable energy development in the Arab world over the past decade, Masdar is demonstrating how the busi-

Masdar saw the potential for wind energy in Serbia and using its international renewable industry expertise, supported Serbia’s ongoing socio-economic development

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We also deliver knowledge and industry platforms to stimulate further growth in the wider renewable energy and clean-tech industry

AHMED AL AWADI Director, Business Development & Investment, Clean Energy, Masdar

ness community can deliver on the global sustainability agenda.

For the special issue of Diplomacy&Commerce magazine, Serbia goes green, we spoke with Mr. Ahmed Al Awadi, Director of Business Development & Investment, Clean Energy at Masdar.

on coal-fired power generation.

Projects such as Čibuk 1, and the lasting partnerships borne out of them, position Serbia at the forefront of a growing sector that supports faster electricity integration with its European neighbors.

Masdar is a global leader in renewables and sustainable urban development. Could you please tell us how did the company decide to invest in Serbia, and what does it mean for our country?

— Masdar saw the potential for wind energy in Serbia and using its international renewable industry expertise, supported Serbia’s ongoing socio-economic development and worked diligently with the government to help the country advance its commitment to modernizing its energy sector through the development of the Čibuk 1 wind farm. Masdar’s successful partnership with Taaleri Energia through the Čibuk 1 project supported the diversification of Serbia’s energy mix and has reduced the country’s dependence

What plans do you have for this year in terms of new projects and investments, when we are speaking of the region of Serbia, and Central and Eastern Europe?

— In August 2019, Masdar and Taaleri Energia established a joint venture (Masdar Taaleri Generation - MTG) with the aim of developing renewable energy projects in Central and Eastern Europe. MTG is progressing the development of projects in the region, among them the Čibuk 2 wind farm, planned to be larger than Čibuk 1 in capacity and located in the same area. Our aim is to continue to contribute and support the deployment of clean energy technologies in Serbia towards enhancing the country’s energy mix and energy security. 

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INTERVIEW

WE USE ONLY A THIRD OF THE RES POTENTIAL

The potential of renewable energy sources is 5.65 million tonnes of oil equivalent (toe) per year, and this potential is utilized in the quantity of only 2.06 million toe DANIJELA ISAILOVIĆ Manager of the Renewable Energy Sources of Serbia Association

whose support and credibility mean a lot to us and we are grateful to them for that.

he Renewable Energy Sources of Serbia Association is a business association founded in March 2021, intending to improve the business environment in the segment of renewable energy sources and encourage the production and use of electricity generated from renewable sources in the service of environmental protection.

We talked with the Association's manager, Danijela Isailović, about the Association's activities and Serbia's potential regarding renewable energy sources.

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How did the Association come about, what is its mission and who are its founders?

— The idea of founding this Association has been around for several years. It came from my colleague Miloš Colić from the Kovačica wind farm and myself. Later, other colleagues supported us in establishing an organization that would represent the common interests of companies, improve the business climate and promote green energy supported us.

The owners of the operational wind farms Čibuk 1, Kovačica and Alibunar are the Association's founders but we are also open to other technologies. The interest is great and we have already received several inquiries and signed applications. The Association's goals include improving the business environment in the RES industry, connecting business people, increasing the RES' share in total energy consumption, promoting green energy and sustainable development. Alternatively, simply put everything we need for our planet to recover from the effects of climate change, global warming and pollution. The establishment of the Association is supported by the EBRD,

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Eight wind farms with a total capacity of 398 MW and a total value of around 800m euros have been built in Serbia

What resources and potentials does Serbia have in terms of RES and how much of this potential is utilized?

— The pandemic has caused great damage to humanity. The only good thing about the pandemic is that it has significantly highlighted the topic of clean technologies and green energy in the public domain. We do not yet know the origin of Covid-19 but the possibility that it has something to do with global warming and pollution is not ruled out. Health and the environment are hot topics worldwide. There is no healthy environment without the transition from dirty technologies to renewable energy sources.

Serbia has significant RES potential but does not use it enough. According to the projections of the Energy Development Strategy of the Republic of Serbia, that covers the period until 2025 with projections until 2030, the total potential of renewable energy sources in our country is 5.65 million toe (tonnes of oil equivalent) per year. According to the latest available data from 2019, this potential is utilized in the quantity of 2.06 million toe of RES which indicates that we are using only a third of the overall potential. A fantastic thing happened in the European Union in 2020 despite the pandemic - renewables surpassed fossil fuels for the first time in terms of use (38 percent green energy, 37 percent fossil fuels and 25 percent nuclear energy).

How much is wind energy used in Serbia, which places have the biggest quantities of this energy and what are the results accomplished

by the existing wind farms?

— Eight wind farms with a total capacity of 398 MW and a total value of around 800m euros have been built in Serbia. Several projects, with a total capacity of 4GW, are currently being developed. Of course, not all projects are the same, nor are they realistic. A certain number of wind farms will be built in the next five years and we are looking forward to that. The existing wind farms currently produce electricity for slightly less than 400,000 households and have been reducing CO2 emission by about 800,000 tonnes annually. The wind farms, that are the founders of our Association, give 2 percent of their profits to the municipalities in which they operate in line with previously concluded contracts, which indicates that our founders are socially responsible companies that are well accepted in the local community.

RES are becoming a priority among the global plans for saving the planet. What is Serbia doing in that respect and how much has it progressed?

— The National Assembly of Serbia recently adopted the Climate Law, which has been in the making since 2018. We hope that the Law on Renewable Energy Sources will be adopted soon too. After that follows the adoption of an integrated energy and climate plan for the year 2021, which will define new goals in relating to RES by 2030. The legal framework is a prerequisite for practical operation. We have investors and projects, people's support is growing and the need has never been greater. The Renewable Energy Sources of Serbia Association is here to help businesses, state institutions and citizens alike. I am confident we are doing a fantastic thing for Serbia. 

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Kovačica wind farm is the first completely new utility-scale power plant built in Serbia after almost three decades MARIJAN RANČIĆ Business Development Director of New Energy Solutions

ew Energy Solutions (NES) is a renewable energy management consultancy firm, delivering creative business solutions to environmental, energy and sustainability issues. We talked with the Business Development Director of NES, Marijan Rančić, about the wind farms that they manage in Serbia, as well as about whether Serbia uses wind energy enough as a renewable energy source.

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In 2018, a high-power power plant was opened in Serbia - the Kovačica wind farm. What are the advantages and significance of the wind farm for the local community and environmental protection?

— Indeed, the 104.5 MW Kovačica wind farm is the first completely new utility-scale power plant built in Serbia after almost three decades. In Serbia, where the electricity supply is mainly coming from the coal-fired plants running on lignite, projects, such as Kovačica, have an immensely positive impact on the Serbian energy sector and ecology. Thanks to this and similar projects, Serbia is approaching its pledged objective in terms of per cent share of renewable energy in overall energy consumption and, more importantly, a reduction of 9.8% CO2 emissions by 2030. Apart from increasing the budget inflow of the municipality, we create job and training opportunities for local workers across the entire supply chain, invest in municipal road infrastructure and support social development in the community.

In addition to the Kovačica wind farm, New Energy Solutions also manages Čibuk 1. What other projects are planned? How far along is the Pupin wind farm?

— NES’ team is specialized in Asset Management and O&M, with a current track record of operating around 67% of total installed wind

capacity in Serbia. We have just received the energy permit for the 95.5 MW Pupin wind farm, and we are heading towards the Construction permit. Kovačica and Pupin projects are the cornerstones of our commitment to a long-term partnership with the Israeli investor Enlight. Our combined expertise leverages the extensive experience and proven track record of development and we are investigating new development opportunities with our partners.

Early this year, after four years of working for the World Bank’s IFC Group, you returned to the world of wind farms in Serbia, where you worked before. How much have circumstances and the market changed compared to the time before you started working for the IFC? — Working for the IFC was an extraordinary opportunity. This experience enforced my transition from the developer with a project-narrowed mindset to the sustainable advocate who seeks to help implement reforms that are needed to unlock opportunities for private investments in the clean energy. It is a very interesting time in the energy space, with a number of changes and I’m very happy being part of it. The growing renewable energy momentum in Serbia from the FiT era is still very strong. With the new laws, Serbia will be looking to introduce new mechanisms to support renewable investments. It seems that the green economy is becoming a matter of priority for the Serbian government and I am welcoming energy transition as a major political agenda.

Is wind energy used enough in Serbia as a renewable energy source?

— When compared with the mature markets of Europe, renewable energy development in Serbia is still very

much in its infancy. Serbia needs more renewable energy as a key enabler of the energy transition. Wind is already a cost-effective and mature technology. It is a perfectly suited tool for decarbonizing the electricity system and fighting climate change. When it comes to the nuts and bolts of boosting wind energy in Serbia, I think that all comes to one word, and that is a risk. The Serbian government has already demonstrated the ability to handle political and regulatory risk in the past in a way that is acceptable to the international financing institutions and the new regulatory updates, delivered on a very short notice, are a positive and encouraging indication.

Serbia needs more renewable energy as a key enabler of the energy transition

Does NES only specialize in wind farms or are we going to see you getting involved in other technologies any time soon? Could you elaborate on your company’s activities?

— Wind energy remains our core business. NES is at the forefront of wind energy development and operations in Serbia. Out of nearly 400 MW operational wind power plans, the NES team has experience in the development of almost 80% of these projects. With full project lifecycle experience and highly skilled staff, we strive to provide our partners with services that meet and exceed their expectations. Looking forward, we are energized by the opportunities before us and very excited to see such sustained and unmatched growth in the energy industry. We work on state-of-the-art energy projects, from wind farms and utility-scale solar PV projects to energy storage facilities, meaning we have plenty of renewable job opportunities for young engineers and developers looking to enhance their energy careers. 

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INTRO

SERBIA IS ONE OF THE MOST POLLUTED COUNTRIES

To solve the accumulated environmental problems in the next 10-15 years, the state needs to invest around 8.5 billion euro he right to a healthy environment is one of the basic rights of every human being. The poor state of the environment seriously jeopardizes the health of people, shortens life expectancy and diminishes the quality of life. Serbia is currently one of the most environmentally polluted countries in Europe. Drinking water is of poor quality in many areas, few landfills meet the minimum sanitary requirements, most of the wastewater from sewage is discharged into watercourses without any filtering, while between 2.5 and 3 million people are exposed to excessively polluted air. As part of the process of accession to the European Union, a year ago, the Negotiating Position for Chapter 27, which covers environmental protection, was adopted and this created prerequisites for opening of this chapter and launching the required reforms in this segment.

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Large investments in environmental protection are planned; the Ministry’s budget is 8.3 billion dinars

AIR QUALITY Excessively polluted air is the problem that has been gaining more and more public attention lately. According to the official Report on the state of the environment in the Republic of Serbia in 2019, drafted by the Ministry of Environmental Protection (Environmental Protection Agency) in Serbia and Vojvodina, the air was clean or slightly polluted, while in the towns of Valjevo, Kraljevo, Zaječar, Subotica, Sremska Mitrovica, Belgrade, Novi Sad, Pančevo, Niš, Bor, Smederevo, Kosjerić and Užice, the air was excessively polluted. Of these, sulfur dioxide in Bor had a constant occurrence of concentrations dangerous to human health.

Many studies show that poor air quality prematurely kills thousands of people every year and that it is one of the leading causes of death in Serbia. This has been confirmed by a recent United Nations study, while the analysis of the Dr Milan Jovanović Batut Public Health Institute, conducted on a sample of nine Serbian cities shows, that over 3,500 premature deaths can be directly linked to poor air quality.

The European Commission's 2020 annual report on Serbia's progress in implementing Chapter 27 says that, in terms of air quality, Serbia has achieved a good level of harmonization with Acquis Communautaire. It also says that Serbia must expedite the application of relevant laws in this segment, as well as develop and implement air quality plans much quicker. Besides, the Report underlines that solving the problem of emission of pollutants into the air from the Kostolac B thermal power plant must be a priority.

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WASTE MANAGEMENT The official Report on the state of the environment in the Republic of Serbia in 2019 indicates that the total amount of municipal waste is slightly increasing. In 2019, about 12 million tonnes of waste were produced in Serbia, of which 78,000 tonnes was hazardous waste. Coal fly ash indicates that thermal power plants are the largest producers of waste.

The amount of waste produced and processed in health care institutions continues to increase slightly compared to previous years. In terms of landfills, 11 of them have been built in Serbia so far, as well as 15 transfer stations and 36 recycling centres. 500,897 tonnes of waste was disposed of at those 11 sanitary landfills. The report also states that in 2019, 418,360 tonnes of waste was exported to Serbia, and 227,985 tonnes of waste was imported. In its annual report, the European Commission states that Serbia must redouble its efforts to faster close the landfills that do not comply with legal regulations in terms of investing in waste sorting and recycling, as well as reducing the amount of waste. According to the Report on the State of the Environment from 2019, Serbia had 2,212 illegal landfills, of which 1,396 have never been cleaned.

WATER QUALITY We need water to survive. Wastewater is one of the biggest and most expensive environmental problems. Early this year, we heard the news that tens of thousands of cubic metres of rubbish was floating on the Drina River and its tributaries in Serbia. According to the 2019 Eco-Bulletin, which is published annually by the State Statistics Bureau, the total quantity of discharged water - not counting the cooling water used in industry - was 1,109 million cubic metres. Of that, only 94 million cubic metres were filtered or just 8.5 percent. The European Commission's annual report for Chapter 27 states that untreated wastewater remains the main source of pollution. Serbia needs to invest significant efforts to further align its legislation with the EU Acquis, to enforce laws, and to boost its administrative capacity, especially in terms of enforcement and inter-institutional coordination. In its report, the Fiscal Council also states the necessity of large investments in this area - about 6 billion euro is needed for to protect Serbia's water from pollution, i.e. for the construction and reconstruction of the sewerage grid and wastewater treatment plants.

INVESTMENTS IN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION In its report, the Fiscal Council points out that Serbia will need state investments of around 8.5 billion euro in the next 10-15 years to solve the accumulated environmental problems. This amount should mostly be used to build basic communal infrastructure, such as wastewater treatment plants, a sewerage grid, investments in the water supply system, construction of landfills and improving waste management systems, developing district heating systems and the like.

On an annual basis, this would mean that public investments in these areas have to be at least 500 million euro (or 1.2% of Serbia's GDP) and remain at that level for the next decade or so. This period is important not only because of the need to improve the quality of life of the population as soon as possible, but also stems from Serbia's obligation to meet the EU requirements regarding environmental protection to become a full-fledged EU member. Despite the specific recommendations of the Fiscal Council, these expenditures remained low in previous years and amounted to about 0.2% of GDP per year.

Early this year, the Minister of Environmental Protection, Irena Vujović, stated that 2021 will be marked by large investments in environmental protection, because the construction of wastewater treatment plants and sewage grids in 28 towns across Serbia would begin. The Ministry's budget for this

year is 8.3 billion dinars, while the construction of the mentioned wastewater treatment plants and sewage grids will be financed from the credit line granted by the Development Bank of the Council of Europe, which provides additional 200 million euro.

She pointed out that the Ministry will tackle the problem of illegal landfills, and that the Ministry's budget provides funds for the construction of transfer stations in Nova Varoš and Knjaževac, as well as for closing and rehabilitating unsanitary landfills in Čačak, Kraljevo, Trstenik and other parts of Serbia.

Minister Vujović also pointed out that nine new regional waste management centres would be built.

In terms of air pollution in Serbia, she stated that the Ministry of Environmental Protection would subsidize the replacement of boiler rooms in schools, nurseries and health care institutions to enable the transition to more environmentally friendly energy sources. She added that people in Serbia would also be given the opportunity to apply for a subsidy to replace their home boiler rooms and that the heating plant in Kragujevac will be connected to gas, which will largely solve the problem of air pollution in that city.

Minister Vujović also underlined that Serbia was determined to accelerate its activities regarding EU membership and comply with high EU standards, which is not an easy task, since Chapter 27 is extremely complex and requires large financial resources. 

Chapter 27: Environment and Climate Change, extremely complex, requires large financial resources

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INTERVIEW

by Nevena Kuveljić

WE ARE SAVING THE PLANET FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS

The Directorate, as a socially responsible institution, implemented the Zelena Srbija project in cooperation with numerous diplomatic missions in Belgrade SLADJAN VELINOV Director of Serbian Radiation and Nuclear Safety and Security Directorate

erbian Radiation and Nuclear Safety and Security Directorate is a separate and functionally independent regulatory body conducting regulatory, expert and other related executive duties in the field of radiation and nuclear safety and security. We talked about the protection of the environment, as well as the social responsibility of the Directorate in this area, with the Director of Serbian Radiation and Nuclear Safety and Security Directorate, Sladjan Velinov.

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The Republic of Serbia will have far denser network of detectors generating virtually realtime data on a possible accident

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What is the position and role of the Directorate in the environmental protection system?

— The activities of the Directorate in the field of environmental protection are manifold, ranging from the environmental radioactivity monitoring and early warning system of a nuclear or radiological accident, to the established systems of licensing, control and inspection oversight of the practices serving to prevent any radioactive material to contaminate and, thus, jeopardize the environment. In addition, by means of the international cooperation instruments with the IAEA, the Directorate ensures continuous capacity building through the training of all participants in the radiation protection system, and thus positively affects the preservation and protection of the environment.

Where does the environmental radioactivity come from and how does the Directorate monitor it?

— The nuclear tests in the 20th century, and the nuclear accidents,

primarily in Chernobyl in 1986 and in Fukushima in 2011, led to a release of a huge amount of radioactive material into the atmosphere, which, consequently, caused a large-scale contamination of the environment. Other potential radioactive pollutants of the environment are activities utilizing radioactive materials and sources.

This is why it is necessary to monitor the radioactivity systematically in order to evaluate the threats to the environment, and to provide for the capacities for the adequate response or appropriate radiation protection measures.

The monitoring entails the analysis of the air, precipitation, surface waters, foodstuffs and feeding stuff, which is carried out to determine the radionuclide presence in the environment, and to assess the level of public exposure to ionizing radiation. Therefore, radioactivity monitoring is conducted in normal circumstances, in case of a suspicion of an accident, and during an accident.

Based on results of monitoring the Directorate has an insight into the radiation threats to the environment, the public exposure to the radiation, and can require urgent measures in case of increased radioactivity.

Do you monitor the radioactivity level indicating an accident?

If yes, in what way? What are the other notification instruments?

— Apart from the sample analysis conducted by the authorized laboratories, Serbia also has the early warning system of nuclear or ra-

diological accidents consisting of nine measuring stations that conduct continuous real-time radiation measurements in the air. This data is available on web sites of the Directorate and of the European Radiological Data Exchange Platform (EURDEP). The early warning system is one of the mechanisms that provides us with the initial information, that is, warns us about an accident in a nuclear facility.

Currently, the system is undergoing its first significant upgrade since its establishment in 2006, which will result in installing 33 new stations within the early warning system. This way the Republic of Serbia will have far denser network of detectors generating virtually real-time data on a possible accident.

What activities, other than the protection from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation, has the Directorate taken in order to preserve the environment?

— In addition to daily work, protecting the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation, the Directorate, as a socially responsible institution, implemented the “Zelena Srbija” (Green Serbia) project in cooperation with numerous diplomatic missions in Belgrade. In that way, the Directorate wanted to raise awareness about the importance of afforestation of Serbia and contribute to the preservation and quality of the living environment, as well as the preservation of the planet for future generations. On that occasion, several hundred trees were planted throughout Serbia. 

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BUSINESS NEWS

02

ELENOR NETWORK T BEST IN SERBIA FOR THE FOURTH TIME

For the fourth time in a row Telenor network won a prestigious acknowledgement BEST IN TEST in independent measurement of the quality of mobile networks in Serbia, conducted by the international company UMLAUT. Telenor Serbia was rated the best network in Serbia with a total score of 921 dots out of maximum 1000. The tested categories in which company Telenor is the best are the broadest coverage by mobile internet and minimum latency in data transfer. The testing

CIBADEM ENTERS A SERBIA THROUGH STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH BEL MEDIC

Acıbadem Health Group, a world-famous chain of hospitals, has become the majority owner of Bel Medic, Serbia's leading private health care institution with a 26-year tradition. In the future, they will operate as Acibadem Bel Medic. The co-owner and CEO will be Dr Jasmina Knežević, as before.

Acıbadem Healthcare Group has

been operating in Turkey since 1991 and belongs to the world's second largest chain of IHH hospitals. Bel Medic was founded in 1995 by Dr Jasmina and Milan Knezevic and it is the leader in the private health sector of Serbia and the region. Dr Jasmina Knežević, founder and CEO of Bel Medic, said: "I am very pleased that Bel Medic has become a partner in a chain of world-class hospitals. I am sure that the strategic merger of two strong brands, such as Acibadem and Bel Medic, will bring world medicine closer to our citizens, as well as contribute to the Serbian economy."

Photo: Vladimir Milivojević Boogie

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was conducted during a six-month period on 50.5 thousand users and 53 million samples.

“After pandemic test as how much we can provide to our customers, our development, based on the latest network technologies, has only accelerated. In 2020 alone, over 30 million Euros have been invested in network infrastructure, 800 sites were upgraded and altogether a total of 150 4G+ new locations were established. This again gave results in UMLAUT benchmarking of mobile networks, where we have improved the value compared to the last year“, says Saša Leković, CTO of Telenor Serbia.

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PEOPLE & EVENTS

11 MAR

MEDEF INTERNATIONAL MISSION IN SERBIA

The delegation composed of representatives of 25 companies headed by MEDEF International (movement of French companies), the first worldwide network of French privately-owned companies, visited Serbia on March 11 and 12, 2021. The delegation was led by Mr Laurent Germain, President and CEO of EGIS. The visit, which has been organized with the support of the French Embassy in Serbia and the Serbian Embassy in

Zoran Radojičić, Mayor of Belgrade, Laurent Germain and H.E. Jean -Louis Falconi, Ambassador of France

12 MAR

MAR

OUND TABLE OF THE GROUP R OF FRANCOPHONE AMBASSADORS IN THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA

Boško Vučurević and H.E. Amr Aljowaily

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H.E. Jean -Louis Falconi, French Ambassador, Ana Brnabić, Serbian Prime Minister and President and CEO of EGIS, Laurent Germain

ERBIA CAN COUNT S ON OUR SUPPORT ON ITS EUROPEAN PATH

Prime Minister Ana Brnabić held an online meeting with the Special Representative for the Western Balkans and Deputy Assistant Secretary at the US Department of State, Matthew Palmer. Palmer and Brnabić discussed bilateral relations between the two countries, the situation in the region and the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina, as well as economic relations and American investments in Serbia. Brnabić underlined that one of the foreign policy priorities of Serbia was improving all areas of cooperation with the United States (US), noting that the 140th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries is celebrated this year. Palmer stated that the overriding interest of the US is the stability and security of the Western Balkans region, and praised the constructive role of Serbia in regional initiatives such as the Mini Schengen.

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France, included meetings with the Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabić, the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Belgrade and government members in charge of construction, transport and infrastructure, energy and mining, and finance. This visit aims to position the French business offer and to facilitate a more ambitious policy of improving the business climate and launching economic activities in the post-crisis period.

Online meeting, Ana Brnabić and Matthew Palmer

A group of francophone ambassadors in the Republic of Serbia visited the Chamber of Commerce of Vojvodina, where they participated in a round table discussion on economic cooperation. The President of the Chamber of Commerce of Vojvodina, Boško Vučurević, expressed his satisfaction that the gathering was

organized following the initiative of the chairman of the Group of Francophone Ambassadors to the Republic of Serbia, the Ambassador of Egypt, H.E. Amr Aljowaily. The round table was attended by representatives of 10 countries and was seen as an impetus for the promotion of all forms of economic cooperation.

Round table-representatives of 10 countries of the Group of Francophone Ambassadors

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PEOPLE & EVENTS

18 MAR

PEACEKEEPING IN THE FRANCOPHONE SPACE IN THE 21st CENTURY

During the Month of Francophonie, the Embassy of Egypt in Belgrade, the Conflux Centre and the Cairo International Center for Conflict Resolution, Peacekeeping and Peacebuilding (CCCPA) held a webinar titled “Peacekeeping in the Francophone space in the 21st century”, for the third consecutive year. Speakers came from a diverse group of relevant stakeholders including the ministries of foreign affairs of Serbia and Egypt, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Belgrade,

the International Organization of the Francophonie, the Boutros-Ghali peacekeeping Observatory, and the Gendarmerie Officers Application School of Romania. President of Group of Francophone Ambassadors to Belgrade, the Egyptian Ambassador H.E. Amr Aljowaily, who chaired the webinar, highlighted the need to integrate local culture, including multilingualism, into tools of conflict resolution, be it peacemaking, peacekeeping or peacebuilding.

Egyptian Ambassador H.E. Amr Aljowaily with participants of webinar

19 MAR

Serbian Minister of Mining and Energy, Zorana Mihajlović, ENERGY DEVELOPMENT signed the Memorandum of Understanding with Odile Renaud-Basso, the President of the European Bank for ReSTRATEGY

efficiency. Minister Mihajlović underlined that the Ministry had defined several strategic pillars – the legal framework, a new investment plan in energy and reform of operations of public companies. She informed the EBRD president that the National Plan for Energy and Climate was being drafted and that the Ministry would start preparing the Energy Development Strategy, with projected strategic goals for the next 20 years.

construction and Development (EBRD), on March 19. The purpose of the memorandum is to provide a framework for cooperation in improving the air quality, promoting the use of renewable energy sources for production and distribution of heating energy in Serbia and increasing energy

Signing a memorandum with the EBRD

19 MAR

IN MEDIAS (P)RESS

Zorana Mihajlović

The Media Association is continuing its cooperation with the Embassy of the Republic of Germany under the auspices of the new project ‘In medias (p)ress’. On the occasion of signing the project agreement, the Ambassador of Germany to Serbia, H.E. Thomas Schieb, talked with the President of the Media Association, Stevan Ristić, member of the Association’s Managing Board, Zoran Sekulić, the Executive Director, Izab-

ela Branković, about the current situation in the Serbian media. The In medias (p)ress project will bring together 10 local media outlets, with which they will work on mentoring to improve their capacities and exchange information on all current media-and market-related challenges, establish a journalism school for young people, and conduct media literacy education for teachers and debates on different topics.

Izabela Branković and H.E. Thomas Schieb, signing the project agreement

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PEOPLE & EVENTS

24 MAR

AUSTRIAN CONSULATE OPENED IN NOVI SAD

The Mayor of Novi Sad, Miloš Vučević, met in the City Hall with the Secretary General of the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs of the Republic of Austria, Peter Launsky-Tieffenthal, Ambassador of the Republic of Austria to Serbia, H.E. Nikolaus Lutterotti and Honorary Consul of the Republic of Austria in Novi Sad, Zoran Tadić. The reason for the meeting was the official opening of the honorary Austrian Consulate of that state in Novi Sad, at 27, Partizanska Street, which,

Official opening of the honorary Austrian Consulate in Novi Sad

24 MAR

AY OF D REMEMBRANCE OF THE VICTIMS OF THE NATO AGGRESSION

MAR

of Bosnia and Herzegovina Presidency, Milorad Dodik.

"We will not go into semantics about naming the event that happened in the spring of 1999. What happened was a terrible crime and it was aggression, not an intervention or bombing," said Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, adding that no one was ever held accountable for that crime.

Commemorative academy

8th TRADITIONAL 1 EVENT OF VASILOPITA CUTTING

The Hellenic Business Association of Serbia celebrated the 18th traditional event of Vasilopita Cutting, which was organized in the online format for the first time. The event presents a continuity of online activities, but also the Association’s initiative to adapt the tradition of Vasilopita Cutting to the current working conditions. In his welcoming address, the President of HBA underlined that the Hellenic Business Association of Serbia was always available to its members for any kind of assistance and support, especially today when “it is very important that representatives of the Greek business community selflessly support each other”. The Hellenic Business Association of Serbia (HBA) was founded seventeen years ago - on December 3, 2003 - as a private, non-governmental, non-profit organization of Greek business people in Serbia.

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Peter Launsky-Tieffenthal, H.E. Nikolaus Lutterotti and Miloš Vučević

The commemorative academy in Kombank Hall on the occasion of the 22nd anniversary of the beginning of the NATO bombing of the FR Yugoslavia was attended by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, the Patriarch of the Serbian Orthodox Church Porfirije, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Culture and Information, Maja Gojković and other Serbian officials, as well as Chairman

Aleksandar Vučić, Serbian President

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in addition to the mayor and the Austrian delegation, was also attended by the State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia, Nemanja Starović. On the occasion, Ambassador Luttherotti pointed out that the two countries would continue to cooperate in economy and culture, as well as that the Consulates would facilitate closer connection between the two nations, create new opportunities for cooperation and contribute to better mutual understanding.

Vasilopita Cutting

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THAT INTERVIEW

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Discuss Palace Intrigue With Oprah Those who seek individual attention do not do well in the royal family he British monarchy’s record of absorbing outsiders is patchy. In recent times, it has had one outstanding success (Kate Middleton, Prince William’s wife), several modest successes (including Sophie RhysJones, Prince Edward’s wife), a few questionable results (among them Sarah Ferguson, Prince Andrew’s ex-wife) and two stunning failures (Diana Spencer, the late Princess of Wales, and Meghan Markle, Prince Harry’s wife). On March 7th the world was treated to dramatic evidence of the latest disaster, in the form of an interview which Prince Harry and Ms Markle—the Duke and Duchess of Sussex— gave to Oprah Winfrey, one of America’s most famous talk-show hosts.

The revelations in the interview were in part familiar. The loneliness of which the duchess spoke, and the lack of support from within the “firm”, echoed Princess Diana’s experience. “This was very, very clear,” she responded to a question about whether she was having suicidal thoughts.

“Very clear and very scary. I didn’t know who to turn to in that.” The most explosive new factor was race. The duchess said that when she was pregnant with her son Archie, her husband had told her there were “conversations about how dark his skin might be”, though both declined to say who had raised the issue. Another big difference between the prince’s mother and his wife is that, in this case, the wife has left the country and taken her husband with her— as Wallis Simpson, the last American to marry a senior member of the royal family, went off to Paris with Edward VIII. The painful impact of Prince Harry’s decision to leave also came out in the interview: for a while, the prince said, his father stopped taking his calls.

These revelations indicate what is presumably part of the purpose of the interview. There has been plenty of criticism of the couple’s decision to leave Britain for California, and of their attempt to retain some of the privileges of roy-

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BEYOND THE SNIPING FROM BOTH SIDES, THE FUNDAMENTAL PROBLEM, WITH WHICH PRINCESS DIANA STRUGGLED, IS CLEAR alty while doing so. An interview with Ms Winfrey—who is also a friend—is a good way of putting their side of the story. Such exposure should also enhance their celebrity and popularity, on which their income depends, now that they have been financially cut off by the royal family. But it also represents a burning of bridges. For Meghan at least, there will be no going back.

The palace issued a neutral, conciliatory response: “the issues raised, particularly of race, are concerning...they will be addressed by the family privately.” But somebody, whether inside or outside the royal household, launched a pre-emptive strike.

After the interview was recorded, but before it went out, a complaint made against the duch-

ess in 2018 by a senior member of staff was leaked to the Times. Jason Knauf, at the time press secretary to both princes, wrote to Simon Case, then Prince William’s private secretary and now head of the civil service, saying that she had “bullied two PAs out of the household”, and was bullying a third. He was “concerned that nothing will be done”—rightly, since it appears that nothing was, indeed, done.

Beyond the sniping from both sides, the fundamental problem, with which Princess Diana struggled, is clear. Being a royal is about serving an institution. It does not work for those who crave individual attention. The only way of doing the job properly is through self-effacement, at which the queen, who has not said a sin-

gle interesting thing in public in her 70 years on the throne, has excelled. That’s not because she is a boring person, but because she understands the demands of the job. The Duchess of Cambridge, aka Ms Middleton, is, similarly, brilliantly bland. The Duchess of Sussex is not; and her complaint in her interview that while she was a royal she was not allowed to talk to Ms Winfrey without other people in the room demonstrated her failure to grasp the need to subsume individual needs in those of the institution. Given the potential impact of such an interview on the monarchy, it would have been bizarre for the household’s communications chiefs to allow her to negotiate with the world’s most powerful interviewer by herself.

As it is, the duchess has done the interview on her own terms.

It may do the couple some good; it may do the monarchy some harm, but probably not much.

The queen and Prince William are considerably more popular than the Sussexes, whose ratings have declined (see chart). Those Britons who care about this row side, by more than two to one, with the palace. And the monarchy’s popularity seems impervious to such troubles. Even during the split with Princess Diana, it barely budged. That may, of course, have a lot to do with the queen’s popularity. When she dies, things may look different.

From The Economist, published under licence.

The original article, in English, can be found on www.economist.com

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RESIDENCES AND BUILDINGS

by Žikica Milošević

Embassy of Belarus Škarka's villa - one of Brašovan's first masterpieces

he building that today houses the Embassy of Belarus - the famous Škarka's Villa - is one of the most iconic buildings of 'old Belgrade'.

The 19th century was a century of migration to "new lands". Some people emigrated to the both Americas, Africa, Asia or Australia, while others migrated around the European continent. It is especially interesting to note that, at that time, the Czechs came to Serbia, the only free Slavic country besides Russia. That is how the Škarka family came to this area, whose descendant Richard Škar-

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ka, the president of the branch of the Prague Credit Bank, will build a villa which was designed by one of the young architectural superstars of the new age, Dragiša

Young Brašovan was as brave as Gaudi in Barcelona, and he usually mixed 'unmixable' styles: Romanesque, Venetian Gothic, Baroque, Art Deco and the Czech

the whole world was experiencing the roaring 1920s. This was a time of breaking with an unbroken tradition that lasted from the Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo,

JUXTAPOSED WITH A WROUGHT-IRON GATE, THERE ARE THICK BARS WITH A BROKEN GOTHIC ARCH, WHICH HAS A BAROQUE GABLE ABOVE IT, WHICH ALL MAKE THIS BUILDING A MUST-SEE Brašovan.

Thanks to his education in Budapest in the early 20th century (1907-1918), Brašovan took a liking for the then-dominant urban style - romantic eclecticism.

architectural cubism - all of which have found their perfect place in this small but rather impressive house. Škarka's villa was built during 1926 and 1927, at a time when

Classicism to Neoclassicism, and immersion in the period of Romanticism, from before the Renaissance, combining all that with the new age and new materials. The villa’s façade is a sin-

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thropomorphic decorative motifs.

The top of the façade, with its jagged arches, imitates medieval castles, which stands in stark contrast to the flat façade of the first floor. All in all, juxtaposed with a wrought-iron gate, there are thick bars with a broken Gothic arch, which has a baroque gable above it, which all make this building a must-see. And that’s

true not only for today but also for 1927 when it was given an award as one of the most beautiful buildings in our capital. And it is clear why. Škarka’s villa always surprises us - from sharp to round lines, from simplicity to sudden decorativeness, and it is always exciting to look at.

The richly decorated exterior goes hand in hand with the luxu-

THE TOP OF THE FAÇADE, WITH ITS JAGGED ARCHES, IMITATES MEDIEVAL CASTLES, WHICH STANDS IN STARK CONTRAST TO THE FLAT FAÇADE OF THE FIRST FLOOR

rious interior. A painting on the ceiling of the circular hall on the ground floor has been preserved to this day, but the painter is still unknown. The interior is characterized by an arched ceiling under a winding staircase with a beautiful decorative fence. The original furniture has not been completely preserved, since the villa was nationalized. Today, it is the home to the embassy of one of the friendliest Slavic countries - Belarus. We are guessing that Škarka, whose family was pan-Slavic oriented, would be satisfied with the outcome.

Photo: Maja Sikošek

Photo: Maja Sikošek

gle plane, and the decorative elements taken from historical styles such as Romanesque, Venetian Gothic and Baroque contribute to its picturesqueness. The "diamond treatment", that one immediately notices when looking at the villa, is typical of the Czech Cubism, through which Brašovan pays homage to his client and his ancestral country.

Upstairs, a triple window with rich ornamentation is an exciting surprise compared to the ground floor which is a trifora with broken Gothic arches, baroque volutes and animal, plant and an-

The Škarkas relaxing in the yard

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FOOD PLANET

by Vanja Kovačev

All You Need to Know About Norwegian and Swedish Easter Food Traditions Spring 2021 brings hope of going back to normal and Easter 2021 brings, more than ever, joy of rebirth and a new life id you know that Norwegians eat four oranges per person during Easter or 20 000 in total and that they spend Easter in mountain cabins with their family and friends?

Cross-country skiing with Kvikk Lunsj chocolate and oranges in backpacks and grilling sausages in the snow is also very popular.

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Easter is the time for ski jump competitions and skiing races with neighboring cabins with fun prizes. Norwegian Easter tradition are also so-called book or TV “Whodunnits” - stories or plays about a murder in which the identity of the murderer is not revealed until the end as well as Easter quizzes.

A RECIPE FOR NORWEGIAN TRADITIONAL EASTER MEAL

Easter Lamb

Lamb is a traditional dish on the Norwegian dinner table during Easter.

The secret to achieving a delicious and tender roasted lamb is to use the right temperature and cooking time. Low heat for hours, if you use a cooking thermometer you will be in full control. Serves 6-8.

INGREDIENTS • 1 leg of lamb – ca 2,5 – 3,5kg • 2 teaspoons salt • 1 teaspoon pepper • 2 teaspoons chopped rosemary • 2-3 cloves garlic • 1 onion • 2-3 carrots • ¾ liter water

EASTER IN NORWAY

Our Religion is Nature TRINE DITLEVSEN Spouse of Ambassador of Norway

DC had the pleasure to talk about Easter in Norway to the spouse of Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to Serbia, North Macedonia and Montenegro Jørn Gjelstad, Mrs. Trine Ditlevsen What is the traditional meal and sweet Norwegians like making for Easter?

— The traditional meal for Easter in Norway is roast leg of lamb.

Caramel custard pudding is a popular dessert. For sweets we like easter bunnies and chicks in marzipan and chocolate.

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What are the symbols and traditional activities for Easter in Norway?

— Most Norwegians celebrate Easter at their cabins in the mountains, for those who have one! Easter is at that time of year when the snow is about to melt and disappear so skiing is essential before Spring sets in. Since we have been through a cold and dark winter we appreciate longer, lighter and warmer days. We try to go outside as much as we can, either for walks or enjoy a beer at an outdoor café for those who stay in the city. Egg hunts for children is a must on Easter Sunday. Some people go to church, but not many.

Our religion is nature.

SAUCE • Ca 1 liter of dripping or broth • 5 tablespoons fine flour, stirred in some cold water • 1 tablespoon red wine, or blackcurrant juice • 1 teaspoon soy sauce • Salt and pepper

Rub the lamb leg with spices. Make small incisions in the meat for the garlic.

Clean the onions and carrots, part the onions and carrots and put it in a roasting pan or baking dish with the water. Lay the roast on top and insert the cooking thermometer in the fleshiest part (not against the bone).

Bake at 125 degrees Celsius for 2-3 hours. When the cooking thermometer shows 70 degrees Celsius, the meat will be pink. 76 degrees Celsius will give you a roast lamb that is well done.

When the lamb is cooked to your liking, remove from the oven and leave to rest for 15 minutes.

Make the sauce in the meantime.

Add all the ingredients and let it simmer for a couple of minutes while you stir well.

Serve with potatoes, peas, mushroom and chopped parsley.

Recipe courtesy: matoppskrift.no

Picture of Norwegian Ambassador Jørn Gjelstad from Easter 1999, skiing with couple’s eldest son in a «pulk». Norwegians use this to transport babies and little kids when skiing

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A RECIPE FOR THE SWEDISH EASTER MEAL

EASTER IN SWEDEN

Our Family Celebrates Two Easters

Skagenröra

Skagenröra is a salad based on shrimp and may be served as a separate dish, on a soft or crunchy bread, or inside an unpeeled potato which has been previously packed in foil and baked in the oven. This mix of shrimp (prawns) and mayo was invented by Swedish chef Tore Wretman in the 1950s and it was named after the northern Danish city of Skagen. Skagen salad is funnily enough almost completely unknown in Denmark, whereas in Sweden it has remained one of the most popular appetizers.

INGREDIENTS

MILICA LUNDIN Spouse of Ambassador of Sweden

DC was delighted to also talk to Milica Lundin, spouse of Ambassador of Sweden to Serbia, Montenegro and Macedonia Jan Lundin.

What are the symbols and traditional activities for Easter in Sweden?

— Swedish little girls in witch costumes go for Swedish-type trick-ortreating during Easter holiday. Little boys disguise in witches as well, in order to get some candy too. The costumes are cute: there should be a head scarf, an apron, rug-like skirt and clumsy shoes. Make-up is included (cheek blush and freckles) a broom, a basket for spoils and maybe a mom as an entourage -bodyguard. Being a mother of two now adorable ladies, I used to enjoy these parades in the past very much.

Swedish Easter should be all in yellow and green, and it really marks the beginning of the spring. There are bunnies and birds everywhere. First branches of yellow bushes, tulips and narcissus should be constantly on the table during Easter week. Our family celebrates two Easters: I also make a traditional Easter lunch with colourful eggs and lamb meat on the Orthodox Easter Sunday. Swedes usually use Easter holidays to meet with their relatives. It is not unusual to choose to go with relatives skiing during Easter. Since my husband's family originates from far north, we like to take that opportunity to make a

long trip to go to see them. Skiing in far north is not too pleasant during Christmas, because of hard f rost and long nights. Easter time is the sunny part of the year in the north, and there is still snow in abundance. Our relatives organize scooter tours in the wild with splendid picnics in the snow, meals around huge fireplace with seats covered with reindeer pelts.

What are the traditional Easter meals you prepare in Serbia too?

— The main meal is planned for Easter Sunday and it should be a buffet. Before that we eat fish, if we are to respect the custom of fasting: marinated or fried salmon and herring file, freshwater trout and bass and shrimp from Northern sea. Of course, fasting is optional and depends on family tradition. Janssons frestelse (Jansson's Temptation) is a popular choice, since it is based on potato with anchovy filets. Easter Sunday buffet includes all of this plus some meat. In our family there should be a big bird on the table, usually a turkey.

When it comes to drinks, beer is more popular than wine though it might have changed in recent decades.

Children and some adults are fond of Påskmus, a cola-like soda based on caramelized malt with an extract of hop plant. It tastes a lot like a root beer.

Boiled eggs are served as well, but there is no egg cracking-contest as done in Serbia. Eggs may or may not be coloured, usually with brush strokes or markers and it is traditionally the job of children to decorate them.

• 400 g cooked prawn (boiled baby shrimp) tails, shelled • 100–200 ml mayonnaise, it needs to be very thick (if making it from scratch see recipe below) • 1 bunch dill, leaves picked fine and stems cut fine • salt and white pepper, to taste • grated horseradish, to taste

MAYONNAISE • 2egg yolks • 1 tbsp dijon mustard • 2 tbsp white vinegar • 250 ml neutral oil • salt and white pepper, to taste

Coarsely chop half the prawn (shrimp) tails and place them in a bowl with the remaining tails.

Add enough mayo to properly coat all of the shrimp and make the mix creamy. Be careful though

not to add too much as this will turn everything into more of a sauce, which is not the idea.

Add the dill, salt and pepper and some grated horseradish if you like it. Let the salad sit for 10 minutes or so in the fridge.

Stir again, adjust the texture with more mayo if necessary and once again adjust the seasoning.

Serve the salad with a wedge of lemon on the side.

If you're making your own mayonnaise, put the egg yolks in a bowl. Whisk in the mustard and vinegar then season with a pinch of salt and a little white pepper.

Add the oil, a drop at a time, beating slowly but constantly, until no oil remains and the mayo is nice and thick. Season to taste.

Recipe from The Nordic Cookbook by Magnus Nilsson, with photography by Erik Olsson

Photo: Lena Granefelt/imagebank.sweden.se

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CORPORATE

Centuries-old Tradition in Župa’s Valley Life goes on, but the story of the best Serbian wines always remains. In the Župa valley, at the foot of the grandiose Kopaonik Mountain, the Rajković family has been producing wine for centuries

hen in Serbia, someone mentions wine, Župa is probably the first word that comes to mind. In the Župa valley, at the foot of the grandiose Kopaonik Mountain, the Rajković family has been producing wine for centuries. All the troubles, wars, crises and difficulties did not deter the Rajković family from cultivating their vineyards, i.e. from cultivating gidža which is what people in Župa used to call grapevines. After a decades-long pause, in the early 2000s, brothers Dragomir and Miodrag Rajković restored the tradition of bottling wine under their own label. A thank-you note from King Alek-

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sandar I Karadjordjević from 1933, awarded to their grandfather Miloš for his wine made from Prokupac, the royal grapevine grown in Župa, was all the impetus they needed. Actually, people from

made from this variety, Prince.

Royal wine from the royal Serbian grape variety - strong, rounded, ripe tannins, pleasant finish, with smoke, plum jam and vanilla notes. We all know that a king is

two are like a royal pair of Serbian wines. Since the beginning, the Rajković family was aware that tradition alone was not enough for a wine to be good, so Vladimir, the son of Miloš Rajković, plant-

THE ŽUPA QUEEN WINE, PRODUCED UNDER THE SOFIA TAMJANIKA LABEL, IS ELEGANT, FRUITY, FRAGRANT, WITH A FULL-BODIED TASTE AND MINERAL NOTES Župa don’t call it Prokupac but rather Rskavac, an anachronistic name for a grape variety that, because of its hard skin, crunches (rska, in Serbian) when eaten.

This is the reason why the Rajković family named their wine,

nothing without his queen, so the Rajković brothers also produce the Župa Queen wine, under the Sofia Tamjanika label - elegant, fruity, fragrant, with a full-bodied taste and mineral notes, a perfect companion to Rskavac. These

ed the first vineyard in Župa upon his return from viticulture studies. Until then, the vineyards in Župa were grown traditionally, just like centuries before, when in 1962, thanks to Vladimir Rajković, the first modern vineyard was

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erected in Župa, which, even after 60 years, brings top quality grapes of the Pinot Noir variety, which the family uses to make wine under the Dina label.

Although faithful to tradition and guided by the idea that all wines must come from their own vineyards, brothers Dragomir and Miodrag Rajković have also planted vineyards with international varieties and in addition to the oldest Pinot Noir plantation in Serbia, they also grow varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Shiraz, Malbec, Traminer and Viognier, but also Black Tamjanika and Morava. In keeping with the tradition, as part of the eightieth anniversary of King Aleksandar I Karadjordjević’s thank-you

note, the Rajković family started to produce a premium wine label under the brand "33". “Red 33" is a blend of international varieties and Rskavac, a premium wine of Serbian winemaking, which offers a combination of the warm Župa climate and new approach-

white wine that should be served only slightly chilled with obligatory decanting beforehand when all the floral aromas of Tamjanika permeated with the scent of green grass, calla lilies, apricots and tree bark come to the fore. This is a wine unlike any other.

Balkans. Standing in the vineyards of the Rajković brothers, you can see the Kopaonik Mountain, from which in summer, cold night air breezes down which is needed for the storage tartaric acid in the grapes during the hot summer days, and which allows the

THE RAJKOVIĆ BROTHERS HAVE ALSO OPENED A SMALL TASTING ROOM IN THE WINERY, WHERE YOU CAN TASTE WHAT THE CLIMATE AND HARDWORKING PEOPLE CAN DO es in oenology. This is a wine of incredible strength, with a strong but rounded tannin structure, and a full-bodied taste of black currants, blackberries, coffee beans, oak and minerals. “White 33", which is barriqued Tamjanika, is a new unusual, unique

You can love wine as a drink even without knowing which country, region or winery it comes from. But to get a full impression of the intention and vision of the winemakers, you simply have to visit Župa, the valley with the most sunshine in the continental

grapes to express their full potential. The Rajković brothers have also opened a small tasting room in the winery, where you can taste what the climate and hardworking people can do. Life goes on, but the story of the best Serbian wines always remains.

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by Žikica Milošević

DIPLOMACY

Missing the Serbian Food, Friends and... Snow! n each issue Diplomacy & Commerce magazine, among other things, features the members of the diplomatic corps, as well as events in the diplomatic community in Serbia. In this issue, we will show you where former ambassadors to Serbia are working now and

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01.

WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN DOING SINCE YOU LEFT BELGRADE?

02.

what are they doing. Today we are presenting the former ambassadors of two countries - Canada and Israel. We asked them what they did after leaving Belgrade, what they miss the most about Serbia and how much the pandemic has changed diplomacy and the daily life of a diplomat.

WHAT DO YOU MISS THE MOST ABOUT SERBIA?

03.

HOW MUCH HAVE DIPLOMACY AND THE EVERYDAY LIFE OF A DIPLOMAT CHANGED DURING THE PANDEMIC?

We Cannot Wait for the Serbian Delicacies

H. E. KATI CSABA High Commissioner of Canada to Ghana and Sierra Leone, and Ambassador to Togo

Ghana, where I am now 01. the High Commissioner of Canada We moved to Accra,

to Ghana and Sierra Leone and Ambassador to Togo. We have been getting to know Accra over the past few months, and are looking forward to travelling to Sierra Leone and Togo in the months ahead. We are enjoying the hot climate, the beautiful nature, and the warmth and friendliness of the Ghanaian people we have met so far. are, of course, all the 02. wonderful friends and colleagues What we miss the most

we met while we were living in Belgrade. It was very hard to say goodbye to all of them, and Nećko and I often feel moments of nostalgia for our life in Serbia. Besides people, we also miss the

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great cultural life and restaurant scene, and Serbian delicacies like kajmak, ajvar, and rakija, which are not available here. Once our shipment arrives, we are looking forward to sharing some Serbian rakija and wine with our new friends here, as well as some Canadian delicacies too.

Probably the biggest 03. change in diplomatic life during this pandemic is the lack of human contact. I have been doing some meetings online to introduce myself to partners and contacts and can meet a few people in person (while respecting all COVID measures, of course), but there are no big events for now where it would be possible to meet lots of people and build my network. So that makes starting a new diplomatic posting more difficult than usual.

Our embassy here is operating with only 40% of staff in the office, for now, so I still have not met all of my team in person yet.

That is a strange feeling, and I look forward to the day when we can all be at work together.

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I Miss the Kopaonik Snow

H. E. ALONA FISCHER KAMM n instructor at the A Israeli National Defense College (INDC)

rael last summer, I have 01. been an instructor at the Israeli

Since coming back to Is-

National Defense College (INDC), mentoring and training high-ranking officers in the IDF, as well as high officials from different government ministries. We have also 6 officers from foreign armies such as the US, India, Greece, Italy and Germany. They

are all exposed to strategic thinking and trying to understand the complexity of the world today. In this context, we visited Serbia for the first time last November and we are planning to visit India next week. I dedicate my free time to my first grandchild Dor (meaning generation in Hebrew), my family and my friends after the imposed Covid-19 social distancing. Now, that the country has opened up thanks to the successful vaccine campaign, I am rediscovering Tel Aviv while enjoying its beaches and cultural life.

02.

Serbia has become my second home. I have

made good friends there that I miss and hope to meet soon in Israel. Together, we still work to enhance relations between Serbia and Israel and promote values and projects of common interests. I felt privileged getting to know and even being part of a large group of vibrant and dynamic people in Serbia who want to make a change and contribute to society and the country’s economy. I missed the Kopaonik this winter, especially when I saw the photos my friends posted on Facebook.

The essence of diploma03. cy has not changed, of course, but the means and the

tools might be different following the pandemic. On the one hand, by definition, diplomacy makes use of technology for remote communication while, on the other, diplomacy is the art of persuasion where direct contact is essential. I believe that technically speaking, we have all learnt that there is no need to travel to convene or to convey a message.

Yet, trust and mutual confidence are always easier to gain face-toface. As for the content of diplomacy, Covid-19 has shown that the main challenges in foreign affairs are not bilateral but global and that we need to tackle them together.

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CORPORATE

Doing Business and Doing Good The question of corporate philanthropy in Serbia MARIJA MITROVIĆ Philanthropy and Partnerships Director at Trag Foundation

ccording to the data collected by Catalyst Balkans, over 21 million euros were donated from March 2020 to January 2021, in Serbia’s national effort to mitigate the effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. More than 64% of the total amount was donated by the business sector, once again proving the importance of its role. In light of these numbers, let’s take a quick look at corporate philanthropy in Serbia and its potential beyond the current state of emergency.

Why should businesses do good in the first place?

— From the individualistic, market-oriented world of today, some might wonder why would companies want to contribute to the community at all. The answer is simple and blatantly obvious: because each business is an inherent, inseparable member of one community. What happens outside the office walls directly affects the way they operate, and common issues remain, after all, just that. Common.

What’s so special about corporate philanthropy?

— Unlike the individual philanthropy, which is often driven by the desire to directly help someone in need, corporate philanthropy takes a more strategic, long-term approach, includes greater number of beneficiaries and aims at the development of the entire community. Furthermore, it goes beyond financial investments, and provides additional support by donating time, goods, services and knowledge.

In other words, corporate giving is generally more diverse, enduring and impactful – all of which is especially vital when we go beyond handling emergency situations and approach the matters that demand continuous ef-

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Photo: Aleksandar Crnogorac/Trag fondacija

A

THE BIGGEST LEAP IN CORPORATE PHILANTHROPY DEVELOPMENT IN SERBIA OVER THE PAST 15 YEARS CAME WITH THE ARRIVAL OF GLOBAL BUSINESSES fort, such as environmental protection, infrastructure, education or culture.

How have the times changed?

— The biggest leap in corporate philanthropy development in Serbia over the past 15 years came with the arrival of global businesses. They brought good practices and a clearer picture of what socially responsible business looks like, serving as role models to domestic enterprises. Over the years, smaller and medium companies followed their footsteps and found their own ways to contribute to the communities in which they operate.

Today, the businesses strive to listen to the community and co-create solutions. They work together on mapping key issues and defining the most efficient ways to address them – be it through financial donations, corporate volunteering, knowledge

sharing, or partnering up with local non-profits. And though this takes more effort compared to the “one-size-fits-all” approach, it also makes the partnerships and the impact that much stronger.

What still needs to change?

— Legislative framework remains one of the key obstacles to the rise of corporate philanthropy. Some positive steps have been made in 2019 when the non-taxable amount of scholarships and grants for pupils and students was increased, which further encouraged companies to invest in the youth. This was followed by a Manual issued by the Tax Administration, that made the use of existing tax deductions on giving for public good much clearer. However, we still struggle with the lack of more substantial incentives and consistent implementation of tax deduction regulations which impacts the rise of the phil-

anthropic activities in a negative way. Corporate giving could be further instigated through more diligent media reporting on these efforts. They are still perceived as corporate PR activity hence we have little opportunity to learn about all the initiatives taking place around us.

What can we do?

— We can inspire more future actions by highlighting what has been done so far and sharing examples of good practice. For the past 14 years, VIRTUS Award for Philanthropy presented by the Trag Foundation, provided a voice to businesses and individuals who did good for the benefit of all.

While we’re waiting for the announcement of 2020’s winners, we can find our own corporate philanthropy heroes and perhaps, along the way, become inspired to make the greater good - our own business.

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HISTORY

The Plum Tree Behind Which Queen Draga's Brothers Hid Joseph Trouveroy, the former ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Serbia wrote an interesting article on the history of Serbia and Yugoslavia, from which we took a segment that describes the dramatic events from the May coup in 1903

he building that now houses the Belgian embassy in Belgrade, located some 300 metres from the former royal palace, witnessed a part of the drama that caused bloodshed in the Serbian capital in 1903. Opposition parties, mostly made up of soldiers and citizens, criticized Aleksandar Obrenović I for his authoritarian policies, while he, like his father Milan, was despised by the Orthodox clergy. Aleksandar was a bachelor, and one day, fell madly in love with Draga - the daughter of a pig farmer called Mašin (the author did an omission here as Draga's father was called Panta Lunjevica). Draga, who was in the process of divorcing her first husband, allowed the king to court her on her father's farm, to the astonishment of the

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THE QUEEN'S BROTHERS, THE HEIRS TO THE THRONE, WHO FLED TO THEIR OTHER SISTER’S PLACE, FOUGHT AGAINST THE INSURGENTS IN A SMALL GARDEN IN KRUNSKA STREET, LEANING AGAINST A PLUM TREE inhabitants of a large village that was Belgrade then. In order to protect his private life, in 1898, the king ordered that a beautiful oneof-a-kind building in Belgrade, decorated in the Italian style, should be built on the corner of Krunska Street, which in 1945, was renamed Proleterskih Brigada Street. At the same time when the house was finished, Draga Mašin

was crowned the queen of Serbia and moved her sister's family into the house. After the end of the First World War, the house was bought by Belgium.

Draga, who was prone to intrigues and was widely detested, wanted to secure wealth for herself by giving the Obrenović family an heir. As she was unable to produce an heir, she tried to pass

her sister’s newborn baby as her own. This hoax caused an uproar among the people. In the end, she managed to persuade the king to take her two brothers, who were officers, as the heirs to the throne.

From that day on, the destiny of the Obrenović dynasty was sealed.

One night in May 1903, a group of officers stormed the palace.

They found the king and queen

hiding behind the draperies in their room, killed them on the spot, threw the king's body out the window, and shamelessly butchered the queen, proudly carrying parts of her body on their sabres.

The queen's brothers, the heirs to the throne, who fled to their other sister’s place, fought against the insurgents in a small garden in Krunska Street, leaning against a plum tree. After they were captured, they were taken to the bank of the Sava River, where they were beheaded, and their bodies were thrown into the river. European courts and entire Europe were appalled by the way the rulers were treated.

This historic plum tree in our embassy's garden, although very old, still bore great fruit from 1978 to 1981, perfect for making plum brandy. Local hoodlums regularly stole the plums from the garden by jumping over the wall. In the end, the tree was knocked down by a storm.

Perhaps all of the above can shed light on the unpleasant events that this friendly country is currently experiencing and with which Belgium has always maintained great relations, from 1914 to 1918 and 1941 to 1945, until today.

Diplomacy&Commerce was given this article courtesy of H.E. Adam Koenraad, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Serbia

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CULTURE

by Sonja Ćirić

National Library of Serbia - Our Phoenix Eighty years after the building on Kosančićev Venac, housing the National Library of Serbia, was completely destroyed in the bombing of Belgrade in the Second World War, the Library is now given a new impetus

LARGEST READING ROOM: There are 600 seats in the NBS. Photo: Wikipedia

ust before marking the 80th anniversary of its annihilation by the Nazi bombs in the Second World War, it was announced that the construction of an additional depot at the National Library of Serbia will start. These two pieces of information, one about disappearance and the other about progress, symbolically represent the life of the National Library of Serbia, concomitant to the name people in Serbia gave it - Our Phoenix.

The National Library of Serbia is our oldest cultural institution. It was founded in 1838 by the then Ministry of Education, and since then, it has been one of the most important pillars of national culture. Furthermore, the Na-

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THE NATIONAL LIBRARY OF SERBIA HAS THE MOST IMPORTANT AND MOST ABUNDANT COLLECTION OF MOVABLE CULTURAL HERITAGE IN THIS PART OF EUROPE tional Library of Serbia has the most important and most abundant collection of movable cultural heritage in this part of Europe.

It contains close to five million units, covering almost 1,000 years. It is the home of the Virtual Library of Serbia, which has been creating a joint catalogue with close to 180 other libraries and over 2.5 million library records. The building on the Vračar plateau, where it is located, was built in 1973. Before that, the National Library had been on a constant move.

FROM ADDRESS TO ADDRESS "Insufficiently cared for by our own state and left to exceptional experts and devotees to look after it, through its turbulent history, the National Library shared the destiny of the Serbian people and the state," said Dejan Ristić, historian and one of the Library’s directors, in his book “The House of Incombustible Words”.

In the first few years after its establishment, the Library moved around Belgrade about ten times, and only once did it get

its own space. The construction of a building that would house the National Library was first attempted in 1860. The Ministry of Education addressed the Main Directorate of Buildings with the initiative to construct a building for the needs of the National Library and the Museum of the Serbian Land (today's National Museum).

They received an affirmative answer the day after – a project was drafted, the required permits were obtained and then the General Directorate of Construction informed the Ministry of Education

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that, due to the reduced budget, it would not be able to implement the agreement by the year end.

However, the Library continued to move around Belgrade the following year too. When the First World War erupted, the Library was housed in Captain Miša's building on today's Studentski Trg, in multiple rooms.

The second attempt to construct a building that would house only the National Library was in 1905 at the initiative of librarian Jovan N. Tomić. Four years later, a building plot was allocated in today's Francuska Street, sketches of the space and its precise layout were made, and then in 1912, King Petar I verified the decree, passed by the National Assembly, to transfer part of the funds intended for the construction of the Library to other purposes. Subsequently, it turned out that the allotted land was needed for the construction of the Main Post Office, with the promise that the Library would soon get its own space. Then came the Balkan Wars, followed by the First World War.

TWO CRATES At that time, the National Library was located in Captain Miša's building (since 1864). Dejan Ristić says in his book the Library had almost 60,000 library units and only nine employees. "This information is especially valuable given the events that followed," he said, noting that "the day after Baron von Giesl, the Austro-Hungarian ambassador to Belgrade, handed over his government ultimatum to Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Lazar Paču, librarian Jovan N. Tomić was ordered to separate the most valuable manuscripts and old printed books, pack them in two boxes, take them to the railway station and put them in the train car belonging to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to be sent to Kruševac."

At that time, the National Library of Serbia had 219 incunabula - old manuscripts and old printed books. Nobody knows the contents of those two crates because the list of contents was either destroyed, or did not even exist, which is very possible due to the short time which Jovan Tomić was given to pack them up. The destiny of the material that was in the two boxes is still not known.

It is believed that during the First World War, more than fifty precious medieval manuscripts and charters from the national fund

disappeared. The whereabouts of a few are known, while the search is still on for 27 manuscript books.

At the end of the First World War, and after five decades of staying at Captain Miša's building, the National Library moved to the building of the former Savings Bank of the Vračar Cooperative, in today's Miloš Veliki Street. Work-

al fund, not counting library materials received in the first three months of that year, had 354,000 volumes of monographic publications, 1,365 manuscripts, 226 early printed books, about 6,260 magazines and newspapers, close to 3,770 letters and 1,447 units of cartographic material, graphics and photographs.

MEMORY: the building of the demolished building on Kosančićev venac

THERE AREN’T MANY NATIONS AND COUNTRIES TO WHOM THE WRITTEN WORD MEANT SO MUCH FOR SURVIVAL, AS IS THE CASE WITH SERBIA

NATIONAL LIBRARY OF SERBIA: current building on the Vracar plateau. Photo: Wikipedia

ing in such conditions was unsustainable. Again, thanks to librarian Jovan N. Tomić, the authorities addressed the problem of the National Library and in 1921, bought a building on Kosančićev Venac, known as the "building on Šanac", where the Library was supposed to take up permanent residence.

BOMBING In that beautiful, harmoniously built neoclassical building, the library, unfortunately, experienced a complete destruction, on April 6, 1941, during the Nazi bombing of Belgrade, exactly 80 years ago. On that day, the nation-

The building was bombed during the third air raid, between 3:30 pm and 6:00 pm. The bombers flew in from the direction of the Great War Island and hit the entire Kosančić Venac. Based on the testimony, Dejan Ristić wrote that "the library building was first hit by one incendiary bomb, at most two, which passed through the roof in the back of the building, and that the fire was smoldering under the roof for a long time. It was possible to neutralize the projectiles by burying them in sand, which was delivered to the National Library promptly. The latter fires could have been extin-

guished with hand tools that had been stored in the attic since the beginning of 1941, but, unfortunately, in those dramatic moments, there was no-one in the National Library to do that. " The reasons for the bombing of the National Library of Serbia can be primarily seen in the very core of the ideology of the Nazi Germany. As a result of its racial theory, every material, historical and cultural trace of those nations who had not been considered as belonging to the superior Aryan race became the target of the German government and its armed formations. Consequently, the cultural heritage was looted and in most cases, deliberately and systematically destroyed.

Thirty-two years later, the current building of the National Library of Serbia was opened. Willy Brandt was the first foreigner to visit it, who came a few days after the opening, and brought a package of books as a sign that Germany acknowledged what happened in the Second World War. The legendary French Minister of Culture, Andre Malraux, gave to the Library his book about Pablo Picasso, thus reminding us of the book burning incident that took place on April 6, 1941.

On February 28, the date when Dimitrije Davidović sent a letter to Prince Miloš about the opening a library in 1832, the National Library marked its 189th anniversary. On that occasion, the Minister of Culture, Maja Gojković, said that the Library has become an irreplaceable institution on the cultural scene of Serbia, as well as that it is not only a guardian of the collective memory, but also an authentic contemporary peer. "There aren’t many nations and countries to whom the written word meant so much for survival, as is the case with Serbia. Here, in the Library, precious manuscripts of our national and cultural heritage are kept, which help us to lay a better foundation for what we will be by showing us what we were and what we are now," the Minister stated. She also announced that the National Library would digitize its material and work on popularizing reading among younger audiences in the coming period.

The construction of the depot will solve the problem of the lack of space for adequate storage of valuable and extensive library materials. This will be a new momentum for Our Phoenix.

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INTERVIEW

by Tanja Banković

We Cannot Reset Society and Economy Without Culture Championing the huge value of the “Europe of Culture” has become a mission of my life SNEŠKA QUAEDVLIEG-MIHAILOVIĆ Secretary General of Europa Nostra

uropa Nostra is today recognized as the most representative cultural heritage organisation in Europe with members from over 40 countries. It is the voice of this civil society movement to relevant international bodies, in particular the European Union, the Council of Europe and UNESCO. We talked with the Belgrade-born and raised Secretary General of Europa Nostra, Sneška Quaedvlieg-Mihailović, about the protection of the cultural heritage of Serbia, as well as the impact of COVID-19 on it.

You have been the leader of Europa Nostra for the last two decades. During these 20 years, what were your and your organisation’s biggest challenges.

— Since October 2000, I have had the honour and the joy to be the Secretary General of Europa Nostra, the European Voice of Civil Society committed to cultural heritage. This is so much more than a job for me – championing the huge value of a “Europe of Culture” has become a mission in my life. Two decades later, Europa Nostra has grown into a forceful European lobby for cultural heritage. We have also become the trusted civil society partner of the Council of Europe, the European Union and UNESCO. Our key challenges were to promote quality and excellence (through our European Heritage Awards) and also to recognise the vital need for dialogue with civil society and local communities. Safeguarding cultural heritage is a shared responsibility for all segments of society, public and private. Cultural Heritage is so much more than a “sector”, this is a key “vector” for achieving so many policy goals and priorities: from sustainable development and climate action to social cohesion and inclusion, from green transition to digital transformation, from creating

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Photo: FelixQMedia.nl

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CONSTRUCTING A CABLE-CAR ON SUCH AN IMPORTANT PROTECTED HERITAGE SITE IS INCONCEIVABLE jobs to strengthening local communities and their sense of identity and belonging. These efforts resulted in 2018 being declared the European Year of Cultural Heritage by the European Union. This Year has generated so much positive energy and created a momentum for cultural heritage across Europe. We must now ensure that cultural heritage is put at the heart of Europe’s post-pandemic recovery and at the heart of the revival of the European project.

Europa Nostra has expressed very clear views with regard to the proposed cable car project between Ušće and the Belgrade Fortress. What are the main reasons for which you are opposing

this project?

— There are many reasons which speak against the proposed cable-car project on the Belgrade Fortress and which have also led to the inclusion of the Fortress on Europa Nostra’s 2020 List of 7 Most Endangered Sites. First of all, the Belgrade Fortress is one of the most important historic monuments, not only in Serbia but in Europe as a whole, and it benefits from the highest degree of legal protection. The stunning panoramic views from the Belgrade Fortress are also protected by law.

Constructing a cable-car on such an important protected heritage site is simply inconceivable in any country which respects the rule of law. The recent decision by

the Administrative Court to annul the permit issued by the previous Serbian government which allowed preparatory works for the cable car project gives hope that the current government will reassess and eventually abandon this project. Another important reason why this cable-car project should not be built lies in the fact that the Belgrade Fortress is already included on the tentative list for inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage site, as part of the transnational nomination “Roman Limes – the frontiers of the Roman empire”. The construction of the cable car is simply incompatible with the UNESCO status since it would irretrievably damage the authenticity and integrity of the Fortress.

Last but not least, the cable car project is an extremely costly and unnecessary project. From its many sides, the Belgrade For-

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Photo: Dečani Monastery

EUROPA NOSTRA BELIEVES THAT THE CULTURAL HERITAGE IN KOSOVO CAN PLAY A VITAL ROLE FOR (RE)BUILDING BRIDGES TO FOSTER RECONCILIATION AND PEACE tal role for (re)building bridges to foster reconciliation and peace in the wider region. Therefore, also the European Union and other international players in the region should attach a much bigger importance to cultural heritage concerns. They should help bring together all parties concerned to join forces to save this heritage.

For this reason, Europa Nostra has included the Dečani Monastery, World Heritage Site in Danger, on the short list for our List 2021 of 7 Most Endangered sites. Our intention is not to accuse anybody but to ring the alarm bell and to serve as a catalyst for dialogue and positive change.

The Ministry of Culture and Information has set up a Working

Group for the project “The Castles of Serbia: preserving cultural heritage”. Do you think that it is important to work on the revitalisation of these sites many of which are in a very bad condition?

— This is an extremely important project. I wish to congratulate its initiators. I also wish to encourage the Ministry to mobilise all relevant public and private actors, including civil society and local communities, to ensure a prosperous future for these exceptional sites. Each of those sites has a fascinating European story to tell. All together they are precious witnesses of the complex political and cultural history of Serbia. The revitalisation of these sites will require a lot of resourc-

To what extent are the cultural heritage sites across Europe affected by the COVID-19 pandemic? There are examples of museums who are selling parts of their collection to ensure funding for their survival. Are these challenges that we have not seen since the World War II? — The COVID-19 pandemic, with related travel and meeting restrictions, including the closure of museums and other cultural heritage sites, has a dramatic impact on owners, managers, and other professionals and volunteers active in the field of cultural heritage. All these sites have lost precious income from visitors and therefore many of them are fearing for their future. The situation is particularly difficult for privately owned or run sites as well as for smaller and lesser known places. Given the multiple value of cultural heritage for our society, economy, and environment, it is today extremely important for governments, both national and local, to ensure sufficient public funding for heritage sites within their recovery plans. We must never forget: culture and our cultural heritage are vital for the wellbeing of citizens and for their health, both physical and mental. We cannot reset our society and economy without culture. Parallell to the European Green Deal we therefore need a true “Cultural and Cultural Heritage Deal for Europe”. I very much hope that Serbia will join this vital mobilisation.

Photo: Europa Nostra

We often speak about the endangered Serbian heritage in Kosovo and Metohija. What is Europa Nostra’s view on this?

— There is a long list of heritage sites that have been seriously damaged or even totally destroyed before, during or after the armed conflict at the end of the nineties. As it often happens in such conflicts, multi-cultural and multi-religious heritage in Kosovo has been taken hostage by various forms of extremism and violence. Today, the cultural heritage belonging to the Serbian Orthodox Church and/or reflecting the historic and cultural presence of the Serbian people in this region, is particularly vulnerable. There are still too many unresolved legal and institutional issues and there is still an alarming lack of trust and collaboration between the various authorities and communities. Europa Nostra strongly believes that the cultural heritage in Kosovo can and should play a vi-

es, both human and financial.

But I am convinced that this can be achieved through an imaginative and competent public-private partnership.

Photo: Dečani Monastery

tress is easily accessible - also for (grand)parents with prams or for people with disabilities. If we wish to facilitate the connection between Ušće and the Belgrade Fortress, introducing eco-boats on the river would be a much less expensive, and much more ecological, sustainable, and useful solution. The eco-boats could connect many more points, from Zemun on the river Danube to Ada Ciganlija on the river Sava.

In the light of the above, we are confident that the cable-car project will be cancelled and that we shall soon celebrate the inscription of the Belgrade Fortress on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

This will be the source of pride for all citizens of Belgrade and Serbia.

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ACROSS VOJVODINA ON A BICYCLE

by Robert Čoban

From Austrian and Turkish Soldiers to Pets Trandžament Cemetery in Petrovaradin

uring one bicycle ride around Petrovaradin during last year's state of emergency, I rode up from Kačićeva to Mažuranićeva street, then crossed into Majurska and from there through Tunislava Paunovića street to the highest street in this part of the city - Trandžamentska. At the end of that street, through the bushes and the meadow, you enter the Trandžament Cemetery, which, out of all ‘eternal resting place’ in our town, reminds the most of the Parisian cemetery, Père Lachaise. It's not that big and you won't get lost in it as it happened to me when, two years ago, after visiting the rather remote grave of Edith Piaf, my phone battery died and without GPS, it took me an hour to find the exit where I left my bicycle.

The Military Cemetery on Trandžament has been a final resting place for soldiers since the beginning of the construction of the Petrovaradin Fortress (1692). It became a graveyard for all the soldiers who fought in the wider area, no matter which side they were on. Soldiers of the Austrian and Turkish armies, two armies that often fought in this area in the late 17th and early 18th century, are buried in this cemetery.

Then there are the revolutionaries from the famous 1848/49 uprising who are also buried here, as well as those who stifled the revolution. In the upper part of the cemetery, there is a monument erected in memory of the fallen soldiers of the 19th Infantry Battalion of the Austrian Empire who died in the revolutionary battles,

though, today there is practically no memory of the tragically killed Russian prisoners, in the period between the two world wars, people who made the so-called White Emigration, who settled in Novi Sad after the October Revolution, attached special importance to these locations through the activities of the Novi Sad branch of Ruska Matica (cultural and scientific institution of the Russian people).

This is evidenced by the fact that there was an initiative to build a Russian memorial church to the Blessed King Alexander I the Unifier on the corner of Futoška and Braće Ribnikar Street, whose crypt would store the remains of 204 Russian prisoners of war who died between 1915 and 1918 in Novi Sad. Although money for the construction of the temple was secured, the outbreak of World War II and later political constellations stopped the implementation of

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THE MILITARY CEMETERY ON TRANDŽAMENT HAS BEEN A FINAL RESTING PLACE FOR SOLDIERS SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE PETROVARADIN FORTRESS (1692) many of whom were Serbs - 1,229 soldiers and 60 officers in total.

Austro-Hungarian soldiers were buried here (from the time when the agreement on the establishment of the dual Austro-Hungarian monarchy in 1867), as well as the graves of soldiers from the First and the Second World War. Right next to the yards of local houses there is a monument to Russian prisoners of war in the First World War - 96 of them were buried there and the monu-

ment was erected by Russian emigrants in 1929. It was restored in 2013 with funds from the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation.

Most of the Russian soldiers buried here were, at one time, housed in makeshift camp barracks at the old Novi Sad Railway Station (on the site of today's Limanska outdoor market) and died as a result of injuries, as well as diseases caused by inadequate living conditions in the camp. Al-

this plan forever.

A particularly interesting part of the Military Cemetery on Trandžament is a plot with 45 identical stone crosses featuring metal plates with engraved names of allied French soldiers who did not die during the battle but died from the epidemic of the Spanish flu in 1918. On November 9, 1918, French soldiers, together with the victorious Serbian army, entered Petrovaradin and Novi Sad through the Belgrade Gate after

An inscription on the monument to the fallen Austrian soldiers in the 1848/49 revolution

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Muslim believers were buried here until 1992

the withdrawal of Austro-Hungarian troops from the town.

The crosses have a simple shape, and today most of them no longer have metal plates with the names of buried soldiers. However, judging by the plates that are still on the crosses, we can conclude that there were also soldiers of African origin who served as mercenaries within the French army. By perusing through books written by the Novi Sad chronicler Triva Militar, I came across information about two local beauties who fell in love and later married French soldiers from Senegal and Indochina respectively and later went with them to their native countries.

Kristijan Obšust from the Archives of Vojvodina, who is an expert on this topic and wrote the paper called "Historical Cemeteries in Novi Sad as Places of Remembrance", drew my attention to the fact that there is also a Muslim cemetery that was built without the permission of the city authorities in the 1950s. This practice was interrupted in 1992, when a demarcated burial by denomination was made possible at the Central City Cemetery in Novi Sad, which provided burial places for the deceased Muslims.

As recently announced, Novi Sad will get its Pet Cemetery on

Anton Mažuran

the Trandžament too, where owners will bury their beloved dogs and cats. One such monument reads, "Loyalty for loyalty! My good and faithful dog Rita 1964 -19.. ”. As you can see, the year of the pet's demise has not been stated, so we can assume that the owner did not outlive it.

Like Père Lachaise: An Angel in Trandžament Cemetery

The cemetery also contains a common grave of partisans who were shot in Vukovar on October 19, 1941, and whose remains were later transferred and buried at this location. The stone tomb in which the remains of nineteen people rest is a memorial and a place of remembrance for the executed

Monument to partisans shot in Vukovar in 1941

JUDGING BY THE PLATES THAT ARE STILL ON THE CROSSES, WE CAN CONCLUDE THAT THERE WERE ALSO SOLDIERS OF AFRICAN ORIGIN WHO SERVED AS MERCENARIES WITHIN THE FRENCH ARMY

Monument to the wounded Russian who later died in Novi Sad

members of partisan detachments and local members of Narodnooslobodilačka Vojska (the People's Liberation Army) that operated in the area of Petrovaradin.

The famous tamburitza player, Janika Balaž (1923-1988), Josip Zebetić (1838-1907), major of the 70th Infantry Regiment of the Austrian Army, and Josip Hanel (1838-1883), the first mayor of Petrovaradin, were also buried in this cemetery.

Bearing all the above in mind, it is not surprising that the names of the dead and gravestone epitaphs are written in Latin, Gothic, Cyrillic, German, Hungarian, Serbian, Russian, Slovak, Czech, Polish, Latin, as well as in the Arabic language.

This huge archaeological and historical treasure is quite neglected and the time has come to begin its restoration since almost everything that was made of marble and iron was stolen and a lot of monuments were destroyed by the ravages of time. Père Lachaise cemetery, from the beginning of this story, which also has a map of the cemetery with designated celebrities, is not the only such tourist attraction in Europe and the world. Trandžament Cemetery, an important place of a culture of remembrance of the past few centuries, deserves a similar status.

45 crosses for French soldiers who died of the Spanish flu

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CULTURE NEWS KOLARAC

BELGRADE PHILHARMONIC

8, 9, i 10 April 2021 BELGRADE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA CONCERT

Conductor: Gabriel Feltz Program: E. Korngold: Serenade for strings op. 39 W. A. Mozart: Symphony No. 39 K 543

15 and 16 April 2021 CHAMBER CONCERT

Musicians: Ana Kaličanin Radivojević, flute Milјana Popović Materni, violin Ivana Uzelac, viola Pavle Popović, violoncello Milana Zarić, harp Program:

Programme J. Ibert: Trio for flute, violin and harp W. A. Mozart: Quartet for flute, violin, viola and violoncello, K 285 in D major J. Cras: Quintet for flute, violin, viola, violoncello, and harp

22 and 23 April 2021 CHAMBER CONCERT

Musicians: Miroslav Pavlović, violin Ksenija Milošević, violin Ivana Uzelac, viola Katarina Stanković, violoncello Program: W. A. Mozart: String Quartet No. 15, K 421 in D minor J. Brahms: Clarinet quintet Op. 115 in B minor

April 3rd at 7pm AMORE PER SEMPRE

Tamara Rađenović, soprano David Bižić, baritone Đorđe Nešić, piano Production: Vissi d’Arte Tickets: 600, 800 and 1200 dinars

April 5th at 7pm BELGRADE PROMS CLASSICA AETERNA Mina Mendelson, violin Dejan Mitrović, cello Marija Đukić, piano Production: Music Centre

16th Belgrade International Architecture Week (BINA) from April 22 to May 20 he sixteenth edition of the Belgrade International Architecture Week - BINA will be held from April 22 to May 20, 2021, organized by the Association of Architects of Belgrade and the Cultural Center of Belgrade. The focus of this year's BINA program is the Belgrade School of Housing, which covers a number of subtopics.

This year, BINA is realized through four program units, and the intention of the organizers is to present quality achievements realized in the field of architecture, with special reference to Belgrade and the region, through a series of program formats - exhibitions, lectures, accompanying programs and thematic walks and presents the contribution and achievements that domestic architects have achieved in the field of modern housing. All BINE programs are free.

BINA focus is the central program unit, within which the study exhibition "Belgrade School of Housing: Case Studies" and a film program by Docomomo Serbia, author Tanja Damljanović Konli and tecnical associate Dragana Mecanov will be opened in the Art Gallery of the Cultural Center of Belgrade.

In addition to numerous educational programs, lectures will also be held "Contemporary Architecture" by international authors and "Women in Architecture" by Eva Vanista Lazarevic, as well as a traditional seminar "Architects, designers, practitioners", important for connecting practice and professional companies. Within this segment, a presentation of projects by young architects will be organized.

BINA walks, free themed walks through the architecture of the city, form a special segment and are intended for the widest audience. A full day trip to Subotica is also planned.

T

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More information: www.bina.rs

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