Diplomacy&Commerce 77

July 2022 | ISSUE No. 77 | Price 350 RSD

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JUNE

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9772466380002

FOURTH OF JULY TRADITIONALLY

CELEBRATED IN BELGRADE

FIRMLY COMMITTED TO SERBIA'S EU PATH MIROSLAV LAJČÁK

EU Special Representative for the BelgradePriština Dialogue

EXOTIC TASTE OF EGYPTIAN CUISINE

A SMALL COUNTRY WITH A BIG HEART FOR REFUGEES

A STRONG 120-YEARLONG RELATIONSHIP H.E. GUSTAVO TRISTÁ DEL TODO Cuban Ambassador to Serbia

Montenegro

BELGRADE CITY MUSEUM

FRANCESCA BONELLI

UNHCR Representative in Moldova S P E C I A L

E D I T I ON

Netherlands The

FOCUS ON

DRITAN ABAZOVIĆ Prime Minister of Montenegro

H.E. JOOST REINTJES Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

When is Our "1946" Going to Happen?

FOLLOW US TO STAY UPDATED

FOREWORD

ROBERT ČOBAN Director

WEB

FACEBOOK

et ready for a long war!" said Joan Hoey from The Economist Intelligence Unit at the working breakfast we had at the Esplanade Hotel in Zagreb in mid-June.

According to the analyses conducted

by The Economist magazine, the war in Ukraine will not end before the late summer as many hope.

What does this mean for us in the Balkans?

Joan also said she expected that countries that tried to be neutral at the start of the war would have to take sides as time went on.

I talked about this a few days ago with Princess Jelisaveta Karadjordjević, whose father Prince Pavle also wanted to spare the Kingdom of Yugoslavia from suffering in March 1941 and for the country not to have to choose sides in the Second World War. We all know how that ended - in the coup on March 27, the bombing of Belgrade on April 6, and the bloody war in which over a million people died in the former Kingdom, which also fell apart in ten days.

At the moment when Prince Pavle decided to sign the Triple Pact, all European countries (except Great Britain) were either Hitler's allies or already occupied by Hitler or neutral (Sweden, Switzerland, Spain, Portugal...). In March 1941, the Soviet Union already had a pact with Hitler (dating from 1939) according to which Poland was divided, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania occupied and

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Finland invaded. At that time, the USA was deep in isolationism with no intention of getting involved in the war in Europe.

And then, as the fighting continued, the Nazi crimes became more obvious and the impatience of Hitler and his allies Italy and Japan grew.

The USA and the USSR were drawn into the war so that in the end, almost the whole world had to take sides.

Will it be like that this time? Was I right when I said during my guest appearance at a TV station that the end of the elections in our country is not decided in the south of Serbia but the east of Ukraine?

Finally, here is an anecdote from the first, never held Film Festival in Cannes in 1939.

The plan was for the festival to take place from September 1 to 20, 1939,

with Louis Lumière, one of the two famous brothers, being a star guest.

Famous Hollywood stars Gary Cooper, Mae West, James Cagney, Spencer Tracy and others came to France with a special ocean liner chartered by MGM. On the evening of August 31, the gala opening of the festival was held with the premiere of the American film "The Hunchback of Notre Dame". The next morning, the hungover Hollywood actors were greeted by the news that Germany had invaded Poland. The organizers postponed the festival by 10 days in the hope that the situation would calm down. A few days later, Great Britain and France declared war on Germany and it become clear that the festival would not take place. It took place after the war, in 1946.

When is our “1946" going to happen and who will be there to greet it?

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

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INTERVIEW

by Nikola Pavlović

Firmly Committed to Serbia's EU Path Serbia has made steady progress in its accession negotiations, in line with the Serbian government’s strategic goal of EU membership

EXCLUSIVE

MIROSLAV LAJČÁK EU Special Representative for the Belgrade-Priština Dialogue

he Belgrade – Priština Dialogue has its ups and downs, and sometimes it seems like there is no progress regarding some problems that can’t be solved easily such are missed people or car plates. We spoke with Miroslav Lajčak, EU Special Representative for Belgrade – Priština Dialogue about mentioned problems, the Union of Serbian Municipalities in Kosovo and Metohija, the Open Balkan Initiative, and many other topics.

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A roadmap for the implementation of energy agreements within the framework of the EU-mediated dialogue between Belgrade and Priština was approved in Brussels. What is the possibility of the formation of the Union of Serbian Municipalities in Kosovo and Metohija after this agreement?

—The recent agreement between

Belgrade and Pristina on energy is a step forward. The Roadmap sets out a clear timeline and concrete steps for the implementation of the Energy Agreements of 2013 and 2015. We – and here I think I can also speak for our American and British partners - now expect that both Parties adhere to the agreed steps and implement them in a timely manner and in

WE URGE BOTH PARTIES TO SHOW FLEXIBILITY IN ORDER TO GIVE RENEWED POLITICAL IMPETUS TO THE EFFORTS TO RESOLVE THE REMAINING CASES OF MISSING PERSONS

good faith. It should be acknowledged that the agreement will benefit Kosovo Serbs living in the north of Kosovo who will have an improved electricity supply, while at the same time, it is also good for Kosovo as a whole. We will continue to work with both Parties on other issues on the agenda, including the establishment of the Association/Community of Serbian majority Municipalities, which remains a key issue to be addressed. The Association/Community is an agreement reached by both Parties as part of the 2013 Brussels Agreement. The agreement was ratified by the Kosovo parliament. It is now up to the two Parties to implement the agree-

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ment. My view is that there can be no more delay, which I conveyed to the Prime Minister of Kosovo when I met him last week.

In addition to energy, two more important topics are on the table - vehicle license plates and the missing persons. In your opinion, what is a solution for these two issues in the further course of the dialogue?

— The agreement on energy is a step forward. We will continue to work with both Parties on other issues on the agenda, including on Missing Persons. Missing Persons is a very symbolic issue in the context of reconciliation, and it is at the same a very real issue for the families who live with uncertainties for decades. Moreover, Missing Persons has an important humanitarian dimension.

This is why we discuss it in the Dialogue as a matter of priority for both Parties. As such, it will remain high on the Dialogue agenda. We urge both Parties to show flexibility in order to give renewed political impetus to the efforts to resolve the remaining cases of Missing Persons.

Concerning the vehicle licence plates, we were informed about Kosovo government’s plans, but not consulted. According to Dialogue Agreements on Freedom of Movement from 2011 and 2016, which Serbia agreed to, Kosovo

has the right to phase out “KM” plates, meaning plates issued by Serbian authorities for Kosovo.

The agreements are clear that only Kosovo-issued plates are to be used in Kosovo. At the same time, it is important to recall that Kosovo Serbs did not use the period between 2011 and 2021 to re-register their vehicles to Kosovo-issued plates as stipulated in the agree-

ernment of Kosovo, as well as the lack of proper dialogue between the Parties. We expect both Kosovo and Serbia to act constructively in this regard, and not put any hurdles that would constrain freedom of movement or create tensions on the ground. We urge both Parties to use the EU-facilitated Dialogue as the platform to address and resolve all open issues

THE EU'S FUTURE IS WITH SERBIA AND SERBIA'S FUTURE IS WITH THE EU ments. Therefore, the decision of the Kosovo government on the act of phasing out “KM” plates is not in violation of the agreements.

However, the methodology adopted by the Kosovo government for phasing out the “KM” plates is not in line with the Agreement from 2016. The Agreement sets out a clear sequence of steps and timelines, which remain valid and should be followed by Kosovo.

It is essential that sufficient time is given for the implementation of Kosovo’s decision, and that it is prepared and executed in close consultation with the affected citizens, and in line with good European practices – which is currently not the case. The EU is concerned by the current rhetoric following the decision of the gov-

between them, including related to freedom of movement and licence plates.

You stated that progress has been made in the Belgrade-Priština dialogue and that much has been done, despite it not being so obvious. You also added that the main negotiators meet every month in Brussels and that an agreement on the future normalization of relations between Belgrade and Priština is being worked on. What could such a new agreement cover?

— A lot of work has been done in the Dialogue and there has been progress, although this has not been so obvious. The two Chief Negotiators are meeting every month in Brussels and we are discussing a number of concrete is-

sues, including the implementation of past agreements. We are also discussing current issues to make sure they do not turn into potential problems and lately, we are working on the future of the normalization agreement. There has been definite progress made between the two Parties with the recent roadmap on energy, which was important to help build momentum.

A comprehensive normalisation agreement is urgent as the status quo is not sustainable - It is time for this process to come to a successful end. The Dialogue is facilitated by the EU but owned by the two Parties equally. It is up to them to decide on the elements of the future normalisation agreement. The agreement on the normalisation of the relationship between Kosovo and Serbia must be comprehensive and legally binding and it should address all outstanding issues. The path to the European Union for both Parties goes through the EU-facilitated Dialogue. The EU encourages Kosovo and Serbia to engage proactively and constructively in the process because we believe this is in the interest of Kosovo and its citizens as well as Serbia and the wider Western Balkan region.

You also said that due to the war in Ukraine, the EU is more open to enlargement. Do you think

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that Serbia could utilize that opportunity?

— Russia’s aggression against Ukraine is a wake up call on the need to accelerate the accession process to the Western Balkans.

We have no time to lose. As I said following the meeting EU-WB meeting on 23 June, we took a geopolitical decision on Eastern Europe, but we failed to have the same strategic view on the Western Balkans. This generated deep disappointment in the region. I’m proud of our EU leadership in the East, but we must regain it for our South-Eastern neighbours as well.

The Western Balkans continue to be a priority for this Commission. They have a clear European perspective and their future lies in the EU. The European Union is firmly committed to Serbia's EU path. The EU's future is with Serbia and Serbia's future is with the EU. Serbia has made steady progress in its accession negotiations, in line with the Serbian government’s strategic goal of EU membership. This has led to the opening of 18 negotiating chapters, two of which have been provisionally closed. Serbia's perspective of joining the EU is real, tangible and reachable. It has been confirmed on many occasions by the European Union and unanimously by all Member States. Already today, the EU is by far Serbia’s first economic and political partner. 65% of Serbia’s total trade are with the EU. EU firms represent 70% of foreign investors in Serbia.

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As you know, the accession process is a merit-based process. It is for Serbia to define the pace of its accession process, especially through strong commitment to reforms on the rule of law, justice and fundamental rights and continuous engagement in the EU-facilitated Dialogue on normalisation of relations between Kosovo and Serbia.

But what I would also add here, is that alignment with EU values has become more prominent for Member States and enlargement is seen through this lense.

how much can it expedite the integration process and the Belgrade-Priština dialogue?

— I think it is always good if the region cooperates and the EU encourages more and closer regional cooperation, as in the end of the day, the Western Balkan partners aspire to co-exist in the wider EU family and for that being able to cooperate with your neighbours is key. At the same time, in my view, the Open Balkan Initiative emerged as a reaction to the lack of progress in the EU enlargement

A COMPREHENSIVE NORMALISATION AGREEMENT IS URGENT AS THE STATUS QUO IS NOT SUSTAINABLE - IT IS TIME FOR THIS PROCESS TO COME TO A SUCCESSFUL END As I said, it is also up to Serbia to utilize the opportunity now, but also candidate countries have an obligation to progressively harmonize with the EU positions including with restrictive measures in respect of RF actions undermining territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. As HRVP Josep Borrell said, we expect Serbia to act as an honest candidate and a reliable partner to our common values and principles.”

If the EU supports all inclusive initiatives based on European standards, what is your view of the Open Balkans initiative and

process. Instead of more regional formats, we should focus on those, which bring all the Western Balkans together and make sure that they are working.

For instance, the Common Regional Market initiative was launched in 2020 under the Berlin Process to foster regional cooperation in the Western Balkans and their European integration. It encompasses all six partners in the Western Balkans and is purposely structured around the EU four freedoms.

Having said that, I understand the aspirations of some Western Balkan leaders to own a process tailored to their own needs. I wel-

come that Albania, North Macedonia and Serbia agree that this initiative is not a substitute to the EU. The EU will support any regional initiative as long as it is inclusive, based on European values and help reconciliation to enhance the Western Balkans preparedness for their EU accession path. Nonetheless, any regional initiative, which does not include Kosovo and Serbia, can hardly serve as a springboard to foster dialogue between the two Parties.

The mandate of the European Union Special Representative the Belgrade-Priština Dialogue has been extended. What points related to the normalization of relations do you see as key in the coming period?

— It is quite simple, we need to get back to negotiating the comprehensive agreement on full normalisation of relations between Kosovo and Serbia. Over the past few months, we have been addressing the implementation of past agreements and current issues, but it is in the interest of both Parties and their EU aspirations to get back to the bigger picture. This does not mean we will not address the implementation of past agreements – both parties have a long list of outstanding commitments and the Association/Community is only one of them- and issues arising here and there, but this should happen in parallel to the negotiations of the normalisation agreement.

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COMMENT

A Small Country with a Big Heart for Refugees

Photo: UNHCR/Caroline Bach

A letter from Moldova written by Francesca Bonelli, UNHCR Representative in Moldova

FRANCESCA BONELLI UNHCR Representative in Moldova

t was not going to be easy.

I knew it right from the beginning when I received a call from the Senior Management asking me to go on a mission to Moldova, initially for two months, as an ad-interim Representative of UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency.

Since the onset of the crisis in Ukraine, the whole world’s attention had been mainly focused on developments in Eastern Europe.

Being a UNHCR staff member who has devoted her entire professional life to supporting refugees worldwide, images of people leaving their homes in despair were even more heart-wrenching to watch.

UNHCR’s response was immediate and robust, with colleagues from around the world being massively deployed to help displaced

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people from and within Ukraine.

Also, the UNHCR Serbia team, in close cooperation with local authorities, moved fast to have everything set up on time for the prospective influx of Ukrainian refugees.

However, I somehow felt that it was not only my professional duty but also an inner call as a humanitarian that urged me to be with refugees on the ground. I have

ian of the Refugee Convention, is standing by refugees’ side at any time, and in support of receiving countries.

Afterwards, everything felt like a time-lapse movie. I had just a few days to pack only the most needed belongings, do a quick handover to my deputy at UNHCR Serbia, and say goodbye to my friends.

By the time I’d learned about

THIS REMINDS ME A LOT OF SERBIA, AND THE SUPPORT SERBIAN PEOPLE HAVE SHOWN OVER THE YEARS TO ALL REFUGEES, IRRESPECTIVE OF THEIR ORIGIN, RELIGION, OR POLITICAL BELIEFS been on many UNHCR emergency missions and one thing I was certain of was that whenever wars broke out, people forced to flee are in desperate need of any possible assistance. UNHCR, as guard-

my deployment to Moldova I did not know much about this country. What I managed to discover in the meantime was barely enough to prepare me for reality on the ground. Thousands of refugees

were crossing the Ukraine-Moldova border in search of safety, every day. These numbers would be an overwhelming challenge even for countries with much stronger economies than Moldova’s.

The most heartbreaking scenes were the separations between men and their families that I saw during the first days at the border. I saw broken families and many women in tears, greeting their children, husbands, and fathers who accompanied them to the border and then returned to Ukraine. Desperate hugs, with no certainty of seeing each other again. Witnessing these tears first-hand makes you immediately realize what a terrible thing war is.

By 24 February, when the war broke out, UNHCR’s presence in Moldova comprised one colleague only. And then everything changed dramatically, propelling the necessity for intensive UNHCR intervention on the ground.

Our team in Moldova was set up quickly, and we immediately started to help refugees, and provide support to the authorities.

However, the additional sensitivity UNHCR and other humanitarian agencies have faced on the ground was the fact that almost half of the refugees from Ukraine are children. So, with our partners, we have rolled out the system of ‘Blue Dots’, and interestingly this concept was developed for the first time in 2016 for the Western Balkan refugee route. The ‘Blue Dots’ are one-stop-shops and safe spaces that provide a minimum set of protection services for children, families, and others with specific needs, in support of existing services and government efforts. After days of travelling, children arrive exhausted and afraid, and they must find safety, video games, and music for their leisure time.

Also, UNHCR together with its partners supports the Government of Moldova in managing the refugee influx by providing services such as cash assistance,

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Photo: UNHCR/Maxime Fossat

Photo: UNHCR

THE GOVERNMENT OF MOLDOVA HAS SHOWN EXCEPTIONAL SOLIDARITY AND OPENNESS TO REFUGEES, AND UNHCR AND I ARE PERSONALLY THANKING THEM FOR THAT FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS

Photo: UNHCR

transportation, and accommodation, EU Air Transfers, family reunification assistance, protection services, and provision of the core relief items. On the border with Ukraine, we monitor whether there are vulnerable people, such as unaccompanied minors and we work to prevent human trafficking. We stay alert to any possibility of the risk of abuse. We stay also by providing direct economic assistance, a fundamental tool that allows refugees to provide for essential expenses, and that is also important to support the local economy.

But there is still paramount work ahead of us. The Government of Moldova has shown exceptional solidarity and openness to refugees, and UNHCR and I are personally thanking them for that from the bottom of our hearts.

Moldova is the only non-EU country on the frontline of the Ukrainian refugee crisis, and it is facing challenges of additional expenses to guarantee refugees medical care and education. This commitment must be supported by all relevant actors. However, it is also an investment, because refugees are subject to assistance only

immediately after they have fled, and later on, when provided with a chance to work and use their skills and knowledge, they give back to host countries and those who have welcomed them.

The story of Moldova and refugees bears the potential of becoming a successful one. It is a stark reminder that opening arms to people who have lost everything, in their hour of need, is not just everyone’s moral or legal obligation. It is also an opportunity to benefit from the immense human capital they are taking with them.

This reminds me a lot of Serbia, and the support Serbian people have shown over the years to all refugees, irrespective of their origin, religion, or political beliefs.

After almost two years in Belgrade as a UNHCR Representative and the earlier time I had spent there during the 2015 refugee crisis, I feel at home in Serbia.

I will miss this beautiful country and all the wonderful people I met during my Serbian journey. I want to express my deep thanks to all of them for the support given to refugees and for the precious friendship they have always expressed to me.

UKRAINE REFUGEE NUMBERS IN MOLDOVA Since the escalation of the war in Ukraine, over 521,549 refugees from Ukraine arrived in the Republic of Moldova. While most of them have departed to other countries, there are over 83,000 remaining in the country. As of 5 July, 65,427 refugees received cash assistance, the fourth round of cash assistance commenced in July. UNHCR’s partner ACTED, provides transportation services, from the border crossing points to other destinations inside Moldova. Over 11,149 refugees have been transported from Palanca to Husi, Romania in collaboration with IOM. Under the EU Solidarity Platform, UNHCR together with IOM has assisted over 1,600 vulnerable refugees to relocate to EU countries. Refugees remaining in the country are mostly hosted by the welcoming Moldovan families, while some 3,100 refugees have chosen to stay in Refugee Accommodation

Centres, managed by the Government. There are currently 72 active RACS having a total capacity of 6,000 and 2,900 available places. UNHCR manages a Green Line which addresses refugees’ queries and makes referrals.

The information is available as well on the UNHCR Help Page which is constantly updated with information in Ukrainian, Russian, Romanian and English languages. Over 70,000 flyers, posters, and other informative materials focusing on protection issues have been distributed in the community. Vulnerable refugees can as well receive information and support in Blue Dots managed by UNHCR and UNICEF. So far, there are over 17,210 supported refugees, of whom over 8,470 are children. Additionally, over 1,120 frontline responders have been trained on protection issues including Child Protection, GBV, Anti-Trafficking, and other protection issues.

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INTERESTING FACTS

NATIONAL DAYS

Europeans and Their Languages uropeans are mostly, in fact, newcomers.

They came from a pre-Indo-European homeland, in the far west of Asia, and the real, original Europeans were suppressed or assimilated.

Most European languages belong to the Indo-European language family. Of the total European population of 744 million (in 2018), about 94% are native speakers of the Indo-European language. The three largest groups of languages belong to the Indo-European ones - Romance, Germanic and Slavic with more than 200 million speakers each. These groups make up close to 90% of Europeans - 250 million Slavs, 215 million Romans and 210 million Germans speak the languages of the Indo-European group. Smaller Indo-European families in Europe include Hellenic languages (Greek and smaller languages or dialects, about 13 million), Baltic (Latvian and Lithuanian, about 7 million), Albanian (several dialects or languages, including Tosk, Gheg, Arbrech and Arvanite with about 5 million), Celtic languages, once the most numerous in Europe and now with very few speakers (Irish, Scottish, Welsh, Manx, Cornish and Breton, a total of about 4 million), Armenian (about 4 million) and Indo-Aryan (Roma people, about 1, 5 million). Of the approximately 45 million Europeans who speak

JULY

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COLOMBIA

Declaration of independence from Spain in 1810

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BELGIUM

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

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EGYPT

evolution Day, the R revolution of 1952

non-Indo-European languages, the majority speak languages from either the Uralic or Turkish group of languages (all Asian languages). Even smaller groups (such as Basque, Semitic and various Caucasian languages) make up less than 1% of the European population, and these are mostly people who stepped on the European soil first. Immigration in the new era has added significant communities of speakers of African and Asian languages, which make up about 4% of the population, with Arabic being the most widely spoken language.

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LIBERIA

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

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PERU

Declaration of

independence from Spain in 1821

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ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES

H.E. LUCA GORI The new Italian Ambassador to Serbia

Luca Gori was born in Florence on July 27, 1968. He graduated political science from the University of Florence in 1993, while he began his diplomatic career in 1995. After working at the Directorate General for Political Affairs of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in 1999, he began his first engagement abroad at the Italian Embassy in Moscow.

In 2003, he joined the Permanent Representation of Italy to the European Union in Brussels, where he monitored relations between the EU and the Western Balkans. In 2007, he returned to Rim where he worked at the government cabinet.

In 2010, he was appointed Senior

Advisor at the Italian Embassy in Washington, D.C. Upon returning to Rome in 2014, he started working at the General Secretariat of the Presidency of the Republic, to the Office for Diplomatic Affairs. In 2015, he again started working at the government cabinet. The same year, Mr. Gori was decorated with the Order of the Knights of Merit of the Republic of Italy. In 2018, he was appointed Deputy Director General for Political and Security Affairs/ Director for the Mediterranean and Middle East countries. In 2021, he became Deputy Chief of Staff. The Ambassador is married to Eugenia with whom he has two children.

MOROCCO

Independence Day AUGUST

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SWITZERLAND

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

02

MACEDONIA Republic Day

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INDIA

Independence Day

NIKOLA DJUKIĆ New President of the Executive Board of UNIQA Non-life TIHOMIR MILOŠEVIĆ New President of the Executive Board of UNIQA Life By the decision of the Supervisory Board, and with the consent of the National Bank of Serbia, Nikola Đukić is appointed as new President of the Executive Board of UNIQA Non-Life Insurance Serbia. Đukić is a successful manager with many years of experience in numerous management positions.

He built his career in the field of IT and insurance, first in Zepter insurance, and after acquisition by UNIQA Insurance, he continued in the sales division. He came to the

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position of Deputy director of the sales division in 2011, and soon became the Director of the strategic support sector, where he worked until 2014. when he was appointed as a member of the Management Board in charge for sales (CSO).

Tihomir Milošević, appointed as President of the Executive Board of UNIQA Life Insurance Serbia.

Tihomir continued his career at UNIQA Insurance and then at Societe Generale Insurance where he worked until 2017. A certified actu-

Nikola Djukić

Tihomir Milošević

ary with many years of experience in insurance, rejoined UNIQA Insurance in the position of Director of the Life Insurance and Personal

Insurance Sector, and for the past two years he has held the position of Director of Business Services for Personal Insurance.

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COLOMBIA TURNS LEFT

A Former Leftist Guerrilla Wins Colombia’s Election Gustavo Petro’s past leaves a legacy of distrust to overcome e are writing a new history for Colombia, Latin America and the world,” declared Gustavo Petro, the winner of Colombia’s presidential election, in Bogotá on June 19th.

“Change”, he said, “will open opportunity and hope for all Colombians in every corner of the national territory.” The portentous tone was understandable. When he takes office on August 7th Mr Petro will become the country’s first left-wing president. He offers a radical departure from two decades of right-wing and centre-right rule. Mr Petro’s running-mate, Francia Márquez, a 40-year-old environmental activist, will become the country’s first black vice-president.

Mr Petro won by 50.4% to 47.3%, a wider than expected margin, in a run-off against Rodolfo Hernández, a property tycoon. His 11.3m votes, helped by a record turnout of 58%, mark the highest tally in Colombia’s electoral history. Mr Petro is a former mayor of Bogotá and once belonged to m19, a leftist guerrilla group. His win is part of a broader trend in Latin America in which leftists with iconoclastic agendas are winning elections. Mr Petro said his government would “develop capitalism, not because we adore it, but because we have to overcome premodernity and feudalism.”

His win was a victory for pressthe-flesh campaigning over social-media savvy. With polls forecasting a tight race Mr Hernández, who reached the second round thanks mainly to finger-jabbing rants on TikTok, needed to mobilise conservative and centrist voters. But in the final week he cancelled media appearances and flew to Miami, saying his life was at risk. His standing among conservative types took a further hit when a video emerged of him dancing to reggaeton on a yacht in the presence of a dozen young women in bikinis.

Mr Petro cut a more statesmanlike figure. Having previously appeared behind bulletproof shields at big rallies, he spent

“W

FOLLOWING THE ELECTIONS OF LEFT-WING CANDIDATES IN MEXICO, PERU AND CHILE, LATIN AMERICA’S RECENT POLITICAL SWING HAS DRAWN COMPARISON TO THE “PINK TIDE” OF THE EARLY 2000S, WHEN LEFT-LEANING PRESIDENTS DOMINATED THE REGION the last week gamely chopping sugar-cane in the Andes, riding across Colombia’s eastern plains and picking coffee in the agricultural heartland. Mr Petro had run for the presidency twice before, leaving his movement, Pacto Histórico, well organised and effective at mobilising grassroots support.

Nevertheless, many Colombians remain deeply distrustful of their president-elect. Polls taken before the election found that he was less popular among older voters who lived through the 1980s and 1990s, a particularly violent period of the country’s long-running civil war. For many such voters Mr Petro’s membership of M19 is difficult to swallow. Others fear that his plans for increased social spending and curtailed oil exploration could sink an economy that has been one of the region’s most

consistently strong performers.

The IMF reckons Colombia will grow by 5.8% in 2022.

The coming days should provide clues to the new government’s direction. Pacto Histórico will hold only 15% of seats in the Senate and the Chamber of Representatives, so Mr Petro will have to seek alliances. He will also reveal pivotal members of his cabinet. “The tone will be set by his minister of finance,” says Juan Carlos Echeverry, a former finance minister and head of Ecopetrol, the state oil firm.

It is not clear what Mr Petro will do if he cannot build an effective coalition. He has a reputation for authoritarianism, derived in part from his time as mayor of Bogotá and his closeness—often exaggerated by his opponents— to the regime of Nicolás Maduro, the autocratic leader of Venezue-

la, a country with which Mr Petro plans to normalise ties. Many fear that Mr Petro’s plans to “democratise” Colombia’s institutions means stuffing them with his followers.

Mr Petro’s win is also part of a wider regional shift. Following the elections of left-wing candidates in Mexico, Peru and Chile, Latin America’s recent political swing has drawn comparison to the “pink tide” of the early 2000s, when left-leaning presidents dominated the region. But their recent success owes less to ideology than to strong anti-incumbent sentiment and a growing distrust of conventional politics. According to one poll 81% of Colombians see corruption as one of the country’s main problems, ahead of inequality (58%) and insecurity (57%). Only 5% have a favourable opinion of the country’s political parties. In 2019 and 2021 protests that racked the country were ferociously repressed by the police, apparently with the government’s approval. That left many younger people distrustful of the political establishment.

Many observers had feared that violence would also plague the election. But the vote was peaceful. Mr Hernández made a short concession speech shortly after the polls closed. Mr Petro struck a conciliatory tone at his victory rally, promising that his opponents would be welcome to discuss policy and that he would not bully his critics.

As night fell in Cali, a city badly affected by last year’s protests, the streets reverberated to the sound of cars honking in celebration.

“Petro represents change,” said Paola Quiñonez, a human-rights activist who took part in the demonstrations. “If the economy suffers, that’s ok. The people have lived through hunger, poverty and insecurity before. The people will hold on.”

From The Economist, published under licence.

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

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INTERVIEW

by Bojana Jakimov

A strong 120-year-long Relationship Cuba and Serbia have established diplomatic relations in 1902 and the friendship between the two countries during the turbulent world history has never been questioned

H.E. GUSTAVO TRISTÁ DEL TODO Cuban Ambassador to Serbia

hile speaking with H.E. Gustavo Tristá del Todo, the Cuban Ambassador to Serbia, we learned about the truly strong friendship between the two nations despite many international challenges that both countries have been facing.

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This year marks the 120th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations with Cuba.

What do you think of the relations between the two countries so far, taking into account the historical events from the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the disintegration of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia until today?

Which events in our shared history would you like to single out?

— The 120th anniversary of relations between two friendly coun-

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tries deserves a comprehensive overview of everything that we have done together, which in the case of Serbia and Cuba, covers a wide range of subjects, especially since 1959 with the Triumph of the Revolution. I will mention only a few examples. The official relations were established on November 4, 1902, when King Aleksandar Obrenović sent a congratulatory message to Tomás Estrada

vac. During the visit, the two politicians discussed various topics.

Cuba and Serbia founded the Non-Aligned Movement together in 1961, and our country was represented by its then-president Osvaldo Dorticós Torrado, who, together with other leaders, planted a tree in the Friendship Park that is still there. Cuba resolutely opposed the NATO bombing (of Yugoslavia) and expressed solidar-

WITH THE PANDEMIC UNDER CONTROL, THE COUNTRY HAS REOPENED FOR TOURISM AFTER A SEVERE LOCKDOWN IN THE PAST TWO YEARS Palma, the new President of Cuba, on the occasion of his inauguration. In 1959, Commander Ernesto Che Guevara visited Yugoslavia as the head of a goodwill delegation.

At that time, Che was received by Marshal Josip Broz Tito and stayed in Belgrade, Brioni and Kraguje-

ity with the Serbian people in the face of large-scale aggression by several powerful countries against a small European nation.

The last two presidents, Tomislav Nikolić and Aleksandar Vučić, visited Cuba in 2015 and 2017 respectively.

Serbia does not recognize the US sanctions against Cuba, while Cuba supports Serbia in preserving its territorial integrity and sovereignty by not recognizing the independence of so-called Kosovo and voting against its membership in UNESCO and Interpol. Is the Cuban government facing any kind of pressure to change these decisions?

— The position of support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Serbia is a result of the historical feelings of friendship toward its people. This is a principled position of Cuban foreign policy that is not subject to possible changes. At the same time, Cuba appreciates the position of support for our resolution in the UN General Assembly, known as "Need to end the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the Government of the United States against Cuba", a policy of sanctions that was implemented more than sixty years ago to suffocate the country.

From the beginning of the sanctions until last year, they have caused quantifiable damages of more than 150 billion US dollars, and have become the main obstacle to Cuba's economic development. The sanctions have also included campaigns against the Revolution, and allegations that Cuba prevents religious freedom. To remind you, we are talking about the country where the historic meeting between Pope Francis and Russian Orthodox Patriarch Cyril took place in 2016.

Similarly, the very aggressive measures imposed by President Donald Trump against our economy are still in force, and they are aimed at exacerbating our commercial and financial difficulties, and further lowering the living standard, while creating discontent and provoking violent acts.

However, the fact remains that Cuba is not a country in crisis nor is its population in danger.

Cuba has complicated relations with America, and a developing and strong friendship with Russia, which is reminiscent of the relations from the Cold War peri-

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od. Do you think that the current situation with the war in Ukraine can affect both the relations with these countries and the relations between Serbia and Cuba?

— I see no reason why this factor should in any way influence relations with Russia, which are based on friendship, mutual respect and cooperation in all domains. Historically speaking, this has been true and will continue to be so. As for the United States, the intention of destroying the Cuban Revolution, by all means, has not changed. As our Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez explained, "the recipe is the extreme tightening of the blockade, causing deprivation to the average Cuban family, lowering wages, causing hunger, desperation and the overthrow of the government." Under these conditions, it is very difficult to improve bilateral ties. In the case of Serbia, we have no open issues that jeopardize our relations. On the contrary, a high-level political dialogue is taking place in a climate of understanding with mutual agreement on important issues relating to the international agenda.

Our relations are in good health.

To quote our Foreign Minister Nikola Selaković, there is plenty of room to improve our relations in science and health care. Have the two countries been planning to do joint projects in these two areas? What is the current cooperation like?

— Everyone is aware of Cuba's advances in public health, with our health system being free, having high scientific rigour and available to the entire population. Added to this is the research, and through that research creating top-notch medication, particularly related to cancer treatment.

The results achieved in battling the coronavirus pandemic are also well-documented and our researchers have managed to create three brand anti-corona vaccines, based on the programs developed since the Triumph of the Revolution. 90% of the population is fully vaccinated, which numbers nearly ten million people.

By July 1, a total of 38 million doses of the Soberana 02, Soberana Plus and Abdala vaccines were administered. Currently, the number of infected people, on average, does not exceed 30 and since May there have been no deaths from the coronavirus. These indicators are achieved despite the criminal sanctions of the United States

FACT REMAINS THAT CUBA IS NOT A COUNTRY IN CRISIS NOR IS ITS POPULATION IN DANGER against Cuba. I believe that the existing potential for cooperation in this area is vast.

Also, Serbs are no strangers to the Cuban culture, be it Cuban film or music. Is it possible to create better tourist offers in Serbia and Cuba, so that our two nations can get to know each other even better?

— With the pandemic under control, the country has reopened for tourism after a severe lockdown in the past two years. From December to June 26 of this year, 1,181 Serbian citizens visited Cuba, a figure that is still low compared to the 7,000 in 2019, before Covid-19 hit. There are well-known travel agencies that successfully sell tourist packages, with varied offers that include not only sun and beach tourism, but also interesting tours of our main cities, which are completely safe to visit. People can also travel individually, both for business or personal reasons and take part in events, as well as undergo medical treatment. The latter is quite successful and facilitates inter-

est in coming back to Cuba. In any case, I always recommend making a first-time trip that should last at least two weeks – one week to be spent in Havana, especially the Old Havana, and one on the beaches, in Varadero or the northern keys. On a second visit, I suggest travelling to Santiago de Cuba, Cienfuegos and Trinidad, connected to the southern beaches, as well as visiting Pinar del Río, which produces the best tobacco in the world. There is a lot to see in our country and, even though it can be expensive for an average Serbian tourist to come to Cuba due to the geographical distance, it is worth a try.

What trade results do you expect to see this year, in the post-pandemic period but in the situation where we have a crisis in Eastern Europe?

— There is no doubt that the pandemic has affected the economic-commercial trade. The online seminar titled "Serbia-Cuba: Business Opportunities" was held recently, during which the representatives of the Cuban Chamber

of Commerce and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia signed the 2022 and 2023 Action Plan. On the occasion, the seminar participants highlighted the importance of continuing to work on developing trade and cooperation ties for the benefit of both peoples, while also recognizing the will of both governments to promote them.

Serbia and Cuba foster excellent relations full of understanding.

During your term as the Cuban ambassador in Serbia, what will you work on the most to nurture and improve the existing relations between the two countries?

— My mission in this country is nearly finished, after four and a half years of hard work. This was a period in which I made numerous new friends, in addition to the existing ones and had to deal with difficulties, especially during the pandemic, but also had plenty of new experiences which I will fondly remember. Before my term as the ambassador expires, my plan is to continue working so that in the coming years, our bilateral relations can continue to grow and diversify, both countries can continue to identify and develop common areas of cooperation and we can support each other in regard to the most important issues.

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INTERVIEW

by Nikola Pavlović

Integrity and Unwillingness to Compromise My way of working has not changed for 20 years, despite the political and social changes that Serbia has gone through during that period

ANA LALIĆ Nova S journalist

n her interview for Diplomacy&Commerce, the Nova S journalist, Ana Lalić, talks about the safety of journalists in Serbia, her arrest in 2020, the violation of media freedom and the direction in which the Serbian media is going.

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According to the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR) platform, the safety of journalists in Serbia is a cause for serious concern. What are the reasons for such concern?

— The concern of the MFRR and other European institutions dealing with media freedom is more than justified. Persecution of journalists is legitimized in Serbia today. Our profession is considered

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risky in every society, but Serbia is one of the very few countries where individual media workers and media are publicly targeted by the highest state authorities. If you have a society in which the president, the prime minister and members of parliament pub-

that the citizens start to treat you that way as well. The logical continuation of such persecution is that individuals give themselves the right to insult journalists, threaten them or even physically harm them. Therefore, we are put in a situation where anyone

EVEN IN SERBIA, IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO IMPRISON PEOPLE FOR FREEDOM OF SPEECH, WITHOUT SUFFERING CONSEQUENCES licly call journalists "traitors and foreign mercenaries" and "haters of Serbia”, it is quite expected that this narrative will be adopted by the average population as well.

Also, when the highest state authorities call you a traitor in your own country, it is understandable

who presents a critical or analytical position and allows themselves to have their own opinion, which differs from the opinion of the ruling majority, carries a target on his back and a sticker "Hit me!", personally ‘signed’ by state leaders.

Two years ago, you were arrested for reporting on a hospital in Novi Sad using inadequate medical equipment. Looking back, what do you think now of your arrest and were you happy with how it all ended?

— The very fact that in the 21st century in Europe a journalist is arrested because they presented information that is relevant to public health excludes the possibility of any personal satisfaction. The proceedings against me were suspended after a month, but that was not the end. To this day, I receive threats and am branded as "that journalist who was arrested". Possible satisfaction can only be found in the fact that, even in Serbia, it is not possible to imprison people for freedom of speech, without suffering consequences.

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How much help in practice can journalists get from international media organizations or groups? Is their support only declarative?

— I honestly believe that it was precisely the strong reactions from international media organizations and human rights activists that got me out of prison, and as a result of their uproar, the news of my arrest reached the political power centres who then proceeded to dish out figurative slaps on the wrist to our authorities, which was crucial for the procedure against me to be suspended. The United States has the Committee to Protect Journalists, whose lawyers offer free legal aid to all journalists who are arrested while doing their jobs worldwide.

Also, numerous professional associations cooperate at the European level on this matter too.

The safety of journalists is sometimes more jeopardized outside Belgrade, Novi Sad and Niš, i.e. in smaller towns. What do you think would give them a higher level of security?

— Journalists in smaller communities work in drastically more difficult conditions than their colleagues in larger cities. In the last twenty years, Serbia has almost completely lost its independent local media, which I consider to be the beginning of the censorship which we are experi-

THE VERY FACT THAT I ALLOW MYSELF TO POINT OUT SOCIETY’S ANOMALIES GIVES ME THE GREATEST PROTECTION encing and working in now. The very few local media that were still functioning have been taken over by powerful local people, close to the authorities, while independent media have been extinguished due to the lack of funds or lawsuits that have exhausted them to the point of shutting down. Also, there is the problem of working in a small environment where people know each other personally, and therefore the pressure on journalists is greater. For the most part, journalists in Belgrade and Novi Sad are backed by entire newsrooms, that are, in a way, their protection and security, while reporters from smaller communities are mostly left to fend for themselves.

They can eventually receive help and support through professional associations, such as the Independent Journalists Association of Vojvodina and the Independent Journalists Association of Serbia (NUNS). However, oftentimes, that support is insufficient, because the associations themselves are marginalized.

Where do you see the biggest vi-

olation of media freedom in our country? Is it pressure on journalists or maybe self-censorship?

— In Serbia, it is no longer necessary to put pressure on the media, because the majority has slipped into complete self-censorship. The very fact that more than 80 percent of the media space is filled by tabloids and pro-regime media just shows that there is no objective journalism here, but pure propaganda. Almost every day you can read/hear nearly identical news in three dailies and four television morning programmes that spew out the same things because that kind of "news" is created in political cabinets.

The allocation of national broadcasting frequencies exclusively to politically eligible media, i.e. to the copyists of the dispatches from the seat of the Serbian government, is the most flagrant example of media freedom violation. The journalist's job is to point out the problem and to be a corrective factor in society. In Serbia, only those media outlets that serve to convince citizens that the problem does not exist and that Serbian society does not need any

correction "because we are the best in the region" on all grounds are welcome.

On the other hand, what gives you security and freedom of work?

— That would be my integrity and unwillingness to make any compromises with anyone. My way of working has not changed for 20 years, despite the political and social changes that Serbia has gone through during that period. Simply put, I am guided by the fundamentals and code of our profession - truthful reporting and independence from pressure.

Furthermore, I have always been mindful of sharing the same values with the media I work for, which include fighting for human rights, supporting all marginalized groups, and having absolute respect for diversity.

What will the Serbian media be like in five years? Is there room for improvement?

— In five years, the media will be in the same position as Serbia. It is impossible to talk about freedom of speech and independent media in a country of false promises and even more false doctorates and privatized institutions, in a country where all dialogue has been abolished. There are always opportunities for improvement.

The question is whether there is the will.

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CORPORATE

End of the Current Digital World The new world of digital, after the pandemic, shaped in front of our eyes from all of us requires the openness of the mind, flexibility and willingness to plunge in it without prejudice NENAD MILIĆ

tal market in Serbia keeps recording a strong double digit growth but that they are still huge possibilities for further development having in mind that the per capita spent is still very low (10 euros per inhabitant in Serbia, whereas in Europe the average is more than 100 euros).

Director IAB

he Digital Day 2022 Conference was held on June 9 under the slogan "The End of the World as We Know It".

We talked about the impressions from the conference and what the future holds for the digital industry with Nenad Milić, Executive Director of IAB Serbia.

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The Digital Day conference is behind us, having in mind all the topics that were discussed, can you tell us a bit more about the trends that await us in digital in the coming period?

— Well, I think that the conclusions from this year’s conference definitely point into the direction that the digital area has changed wholesomely. User experience on how we will be interacting with web3 internet and through platforms such as Meteverse or Decentraland, replacing our money on blockchain powered crypto currencies and even buying digital art with NFT’s while being conscious about who algorithms track you and where you leave your data are some of the key things that were analyzed.

Key parameters of the AdEx report that you would like to comment on.

— The digital advertising industry in Serbia grew by 28.8% last year - from 56.222 to 72.394 million euros. The percentage of growth is noticeably higher than in 2020, which amounted to 19.5%. I would say that the main conclusion is that the digi-

DURING THE LAST YEAR, THE FUNDS SET ASIDE IN SERBIA FOR DIGITAL ADVERTISING AMOUNTED TO ABOUT 72 MILLION EUROS, WITH A RECORDED ANNUAL GROWTH OF 28.8%, WHICH WAS ONLY BELOW EUROPEAN (30.5%)

When will companies be ready to use the potential of everything new available to them in the digital "new age" to promote their brands?

— It will be key to understand the process of transformation of advertising amid a digital surge and how instrumental it will be for brands to be able to cope with the digital “new age”. An increase in digital media consumption in distinct platforms has paved new ways of advertising. The number of consumers has grown and will keep on increasing post pandemic as well. All digital arenas have seen similar characteristics of growth. For instance, some platforms have experienced four times higher rate of engagement among the audience. The level of growth that was expected in the next four to five years has been achieved during the lockdown. This upsurge and the consequently expanding field of opportunities has given birth to a new world for advertisers to find a new audience, create new connections and further expand their brand reach. The marketplace has expanded for advertisers, and brands are going beyond being transactional, as online has become a new medium for hosting their events, concerts and advertisements.

DIGITAL DAY 2022: "THE END OF THE WORLD AS WE KNOW IT" The first impression that imposes, after the participants had the opportunity to listen to leading experts as lecturers and panelists of the conference is even clearer: business within the "old world" and behavior according to its rules became - unprofitable. The new world of digital, after the pandemic, shaped in front of our eyes from all of us requires the openness of the mind, flexibility and willingness to plunge in it without prejudice.

Digital ad budgets higher by a third in 2021. Djordje Bukinac presented the results of the IAB ADEX report for 2021 as the first participant for the state of digital advertising in Serbia and Europe.

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During the last year, the funds set aside in Serbia for digital advertising amounted to about 72 million euros, with a recorded annual growth of 28.8%, which was only below European (30.5%).

Although rates are excellent, it was pointed out that there was a lot to be done for further growth - only 10 euros per capita spent in Serbia (by which Serbia is in third place from the end of the list), while the European average is 115 euros.

Among the key segments, the largest growth recorded is for: search (40%), social media (37%) and video advertising (35.5%).

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CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 2022

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COMMENT

SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS SHOULD BE IMPLIED

Social responsibility in business is something that should be implied at all times IVICA DAČIĆ Speaker of the Republic of Serbia’s National Assembly

t the recently held conference dedicated to the topic of corporate social responsibility - CSR Serbia 2022 - the Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia, Ivica Dačić, addressed the conference guests at the opening with the following words: "Dear Excellencies, distinguished guests and friends, First of all, I would like to thank Color Media Communications for their persistence in organizing a conference on socially responsible business for the eighth consecutive time - not only because, by doing so, the company demonstrates its own social responsibility, but also because social responsibility is really a very important part of our overall business environment, which is often talked about casually, without fully recognizing its importance for companies and much more for our society.

Social responsibility in business is something that should be implied today, something without which any business activity is simply unthinkable. However, is it really like that in Serbia and the world?

It's nice to see on television that a company has furnished a classroom in a local school with computers, or has given a scholarship to a Math champion to be able to travel to a competition abroad. For me, it's even

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Anyone who invests in the community, in inclusion, in the good treatment of workers, and especially in environment and sustainable development, will receive multiple benefits in return

nicer when something like this happens without the presence of cameras, but I understand that every business needs good publicity. However, it is not nice or fair if such campaigns are one-off, for companies to tick off the box ‘social responsibility’ once and view it as a kind of an obligation, even a burden.

We all expect our companies, and especially foreign ones, in which social responsibility is far more developed, to work much harder and much more visibly in this segment, as well as to compete in this discipline and compete with each other who has done more things for the community, who takes care of the environment, and especially how they treat employees. Profit is an inevitable thing in every business, but it must never be the reason that the environment, human rights and the interests of the community in which that profit is made suffer because of it.

The state has taken many good steps in this regard - we have been putting a lot of effort into stimulating employers to behave in a socially responsible manner; starting from employing persons with disabilities, from passing numerous regulations to prevent discrimination at work, to incentives for various types of socially responsible business. This is our obligation arising from the so-

cial function of the state, and we will work on it even more than before. In particular, we will take into account the further obligations of the business sector in relation to sustainable development and compliance with the latest standards, primarily in environmental protection.

I am aware that investing in CSR still seems like an expense to many employers, which should be avoided wherever possible. But that is no longer possible! Not only because the state and society demand it, but it is also a requirement of the business itself - it should no longer be viewed as an expense but as the best investment a company can make. Anyone who invests in the community, in inclusion, in the good treatment of workers, and especially in environment and sustainable development, will receive multiple benefits in return.

This is a segment in which we must continue to cooperate in- the employers, the trade unions and the state. We still have a lot of work to do, so that our entire business environment has an even stronger social function. Our state institutions are more than ready to be your partners in that endeavour, and you should take advantage of that.

Thank you once again for the invitation and I wish today's conference all the success!" 

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COMMENT

PARTNERS IN THE FIGHT FOR A MORE HUMANE SOCIETY

Let's listen to what the future schoolchildren tell us, what kind of country they want to live in and try to make their visions come true in a partnership that leads to a better society for all of us GORDANA ČOMIĆ Minister for Human and Minority Rights and Social Dialogue Speech at the CSR Serbia 2022 Conference, National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia

inister for Human and Minority Rights and Social Dialogue, Gordana Čomić, spoke at the CSR Serbia 2022 conference, dedicated to the topic of corporate social responsibility, which was held on June 30, at the Serbian National Assembly.

In her speech, Minister Čomić reminded us of the "three eights eight hours of sleep, eight hours of work and eight hours of free time" principle.

“Unfortunately, today, ordinary people have to do one or even two extra jobs in those eight hours of free time to survive, and women have to take at least two hours out of that time for housework.

170 years ago we claimed that people have certain rights when they were doing something, and only recently did we notice that there are

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also people in our communities who cannot work for eight hours without assistance or can do it with difficulty and that they cannot make it to do eight hours of work.

If today, in the developed part of the world, private or public companies or anyone for that matter thinks that it is sustainable to record development while having dissatisfied people, they are deeply mistaken.

A human rights strategy is currently being drafted in Serbia where the private sector plays an extremely important role, and a framework is being created that clearly defines how we respect human rights, how companies see them, how we see human development and that people who work together with us to build the company and its development have to be valued and protected.

The private sector must care about

All people deserve to live in a more humane society than the one we have today

employee satisfaction, the children and families of their workers and the environment in which it operates. Everyone agrees with that, but the question of how much that costs a business will always arise. Our task, as the Ministry for Human and Minority Rights and Social Dialogue, is to break stereotypes about the costs of protecting human rights. We are here to be a tool for companies in the private and public sectors in what we call the humanization of profit.

The first prejudice to eliminate is the environment and profit conflict.

They are not. They have never been in conflict and will never be in conflict. That's what those companies that avoid paying taxes and don't really care about the environment say.

Compared to how much a lack of awareness about the responsible development of a company in the 21st century can cost, the aforementioned costs are low, but even so, they cannot be covered by companies alone.

Every state and local government must help and become partners in this. We have to launch a dialogue.

We all have to listen to the voice of unborn children and create the kind of country they want to live in one day when they start school. All people deserve to live in a more humane society than the one we have today," Minister Čomić concluded.

The National Parliament Speaker, Ivica Dačić, Director of UNICEF Serbia, Deyana Kostandinova, Special Advisor to the Minister of Culture and Information, Gordana Predić, and CEO of Color Press, Robert Čoban, also spoke at the conference. 

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INTERVIEW

BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR ALL

This is a time, like no other in history, when businesses need to show the courage to adopt strategies that create long-term value for their companies and for the societies they serve DEYANA KOSTADINOVA UNICEF Representative in Serbia

he eighth CSR Serbia 2022 conference dedicated to socially responsible business was held at the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia on June 30, with the focus on sustainable business. The conference gathered all stakeholders engaged in activities that directly affect a better and healthier business environment in Serbia. The conference was supported by UNICEF Serbia, Delta Holding and Wiener Stadtische insurance company.

Deyana Kostadinova, director of UNICEF Serbia, addressed the conference participants and said that she

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We must rebuild our economies, so they can create opportunities for everybody

felt so inspired to speak at the CSR Serbia network meeting. She also thanked Robert Čoban, CEO of Color Press Group, for inviting her to open the 8th CSR Serbia Conference.

“This year’s conference topic – All Eyes on Sustainability - is a good opportunity to engage leaders from the business community, the public sector and civil and international organizations on a long-term goal.

If we want to ‘future-proof’ our children, both public and private sectors need to invest in more resilient systems that help children cope, including health, nutrition, education, water and sanitation and social protection systems. Indeed, the business sector plays an important role in shaping the world in which we, and our children, live. Respect for human rights, including the rights of children, is a prerequisite for true sustainability,” Ms Kostadinova said.

She added that Children’s Rights and Business Principles, which were developed 10 years ago, are a good roadmap that helps the business sector play its part. The 10 Principles set out concrete actions for businesses to respect and support children’s rights.

I’m sure that at least some of you participated in the discussion process around the development of the Business Principles and Children’s Rights, as Serbia was the front runner in the engagement of the business community in this process.

“Over the past decade, these Principles, and the actions they have in-

spired, proved that the global business community can make an important difference in children’s lives.

In Serbia, through their core business, know-how and skills companies have achieved significant results for children. I have seen how Yettel’s support to reach the most marginalized children in Roma communities made a difference in their access to health services. It was wonderful to see that Besima from Pirot, thanks to this support, was able to connect to health services and have her daughter vaccinated. Real lives are being changed for the better thanks to the business sector!

Emerging companies are also seeing the benefits of integrating the Principles into their business. Nordeus, for example, is investing in early childhood development programmes and integrating family-friendly practices in its operation.

The business sector also affects children’s rights by ensuring that its conduct is not contributing to poor outcomes for children in the first place. When we walk into a store to buy a new dress, we may forget to think about what wages and working conditions that product has been produced under, and whether the person who has made that product can provide their child with 3 healthy meals a day or take the child to the doctor during working hours.

I want to commend businesses that are ensuring that child rights

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verse impact on businesses. One example is developing business and government agendas on family-friendly workplace terms and conditions.

Children’s rights are an essential investment in our sustainable future. Safeguarding these rights helps build the strong, well-educated communities that are vital to creating a stable, inclusive and productive business environment. A business that integrates respect and support for children into its strategy and operations generates benefits for children and society and can generate real benefits for itself as well.

This is a time, like no other in history, when businesses need to show the courage to adopt strategies that create long-term value for their companies and for the societies they serve. Investing in children and youth, especially in those who are vulnerable and marginalized, can help promote an equitable, inclusive society, allowing more people to effectively participate in economic development.

We must rebuild our economies, so they can create opportunities for everybody,” she said and concluded: “This is a time to create a brighter future for all!” 

I want to commend businesses that are ensuring that children's rights are at the centre of their operations

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are at the centre of their operations.

They are leading the business world in making progress in this area.

These key stakeholders are taking three distinct, but complementary actions to ensure that children’s rights considerations are integrated into business practices: - The first involves voluntary action by businesses to understand and address their impact on children. I’m glad to see that two business representatives from Serbia, with UNICEF’s support, will conduct a self-assessment of their business operation and assess their impact on children.

- The second is an action that creates an enabling environment for children and one that sets industry standards through the cooperation of the business sector, government regulators and policymakers.

In Serbia, we have seen this through the cooperation of the Minister of Trade, Tourism and Telecommunications and internet providers, who expressed interest in working together to keep children safe in the digital space.

- The third focuses on holistic approaches to specific issues affecting children’s rights, which include action to prevent and mitigate the ad-

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Galenika – an example of a responsible business that pushes limits JELENA PAROJČIĆ Executive Director for Human Resources, Galenika

regard, Galenika has launched a web platform and application related to health prevention.

nother point of view about corporate social responsibility comes from Jelena Parojčić, Executive Director for Human Resources in Galenika.

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How high is the CSR concept on Galenika’s agenda?

— For Galenika, CSR is an integral part of doing business. It is reflected in all areas – through an uncompromising commitment to the quality of our products, continuity of production and supply, health and safety of employees, environmental protection and energy efficiency, health-prevention-focused projects, and support of cultural projects as well as donations to the medical institutions. Our employees, partners, doctors, pharmacists, and consumers trust Galenika as they recognize that social responsibility is woven into all aspects of our work.

What do you consider key drivers of Galenika’s CSR approach?

— We strive to push limits in all areas of responsible doing business. To illustrate, as a future-oriented company, Galenika established quality systems through the implementation of GMP and ISO standards, which it continuously renews by implementing new requirements of internationally recognized standards. For us, the implementation of standards is a prerequisite for responsible business.

In the digital age, patients are much less dependent on doctors for advice and are increasingly becoming capable and willing to take more control over their own health. This indicates the importance of shifting the focus of pharmaceutical companies from reaction to prevention. In that

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In the digital age, patients are much less dependent on doctors for advice, and are becoming increasingly capable and willing to take more control over their own health

What CSR campaigns have you implemented and what was their impact?

— For two consecutive years, in October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we launched and implemented #Rozeoktobar campaign to raise awareness of the importance of regular examinations as one of the most important tools for the prevention of breast cancer. Campaigns were dedicated to raising awareness on the subject, while allocating funds from the sale of Galenika’s Pantenol for donation to the Institute of Oncology and Radiology of Serbia (IORS).

Beyond the amount that is donated to the IORS, I’m proud to say that through this campaign, Galenika was recognised as one of the Top 5 companies that supported the fight against breast cancer.

Furthermore, in February this year, on the occasion of International Mother Language Day, Galenika, in partnership with the University of Belgrade's Faculty of Philology, launched a social responsibility campaign titled "Moja koza / koža", which aimed to promote grammatically correct writing and adhering to the orthographic norms of the Serbian language. During the campaign, we addressed young people in order to draw their attention to the importance of language and its proper use when using mobile phones and digital messaging applications. In addition, we also introduced another part of the campaign ,,Moja koža'' - the promotion of Galenika's skin-

care product - through which we discovered the enigma behind the campaign title ,,Moja koza / koža''. I believe that we have fulfilled our goal - we have highlighted a topic and inspired young people to pay more attention to spelling and the use of diacritical marks.

Finally, Galenika is recognized as the leader in developing web platforms and applications related to health-prevention topic. What is your motivation for this and what platforms did you launch?

— Thanks to its innovative business philosophy, Galenika recognises that health-prevention has an increasing impact on the general health of the nation. In that regard, in 2020, we launched the online platform ,,Hello twenties’’ (www.dvadesete.rs), a long-term social responsibility project at the national level, intended to educate young people in Serbia about healthy living habits so they can improve and maintain their mental and physical health.

Plus, Galenika has also launched the free-of-charge mobile application Galix (www.galix.rs), which aims to support the healthy habits of its users. Galix is the first Serbian language application in our country that, in one place, provides users with instant insight into the environmental and health conditions throughout Serbia, which affect a healthy lifestyle.

The commitment that Galenika's team has demonstrated in all these campaigns is a clear illustration that the Galenika brand means are synonymous with trust and quality, and above all, highlight the company's focus on a healthier and better future. 

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It is not enough for the company to be a sales and revenue leader if consumers, employees and partners do not recognize the brand as responsible from a social, environmental, cultural and sports point of view RICARDO VIAN MARQUES General Manager, Galenika

e spoke with Ricardo Vian Marques, General Manager of Galenika, about corporate social responsibility and the future of that concept.

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Mr Marques, you come from the EMS, the largest pharmaceutical company in Brasil which operates under NC Group (Grupo NC), one of the largest conglomerates in Brasil with a worldwide presence. Could you tell us something about the CSR concept from the perspective of a global company?

— Over the past two decades, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has blossomed as an idea and evolved at the top of the agenda of leaders in the corporate world. CSR, once a do-gooder sideshow, is now seen as mainstream. Big firms nowadays are expected to be good citizens, and they all want to show that they are.

The concept of CSR became a must, a natural obligation.

Why a must? For a number of reasons! Today, society, in general, has higher expectations from businesses taking on public responsibilities than in previous decades. More than ever, companies are being watched.

Embarrassing corporate news anywhere in the world can be captured on camera and published everywhere in an instant, thanks to the Internet and social media. In addition, concern over the negative effects of climate change has grown. The great green awakening is making company after company take a serious look at its own impact on the environment.

Finally, firms are facing strong demand for enhanced CSR from their

periences or does it need to be customized locally?

— CSR always has to reflect the needs of local communities and markets.

The local company should have some kind of globally adopted guidelines which can serve as a starting point and be further adapted to the local needs. In the case of Galenika, we adopted NC Group’s Code of Conduct, but we adjusted our CSR approach to local circumstances due to different cultural and market environments in Serbia. In that regard, we have done a lot in the past four years through implementing projects related to health prevention, enhancement of quality of production, reduction of CO2 emission, environment protection, support of cultural projects and donations to medical institutions.

employees. Companies are forced to act positively to attract, motivate and retain superior staff. Put simply, people want to work for a company with which they can share common values.

How important is the responsible way of doing business for EMS? — As a leader of the pharmaceutical market in Brasil for 16 consecutive years, and as a company whose products are exported to 55 countries around the world, a responsible way of doing business is one of the pillars that move the trajectory of EMS. It is not enough for the company to be a leader in sales and revenue if consumers, employees, partners and health professionals do not recognize the brand as responsible from a social, environmental, cultural and sports point of view. To illustrate, EMS is the first private company to enter into a partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) to work towards the eradication, globally, of yaws, a chronic and debilitating bacterial skin infection, considered a neglected tropical disease. In that regard, EMS is expected to donate a total of 153 million azithromycin tablets to eradicate the disease by 2030 in 15 countries that have yaws endemic areas. In other words - EMS's mission is to care for people, by offering a wide range of quality medicines and promoting access to health.

As the General Manager of Galenika, do you think that a global CSR strategy could be applied by simply copying and pasting global ex-

CSR always has to reflect the needs of local communities and markets

What is the future of the CSR concept in business?

— I see the future of corporate social responsibility in three main areas.

The first is making businesses greener and boosting the renewable energy perspective to create an eco-friendly environment. The second is focus to health prevention. The ultimate goal of raising awareness about health prevention is supporting people to behave responsibly toward themselves and their own health to build sustainable habits and make healthier choices. The third is bringing creativity and innovation into business.

If approached strategically, CSR can become part of the acknowledged methodology for reinforcing the economic growth of the world's economy and fostering sustained development of society in global. 

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CONFERENCE

SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS - A STANDARD THAT MUST BE IMPLIED n Thursday, 30th June 2022, the eighth CSR Serbia 2022 conference dedicated to socially responsible business was held at the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia. The focus of this year’s conference was sustainable business and the conference gathered all stakeholders whose activities directly affect a better and healthier business environment in Serbia. The conference was supported by UNICEF Serbia, Delta Holding and Wiener Stadtische insurance company.

Ivica Dačić, the Speaker of the National Assembly, welcomed the conference participants and said that social responsibility in doing business is something that should be implied and implemented.

"The state authorities have made many good steps in this regard, and we are also investing a lot of effort to stimulate employers to behave as so-

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It is important to establish a framework which clearly defines how we respect human rights

cially responsible companies - starting from the employment of persons with disabilities to adopting numerous regulations to prevent discrimination at work and incentives for various types of socially responsible business. This is our obligation that stems from the state performing its social function and we will continue bettering ourselves in that regard,” said Mr Dačić.

Gordana Čomić, Minister for Human and Minority Rights and Social Dialogue, also spoke at the conference. In her speech, she underlined that the line Ministry’s role is to help companies to make more humane profits.

"A human rights strategy is being drafted in Serbia, where the private sector plays an extremely important role. Also, it is important to establish a framework which clearly defines how we respect human rights, how companies see them, how we see human development, and ensures that people who work with us and towards the company’s development will be appreciated and protected", stated Ms Čomić.

Gordana Predić, the special adviser to the Minister of Culture and Information, said during her presentation that culture represents the essence of a socially responsible society and as such is of crucial importance for the socially responsible operations of companies.

"The Ministry of Culture and Information encourages the media to deal with this issue in a socially responsible manner and to inform citizens about these important topics,"

Ms Predić added.

It has become increasingly obvious that what arts and culture can offer is very important to companies, concluded Ms Predić.

Deyana Kostadinova, director of UNICEF Serbia, was the last speaker in the first round of presentations.

In her address, she pointed out that "children’s rights are a fundamentally important investment for our sustainable future. A company that integrates respect for children and support for them in its strategy and operations creates positive effects for children and society, from which it can have concrete benefits”.

Robert Čoban, CEO of Color Press Group, said that the socially responsible behaviour of all individuals must not only be mentioned only declaratively in the company’s articles of association, mission or vision, but we should all live it every day.

"We need to reiterate every day how important it is to help people weaker than ourselves, whether you are an individual, a company or a public institution, and that's why it's important to organize events like this. Today, for the eighth consecutive time, we are promoting good practices, sharing ideas and trying to get citizens, companies and institutions in our country to act upon this," concluded Mr Čoban.

LEAVE NO ONE BEHIND - Equal opportunities for all members of society was the name of the first panel at the conference, moderated by Vesna Savić Djukić, Head of the Department for Cooperation with the Private Sector and Fundraising Spe-

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cialist at UNICEF. Marija Beslać, Director of Communications and Partnerships at the Nordeus Foundation, Sanja Rajačić, Director of the Internal Communications and CSR Department at Banca Intesa Belgrade, and Milica Popović, Corporate Communications Manager at Delhaize Serbia, participated in the panel discussion.

The panel participants gave a comprehensive overview of the activities that UNICEF and its partners have been carrying out to protect children and young people, while, at the same time, focusing on working with them so they can realize their full potential.

"Business with a purpose, business that takes care of its employees, children and young people and environmental protection are becoming a reality because companies have realized that it is possible to do business successfully and actively contribute to a socially responsible society, at the same time," said Ms Savić Djukić.

DESIGN BETTER FUTURE Leaders of sustainable business was the second panel with the following participants - Tijana Koprivica, Sustainable Business Director at Delta Holding, Tamara Vlastelica, Professor at the Faculty of Organizational Sciences of the University of Belgrade, Tijana Janković, from the Trag Foundation and Vesna

Bjelić, editor of Telegraf.rs. Nenad Stojković, from MSG Global Solutions, was the panel moderator.

“Delta Holding's ongoing CSR projects include "Our Village", "Digital Village" and "Third Parent". Our village" was launched in late 2018, to develop agriculture and restore villages in Serbia. The project was first launched in the villages Mala Jasikova and Dubočane, near Zaječar. This year, Bačko Novo Selo has also joined the project. Through this project, we transfer know-how about modern production, while providing professional support in financing and product placement.

We are implementing the Digital Village project in Mokrin. The goal of this project is the modernization and digitalization of agricultural activities. The Third Parent project focuses on helping families who are at risk of having their children taken care of by social welfare institutions. We are implementing this project with the Putokaz Association. The project’s goal is to preserve biological families through working with social workers and Delta Holding providing these families with financial assistance," said Ms Koprivica.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND CULTURE was the last panel of this year's conference. Miodrag Dinulović, director of the Kraljevo Theatre, Slavko Spasić, Director of the

Natural History Museum in Belgrade, Tijana Palkovljević Bugarski, Director of the Matica Srpska Gallery, Novi Sad, and Jelena Medaković, Director of the Belgrade City Museum, took part in the panel while the PR specialist Ivana Beatović Jovanović was the panel moderator.

The panellists agreed that all cultural institutions work as socially responsible organizations. There are several ways in which culture affects society in each of them. Also, cultural institutions raise important issues that need to be discussed, as well as launch socially responsible campaigns in which companies in Serbia can and should participate within the scope of their socially responsible activities.

As with the previous conferences, we were able to present new ideas, talk about new ways of improving socially responsible business and highlight successful examples of doing business with a purpose. Companies in Serbia have a long way to go when it comes to social responsibility, and this conference shows that all stakeholders have been continuously working and improving their CSR, be it companies, state administration, non-governmental sector or individuals who are also changing the world for the better in their micro-universe. 

Companies in Serbia have a long way to go when it comes to social responsibility

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INTERVIEW

MK GROUP – BUSINESS AND PHILANTHROPY CONNECTING THE ADRIATIC REGION

The Family Support project is one of the socially responsible projects through which MK Group is connecting the region ALEKSANDRA STOJANOVIĆ Corporate affairs director, MK Group his year, MK Group was the recipient of a Diplomacy&Commerce Award for the best socially responsible company. We spoke with Aleksandra Stojanović, MK Group's Corporate affairs director, about the company's CSR strategy and the projects that led to the company being given this prestigious award.

cial responsibility as much anymore because doing business while being mindful of CSR is almost implied.

We, at MK Group, demonstrate this not only through philanthropy but by employing close to 6,000 people throughout the Adriatic region, cooperating with 70,000 subcontractors from diversified areas and supporting the development of the 123 local communities in which we operate.

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MK Group implements valuable, large-scale philanthropic projects, for which it has been allocating significant funds - 5 million euros in the last five years. When you received the social responsibility award you said that CSR is one of the focuses of your company and its trademark. Does this mean that business recognizes the value of spending money on CSR? — Our group operates primarily in Europe, with a special focus on the Adriatic region. MK Group is recognized for implementing innovations in agriculture, tourism and renewable energy sources. We are making strides in these areas and bringing new trends to these segments. For forty years, have been developing sustainable businesses, and such success would not be possible if our focus was only on short-term financial results. Success is a journey, not a destination. Along the way, you change the environment, expand your horizons and raise your standards both for yourself and for others.

This could not have been done without CSR. Although it sounds like a cliche, we really live by these values and believe that there is no successful business without investing in people and society. Without developed communities, there is no long-term growth and without improving the entire environment, we cannot push the boundaries.

All leaders are aware of this and that's why they don't talk about so-

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Family Support is our regional programme which has a beautiful tradition

The Family Support project is one of the socially responsible projects that connect the region. At the end of last year, you announced donations to maternity hospitals how far have you come with this project?

— Family Support is our regional programme which has a beautiful tradition. Namely, for the last five years, together with AIK Bank, MK Group has been financially helping its employees who became parents. Subsequently, we decided to expand the project externally, through donations to maternity hospitals in Serbia, Slovenia, Montenegro, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina – to a total of seven maternity hospitals where around 16,000 babies are born annually. In this way, we support not only the families of our employees but also families in the region who are expecting a baby and for which we allocated a total of 700,000 euros. By improving conditions in maternity hospitals, we want to contribute to the quality of health care for pregnant women, mothers in labour and newborn babies. Our ultimate goal is to support family policy and measures to boost the birth rate. The decline in birth rate is something that all the countries of the Adria region are facing, and I think it is important that all stakeholders get involved in resolving

this project. We received great support from the ministries of health in all the countries where we are implementing the project, which certainly contributed to its efficient implementation.

In particular, in late June, we opened renovated maternity rooms at the Ljubljana Maternity Hospital, where mothers in Slovenia can enjoy the best of European maternity hospitals. During the summer, we will complete the donations in Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, and by the end of the year, in Montenegro. In the autumn of this year, we expect to open the renovated admission department at the Gynecology and Obstetrics Hospital which operates under the Dr Dragiša Mišović Clinical Centre.

In this project, you are focused on young families and support for mothers and babies. What other topics are you involved with, that is, what other areas are the focus of your CSR projects?

— Our strategic commitment is, above all, financing children & youth and education programmes. Under the auspices of such programmes, there is a segment relating to the care for orphaned children in cooperation with the SOS Children's Village. We have allocated over 300,000 euros in total for this purpose so far. In addition to the Youth Centre in Kraljevo, we financially support the Family Support Centre in Niš, together with AIK Bank.

We are currently working on a really big education project, with the Faculty of Electrical Engineering of the University of Belgrade as our project partner. In terms of the amount of investment and contribution to Serbian society, I believe that nothing similar has been done in this part of the world, so we will certainly have something to talk about next year. 

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LIDL’S UNIQUE WAY TO HELP THE COMMUNITY

Lidl’s ecological campaign results in 14 tonnes of waste being removed from countryside n June, Lidl Srbija presented the results of this year's ecological campaign "Čisto iz ljubavi", which the company carried out with the support of "Čepom do osmeha" and 7 other local organizations. An exhibition at Kalemegdan marked the end of the campaign, showcasing the campaign’s impact through „before and after“ photographs of localities in Serbia from which waste was removed during the campaign. All visitors of the Belgrade fortress had the opportunity to see this outdoor exhibition, which vividly shows what our environment looks like and how, through joint action, we can make it a better place to live.

The organization "Čepom do osmeha", as the main partner of Lidl’s ecological campaign "Čisto iz ljubavi", has carried out cleaning actions in 8 Serbian cities collecting more than 12 tonnes of waste, out of which 2 tonnes of recyclable materials, that were forwarded for further process-

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As a socially and ecologically responsible company, we strive to motivate the public by our example and initiate positive change in society

ing. Additionally, Lidl Srbija provided financing for several smaller, local actions in Serbia, that removed about 2 tonnes of waste. „As a socially and ecologically responsible company, we strive to motivate the public by our example and initiate positive change in society, and through this ecologically responsible action, we would like to remind that love for nature should be and remain selfless. We are very happy to have gathered over 600 volunteers and among them 40 of our colleagues who spent half of their working day removing waste from nature, contributing to the unique way they and Lidl as a company helped the community," said Martina Petrović, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR at Lidl Serbia.

Everybody who visited Kalemegdan during the campaign had the opportunity to see how certain cities in Serbia looked before Lidl's ecological campaign, and how they look now, after the efforts of all the organizations and volunteers who participated in the project. „I would like to emphasize how important it is for us to partner up with such a responsible company like Lidl, the fact that we joined forces to send a big message of how important our planet is to all of us and how important it is that every citizen of the Republic of Serbia understands the direct influence of his personal choices on the ecosystem. As part of the campaign, we also conducted educational workshops for children all over Serbia, because they

are the most important, our future.

Funds from the collected recyclables provided additional resources for the purchase of aids, which is our core business. This ecological campaign contributes on several levels, for a healthier and cleaner nature, for a more humane society, but also for all those individuals who need help.

Of course, this is not the end, but an invitation to others to get active, with us or alone – for a better tomorrow", said Vanja Petković, president of the association "Čepom do osmeha".

During this year's "Čisto iz ljubavi" campaign, locations in 15 Serbian cities were cleaned. "Čepom do osmeha" conducted cleaning actions in Subotica, Bačka Palanka, Nova Pazova, Valjevo, Čačak, Niš, Vranje and Novi Pazar. In addition, the organization "Eco Infinity" cleaned parts of Sjenica; citizens’ association "Full House" Paraćin; Scout Squad "Đorđe Simeonović" cleaned parts of Zaječar; "Ekolibri" citizens' association cleaned Obrenovac; Ecological association "Ožalj" Priboj on the Lim, the association "Češko selo" Bela Crkva, while the citizens’ association "Banatski zaokret" cleaned in Zrenjanin.

Lidl’s campaign is conducted as part of Schwarz Grup's "REset Plastic" strategy for responsible plastic management, which focuses on five areas of action - avoiding the use of plastic, recycling and removing it from nature, encouraging environmental innovation and education in this area.

In this way, Lidl Srbija reduces the use of plastic and closes its circle, all "For a better tomorrow ". 

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Netherlands D I P L OM AC Y

&

C OM M E RC E

P R E S E N T S

The

FOCUS ON

OVER 1,200 BRIDGES Some bridges are historic, some are lit up at night, and all are beautiful sights to see. Travellers can even visit the crossing of the Reguliersgracht and the Herengracht to see 15 bridges at once.

KING’S DAY WAS GREEN ENERGY ORIGINALLY QUEEN’S DAY There had been a long line of reigning queens since 1890, and the Dutch celebrated accordingly with Queen’s Day on the 30th of April.

The government has made plans to reduce the country’s emissions of greenhouse gases to zero by 2050. It also hopes to ban petroland diesel-powered cars by 2030.

TALLEST NATION IN THE WORLD With an average height of 175.62cm, Dutch men are also the tallest globally, standing on average at 182.53cm.

LOTS OF WINDMILLS With over 1,000 on Dutch land, these mills allow for the use of wind to drain wetlands, grind grains, and even power a sawmill, such as the Molen de Otter in Amsterdam.

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At the Forefront of International Business We want to see an even bigger team Orange in this ruggedly beautiful part of Europe – and we hope to welcome more Dutch companies in the future

he Netherlands has always been at the forefront of international business. We are the third largest FDI player in the world.

And, in the past decade, the Netherlands has etched itself as a major investment player in the Serbian economy. I am very proud that the Dutch business community has been growing and transforming – something I have seen first-hand during my mandate.

Dutch companies are very much ingrained in Serbian everyday life.

With around 500 business employing almost 20,000 people in a variety of sectors, Dutch businesses include household names that almost every Serbian knows and uses, including Ahold-Delhaize (Maxi/ Tempo), KLM, Philips, KupujemProdajem, Heineken, Unilever and many more. Our bilateral trade has been strongly growing at an average of around 20% per year and last year surpassed the milestone of €1 billion.

But I feel this is just the tip of the iceberg. The potential to increase our cooperation is vast. The European Union is a big driver of economic opportunity through pre-accession funds and programmes like the Green Agenda. The impetus on green growth, infrastructure and energy diversification hit at the centre of Dutch competencies. The Embassy has been promoting opportunities in the renewable sector, waste, waste water treatment, port infrastructure and agriculture.

Agriculture, in particular, is in

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Dutch DNA. We are the second largest exporter of agriculture goods in the world, just after the US. This is quite a feat for a country that is less than half the area of Serbia. However, we clearly see opportunities in Serbia. The climate, fertile soil and skillful farmers are an excellent match for Dutch innovative solutions. We’ve exchanged knowledge on new berry varieties that don’t bruise easily, covered production (i.e. greenhouses) and sustainable farming. We promote the importance of cross-pollination of ideas and knowledge between scientific institutions, government and the private sector - the so-called "golden triangle" – and work with Serbian stakeholders to improve and modernize the agricultural sector.

We are now applying this knowledge exchange principle through a new initiative – Green Cities Serbia. Through a Dutch government programme called ‘Partners in Business’, we are supporting a consortium of Dutch companies from the urban landscaping sector to present sustainable and innovative solutions to Serbian cities and towns for greener and more livable cities. In fact, just in May this year, we completed a successful study visit to the Netherlands with city urbanists and decision-makers from around Serbia, which will hopefully result in some pretty neat green initiatives popping up around the country soon.

It is practical programmes like these that bring me joy. Solutions and knowledge that are easily trans-

COM M E N T

H.E. JOOST REINTJES Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

Agriculture, in particular, is in Dutch DNA. We are the second largest exporter of agriculture goods in the world, just after the US

ferrable and that can make an immediate impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.

I believe that there is potential for deepening our economic ties. It is my hope that the positive experiences of Dutch companies operating in Serbia can serve as a calling card for other companies to test out the market. The Dutch Serbian Business Association has also been doing its part to promote Serbia as place to do business.

Amid the current global challenges facing companies, including the war in Ukraine, the pandemic, and Brexit, the country is well positioned to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the near-shoring trend. With its cultural and geographic proximity, Serbia has the potential to attract companies looking to expand their footprints or simply move their supply chains closer to home.

However, there are also things that we would like to see Serbia continuing to work on, which would help it capitalize on its potential.

This includes accelerating the reform agenda, especially in the fields of rule of law, public administration and state owned enterprises.

Our continued goals as an Embassy are to support Serbia through its reform journey, but also to promote the country as a potential investment destination for Dutch businesses. We want to see an even bigger team Orange in this ruggedly beautiful part of Europe – and we hope to welcome more Dutch companies in the future.

SPECIAL EDITION

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Delhaize Serbia presented Sustainability Report 2021 Corporate social responsibility and sustainability as business imperatives in the 21st Century

C O R P O R AT E

business vision of the leading companies in the 21s t centur y includes a broader perspective of the future and setting long-term goals. Corporate social responsibility, with a focus on sustainability, is imperative today to contribute to the environment where a company operates. Delhaize Serbia is an example of such business operations, from care for e m p l o ye e s a n d c u s t o m e r s t o strengthening community relations. By implementing and respecting these values in the market of Serbia daily, the company contributes to the economy and society in general, investing resources in all segments, including digitalization.

Such an approach enables the identification of relevant issues and challenges in society.

In presenting its annual Sustainability Report 2021, this retail chain, which is the leader in the market, summed up initiatives, projects, contributions, and results in the areas of a healthier life, environmental protection, and support to the local community and employees. In the impressive atmosphere of King Petar’s House, the company pre-

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SPECIAL EDITION

sented to its partners and associates priorities and a strategic focus on continuous support for quality improvements at all levels, education, transparent communication, and care for the environment where we live and work by raising awareness and reducing unfavorable activities.

Specific initiatives and successes were achieved in collaboration with the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, where the company developed an original nutrition concept for animals aimed at improving their health, eliminating antibiotics in breeding, and achieving a positive impact on CO2 emission reduction.

Regarding fresh meat, the company is distinguished by investing in the safety of quality service and offering at favorable prices. By engaging in the entire process of fresh meat production and distribution, from farms to retail shelves, the company makes verified products available daily to its consumers. Thanks to the company’s collaboration upon the highest standards with local producers at more than 70 farms in Serbia, customers can rely on safety when selecting fresh meat of local origin in Maxi, Mega Maxi, Tem-

JAN-WILLEM DOCKHEER CEO of Delhaize Serbia

As a market leader, it is essential that we continue to be strong support for the country's economy and that we improve society and inspire it to a healthier life

po, and Shop&Go stores. Breeding, preparation, distribution, display, and offering of these products are strictly controlled and guided by the expertise of professional teams, which contributes to preserving their high nutritional values. On the other hand, successfully reducing pesticide residue in fruit and vegetables and setting standards for their control was achieved through various innovations, thanks to the company’s collaboration with the Faculty of Agriculture of Belgrade University and accredited laboratories.

A particular focus was also on raising awareness about the relevance of healthier life. Exceptional support to this topic was provided via the Nutri Score project, an investment of the company aimed at helping customers in education about what they consume daily.

Last year, this nutritive labeling system was successfully implemented on all packed products within the Delhaize Serbia private label. It represents a letter-based guide for moderate, balanced, healthier nutrition, thus developing and maintaining better habits and good immunity of customers.

"As a market leader, it is essential that we continue to be strong support for the country's economy and that we improve society and inspire it to a healthier life.

We are committed to the responsible management of surplus food; we contribute strongly to environmental protection, promote healthier choices, and support the local community with regular donations.

Through various programs for our associates, we are actively working to improve each individual's working conditions and personal development. The results and progress we can see in the Sustainability Report are a great responsibility for us to be an even better partner to the community, society, and people in the future, " said Jan-Willem Dockheer, CEO of Delhaize Serbia.

Day-to-day business operations must be environmentally friendly, in accordance with the global situation with the living environment and needs of the community and represent a decision for a sustainable future. In 2021, Delhaize Serbia used 80 percent of total power from green sources and continued implementing CO2 cooling systems and propane display cases in stores across the country. These investments, with the implementation of energy efficiency measures, reduced the total CO2 emission by 38 percent last year, which is beneficial from the global perspective. The company also recycled 13,000 tonnes of waste or 14 percent more than in 2020, and, within the initiative for responsible collection of hazardous

waste from consumers, 1,150 kilos of batteries was collected and forwarded for further treatment. These are the results of committed efforts and long-term investments, as the global retailer Ahold Delhaize decides to have all plastic within the private brand recyclable, compostable, or reusable by 2025, with a goal of total elimination of single-use plastic.

Such initiatives, in all business segments, have multiple benefits and a direct impact on future operations and survival.

Human resources are a primary value of this retail chain, and the company allocates special resources to support employees and strengthen its teams. As individuals advance, investments are made in their development and education – with the company growing on solid foundations. Almost 111,000 train-

Delhaize Serbia retained the title of the largest food donor of the Food Bank Belgrade

ing hours were provided for additional professional development of the workforce. Furthermore, three new development programs for leaders were completed for nearly 250 colleagues. The Mentorship Program was also successfully executed by providing high-quality education, inspiration, and support for further development.

Those in need are integral to Delhaize Serbia’s strategic focus and activities to improve the community. Therefore, the company donated 780 tonnes of fruit and vegetables to more than 78 charities with 14,000+ beneficiaries and 203 tonnes of fruit and vegetables for fodder in 2021 alone. Delhaize Serbia retained the title of the largest food donor of the Food Bank Belgrade. It continued to collaborate with this charity on systemic management of food surpluses by upgrading the donation system via the development of the digital Maxi platform “Plate by Plate.” With a donation of 200,000 euros to UNICEF, a transport vehicle and devices necessary for neonatal units in Kragujevac and Novi Sad were provided. A donation worth 50,000 euros was made to the Food Bank Belgrade for support in procuring a vehicle necessary for daily operations of the donor system and food delivery to end-users.

Through its long-term business decisions, Delhaize Serbia continues to strengthen its vision with constant investments and contributions, taking into account all factors of the environment and position of the society. The primary goal remains to strengthen the greenest possible image of the living and working environment, where healthier habits are available to many consumers, with supreme offering and service.

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We Expect More Investments From the Netherlands

The Netherlands tops the list of foreign investors in Serbia, investing over 4 billion euros in the previous ten years

I N T E RV I E W

ith excellent trade and investment results in S erbia, relations b e tween the Netherlands and Serbia remain at a high level.

We talked about that and the DSBA with Djordje Petrović, Executive Director of the Dutch-Serbian Business Association (DSBA).

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Last year’s trade between the Netherlands and Serbia amounted to 870.98 million euros. Which aspect of cooperation between the two countries is the best, i.e. what contributed the most to such a result?

— Few people know how strong the cooperation between the two countries is. In the previous five years, the trade between them amounted to more than 3 billion euros, with the last year’s trade amounting to almost 900 million. We hope that we will exceed a billion euros in trade annually. The Netherlands and Serbia have been cooperating in many different areas, but IT and agriculture take the lead.

Dutch investors have only praise Serbia. Are we going to see new Dutch investments this year as well, considering that the Netherlands top the list of foreign investors in the number of investments

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DJORDJE PETROVIĆ Executive Director of the Dutch-Serbian Business Association (DSBA)

The Netherlands ranks first on the foreign investor list in Serbia, investing over 4 billion euros in the previous ten years

in Serbia from 2010 to 2020?

— The Netherlands ranks first on the foreign investor list in Serbia, investing over 4 billion euros in the previous ten years. We were recently in The Hague where the Netherlands Enterprise Agency held a forum to present business opportunities in the Western Balkans. The Dutch Ambassador to Serbia, H.E. Joost Reintjes, had a presentation which showed some of the largest investments of Dutch companies in Serbia. Apart from me, the forum was attended by Emily Holland, Secretary-General of the DSBA, as well as Bojan Leković, President of the Board, who chaired the round table discussion, which attracted a lot of attention and during which we discussed the current great opportunities, as well as obstacles. Bearing in mind the great interest that was shown in the forum, as well as based on the successes of Dutch companies in Serbia so far, I am confident that we can expect more investments from the Netherlands in the future.

Given the ongoing war in Eastern Europe, how much do you think it will affect the cooperation between Serbia and the Netherlands?

— The war caused great disturbances on a global level and everyone is

feeling certain consequences. The cooperation between Serbia and the Netherlands will probably be affected in some way, not in the sense of hindered relations between the two countries, but due to the disruption of the supply chain, it may not be possible to produce certain products and subsequently trade in them. At this point, it is very difficult to say how many disruptions there could be. We all hope that the war will end as soon as possible and that things will return to normal to some extent.

Have you had new members joining the DSBA recently, given the crisis? What is the mood among the members?

— Only Dutch companies operating in Serbia and Serbian companies that already have economic ties with the Netherlands can become DSBA members. Therefore, our goal is not to have as many members as possible but to meet the needs of a narrowly defined target group in the best possible way. Despite the closed membership model we have, the number of our members has been going up year on year. Considering the unstable times we are living in at the moment, the mood of our members remains to be very

good and a positive atmosphere prevails despite everything.

What can Serbian companies expect from the Netherlands? What is the Dutch market looking for that our companies can offer?

— The Dutch market is very competitive and has leading global players in almost every industry operating in it. Nevertheless, we are confident that there is enough room for Serbian companies in the Dutch market. At the aforementioned forum in The Hague, we talked with the Serbian Ambassador to the Netherlands, H.E. Ksenija Milenković, and we plan to hold a business gathering where we could present certain Serbian companies and their offer to the Dutch market. We also plan to assemble the business community at that gathering, because, at such events, new ideas and new business ventures are often born through making acquaintances. We have been planning to do this for a very long time, so we hope that it will finally be feasible to hold such a gathering in the autumn.

Serbia and the Netherlands have had good economic relations and

We are confident that there is enough room for Serbian companies on the Dutch market

the desire to improve them. What do we need to work on to make our relations even better?

— We should work on deepening existing relations, presenting good examples from practice, connecting more political and business communities and getting better acquainted with our cultural differences. Everything we have accomplished so far in the cooperation between the two countries did not come overnight. A very large number of people have made a lot of effort to get us to where we are today,

as well as further improve the current situation. I would like to underline the great and dedicated work of the Dutch Embassy in Serbia, both now, helmed by Ambassador Joost Reintjes, and in the past. The continuity of their committed work is very important. I am sure that the Dutch Embassy in Serbia will continue to be one of the key drivers of improving existing relations and developing new ones between the two countries. We, as the DSBA, and individuals will try to help with that as much as possible.

CLICK ON ICON 

Dutch High School Student in Serbia Tom de Boer – Founder and Managing Director; H.E. Joost Reintjes, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Katarina Vinokić, High School Student on vwo5, Nehalennia in Middelburg

It is a great opportunity to start working from the Netherlands for the company in Serbia

C O R P O R AT E

atarina Vinokić, High School Student on vwo5, Nehalennia in Middelburg, is only 17 and got a chance to gain international experience in ESM company in Serbia. Her main task is to set up Social Media and assist in Marketing. ESM has only LinkedIn for a year and very recently, she created an Instagram account.

“I want to expand, both of these, together,

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with our news section on the ESM. We have been working more and more on our name recognition lately. Last year, we changed the name Todebo to ESM (European Strut & Support Manufacturer). As this is our main activity, we make the brand more recognizable for all companies and our future business partners.

For me, the recent construction fair SEEBBE in Belgrade, opened by the Dutch Ambas-

sador H.E. Joost Reintjes, was a highlight.

It was ESM's first time at a Serbian exhibition where we promoted our product range in the Balkans”, said Katarina and pointed out: “Due to the growth in construction projects in the Balkans, in which our strut and supports are needed for all HVAC & E installations, we expect a lot from the contacts we have made there”. www.esm.rs ; Phone: +381 22671543.

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Green Cities in Serbia: Global Challenges, Dutch Solutions

One of the main ambitions in that strategy is to have 25% of green areas in Serbian cities by 2030. The strategy has been further elaborated in an action plan, outlining a comprehensive and integral program of steps to be taken to get there

I N T E RV I E W

he transition towards green urban areas provides opportunities for the private sector. To make the most of these, seven Dutch companies and the Netherlands Embassy in Serbia joined forces in the PIB-funded Green Cities Serbia-project. We talked to Hans Buster, the project coordinator.

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Hans, can you tell us a bit about the transition Serbian urban areas are going through at the moment?

— Cities in Serbia are rapidly changing. A lot of real estate is being developed and infrastructure projects are being implemented all around the country. It’s quite the building boom. Take Belgrade for example, the city is visibly changing. The skyline looks different every other month and new constructions are popping up like mushrooms.

Serbian authorities – aware of the importance of sustainable and livable cities – are making sure that this rapid transition is in fact a green one. Driving force behind that is the

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government strategy and the aim to have 25% of green area in Serbian cities by 2030. Serbia has furthermore adopted the EU green agenda, which in essence is an agreement with the EU to tackle a broad range of sustainability issues in the Western Balkans, which comes with significant funding opportunities. One of the aims of the Green Agenda is in fact to make urban environments more climate resilient. Other international partners like the World Bank have also freed up financial resources to support that goal. So both ambition and money are driving change.

Our project partners are working with all stakeholders to help turning ambition into reality, making sure that the most sustainable and innovative solutions are being implemented.

In December 2020, a group of Dutch companies decided to join forces and make the most out of these economic opportunities.

How did that come about?

HANS BUSTER Program Coordinator of Green Cities Serbia-project

The Balkans are very connected and there are plenty of opportunities to expand regionally

— Actually it all started in 2019 when several Dutch companies worked together on the construction of a new shopping mall with a lot of greenery, from interior greenery to green roofs and outdoor green walls. The successful cooperation during that project led to a greenery conference organized by the Dutch Embassy in Belgrade and my landscaping company Vita Verde, where these Dutch companies came to speak with investors, architects, general contractors and other interested parties.

The experience was so positive from all sides, that when the Agricultural Attaché Network (LAN) colleagues at the Embassy proposed to join forces in a Partners for International Business (PIB) project, everyone enthusiastically contributed to make that happen and at the end of 2020 we kicked off the project.

And what Dutch knowledge and innovation does the consortium offer that isn’t on the market here in Serbia? Why the Dutch?

— The Dutch go all the way - from idea generation and planning to execution of landscaping projects.

The project partners are global leaders and each bring their own expertise to the table; landscape architecture and urban design; nurseries with the top quality planting materials (each with their own focus and know-how); companies with innovative products that improve tree pits and protect the surrounding infrastructure; companies that produce smart utility and green roof systems.

We present solutions that can perform well in all weather conditions, even in the difficult Serbian climate, with very hot summers and cold winters. In short, the Dutch offer the “full package”. From urban and landscaping design to innovative infrastructure solutions.

And is it working? What are you main successes so far?

— Although the start of program was challenging because of COVID, we are now well on our way.

We have participated in an important trade fair in Belgrade and just came back from an excellent study visit of Serbian urbanists and decision makers to the Netherlands,

where we showcased best practices throughout the country and visited the Floriade.

And our efforts are paying off. I am proud to share that during the past year we have started and even finished projects like a new retail park in Belgrade with almost 25.000 plants and trees, several shopping malls and other commercial and residential complexes. While we are currently working on a roof gardens and vertical gardens for the new flagship store of a big supermarket chain. We are also in the process of negotiating several new projects and partnerships throughout the country.

Looking ahead, how do you see this sector develop in the next couple of years? And what would be the role of your company and/ or the consortium in these expected developments?

— With the combination of ambitious strategies, funds and development in both the private and the public sector, I believe Serbia continues to offer a lot of opportunities for the project and for the whole Dutch sector. As a general manager of Vita Verde, a local company, we are on top of all the latest devel-

opments and can respond quickly. At the same time, the cluster of Dutch companies provides all the support for the Serbian stakeholders, making us a very strong team in the market. To keep the momentum going and expand our activity portfolio, we are planning further activities in the second half of 2022 like a trade mission and a “Green Symposium” in Serbia.

Our project partners are working with all stakeholders to help turning ambition into reality, making sure that the most sustainable and innovative solutions are being implemented

Finally, any plans to expand further in the region?

— The Balkans are very connected and there are plenty of opportunities to expand regionally. Through our partnerships, we are receiving more and more requests from neighboring countries. We are already working on several pro jects in Montenegro and have experience in working on projects in Greece and North Macedonia.

The strength of the PIB-project in general and the cluster of companies working on Green Cities Serbia specifically, is the great cooperation and the willingness to help each other and our local partners.

With that in mind, I am certain we will deepen our cooperation and consequently also further expand geographically.

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Overall Trade With the Netherlands Growing In order to attract even more investments from the Netherlands, Serbia needs to work on promoting its economy and economic potential through various seminars and workshops in cooperation with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce

C O O P E R AT I O N

ccording to the latest available data from the State Statistics Office (SSO), the total trade in goods with the Netherlands in the first quarter of 2022 amounted to 251.2 million euros, which is a 19% growth compared to the same observed period in 2021. Our exports increased by 4% and amounted to 100.5 million euros. Serbia still has a deficit in trading with the Netherlands in the amount of 50.2 million euros. The export to import ratio stands at 66.7%.

The total trade in goods with the Netherlands in 2021 amounted to 871 million euros, an 11% hike relative to 2020. Our exports went up by 2% compared to 2020 and stood at 376.6 million euros. In 2021, Serbia also recorded a deficit in trading with the Netherlands to the amount of 117.8 million euros. The export to import ratio was 76.2%.

In the first quarter of 2022, Serbia mostly exported the following to the Netherlands – circulation pumps for heating systems; protein concentrates without milk fat; excavators; frozen raspberries without added sugar; ships and vessels for transporting goods and passengers;

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The largest number of Dutch companies in Serbia are engaged in wholesale and retail trade and repair of motor vehicles

cigarettes; centrifugal pumps, single-stage, for other purposes; parts and accessories for motor vehicles (8701-8705); raw soybean oil, including degummed and other types centrifugal pumps, multilevel, for other purposes (source: SSO).

In the first quarter of 2022, Serbia mostly imported the following from the Netherlands – unclassified goods according to the customs tariff (stored); medication for retail sale; tobacco extracts and juices; polyether alcohols in primary forms; tire shaping or retreading machines; rubber or plastics processing machinery; tobacco, stringy, lightly dried in the air; styrene; poly methylene phenyl isocyanate (crude MDI) and dryers (source: SSO).

According to the data collated by the Serbian Business Register Agency, Dutch citizens and legal entities based in the Netherlands have found 511 active companies in Serbia as of May 6, 2022.

The largest number of these companies are engaged in wholesale and retail trade and repair of motor vehicles, while the least number of them are active in agriculture, forestry and fishing.

Economic cooperation between the Republic of Serbia and the Kingdom of the Netherlands is carried out in several sectors - agriculture, metal processing industry, renewable energy sources and IT. There are numerous initiatives from both the Dutch and Serbian sides for further improvement of economic cooperation, through cooperation and investments in the food industry, chemical industry, production of building materials, wood industry and furniture production, mechanical and metal-processing industry, transport and logistics, textile industry and high technologies especially in the field of services, where good relations have already been established that should now be nurtured and deepened, with the aim of joint entry into third markets, and with an emphasis on the sector of programming in production processes, transport and the automotive industry. In order to attract even more investments from the Netherlands, Serbia needs to work on promoting its economy and economic potential through various seminars and workshops in cooperation with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce.

THE NETHERLANDS

Increase of Jobs

ECONOM Y

The Netherlands’ economic freedom score is 79.5, making its economy the 8th freest in the 2022 Index.

The Netherlands is ranked 5th among 45 countries in the Europe region, and its overall score is above the regional and world averages, by 2022 Index of economic freedom

he economy of the Netherlands is the 17th largest in the world in 2021 (in terms of Gross domestic product; GDP) according to the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. Its GDP per capita was estimated at $57,101 in the fiscal year 2019/20, which makes it one of the highest-earning nations in the world (see list of countries by GDP (PPP) per capita).

The Netherlands’ economy expanded by 0.4 percent on quarter in the three months to March 2022, compared to a preliminary estimate of a flat reading, after a downwardly revised 0.7 percent gain in the previous period. It was the weakest growth in the GDP since the first quarter 2021, as household consumption grew softer (1.5% vs

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3.6%), while government spending fell by 0.6%, reversing sharply from a 5.2% rise in Q4 2021. At the same time, fixed investment contracted by 0.3%, while exports and imports declined by 0.3% and 0.4%, respectively. On a yearly basis, the GDP advanced by 6.7 percent, lower than the preliminary figure of a 7% rise, and following a downwardly revised 6.2 percent expansion in the previous quarter as written on Statistics Netherlands. On the one hand, the adjustment is the result of new, more complete data for the first quarter of 2022 and, on the other, of adjustments to the annual figures for 2020 and 2021 and the reconciliation of the quarterly estimates with these new annual figures. This is done every year in June. Based on additional and updated informa-

The second estimate shows that the number of employee and self-employed jobs increased by 109 thousand in Q1 2022 compared to Q4 2021

tion, a new quarterly distribution for care has also been used for the quarters of 2020 and 2021, according to CBS. The s econd e stimate shows that the number of employee and self-employed jobs increased by 109 thousand in Q1 2022 compared to Q4 2021. The first estimate suggested an increase of 127 thousand jobs.

Relative to Q1 2021, the second estimate for Q1 2022 further suggested an increase of 537 thousand employee and self-employed jobs compared to the same quarter in 2021, versus 518 thousand according to the first estimate as sad on CBS Netherlands.

According to RaboBank, the labor force participation rate was at an all-time high in the Netherlands and the number of job openings per unemployed person is at its highest point ever. In almost every sector, companies say they are experiencing staff shortages. We expect the tightness in the labor market to continue for the rest of this year and for the unemployment rate to average 3.3 percent this year.

The Netherlands’ economic freedom score is 79.5, making its economy the 8th freest in the 2022 Index. The Netherlands is ranked 5th among 45 countries in the Europe region, and its overall score is above the regional and world averages, by 2022 Index of economic freedom.

FOCUS

Dutch Aviation Leads Strive for Netzero Emission

The aviation sector is responsible for two percent of the CO2 emissions at a global level and seven percent of the emissions in the Netherlands. Worldwide, the demand for aviation doubles every fifteen years. People like to explore the world, travel for business, or meet family and friends. To facilitate this growth, natural resources and materials are needed.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines introduced its Fly Responsibly sustainability initiative in 2019, directed at transforming KLM into a more sustainable airline. In addition to fleet renewal, scaling-up production and use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) form the cornerstone of KLM’s approach.

For the first time worldwide, a passenger flight partly flown on sustainably produced synthetic kerosene was carried out in The Netherlands in February 2021. Since then, the Netherlands aviation sector leads the country’s striving to reach net-zero emissions in 2050.

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Portraits, Self-portraits and Flowers

Van Gogh's works are among the world's most expensive paintings to have ever sold, and his legacy is honoured by a museum in his name, the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam

C U LT U R E

utch Post-Impressionist painter Vincent Willem van Gogh (1863 – 1850) posthumously became one of the most famous and influential figures in Western art history. In a decade, he created about 2,100 artworks, including around 860 oil paintings, most of which date from the last two years of his life. His early works, mostly still lifes and depictions of peasant labourers, contain few signs of the vivid colour that distinguished his later work. In 1886, he moved to Paris where he met members of the avant-garde, including Émile Bernard and Paul Gauguin, who were reacting against the Impressionist sensibility. As his work developed he created a new approach to still

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life and landscape. His paintings grew brighter as he developed a style that became fully realised during his stay in Arles in the South of France in 1888. During this period he broadened his subject matter to include series of olive trees, wheat fields and sunflowers.

Van Gogh suffered from psychotic episodes and delusions and though he worried about his mental stability. His depression persisted and Van Gogh is believed to have shot himself in the chest with a revolver, dying from his injuries two days later. Van Gogh's paintings did not sell during his lifetime, during which he was generally considered a madman and a failure, although some collectors recognised the value of his work. His fame came only

His early works, mostly still lifes and depictions of peasant labourers, contain few signs of the vivid colour that distinguished his later work

after his death, when he evolved in the public imagination into a misunderstood genius. His reputation grew in the early 20th century as elements of his style came to be incorporated by the Fauves and German Expressionists. He attained widespread critical and commercial success over the ensuing decades, and is remembered as an important but tragic painter whose troubled personality typifies the romantic ideal of the tortured artist.

Today, Van Gogh's works are among the world's most expensive paintings to have ever sold, and his legacy is honoured by a museum in his name, the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, which holds the world's largest collection of his paintings and drawings.

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T R A DI T ION

Cheese Under the Spotlight

Like most cheeses, it is commonly eaten on crackers and bread, and may be eaten with crackers following the main course of a meal as a dessert of "cheese and biscuits" dam is a semi-hard cheese that originated in the Netherlands, and is named after the town of Edam in the province of North Holland. Edam is traditionally sold in flat-ended spheres with a pale yellow interior and a coat, or rind, of red paraffin wax. Edam ages and travels well, and does not spoil; it only hardens. These qualities (among others) made it the world's most popular cheese between the 14th and 18th centuries, both at sea and in remote colonies.

Mild Edam goes well with fruit such as peaches, melons, apricots, and cherries. Aged Edam is often eaten with traditional "cheese

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Mild Edam goes well with fruit such as peaches, melons, apricots, and cherries

fruits" like pears and apples. Like most cheeses, it is commonly eaten on crackers and bread, and may be eaten with crackers following the main course of a meal as a dessert of "cheese and biscuits". Pinot gris, dry Riesling, semidry Riesling, sparkling wine, Chardonnay, and Shi-

raz/Syrah are some recommended wines to accompany this cheese.

Edam has been treated dramatically and humorously in a variety of cultural art forms. In the novel All Quiet on the Western Front, the main character believes its red outer covering is a sign of impending death. It is a wine aroma nuance in Sideways and an object of desire in the animated film Shopper 13. Edam is a seriocomic pivot in the Australian film Three Dollars. Actor Jason Flemyng advertised Edam in the UK. Edam was tested by MythBusters in episode 128 for its putative suitability as cannon ammunition against a ship's sail, but it bounced off the sail without damaging it.

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TOURISM

Most Visited Museums in the Netherlands In 2019, the Van Gogh Museum launched the Meet Vincent Van Gogh Experience, a technology-driven "immersive exhibition" on Van Gogh's life and works, which has toured globally

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he Anne Frank House is a writer's house and biographical museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. The building is located on a canal called the Prinsengracht, close to the Westerkerk, in central Amsterdam in the Netherlands. During World War II, Anne Frank hid from Nazi persecution with her family and four other people in hidden rooms, in the rear building, of the 17th-century canal house, later known as the Secret Annex. She did not survive the war but her wartime diary was published in 1947. Ten years later the Anne Frank Foundation was established to protect the property from developers who wanted to demolish the block.

It’s not suprising that the Van Gogh Museum has been number one of the most visited museums for some time. You’ll find the largest collection of works by Vincent van

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Gogh in the world. The Van Gogh Museum is in the Museum Square in Amsterdam South, close to the Stedelijk Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and the Concertgebouw. The museum opened on 2 June 1973, and its buildings were designed by Gerrit Rietveld and Kisho Kurokawa.

The museum contains the largest collection of Van Gogh's paintings and drawings in the world. In 2017, the museum had 2.3 million visitors and was the most-visited museum in the Netherlands, and the 23rd-most-visited art museum in the world. In 2019, the Van Gogh Museum launched the Meet Vincent Van Gogh Experience, a technology-driven "immersive exhibition" on Van Gogh's life and works, which has toured globally.

In the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam the impressive collection is spread over more than 200 rooms and masterpieces by masters like

Art lover admire the painting in Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum

Vermeer and Rembrandt. The Rijksmuseum is the national museum of the Netherlands dedicated to Dutch arts and history and is located in Amsterdam. The museum is located at the Museum Square in the borough of Amsterdam South, close to the Van Gogh Museum, the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, and the Concertgebouw. The Rijksmuseum was founded in The Hague on 19 November 1798 and moved to Amsterdam in 1808, where it was first located in the Royal Palace and later in the Trippenhuis. The current main building was designed by Pierre Cuypers and first opened in 1885. On 13 April 2013, after a tenyear renovation which cost € 375 million, the main building was reopened by Queen Beatrix. In 2013 and 2014, it was the most visited museum in the Netherlands with record numbers of 2.2 million and 2.47 million visitors. It is also the largest art museum in the country.

Next, Zaanse Schans is a neigh-

bourhood of Zaandam, near Zaandijk, Netherlands. It is best known for its collection of windmills and wooden houses that were relocated here from the wider region north of Amsterdam for preservation. From 1961 to 1974, old buildings from all over the region known as the Zaanstreek were relocated using lowboy trailers to the Zaanse Schans. Two of the windmills in the Zaanse Schans are preserved in their original site where they were first constructed, and therefore don't make up part of the relocated structures. The Zaans Museum, established in 1994, near the first Zaanse Schans windmill, is located south of the neighbourhood. This architectural reserve for Zaanse timber construction is a protected village scene because of its architectural-historical and landscape value. It developed into an international tourist destination with several million visitors every year: in 2016, there were 1.8 million, in 2017 – 2.2 million.

Than, there is Escher in Het Paleis. It is a museum in The Hague, Netherlands, featuring the works of the Dutch graphical artist M. C. Escher. It is housed in the Lange Voorhout Palace since November 2002.

In 2015 it was revealed that many of the prints on display at the museum

were replicas, scanned from original prints and printed onto the same type of paper used by Escher, rather than original Escher prints as they had been labeled. The museum is housed in a former royal residence dating back to the eighteenth century. Queen Emma bought the stately house in 1896. She used it as a winter palace from March 1901 till her death in March 1934. It was used by four subsequent Dutch queens for their business offices, until Queen Beatrix moved the office to Paleis Noordeinde. The first and second floors have exhibitions showing the royal period of the palace, highlighting Queen Emma's residence.

Finally, The Mauritshuis is an art museum in The Hague, Netherlands. The museum houses the Royal Cabinet of Paintings which consists of 854 objects, mostly Dutch Golden Age paintings. The collection contains works by Johannes Vermeer, Rembrandt van Rijn, Jan Steen, Paulus Potter, Frans Hals, Jacob van Ruisdael, Hans Holbein the Younger, and others. Originally, the 17th century building was the residence of count John Maurice of Nassau. It is now the property of the government of the Netherlands and is listed in the top 100 Dutch heritage sites.

The Rijksmuseum is the national museum of the Netherlands dedicated to Dutch arts and history and is located in Amsterdam Anne Frank house and holocaust museum in Amsterdam

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PEOPLE & EVENTS

14 JUNE

FRANCE HONOURS MIKI MANOJLOVIĆ

Famous Serbian actor Miki Manojlović was bestowed with the title of the Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters at a ceremony in Belgrade. On behalf of the French Ministry of Culture, the medal was presented by the French Ambassador to Serbia, H.E. Pierre Cochard, who praised Miki Manojlović for his tireless devotion to bringing France and Ser-

H.E. Pierre Cochard

14 JUNE

PORTUGAL DAY CELEBRATED IN BELGRADE

bia, as well as the Western Balkan countries, closer. At the reception held at the French Embassy, Miki Manojlović addressed guests in French and told them that culture and creativity were the foundation and often lost keys of the world.

He added that France was always a beacon of culture and a bastion of the fight against mediocrity.

Miki Manojlović and H.E. Pierre Cochard

Portugal Day is celebrated annually on 10th June. The Embassy of Portugal to Serbia hosted a reception in Belgrade on the Day of Portugal or Camões, the official name of the event. H. E. Ms Virginia Mendes da

Silva Pina addressed distinguished guests from Serbia’s public and cultural life and members of the diplomatic corps, speaking about the importance of the national day for Portugal’s community.

H.E. Emanuele Giaufret,Head of the Delegation of European Union to the Republic of Serbia and H.E. Ilir Boçka, Ambassador of Albania in Serbia

H. E. Ms Virginia Mendes da Silva Pina

16 JUNE

BELGIAN NIGHT IN BELGRADE

In honour of H.E. Koen Adam, outgoing ambassador of Belgium to Serbia, the Belgium-Serbian Business Association (BSBA) hosted a farewell reception. The Belgian

Hugo van Veghel, Chairman of the Belgian-Serbian Business Association , Robert Čoban, CPG and H.E. Koen Adam

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Night was held at IN Hotel in Belgrade with many diplomats, business representatives, and cultural and public persons in attendance.

H.E. Koen Adam and Hugo van Veghel, Chairman of the BSBA

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PEOPLE & EVENTS

16 JUNE

ASIAN SUMMER DELICACIES

On June 16th, 2022, the embassies of Indonesia, Japan, and Korea in Serbia jointly hosted the Summer Delicacies cultural and culinary event. The delicacies from the three Asian countries were presented to numerous guests at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Belgrade. The event was opened

with speeches of the three Ambassadors (in alphabetical order) – H.E. Mochammad Chandra Widya Yudha, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia, H.E. Takahiko Katsumata, Ambassador of Japan, and H.E. Jaewoong Lee, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea.

H.E. Jaewoong Lee, Ivica Dačić, The Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia, H.E. Mochammad Chandra and H.E. Takahiko Katsumata

21 JUNE

SLOVAK JUNIALES PARTY IN BELGRADE

The Embassy of the Slovak Republic to Serbia organized the First Slovak Juniales Garden Party in Belgrade. This specific event was aimed to provide an informal exchange of views and a bit of relaxation at the height of June’s core conferences, enriched by the traditional Slovak folklore music

H.E. Annika Ben David, Ambassador of Sweden

22 JUNE

SLOVENIAN STATEHOOD DAY CELEBRATED IN BELGRADE

and dance, along with samples of typical Slovak food and wine. H. E. Mr. Fedor Rosocha, ambassador of the Slovak Republic, and his wife, Mrs. Jana Rosochova, joined by people wearing Slovak national costumes, welcomed many distinguished guests.

H. E. Mr. Fedor Rosocha with his wife Mrs. Jana Rosochova

H.E. Pierre Cochard, the French ambassador

Slovenian Statehood Day is a holiday celebrated annually on 25 June to commemorate the country's declaration of independence from Yugoslavia in 1991. On that occasion, the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia to Serbia hosted the recep-

tion at the famous Kalemegdanska Terasa restaurant, with many diplomats, government officials, business people, media representatives, and distinguished guests from the cultural and public life of Serbia in attendance.

H.E. Jørn Eugen Gjelstad, Norwegian Ambassador, H.E. Thomas Schieb,German Ambassador with his wife and H.E. Yahel Vilan, Ambassador of Israel

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PEOPLE & EVENTS

23 JUNE

23 JUNE

24 JUNE

FIC NETWORKING COCKTAIL RECEPTION – LET’S WELCOME SUMMER TOGETHER

"MILENA PAVLOVIĆ BARILLI: ONE PAINTER, 15 PHOTOGRAPHERS, 30 WORKS OF ART"

Together with our distinguished member MARSH, FIC Serbia opened the cocktail season and organized the first FIC networking cocktail reception in the year when we celebrate our 20th birthday. “It has been a long and challenging path of continuous active work of all our members in developing a predictable, competitive, and sustainable business environment and

promoting Serbia as a great place to invest. We have managed to keep our members together in these difficult times for all of us, and this is an opportunity to thank them for it,” said Aleksandar Ljubić, the executive director of the Council, adding that the FIC is proud of the great work the committees did in the past year.

A conceptual exhibition dedicated to the great artist Milena Pavlović Barilli titled "Milena Pavlović Barilli: One painter, 15 photographers, 30 works of art" was officially opened on June 23, 2022, at the Italian Institute of Culture in Belgrade, in the presence of numerous guests. The tribute to the inimitable Milena was held under the auspices of the Republic of Serbia’s

Ministry of Culture and Information and in cooperation with the Milena Pavlović Barilli Gallery, the Italian Institute for Culture in Belgrade and DDOR Osiguranje. The exhibition features 15 contemporary Serbian photographers who contributed to Milena's creative oeuvre. The exhibition will be open until September 15, 2022, at the Italian Institute of Culture in Belgrade.

BENEDICTION PRAYER IN BELGRADE ON THE NATIONAL DAY OF MALTA

National Day of Malta is celebrated every year, on the 24th of June. This year’s celebration of the National Day was cancelled and instead, a commemorative reception for His Excellency the Lieutenant of the Grand Master, Fra’

H.E. Alberto Di Luca, Ambassador of the Sovereign Order of Malta with guests

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H.E. Archbishop of Belgrade, Stanislav Hočevar

Marco Luzzago was held, who passed away on June 7, 2022. H.E. Archbishop of Belgrade Stanislav Hočevar gave the benediction and paid tribute to St. John the Baptist during the commemoration.

Vincenzo SPIRITO, Secretariat of the Head of Mission at the Italian Embassy

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PEOPLE & EVENTS

25 JUNE

AFRO FESTIVAL IN THE MUSEUM OF AFRICAN ART

The Museum of African Art’s AFRO FESTIVAL 2022 was held in Belgrade on 25th June. Many visitors, both from Belgrade and other cities, enjoyed seeing interesting cultural events and entertainment created around African art, culture, and heritage. The most festive part of the weekend was the Durbar programme, which took place on Sun-

day, 26th June, the day of friendship, music and dance. This programme was supported by many embassies from numerous African nations to Serbia, including Algeria, Angola, Egypt, Congo, Libya, Morocco, and Tunisia, as well as consulates of Namibia and Jamaica. The Festival’s official host was the Embassy of the Republic of Angola to Serbia.

Ambassadors of African countries with the director of the Museum of African Art's , Marija Aleksić

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JUNE

ANADA DAY IS AN C OPPORTUNITY TO REFLECT ON THE PAST

On the occasion of Canada Day, the Canadian Ambassador to Serbia, H.E. Giles Norman, hosted a reception at the official residence at 33, Užička Street in Belgrade on June 29th. “Canada Day is an opportunity to reflect on the past, but also to take a moment now

H.E. Giles Norman

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JUNE

FOURTH OF JULY TRADITIONALLY CELEBRATED IN BELGRADE

to envision a better future for all.”, said the ambassador. Canada Day commemorates the anniversary of the Constitution Act, which consolidated three territories into the single nation of Canada, way back in 1867, and is traditionally celebrated annually on 1st July.

H.E. Christopher R. Hill, US Ambassador and H.E. Giles Norman with their wives

Independence Day, or the Fourth of July, was celebrated in Belgrade at the residence of the US ambassador to Serbia, H.E. Christopher Hill. This federal holiday marks the most important day in US history when on July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was ratified by the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia. “Our friends in Serbia, we want to understand you better. We look forward to building long-term relations based on our shared

Ana Brnabić, Maja Gojković and Aleksandar Vučić

values and common interests. We want to be friends; we want to be partners, and, depending on your determinations in the future, we want to be allies,” Ambassador Hill said in his speech to all distinguished guests. The reception was attended by the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, Prime Minister Ana Brnabić, Speaker of the National assembly of the Republic of Serbia, Ivica Dačić and many others.

H.E. Christopher Hill and Ivica Dačić

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PEOPLE & EVENTS

01 JULY

A FRIENDSHIP THAT LASTS FOR 140 YEARS

H.E. Takahiko Katsumata, Ambassador of Japan to Serbia, hosted a reception on the occasion of the jubilee of Japanese-Serbian relations. The reception was held at the Ambassador’s residence in Belgrade with many dignitaries, including Mr Aleksandar Vučić, President of the Republic of Serbia, and Ana Brnabić, Serbian Prime Minister, in attendance. In his speech, Ambassador Takahiko spoke highly of the Serbian nation and its ancestors, who greatly contribut-

H.E. Takahiko Katsumata and Zoran Djordjević, Acting Director of the PE Post of Serbia

01 JULY

KOREAN EMBASSY’S ANNUAL RECEPTION FOR ECONOMIC PARTNERS

Ana Brnabić, Aleksandar Vučić and H.E. Takahiko Katsumata

On Friday, 1st July, Korean Embassy hosted its traditional annual reception for the economic partners at Ambassador’s residence. Despite the hot weather, more than one hundred guests, including Minister of Economy Andjelka Atanasković and CE of the Post of Serbia, Zoran Djordjević, enjoyed refreshments and traditional Korean food. In his welcoming remarks, the Korean Ambassador to Serbia, H.E. Jaewoong Lee, thanked everyone for their cooperation and for help-

H.E. Jaewoong Lee, Andjelka Atanasković, Minister of Economy and the wife of the Korean ambassador

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JULY

CELEBRATION OF A DOUBLE JUBILEE

ed to the betterment of Japanese-Serbian relations. Prime Minister Brnabić said that celebrating such a jubilee, 140 years of friendship and political, social and economic relations, was a great pleasure. Diplomatic relations between Serbia and Japan date back to 1882 when Serbian king Milan Obrenović and Japanese emperor Meiji started the first diplomatic correspondence. The PM also said that Japanese companies and investors will always be welcomed in Serbia.

ing boost economic cooperation between Serbia and Korea. He also took the opportunity to praise the upward trend in trading between the two countries, both in scope and volume, and to announce Korea-Serbia Business Forum in September. His Excellency also spoke about Korean companies in Serbia and their further investments. He also spoke about the candidacy of the city of Busan, Korea, to host Expo 2030 in the Serbian language, which delighted all the guests.

H.E. Jaewoong Lee

With the opening of the exhibition of archival documents of the Serbian-Algerian cooperation, on Saturday, July 2, 2022, in the gallery of the municipality of Vračar, in cooperation with the Archives of Yugoslavia and the Municipality of Vračar, the Embassy of Algeria in Serbia began the celebration of a double jubilee - the 60th anniversary of Al-

gerian independence and the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Serbia and Algeria. The ceremony was attended by representatives of cultural institutions, the diplomatic corps, members of the Society of Friends of Algeria, and Algerian students studying in Serbia.

H.E. Fatah Mahraz, Ambassador of Algeria to Serbia

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CORPORATE

Bekament Invests 12 Million Euros in the New Factory Plants Bekament Company opened a new factory for XPS (Extruded polystyrene ) production in Aranđelovac and launched two new production lines within the liquid program plant, and also marked 30 years of successful business

he renowned Bekament Company, one of the most technologically advanced companies for the production of finishing materials in construction, has officially launched a new factory for the production of XPS and two new production lines within the liquid program plant.

With investments totalling 12 million euros, the Company further strengthened its market position and justified its reputation as a leader in this part of Southeast Europe.

The new XPS factory ranks is one of the most modern facility in Europe with an automated work process. It is an investment of 8 million euro, and the annual production capacity of the factory will amount to 250,000 cubic meters. The launch of the new plant enabled the creation of 40 new jobs within the company.

A significant contribution to the realization of this large project is made by the Ministry of Economy, which provided Bekament with incentive funds in the amount of 867,934 euro.

In addition to the above, the company Bekament has invested in the factory of the liquid program, expanding the existing capacities by putting into operation two new lines for the production of facade plaster and BK-Pol paint for interior walls.

With a given investment of 4 million euro, Bekament will be able to produce 70 tons of liquid products per hour with an annual production capacity of 150 thousand tons and thus, raising the standard of delivery speed and quality of service, fully meet the needs of distributors / customers.

"By continuously investing in new factory plants and expanding the network of business partners, Bekament is strengthening its market position year by year and recording a growth of 20 percent, contributing to the stability of the Serbian economy and em-

T

ployment rate, since, when we opened new plants, we also created 40 new jobs", said Aleksandar Čolović, owner of Bekament.

During the ceremony marking the opening of the new factory plants, press statements were made by the Minister of Economy, Anđelka Atanasković, and the

owner and CEO of the company Bekament, Dejan Čolović.

"Bekament company is a true example of an excellent family business and their success is very important for the domestic economy. The Ministry of Economy always helps domestic companies in order for their growth and the

THE COMPANY REGISTERS A 20% TURNOVER GROWTH, CONTRIBUTING TO THE STABILITY OF THE SERBIAN ECONOMY, AS WELL AS EMPLOYMENT RATES

growth of the state, but also for providing new jobs for our children to stay in Serbia.", said Minister Atanasković.

"Over the past 30 years, the Bekament company has invested around 100 million euro in the factory and plants itself. We will continue to invest in the development of the company and the Serbian economy, and we plan to expand our already rich portfolio to even more European Union markets. I would like to thank the Ministry of Economy for recognizing Bekament as one of the pillars of the domestic economy and for the contribution that is significant both morally and financially", said Dejan Čolović, owner and CEO of Bekament.

The current year is also the year of the jubilee, when Bekament celebrates 30 years of its successful business.

Since its founding in 1992, Bekament has transformed into a strong domestic company with state-of-the-art factory facilities and a portfolio of over 250 products, which it markets in over 10 markets in the region and the European Union. Over 500 employees are responsible for the Bekament company’s business success.

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BUSINESS NEWS

03 01

5 YEARS ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION 2 AND GRADUATION CEREMONY

On Sunday, 12 June, the BIS celebrated its 25th Anniversary at the White Palace in Belgrade. On this special occasion, the Guest of Honour was HRH Prince Alexander Karadjordjevic. All the guests including members of Corps Diplomatique and foreign business representatives, families of the students and friends of BIS enjoyed the musical performances by Sophia S, Pavel M and Ziva W. as well as valedictory speeches by student and parent representatives.

The peek of the evening was the Graduation Ceremony where the Graduating Class of 2022 received their BIS High School Diplomas. Special awards from the Council of British International Schools (COBIS), European Council of International Schools (ECIS), as well as the internal Jonathan Rider Award for Academic Excellence were presented to several Secondary and Primary students.

The evening was crowned by a cocktail party at the White Palace garden. Everyone had an enjoyable time, and a number of parents were proud of the accomplishments of their sons and daughters during their time at BIS.

02

The second embroiders’ colony that was held from June 16-18 in the Celtic Village in Indjija, gathered skilled embroiderers from Sremska Mitrovica, Loznica, Leskovac, Pančeva, Paracin, Valjevo, Bela Palanka, Novi Pazar and Veliko Gradiste.

The participants worked on the motives of Srem and celtic motives, and in addition to practical work and lectures, they had the

04

" CUSTOMERS-PRODUCERS OF ELECTRICITY IN SERBIA: STATUS AND PROSPECTS"

On June 23, 2022, at the IN Hotel in Belgrade, the Slovenian Business Club and the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia organized a panel discussion entitled: "Customers-producers of electricity in Serbia: status and prospects", in which they participated Ms Jovanka Atanacković, State Secretary in the Ministry of Mining and Energy of the Republic of Serbia, Mr Đorđe Popović, director of Resalta d.o.o. Belgrade as a moderator of the discussion, Mr Predrag Matić, Director of Department for planning and investments at Elektrodistribucija Srbije, Mr. Danijel Stojanović, Large Customers Division Director at NLB Komercijalna banka and Mr. Draško Maksimović, Head of Network Construction at A1 Srbija d.o.o.

The event itself brought together a

M&PARTNERS: A RISING STAR AMONG O BELGRADE'S COMMERCIAL LAW FIRMS

OM&Partners presented itself to the Belgrade business community in the beautiful House of King Petar I. Miluša Okiljević, founder and managing partner, especially thanked all those present and her team.

"We are not lawyers who will send a comprehensive opinion listing risks and reasons for not implementing some business idea. Our job is to find a way, and I really believe that a good lawyer must understand business, not just law. The bigger picture is the key, and we are not losing sight of that", said Miluša after the opening of the firm.

OM&P Law firm recently moved in and started working on the 19th floor of the Belgrade Palace, where a team of ten lawyers within the firm and as many external associates led by Miluša, successfully operate in twenty different legal expertise such as tax law, corporate law, banking and finance, public affairs, EU law, Competition law, State aid, foreign direct investments and personal data protection advice.Miluša has built her experience as a legal advisor working for some of the largest multinational companies and Government institutions. She acted as a legal counsel of the Government of the Republic of Serbia and as a legal counsel of the Ministry of Mining and Energy. She focuses primarily on Antitrust/ Competition, EU Law, and Corporate / M&A.

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ECOND EMBROIDERS’ S COLONY IN THE CELTIC VILLAGE IN INDJIJA

05

opportunity to get to know the city and visit the sights of Indjija.

The colony was organized by the Ethno Network in co-operation with the local crafts association Etnodom Gorocvet and with the support of the Municipality of Indjija, the tourist organization and NALED. During the diplomatic visit, Mayor of Indjija, Vladimir Gak hosted a number of diplomats and partners from state institutions and international organizations. Guests had the opportunity to visit the oldest community in the area called Stari Slankamen followed by wine tasting and late lunch at Sapat winery. From Stari Slankamen the delegation went to Indjija to visit the colony and attend an ethno music concert in Celtic Village. The colony also hosted the leadership of BH crafts, a partner organization in BiH with which Ethno Network develops cross-border initiatives in the field of cultural tourism.

HE EIB AND UNICREDIT T PROMOTE SOCIALLY INCLUSIVE EMPLOYMENT AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP

The European Investment Bank (EIB) and UniCredit Bank Serbia (UniCredit) have officially launched a €30 million credit line aimed at supporting the employment, professional training and long-term retention of people from vulnerable social groups. These funds will enable Uni-

great mix of experts from all sectors, sharing ideas and discussing the necessary steps to be taken to ensure solar PV prosumer model scale-up in Serbia.

Since all necessary prerequisites for implementation of solar PV projects in Serbia are met, all participants agreed that even greater cooperation between the relevant stakeholders is needed in the months to come, in order to position Serbia as one of the leaders in the region when it comes to development of renewable energy projects.

Credit to on-lend to Serbian companies that are committed to improving the social impact of their businesses and creating long-term employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for women, young people and segments of the population that face higher entry barriers to the labour market.

In addition to funding, Serbian companies will receive a performance-based financial reward if they meet specific targets to foster leadership, employment and professional development opportunities for women, young people and groups that often face additional barriers to accessing such opportunities (people with disabilities, refugees etc.). This is the first EIB private sector loan in the Western Balkans under the ERI, which will contribute to the most important goals involved in promoting sustainable development. The EIB will also provide technical assistance for the preparation and implementation of projects in order to achieve the set goals that will have a wider social impact.

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EVENT

An Incredible Journey Through the Gastronomic Map of the World The third Let's Chef Together event takes place, marking 120 years of bilateral relations between Serbia and Cuba

ast night, in the magical ambience of the Prezident Palace Hotel in Belgrade, the third Let's Chef Together event was held, organized by Color Media Communications in partnership with Lidl Serbia and the Prezident Palace Hotel. Cuba was the host country. The event’s guests had a great opportunity to figuratively travel to this Caribbean country for the evening.

The Cuban Ambassador to Serbia, H.E. Gustavo Trista del Todo, officially opened the event and said that the year 2022 was very important in bilateral relations between Serbia and Cuba because it marks the 120th anniversary of cooperation between the two countries, as well as respect and support in international issues.

The Ambassador reflected on the past two years and the impact of the coronavirus on global events. He also pointed out that it was crucial for Cuba that 90% of the population was vaccinated with Cuban vaccines, with the Cuban researchers producing three vaccines to combat the virus. This saved people's lives and preserved the Cuban economy and tourism, the Ambassador went on to say.

"From December 2021 to June 26 this year, 1,181 Serbian citizens visited Cuba, which is still a low number compared to the 7,000 in 2019, before Covid-19 hit," Mr. del Todo said.

He added that there are more and more travel arrangements for Cuba and invited the event’s guests to visit his country and dare to travel this far because it is worth getting to know it and its

L

delicious food, wonderful music and rhythm that is interwoven into its history.

As no Cuban evening can go without music that is a wonderful addition to this story, the guests had the opportunity to enjoy the

secrets, prepare authentic dishes. Lidl also offers its consumers the opportunity to experience different tastes from countries around the globe through different themed weeks, including the one inspired by the Caribbe-

THE GUESTS HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO ENJOY THE RHYTHM OF AUTHENTIC CUBAN MUSIC PERFORMED BY THE ONLY CUBAN BAND IN SERBIA, SALSA Y PUNTO rhythm of authentic Cuban music performed by the only Cuban band in Serbia, Salsa Y Punto.

"We are pleased to have been given the opportunity to present together with the Cuban embassy the gastronomic culture of this country and with the help of Lidl’s products, as well as a few culinary

an," said Martina Petrović, Head of Corporate Communications at Lidl Serbia, which is also the project partner.

"An incredible journey through the gastronomic map of the world this time around took us to exotic Cuba! It is a great honour and pleasure to work on projects that

introduce different cultures of the world. Together with Diplomacy&Commerce magazine and Lidl Serbia, we were given a truly incredible opportunity to present authentic recipes from various countries with the help of our chef and the embassies’ support, and thus play host to respected ambassadors, media representatives and influencers. I'm looking forward to the next meeting and new gastronomic specialties", said Olivera Škorić, Marketing Manager of the Prezident Palace Hotel.

The event was attended by a number of dignitaries, including the diplomatic corps, business people, media and influencers who, in an informal atmosphere and accompanied by unique music, enjoyed delicious Cuban dishes such as chicharritas, tostones, congri, ropa vieja, flan and many others.

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CULTURAL HERITAGE BUILDING

Belgrade City Museum The Belgrade City Museum was founded on October 15, 1903, under the name Municipal Museum and Library. In 1911, the Court of Cassation and the Court of Appeal moved out of the Residence of Princess Ljubica, and the premises were given to the Municipal Museum to use

Princess Ljubica's Residence , photo by Vladimir Popović

fter the First World War, efforts were made to provide sufficient funds for the Museum to continue operating. This endeavour was successful thanks to the effort invested by prominent cultural figures in Belgrade at that time, including the famous writer Branislav Nušić.

The first inventory of museum material dates from 1929 and included 155 objects. The following year the number of exhibited objects doubled. The first museum exhibition titled “Plans and Pictures of Old Belgrade” was opened on April 19, 1931.

The Municipal Museum and Library was permanently housed in 1935, at 1, Kneginja Ljubica Street, today 1, Zmaj Jovina Street, which still houses the Museum’s administrative offices.

The museum was established as an independent institution in 1941 under the name City Muse-

A

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Museum of Paja Jovanović

Monument to Stefan Nemanja

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Archaeological site in Vinča

um; and the first director of the Museum was Dr. Miodrag Grbić, archaeologist and the curator of the Prince Pavle Museum. During the Second World War, the museum's library was open until 1943 with minor interruptions, which sets it apart from other city libraries. In mid-1945, the City Museum was renamed the Belgrade City Museum.

Today, over 157,000 items are stored in the Museum's collections, which testify to the development of the capital from prehistoric to contemporary times.

The exhibited objects are divided into three sections - archaeology, history and the history of culture and art. In addition to the basic collections, the Museum also houses 28 legacies. On top of the

Museum of Ivo Andrić

THE MUNICIPAL MUSEUM AND LIBRARY WAS PERMANENTLY HOUSED IN 1935, AT 1, KNEGINJA LJUBICA STREET, TODAY 1, ZMAJ JOVINA STREET, WHICH STILL HOUSES THE MUSEUM’S ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES aforementioned departments, the Belgrade City Museum also has the Protection Department, which includes the Documentation Centre, the Conservation Department and the Education Department.

The Museum oversees the work of 20 different facilities, of which 11 are museums. These are the Ivo Andrić Museum, Jovan Cvijić Museum, Paja Jovanović Museum,

Sekulić Icon Collection, Princess Ljubica Residence, Vinča Archaeological Site, Zemun Native Museum, Žarkovo Native Museum, Mladenovac Museum, Toma Rosandić Museum, Banjica Concentration Camp Museum, Stepa Stepanović Memorial Home and Sava River Monitor – the Bodrog Ship, as well as the Stefan Nemanja memorial complex. In addition to the aforementioned mu-

seums, the Belgrade City Museum has inherited the musical and literary legacies. The Museum has several exhibition spaces, which some them are new and soon will be open to the public, including the its new building in 40, Resavska Street, the Contemporary Stage and the Salon.

In addition to its core activity, the Belgrade City Museum actively participates in the creation of contemporary art, applied and music works, and it also supports artists, especially young ones, by giving them the opportunity to showcase their work and stage classical music concerts. Each year, the Belgrade City Museum organizes a number of independent and group exhibitions of local and foreign artists.

The Banjica Concentration Camp Museum,

Museum of Jovan Cvijić

The legacy of icon Sekulić

Native Museum of Žarkovo

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FOOD PLANET

Exotic Taste of Egyptian Cuisine Exotic and delicious traditional Egyptian dishes have always intrigued gastronomes. Egyptian cuisine reflects the country's rich history while local ingredients enhance its delicacy MAHA BARAKA Wife of the Egyptian ambassador to Serbia

gypt is well-known for its long and ancient history, while food is one of the special segments of this exotic culture. In this interview, Maha Baraka, wife of the Egyptian ambassador to Serbia, speaks about the features of Egyptian cuisine and its traditional dishes.

E

What are the main features of Egyptian cuisine?

— Egypt has a very abundant and ancient culture and civilization. We have a long and boundless history, and food is definitely part of this philosophy. As we all know, food is a vital component of every culture. Our cuisine is plentiful and we have various types of food and spices. In ancient Egypt, as well as today, the cornerstone of our cuisine is aish baladi, a traditional Egyptian flatbread. The word aish comes from the word “life”, as in the key of life…in Egypt, everything has a symbol, even food. Egypt has an exceptional geographical location on the Mediterranean shores and exceptionally fertile deltas of the Nile River, which provides us with qualitative and nutritious vegetables. Mainly, our cuisine is reliant on vegetables. Every day, individuals eat vegetables, rice, bread, and meat. In our cuisine, we also have a wide variety of meat, aside from chicken and lamb. We eat distinct meat compared to other countries and cultures such as rabbits, stuffed pigeons and ducks. Furthermore, we have a wide variety of seafood and different varieties of fish. Egypt also has numerous spices that are used in cooking all across the country, especially our secret combination of 7 spices boharat, a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, pepper and other more Egyptian seasonings.

Egyptian gastronomy is also rich in desserts and delicacies such as rice pudding, Zalabya, Basbousa, Om Ali etc.

Serbian cuisine is not much different from the Egyptian one.

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EGYPTIANS LOVE TO EAT IT AND DRINK HOT OR COLD HIBISCUS TEA, FOLLOWED BY EGYPTIAN RICE PUDDING AS A DESSERT Take, for example, Serbian kebab (ćevap). We have the same meal in Egypt, but we make it with 7 spices so it has a different and stronger taste. The Serbian is also extremely tasty. Additionally, Serbs make moussaka the Egyptian way.

Egyptian and Serbian cuisines are tremendously similar and diverse.

What do you miss the most about your country? Can you find all the necessary ingredients for the traditional Egyptian dishes in Serbia?

— The taste of Egyptian food depends on spices that we use daily, which makes it difficult sometimes to prepare traditional Egyptian dishes here, as it is not possible to find these spices in Serbia.

In addition, we eat a lot of mahashi, which is stuffed vegetables.

This meal is similar to your sarma

or stuffed peppers, but we use different types of vegetables which are smaller in size than the ones in Serbia. We stuff them with Egyptian short grain rice, minced meat and some green vegetables as well.

Vine leaves are unfortunately not easily available here in Serbia. In Egypt, we stuff them with rice and minced meat as well.

Do you like Serbian cuisine?

What is your favourite Serbian dish?

— I really like ajvar, it is my favourite, especially the spicy kind.

You have also have excellent peppers in Serbia. Having ajvar for breakfast became my habit. I enjoy it. I also like kebabs and gibanica with cheese.

What do you think of life in Belgrade? Did you manage to visit some other places in Serbia and

what would you recommend to your friends to see here?

— Belgrade is a fantastic city, very vibrant and beautiful. Every day I go for a walk, on Terazije and by the Danube River and many other historical and unique sites. I like that the city is full of people who are very warm, welcoming and generous all the time. I am from Cairo, which is also a very vibrant city that doesn't sleep 24/7, and it is, more or less, very similar to Belgrade. That is why I like Belgrade so much, because it reminds me of my hometown.

Belgrade is different from other European cities where everything closes down after 7 PM. Belgrade is always alive. It is full of greenery and beautiful scenery, and the people are friendly as well. My family and I have been living here only for four months, but my son, who is 7 years old, likes Belgrade so much that he wants to live in it forever. He is learning the Serbian language and getting quite good at it. I would like to single out the magnificent architecture of the city, which is spectacular and unique. My dream is to visit Tara Mountain and Drvengrad.

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Egyptian Koshari Koshari is a hearty vegan meal of lentil rice, chickpeas, spicy vinegar tomato sauce, pasta, and fried onions. This Egyptian koshari recipe is authentic and perfect for meal prepping

INGREDIENTS • 4 medium onions (about 1.5 lbs) • 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 - 15 ounce cans of chickpeas) ** See note 3 • ½ bag of 1 lb spaghetti • ½ bag of 1 lb elbow pasta • 1 cup dried brown lentils • 2 cups dry Calrose rice (or short-grain rice) **See note 4 • 8 whole tomatoes (about 2 lbs or 1 kg in weight) • 2 tbsp tomato paste • 9 garlic cloves • 1 bell pepper (size of a clenched fist) • 2 tbsp white vinegar • ground cumin • ground coriander • 2 limes • oil for frying (preferably sunflower oil)**See note 5 • flour (to toss the onions in prior to frying) • salt and pepper to taste • ½ tsp sugar • chili flakes or chili powder (optional) • 1 spicy chili (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS SOAK DRY LENTILS AND DRY CHICKPEAS AHEAD OF TIME 1. Soak the dried lentils and dried chickpeas in water for 3 hours prior to making koshari.

PREPARE THE CHICKPEAS 1. See note 3 if using canned chickpeas. Boil 1 cup of dried chickpeas until semi-cooked (about 45 minutes to an hour). Drain water.

2. Add fresh water and ½ tablespoon of cumin. Boil chickpeas a second time for another 30 minutes.

3. Once chickpeas are cooked, squeeze ½ of a lime over chickpeas.

FRY THE ONIONS 1. Chop 2 medium onions into circles.

Mix with flour and set aside for 30 minutes prior to frying.

2. Fry in oil, preferrably sunflower oil. Using a frying spatula, remove

the onions from the oil. Set onto a paper towel and set aside.

3. Keep the sunflower oil to use some of it in other parts of the recipe.

MAKE THE FRESH RED SAUCE 1. Blend 3 tomatoes, 1 bell pepper, ½ medium onion, and 3 garlic cloves in the food processor.

2. If you would like a spicy sauce, add 1 spicy pepper.

3. Add ½ teaspoon of ground cumin, ½ teaspoon of ground coriander, 1 tablespoon of oil (from the fried onions), salt, and pepper. Add juice from 1 lime.

4. Blend and set aside.

MAKE THE KOSHARI RICE 1. Blend 1.5 medium onions in a food processor.

2. In a high rimmed stovetop pot, add 2 tablespoon of oil (from the fried onions). Cook the onions on medium heat for about 15 minutes.

3. Add the brown lentils (these will be about 2.25 cups after being soaked) and 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes.

4. Turn down heat to medium-low.

Add 2 cups of dry rice and 1 more

cups of water.

5. Add salt and pepper. Mix the koshari rice and cover.

6. Continue to cook on medium-low heat covered until the rice has finished cooking (about 12 minutes).

7. Turn off the stove and allow the rice to rest covered for 5 minutes.

COOK THE PASTA 1. B oil water and add about 1 tablespoon of salt.

2. B reak the spaghetti pasta in half, then break the half again making quarter size sections of spaghetti.

Break about 15 spaghetti noodles at the same time.

3. A dd the spaghetti pasta and elbow pasta to the boiling water.

4. C ook the pasta until desired firmness.

5. D rain the pasta and set aside.

KOSHARI VINEGAR RED SAUCE 1. B lend 5 medium tomatoes in a blender. Strain tomatoes into a bowl.

2. F ry 2 tablespoon of oil (or ghee) with 1 teaspoon chili flakes (or chili powder) for 30 seconds then add 5 minced garlic cloves.

3. A dd 2 tablespoon of tomato paste and 2 tablespoon of vinegar for

about 30 seconds before adding the blended tomatoes.

4. Add 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of coriander, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground pepper.

5. Boil for about 10 minutes.

NOTES 1. S tore koshari rice, pasta, fresh red sauce, koshari vinegar red sauce, fried onions, and chickpeas separately in the fridge for up to 5 days.

2. Whole wheat pasta is a suitable substitution.

3. Substitute 2 cans of chickpeas (15 ounce cans) for 1 cup dried chickpeas. Because canned chickpeas are already cooked, just drain the chickpeas. Boil for 5 minutes in water with ½ tablespoon of ground cumin. Then squeeze ½ a lime on top.

4. U se Calrose rice, Egyptian rice, or Japanese short-grain rice for this recipe. If using medium or long-grain rice, the water ratio will need to be adjusted.

5. After frying the onions, save the frying oil. Use some of the frying oil in other parts of the recipe.

6. The nutrition facts do not factor in the oil from frying the onions.

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THE CULTURE OF REMEMBRANCE

by Robert Čoban

Long Live Gibanica!

The Factory Museum, located in the remains of the former Goša production hall, and the exhibition titled "Music of Friends' Footsteps" staged at the National Museum in Smederevska Palanka bear witness to the times when our connection with Europe was, if not closer, then certainly more sincere than today

t is June 1926, less than eight years after the end of the Great War in which the Serbs and the French fought side by side, 286 people from Grenoble, Lyon and Chambery embarked on the train heading east to visit friends in distant Palanka in the Kingdom of Slovenes, Croats and Serbs.

Most of the people on the train were members of the choirs Orpheon from Grenoble and Harmony from Lyon, as well as several members of the Opéra Comique from Paris. The delegation was led by political representatives of the Rhône-Alpes region - mayors of three cities and representatives of the National Assembly and the Government of the Republic of France.

The hosts were the Association

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of Friends of France, the Circle of Serbian Sisters (Kolo Srpskih Sestara) and the Obilić and Stanković choirs. On the political level, the French delegation was welcomed by the President of the Belgrade Municipal Court, Miloš Bobić, the

Museum in Smederevska Palanka and bears witness to a time when our cultural, economic and political ties with Europe were, if not stronger, then certainly more sincere than they seem today.

As we walk from his office

NATIONAL ANTHEMS, SOLEMN SPEECHES OF FRENCH AND SERBIAN POLITICIANS AND MUSIC WERE MANDATORY PARTS OF EVERY EVENT Speaker of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes, Marko Trifković, the government’s cabinet and an envoy of King Aleksandar Karadjordjević.

The exhibition about this event opened recently at the National

to the National Museum, Nikola Vučen, the young president of the municipality of Smederevska Palanka, greets his fellow citizens on the street. He seems to be very popular. He is also planning to host the French ambassador and renewal of fraternal ties with

Grenoble.

Ethnologist and anthropologist Petar Dekić, the exhibition’s curator and author, tells us about the mood of the people on the occasion of the arrival of the French delegation with thousands of people greeting them on the festively decorated streets of Belgrade.

“Wherever they went, they walked in a procession carrying flags, accompanied by music (the Royal Guard Orchestra), while numerous citizens of Belgrade and Palanka respectively and joyfully, to quote the press of the time, followed them. National anthems, solemn speeches of French and Serbian politicians and music were mandatory parts of every event," says Mr Dekić.

The exhibition’s author explains that the French were of-

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fered a choice of 35 towns in Serbia. There is no reliable information as to why they chose Palanka, and it is believed that several factors played a role: the proximity to Belgrade and the possibility of travelling by train, the rustic ambience, and the fact that the French factory Jasenica was located in Palanka must have been important.

The testimonies left behind from this visit are contained in the "Book of memories of the visit of dear friends from France" (a collection of more than 50 news-

THE EXHIBITION’S AUTHOR EXPLAINS THAT THE FRENCH WERE OFFERED A CHOICE OF 35 TOWNS IN SERBIA paper articles published in the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes that follow the journey and events hour-by-hour and eventto-event) and the book "From Grenoble to Serbia with Orpheon”, written by Auguste Bouvreuil.

There are also photographs from private ownership and archives

Košutnjak

that directly bear witness to the events and their prehistory.

In addition to the original testimonies, there are also photos on bilingual Serbian-French billboards, as well as interactive tools such as QR codes with links to certain sound and music recordings, as well as video clips that de-

pict the event itself and the atmosphere of that time.

On the morning of June 6, the guests were treated to a ride on the Sava and Danube on the Saint Nicholas ship, and after the speeches and lunch, everyone danced. After this, the French, accompanied by their hosts, went on a tour of Košutnjak and Topčider, where they watched a concert held at the Soko Stadium.

At 8:00 p.m., they attended a concert, staged for them at the National Theatre, and watched the performance of Hristić's opera

Welcome party at the train station

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"The Twilight" (“Suton”) and the ballet Giselle.

The next day, the train from Belgrade left for the second stop of their visit. This is how the journalist from Novosti daily described it - "We had an apotheosis in Palanka. The whole town, farmers, men and women from the surrounding villages, in colourful folk costumes, old and young, big and small, all of them gathered at the station to see us. The sight was magnificent. With frenetic and enthusiastic shouts of 'Vive la France!' the train entered the station. Suddenly, there was silence! Mr Aćim Banković, an agriculture engineer, welcomed the guests with carefully chosen words: 'You are in the surroundings which had known you for a long time - from the difficult days of the terrible year 1915, when you lent us a helping hand and rescued us from misery to today. We owe you our freedom. Today is the most solemn day of our lives. Today we can show you how strongly our hearts beat for France. The craftsmen left their work and the farmers left their fields for a day to open their hearts and souls to you here, just as you did it to us during our darkest days!"

The most touching moment was when little Ljubica Hajduković, a fifth-grade pupil, welcomed the guests in French while wearing an original national costume. She said: "We don't have palaces and parks, but we have a big heart that will beat forever for our dear and sweet France."

The area behind the station was strewn with flowers. They passed through a barrage of girls and men, dressed in festive folk cos-

tumes. The procession stretched on endlessly. Flowers were thrown from the balconies of houses, kisses were sent...

“At two o'clock in the afternoon, a big banquet was arranged for the guests in Palanački Kiseljak. There were about 500 guests.

The municipal authorities made sure that no one - except the journalists - remained hungry and thirsty. Lambs and piglets were baking on spits. Beer was poured as if it were an election campaign. For everything to function as it should, the army served the

As a memory of this twinning, one of the main streets in Smederevska Palanka was named French Street. It is interesting to note that there is a beautiful villa at 7, French Street, similar to the one at the identical address in Belgrade.

Three streets in Grenoble were named after Serbia and Yugoslavia – Palanka Street, Belgrade Street and Yugoslavia Street, and they have retained their names to this day.

After the exhibition in the National Museum, we went to see

THREE STREETS IN GRENOBLE WERE NAMED AFTER SERBIA AND YUGOSLAVIA – PALANKA STREET, BELGRADE STREET AND YUGOSLAVIA STREET, AND THEY HAVE RETAINED THEIR NAMES TO THIS DAY meals. The most interesting moment was when 72 soldiers lined up with the same number of gibanica (cheese pie) pans. In line with the military regulations, they paraded with the gibanica in step.

Their arrival caused a storm of applause and the cheerful French shouted: 'Long live the gibanica!'

The mood was wonderful. During the meal, the orchestra cheered up the guests with its beautiful arias. After lunch, countless speeches were given, while the impatient people couldn't wait to start dancing kolo. Finally, the long-awaited moment came! Embraced in a hug, both the French and the Serbs danced with the ground beneath them shaking from thuds,” Novosti reported.

the complex of the former industrial complex Goša. Of the former giant that employed 12,000 people, only the Goša FOM division remained, a part of the concern that was privatized by the former managers of the factory which now employs 700 people. They work all over the world - from Kostolac to Siberia.

Thanks to them, the Factory Museum that we visited also survived, but it is not that wellknown in Serbia.

The Jesenica joint-stock company, on the back of which Goša was founded and the industrialization of Smederevska Palanka began, is named after the local river. It was established in 1923 with the French-Serbian capital. The

factory was named Goša in 1950 after a partisan hero from these parts, Dragoslav Djordjević Goša.

Wagons, buses, trailers, electrical equipment, and bridge structures are just some of the products that came out of the company’s production halls that stand empty today.

The skilful workers of Goša have always been considered the best, and people say that Josip Broz Tito was one of them. There are no written traces of this myth which is probably based on Tito's autobiography and the speeches he gave during his three visits to Goša. Nevertheless, people in Palanka believe that Tito lived here and worked in Jasenica in late 1926 and 1927. We perused old photos from the factory halls, scenes from workers' riots, trains and trams made here, documentation from the time when the French ran the factory...

We are joined by a woman who worked for decades as a curator of the Goša Factory Museum, which was officially appropriately called the Josip Broz Tito Memorial Workshop. I ask her how the company’s disintegration started. She waves her hand and says: "We knew it wouldn't be good when Mladjan's people came in 2000 with some people from audit firms in expensive suits and laptops, speaking in barely full sentences.” The final blow to Goša was delivered by the Slovakian national Ivan Hemšild, whose company Jos Trnava sold Goša overnight to the Cypriot company Lisnart Holdings Limited whose management left the company in ruins. Only stray dogs are roaming the company’s production halls today.

Goša, factory museum

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CULTURE NEWS

Andrea Bocelli to Perform in Concert on 22nd July in Belgrade ne of today's most renowned tenors, Andrea Bocelli, will perform in a concert on 22nd July this year, near the Belgrade Waterfront development, accompanied by the RTS Symphony Orchestra.

The famous tenor will perform in a specially built outdoor concert arena, on the banks of the Sava River.

Recognized around the world as the most beloved tenor, with over 90 million album copies sold, Bocelli is also known as a singer who stretches the boundaries of the music scene with each new performance.

Andrea Bocelli arrives in Bel-

O

The Parisian Live Arrives in Belgrade

grade nine years after the last concert, ready to warm the hearts of the audience and give the best musical show in the world. His repertoire will be a combination of classical and pop music.

The concert arena will be positioned on the plateau in front of Geozavod, a prestigious and luxurious location. This is the first time that a concert is held here which will undoubtedly attract a lot of attention from the local audience, as well as that in the region and worldwide.

The concert is supported by MTS, Dunav Osiguranje, Belgrade Waterfront and Poštanska Štedionica.

Stumbling Stone

elgrade Stolpersteine, the project of German artist Gunther Deming, is dedicated to Emil, Augusta, Hilda, and Hans Dajč.

Haver Serbia placed the first four stumbling stones in Maršala Birjuzova street 9, in front of the house where they lived before they became victims of the Nazi terror.

Haver Serbia president, Sonja Viličić, addressed the audience, referring to the Talmud, with the words “a man is forgotten when his name is forgotten." Members of the Braća Baruh choir, one of the oldest Jewish choirs in the world, performed at the ceremony co-hosted by the President of the Union of Jewish Municipalities of Serbia, Mr. Robert Sabadoš, President of the Jewish Municipality of Belgrade, Mr. Aaron Fuchs, Deputy Ambassador of Israel, Maayan Ben Tura, and the Ambassador of Germany to Serbia, Thomas Schieb. “The victims of the Holocaust must not be forgotten, and stumbling blocks are the right way to tear the murdered from oblivion and preserve their dignity.”, said the German ambassador.

The event was attended by survivors, ambassadors, members of Jewish communities, professors with students, and the general public.

B

adlenianum opens its jubilee 25th season with a new musical spectacle. When you say Paris, you immediately think of love, fashion, fun and La Vie Parisienne, or the much-desired Parisian life, which atmosphere each of us would like to experience at least once in a lifetime. An operetta by Jacques Offenbach, ‘THE PARISIAN LIFE’, is coming to Belgrade at the beginning of October - a new musical delicacy, composed by an already proven team of musical authors.

Fans of musicals, operettas, good humour, lavish scenography and costumes will love the operetta THE PARISIAN LIFE, which had its premiere and worldwide success in 1866 in Paris. The libretto is written by Henri Meilhac and Ludovic Halévy. To cater to modern audiences, the director and the playwright reduced the operetta to three acts which last two hours and 10 minutes, while also including the widely famous Can-Can dance sequence from Offenbach’s opera ‘Orpheus in the Underground.

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