Turkish ambassador to Serbia Hami Aksoy and his spouse warmly welcomed Greek ambassador Maria Levanti
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AMBASSADOR’S INTERVIEW FORGING NEW PATHS: ISRAEL AND SERBIA’S GROWING PARTNERSHIP H.E. AVIVIT BAR-ILAN Israel’s Ambassador to Serbia
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BUSINESS INTERVIEW THE HIDDEN COSTS OF LITHIUM MINING DR. ALEKSANDAR MATKOVIĆ Research Associate, Institute of Economic Sciences in Belgrade External Associate, Transnational Institute in Amsterdam
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INTERVIEW FIGHTING CYBERCRIME – MAKING THE DIGITAL WORLD SAFER STANOJE RNIĆ
CEO and Head of Investigations of Archibald Intelligence, Co-Founder of the Digital Forensics Conference
15 FOCUS ON HUNGARY 16
INTERVIEW
SERBIA-HUNGARY STRATEGIC COOPERATION COUNCIL
ALEKSANDAR VUČIĆ
The President of the Republic of Serbia
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INTERVIEW
BUILDING BRIDGES H.E. JÓZSEF MAGYAR the Ambassador of Hungary to Serbia
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CULTURAL INTERVIEW A REVOLUTIONARY VOICE IN CINEMA AND SOCIETY STEVAN FILIPOVIĆ Filmmaker
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MEDIA INTERVIEW STRIVING FOR BALANCE IN A POLARISED MEDIA LANDSCAPE ZORAN TRIFUNOVIĆ
Programme Director of TV NEWSMAX Balkans, editor and host of the show SINTEZA
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GLOBAL ANALYSIS THE GOLDEN AGE FOR DONALD TRUMP BY LJILJANA VUJIĆ
72 TRAVELOGUE IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD OF “THAT THIRD COUNTRY” BY ROBERT ČOBAN
FOLLOW US TO STAY UPDATED
Director ROBERT ČOBAN robert.coban@color.rs Editor in Chief DRAGAN NIKOLIĆ dragan.nikolic@color.rs
Photos GORAN ZLATKOVIĆ, MILENA ĐORĐEVIĆ ROBERT ČOBAN SHUTTERSTOCK EUROPEAN ENVIRONMENTAL BUREAU Translation COLOR MEDIA EVENTS Prepress VLADIMIR DUDAŠ C e n t r o b i r o
Contributors ROBERT ČOBAN, LJILJANA VUJIĆ, ANA LALIĆ HEGEDIŠ, SONJA DAMJANOVIĆ
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Donald Trump was voted for by the Amish in Pennsylvania, who live as if it were the 18th century, while his main supporter was billionaire Elon Musk, who organises spaceflights. Some speculate that Musk might even be the Republican candidate in the 2028 election. Trump’s supporters are anti-abortion—except when it comes to Trump’s mistress, whom he allegedly pressured into having one. He is supported by conservative, family-oriented, Protestant America, yet he has had three marriages and paid $130,000 to a porn star to keep quiet about their affair. He is a wealthy Manhattanite, yet “trailer trash” America—those living on less than $10 a day in rural areas—cast their votes for him.
According to Gallup, Serbia ranks first in the world for support of Trump, with 59% of the population backing him (followed by Hungary and Bulgaria at 49%, and Russia and Georgia at 43%). Even the majority of Serbs in the US voted for him. Ironically, if Trump had been president when they emigrated to America, they would have been stuck on Ellis Island—none of them would have made it to Chicago.
On the day of the US election, my daughter Elena, who is studying in Boston, called me. She told me that her professors and friends, as well as most Massachusetts residents, would naturally be voting for Kamala Harris. However, she added that younger men her age—almost all of them—supported Trump.
Trump has twice defeated women: Hillary Clinton in 2016 and Kamala Harris in 2024. Does this mean that American men are still not ready for a woman president, given that even Latino and African-American men largely voted for Trump?
“Like many such countries, including Ukraine, Serbia stands as one of the most significant forerunners. It is a place where the future arrives first, with all its horrors and beauties,” Julian Assange said in an interview with B92 exactly 10 years ago. Once again, the (American) future has arrived first in Serbia.
Robert Čoban
Photo: Jonah Elkowitz / Shutterstock
Forging New Paths: Israel and Serbia’s Growing Partnership
Aiming to double trade and enhance cooperation in tech, clean energy, and culture
H.E. AVIVIT BAR-ILAN
Israel’s Ambassador to Serbia
In this exclusive interview, Israel’s newly appointed Ambassador to Serbia, Avivit BarIlan, shares her insights on the growing partnership between Israel and Serbia. With only a few months into her role, Ambassador Bar-Ilan reflects on her experiences in diplomatic and security roles and highlights her vision for strengthening collaboration in key areas like technology, clean energy, and cultural exchange.
Before your arrival as Ambassador of Israel to Serbia, you’ve had quite a long career as part of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel and the National Security Council. How does your
earlier work compare to now working as an ambassador?
It has been only three months since I arrived in Belgrade as the new Israeli Ambassador, and I can already say that being an ambassador is a truly unique and multi-
ing of the complexities and nuances of foreign policy, security issues, and international diplomacy. However, being a diplomat and representing Israel in a country like Serbia, where we enjoy close and intimate relations, is a new
ISRAEL AND SERBIA’S STRONG FRIENDSHIP DRIVES EFFORTS TO DOUBLE TRADE AND EXPAND COLLABORATION IN TECH SECTORS
faceted role and, by far, one of the most exciting positions I have ever had in my career. Being part of the decision-making processes in the Israeli government and participating in many sensitive discussions has given me a deep understand-
and exciting experience for me. I like being “on the ground, “ meeting government officials in person, turning bilateral agreements and understandings into practical outcomes, and building bridges between our peoples and cultures.
How do you view the current international cooperation between Serbia and Israel? Is it satisfactory, or are there areas for improvement?
The cooperation between Israel and Serbia is truly exceptional, a testament to the long-standing and warm friendship between our peoples for decades. Just one month after I arrived in Belgrade, the President of Israel visited Serbia. His first visit here, at a time when Israel is facing a terrible war, represents a strong symbol of the enduring and close ties between our nations. The two presidents agreed to enhance our bilateral cooperation further, aiming to double our trade volume and initiate negotiations on the Free Trade Agreement.
In the first seven months of this year alone, we have seen a remarkable 20 per cent increase in the number of Israeli tourists visiting Serbia compared to last year. Looking ahead, my ambition is that by the end of my term, we will see a similar rise in the number of Serbian tourists visiting Israel, continuing to build bridges of understanding and friendship between our two countries.
In our last interview with an Israeli Ambassador, H.E. Yahel Vilan, we discussed Israel’s many successful ecological initiatives. What could Serbia learn from Israel in combating ecological issues that persist in many countries worldwide?
Israel has faced numerous challenges regarding its natural resources—scarcity of arable land, limited water supplies, and a lack of mineral resources—until the discovery of natural gas in the past decade. These constraints have driven us to innovate, to do more with less, and to develop technologies that maximise the efficiency of our existing resources.
A defining feature of Israeli innovations, such as drip irrigation, water treatment, and agrotechnology solutions, is their simplicity and effectiveness. These technologies are designed to be user-friendly while delivering proven results.
In addition to our leadership in cleantech and waste management, Israel is a world pioneer in wastewater treatment, with 90% of wastewater processed to a level suitable for agricultural use.
We possess the technology, know-how, and experience to address critical environmental challenges and are ready to share these resources with Serbia. As Serbian municipalities and industries work to meet EU standards, our expertise can help to implement Serbia’s green agenda.
The economic department in the Embassy stands ready to connect you with leading Israeli companies in these fields, offering solutions to air pollution, water treatment, the recultivation of waste dumps, and other environmental challenges. We can overcome these obstacles and create a greener, more sustainable future.
It is known that the Israel embassy’s priority sectors regarding the economic partnership between Israel and Serbia are clean tech, hi-tech, the startup ecosystem, and cyber and Biotech. Do you plan on
AS AMBASSADOR, I AIM TO DEEPEN TIES AND SUPPORT SERBIA’S GROWTH THROUGH ISRAELI INNOVATION
expanding on these priorities during your time here in Serbia, and how do you aim to achieve these goals?
The sectors we have highlighted remain at the heart of our priorities, meaning that our economic activities will continue to focus on these key areas. The embassy is dedicated to fostering collaboration and growth by promoting these industries, facilitating business matching, and organising conferences and events that bring together relevant stakeholders— whether from government, business associations, NGOs, or other partners.
For example, we recently had the honour of hosting a speaker from the alternative proteins sector at the Biotech Future Forum - the Good Food Institute - Israel’s leading think tank in this field. This is one of the many ways we contribute to global conversations around innovation and sustainability.
In November, we proudly participate in the Digital Forensic Forum, an initiative we’ve supported since its inception. The Head of Israel’s National Cyber Center will speak at the event and visit Serbia, underlining the importance of our shared commitment to cybersecurity.
Another exciting event on the horizon is the Wine Vision fair in Belgrade, where boutique Israeli wines will be showcased. I want to extend a warm invitation to both wine professionals and enthusiasts to visit our booth in Hall 4. It will be a wonderful opportunity to explore the rich and diverse flavours of Israeli wines, from the northern regions to the southern ones, all reflecting the unique characteristics of our climate. Regarding clean technology, we are pleased to see Israeli companies like Enlight Energy and Nofar actively contributing to Serbia’s green energy goals. These com-
panies help reduce the country’s carbon footprint and move toward a more sustainable future. We hope additional Israeli companies will join this effort, furthering our shared commitment to a cleaner, greener world.
How did Israel become one of the biggest high-tech leaders in the world, and how would you rate Serbia’s current position in hightech industries?
I believe that by now, the story of Israel’s transformation into a Startup Nation is well known across Serbia—through the various activities the embassy has organised to share this concept and strategy.
But for those who may still be unfamiliar with this remarkable story, let me offer a summary. Israel’s geopolitical challenges and scarcity of natural resources have long driven the country to innovate and adapt. These unique circumstances compelled Israel to focus on technological advancement, which ultimately paved the way for its remarkable rise as a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship. This spirit of “thinking outside the box,” resilience, and ingenuity has shaped
Israel into a thriving hub of creativity and technological excellence.
As early as 1969, the Israeli government took a forward-thinking step by establishing the Office of the Chief Scientist under the Ministry of Economy and Industry. Its mission was clear: implementing government policies to foster and support industrial research and development projects. In the 1990s, Israel made two critical investments that would propel the country’s high-tech industry into global prominence. The Yozma program, one of these key initiatives, established ten venture capital funds explicitly designed to attract foreign investments. From there, the story of Israel’s technological revolution unfolded, transforming the country into a global powerhouse of innovation and entrepreneurship. The rest, as they say, is history.
Israel has 276 active venture capital funds, reflecting our thriving and dynamic startup ecosystem. As one of the most technologically advanced nations in the world, Israel stands at the forefront of global innovation, with Tel Aviv ranked as the second-largest startup hub worldwide.
In 2022, Israel’s investment in research and development reached an extraordinary 6% of GDP, underscoring the centrality
ISRAEL’S EXPERIENCE IN CLEANTECH AND WASTE MANAGEMENT OFFERS VALUABLE SOLUTIONS AS SERBIA WORKS TOWARD A GREENER FUTURE
of innovation to our economy. The high-tech sector accounts for 50% of the country’s industrial exports and employs 10% of the national workforce, making technology a cornerstone of Israel’s growth and prosperity.
Our secret is simple: Israel has no choice. We must survive in the desert, we must keep developing and growing, even in the face of war. Despite those who threaten us and question our right to exist, we seek a better future for our children—a better country and world for the next generation. This is why so many of our initiatives focus on building a cleaner, safer, and more accessible future for all.
Serbia, too, has made remarkable progress in establishing itself as a key tech hub in the heart of Europe. From building vital institutions that form the backbone of its innovation infrastructure to embracing emerging fields like bio-convergence with the ambitious BIO4 Campus project, Serbia is positioning itself as a rising leader in technology and research.
deeper collaboration for the benefit of both nations.
How do you plan to spend your mandate during your time in Belgrade? What activities and programs of the Israel embassy can the people of Serbia expect in the future?
My deepest wish is to immerse myself further in Serbia’s rich culture and traditions and explore the stunning places this magnificent country offers. My connection to Serbia runs deep, as my father was born in Belgrade, and my grandparents are from Pančevo. This heritage fuels my desire to learn Serbian, as I truly wish to communicate with the wonderful people in their language.
I am also enjoying the delightful Serbian cuisine, which I believe is among the best in the world! One of my goals during my time here is to showcase Israel’s diversity and share the beauty of our culture with the Serbian people. The Embassy actively supports and participates in international cultural festivals and events across Serbia, and I look forward to further fostering these connections.
Are there any ongoing education exchange programs between the two countries?
This momentum is reflected in Serbia’s forthcoming role as Chair of the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI), with the country set to host an important Summit in December. Israel, a proud member of GPAI since 2021, looks forward to continued collaboration with Serbia in this rapidly evolving field.
I recently came across the Startup Genome 2024 report, which ranked Belgrade and Novi Sad as the leading startup ecosystems in the Western Balkans, 10th in Central Eastern Europe, and 48th on the European level. These rankings speak volumes about the continued growth and expansion of Serbia’s tech ecosystem, affirming the country’s growing influence in the region.
As for Israel, the embassy remains unwavering in supporting Serbia’s entrepreneurial and startup ecosystem. We are dedicated to nurturing the relationships we have built over the years, working to strengthen the ties between our two ecosystems and fostering
Since 2009, we have been running a program focused on educational, scientific, cultural, youth, and sports cooperation. This program has played a vital role in strengthening ties between Israel and Serbia and is currently being renewed through new agreements.
In addition, Israel’s Agency for International Cooperation and Development, MASHAV, offers a wide array of training courses in various fields, ranging from postharvest technologies to startup accelerators, water treatment, rural development, and trauma and disaster preparedness. The embassy is key in distributing information about these courses to the target audience. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, we welcomed around 50 Serbian professionals to Israel each year to attend these specialised courses.
MASHAV also offers a grant system that supports alumni in implementing projects on the ground directly related to the topics covered in the courses. We are hopeful that some of these promising proposals will come to fruition and be realised soon, further strengthening the practical impact of our cooperation.
I Carry A Small Piece of Serbia Wherever I Go
KHAIRUL TAZRIL TARMIZI
Former Chargé d’Affaires Embassy of Malaysia in Belgrade January 2021 - January 2024
In his heartfelt reflection, former Chargé d’Affaires of Malaysia to Serbia, Khairul Tazril Tarmizi, recounts his dynamic journey from the vibrant diplomatic life in Belgrade to his current role as Director of the Maritime Affairs Department in Malaysia.
What have you been doing since you left Belgrade?
Life in Malaysia, particularly in Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, doesn’t fall short of eventful day-in, day-out. Being occupied is an understatement but it really is a matter of priorities.
I am currently the Director of the Maritime Affairs Department under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. As a nation surrounded by vast maritime areas that encompass a major part of its territory, Malaysia has obligations to ensure the sovereignty and security of its maritime zones, as well as to exercise all rights and safeguard all interests therein. I am honoured and humbled to be part of this forefront; nevertheless, the responsibility is huge.
To this end, apart from various engagements domestically, I’ve been travelling abroad extensively. Things that keep me buzzing
around and hopping from one country to another. Despite these all, I am still grateful and in full swing!
What (and who) do you miss the most from Serbia?
Time flies over us but leaves its shadow behind. Moments created throughout my stint in Serbia matter.
To begin with, I reckon it is the warmth of the people that I miss the most. People are the soul and spirit of Serbia - a place I called home for 3 years. When I mention people, I am
left unuttered of the number of friends I made through professional and social gatherings amongst locals, diplomatic corps, and other expatriates. Although we communicate less regularly now, we know we will easily pick up where we left off as the brat-sestra bond established is strong. I am delighted to have one of them, Mr Nikola Stojanović, who is now the State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign of the Republic of Serbia, visiting Malaysia, not long after I left Belgrade. And another familiar face of Belgrade, H.E. Dr Mubarak Saeed Al Dhaheri is now the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Malaysia. My small family is also at our Embassy in Krajiska Dva. There are nine, each with a sentimental value attached to me. My work and interests have brought me to places in Serbia. Some are wrapped in untouched natures and landscapes, from highlands to rivers to lakes. Pristine. Belgrade imparts the typical character of a capital city, which is vibrant. Of course, I miss the Stari Grad – every corner of Dorćol and Skardalija. Knez Mihailova is the main attraction, but my favourite is Kralja Petra. Living in Dedinje (among others - the best cigar bar in town is only steps away), making Senjak and Vračar my immediate-to-go neighbourhood. And did I mention the modern and chic Belgrade Waterfront?
One should also be accustomed to Kafanas and Splavs culture. I miss live performances by folk music bands, and I serenade one of my favourite songs, Ružo Rumena, with the band. Last but not least, the food. Like many of us, I enjoy having Ćevapi with Kajmak and Ajvar. And a few more that I normally enjoy and now miss – Uštipci, Prženice and Palačinke. Nothing compares to returning home, and I have always been looking forward to it. But I carry a small piece of Serbia with me now wherever I go. Srbijo, nedostaješ mi!
Discover the Secret to Radiant Beauty at STUDIO NAMASTE
c elebrating 10 Years of Transforming Wellness and Confidence
ZORICA MILOŠEVIĆ Specialist in Cosmetology
For over a decade, Zorica Milošević, a Specialist in Cosmetology, has been at the forefront of innovative skincare and wellness solutions. As the founder of Studio Namaste, Zorica has combined her passion for nature, non-invasive treatments, and holistic care to create a sanctuary where clients can rejuvenate their skin, nurture their natural beauty, and achieve inner harmony. With numerous accolades and a career that spans publishing, gaming, and aesthetics, Zorica’s journey is a testament to her commitment to excellence and innovation.
In this interview, she shares insights into her motivations, the transformative power of her treatments, and her vision for the future of beauty and wellness.
Studio Namaste was opened in 2015, and next year will mark its first decade of operation. What motivated you to start
Studio Namaste, and where do you see it in the future?
The motivation to open Studio Namaste stemmed from a desire to create a space where people can find peace, work on their physical and mental health, and nurture their natural beauty. The inspiration came from a personal love for nature and a non-invasive, painless approach to body and facial care. My aim was to help others find inner balance and develop a more mindful relationship with themselves and the world around them.
As the recipient of the Woman of the Year Award for the 21st Century and a decadeslong recognised figure on the domestic and international scene, what would you highlight as your most cherished achievement in your career?
My most cherished achievement is the moment I realise and see that my efforts have brought results in every endeavour so far. It is important that everything I have started—from publishing and the gaming industry to video
game production—has been recognised with numerous accolades.
In one of your previous interviews, you mentioned that your JetPeel and Renew Lift devices, as well as ultrasonic lasers, can achieve effects similar to those of plastic surgery. How do these devices provide comparable results without requiring surgical intervention?
Renew Lift and JetPeel are advanced, noninvasive treatments designed to rejuvenate the skin, reduce wrinkles, and improve skin tone. Renew Lift uses radiofrequency or ultrasonic waves to penetrate deep into the skin layers, stimulating collagen and elastin production for firmer, more youthful skin. JetPeel employs jet technology that combines oxygen, natural Dead Sea water compounds, and serum infusions enriched with vitamin boosters to revitalise and repair the skin. Unlike surgery, these treatments are painless, require no recovery time, pose no risks or contraindications, and deliver gradual, natural-looking results.
What is the significance of these treatments for skin health, and when is the right time to start them?
Treatments such as Renew Lift and JetPeel have a significant positive impact on skin health, and starting them at the right time can help preserve a youthful appearance and maintain skin health in the long term.
The optimal time to begin treatments is in your twenties or early thirties. However, JetPeel can also be used for adolescents to treat acne and scars.
What are the most common mistakes people make today when it comes to skincare?
The most common skincare mistakes today involve overusing products, misunderstanding skin types, and having unrealistic expectations. People often over-cleanse or exfoliate excessively, neglect proper SPF use, or choose products unsuited to their skin. Frequent product switching, driven by trends and new offerings, and overusing active ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, and chemical peels
OUR MISSION IS TO HELP OTHERS FIND INNER BALANCE AND DEVELOP A MINDFUL CONNECTION WITH THEMSELVES AND THE WORLD AROUND THEM
without expert advice are also common errors. Effective skincare requires patience, tailored routines, and an understanding of your skin’s needs to achieve healthy, long-term results.
Can you tell us more about the INDIBA ACTIV CT9 device used for athlete recovery? Can athletes find suitable treatments for their needs at your studio?
We are referring to the INDIBA device. For athletes, the INDIBA treatment is often used to speed up recovery after intense training sessions, treat acute injuries such as sprains, strains, ruptures, and contusions, and alleviate chronic pain in muscles and joints. The advantage of this device is its ability to provide non-invasive treatment and be incorporated into a rehabilitation plan alongside other therapeutic methods.
Your studio offers a wide range of services beyond Renew Lift and JetPeel treatments, including mesotherapy, massages, permanent hair removal, capillary removal, Med2Contour, and many others. How can potential clients who are unfamiliar with these topics determine which treatments are best suited to their needs?
Potential clients can identify the most suitable treatments through consultations with professionals in physical therapy, sports medicine, and aesthetic medicine. In short, the best approach involves combining expert advice, trying out treatments, and considering recommendations and reviews from other clients.
Medicine Brings Tremendous Changes, and We Must Prepare for Them
Transformative medicines Are a Healthcare and Societal Priority
ANA GOVEDARICA
General Manager of Roche for Serbia and Montenegro
Innovations in medicine currently taking place are bringing significant positive changes that benefit both patients and healthcare systems. They are also shifting the treatment paradigm, meaning that society as a whole must prepare for these changes to fully leverage their potential, says Ana Govedarica, General Manager of Roche for Serbia and Montenegro. In an interview with Diplomacy & Commerce, Govedarica explains that cell and gene therapies have the potential to revolutionise healthcare by offering unprecedented
treatment opportunities. However, understanding the technical complexities of implementing transformative advanced therapy products is crucial.
Roche is dedicated to being a reliable partner to healthcare systems in developing tailored solutions for the production of trans-
formative therapies. The company has been leading for decades in developing therapies for the most severe diseases and promoting personalised medicine.
What Are Transformative Medicines, and Why Should They Be a Societal Focus?
THE FOCUS ON TRANSFORMATIVE MEDICINES IS NOT JUST A HEALTHCARE ISSUE BUT ALSO A SOCIETAL ONE. WHEN AN INDIVIDUAL CAN CONTINUE WORKING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THEIR FAMILY AND COMMUNITY, THE EFFECTS ARE MULTIFACETED—IMPACTING BOTH TTHE INDIVIDUAL AND SOCIETY AS A WHOLE
Transformative medicines are, simply put, therapies that bring about radical changes in how certain diseases are treated.
Unlike traditional medicines, which typically aim to manage symptoms, transformative medicines can significantly improve patients’ quality of life and even slow down or stop disease progression.
These therapies, such as biological and gene therapies, can have a profound impact on patients with severe chronic illnesses, cancers, rare diseases, or autoimmune disorders. Their value lies not only in treating diseases and prolonging patients’ lives but also in reducing the need for frequent medical inter-
Photo: Roche
ventions and making therapies more tolerable.
Focusing on transformative medicines is not just a healthcare matter but a societal one. When individuals can continue to work and contribute to their families and communities, the ripple effects are substantial — both on a personal level and for society as a whole.
Investment in such therapies, while seemingly high initially, significantly reduces the burden on healthcare systems in the long term and represents a responsible strategy for the future.
How
Do You See the Advantages Serbia Can Gain by Investing in Innovative and Transformative Therapies? Do You Believe Such Investments Are Justified?
Absolutely! Although the investments required for the development and implementation of these therapies are indeed substantial, they offer significant long-term returns. Beyond their efficiency and benefits for patients, innovative medicines reduce the need for frequent hospitalisations and other costly medical interventions. This has a direct impact on savings in the healthcare budget and can increase the availability of resources for the broader population.
It’s important to distinguish between innovative and transformative therapies. While both bring significant advantages to patients and healthcare systems, transformative therapies often represent the most significant leaps in treatment advancements. In contrast, innovative therapies introduce new mechanisms and technologies that improve and enhance the treatment of existing or new conditions.
However, this is just one part of the story. Early and accurate diagnosis, along with organised screening programs, allows diseases to be detected in time, resulting in much better treatment outcomes.
In Serbia, we face specific challenges due to limited resources in the healthcare sector, but given the substantial benefits of these therapies, investing in them is undoubtedly worthwhile. Stable funding for innovative and transformative therapies through a dedicated budget line would enable Serbia to align with Europe in a few years in terms of patient access to the most effective medicines.
How Important Is Screening
When It
Comes to the Most Severe Diseases?
Screening is absolutely crucial. Early detection of diseases, before symptoms become severe, can be decisive. In the case of cancer, for example, screening allows the disease to be identified in its early stages when the chances of a cure are much higher. Research and practice have shown that patients diagnosed at an early stage often have better prognoses and respond more effectively to therapies.
Screening is particularly important for diseases where symptoms are non-specific or develop slowly, as is often the case with many chronic illnesses. Although Serbia’s healthcare system faces its challenges, implementing effective screening programs and modern diagnostic techniques can save numerous lives and enable earlier treatment.
With this in mind, Roche advocates for the introduction
and improvement of screening programs in collaboration with local institutions and healthcare organisations.
Roche Launches the Rise Academy Project in Serbia. Can You Tell Us More About It?
The RISE project is a local initiative launched a year and a half ago, addressing critical challenges that young healthcare professionals face in modern healthcare systems. Its goal is to equip these young individuals with essential competencies that extend beyond the scope of traditional medical education.
The project focuses on three key areas: enhancing scientific knowledge, fostering leadership skills, and exploring the role of digitalisation in contemporary healthcare systems. RISE brings together 30 young doctors, whom we call “rising stars,” along with an equal number of experts from these fields who serve as lecturers
STABLE FUNDING FOR INNOVATIVE AND TRANSFORMATIVE THERAPIES THROUGH A DEDICATED BUDGET LINE WOULD ENABLE SERBIA TO CATCH UP WITH EUROPE IN JUST A FEW YEARS REGARDING PATIENT ACCESS TO THE MOST EFFECTIVE MEDICINES
and mentors. These mentors are dedicated to reshaping the future of healthcare in Serbia. It would be beneficial for institutions responsible for educating healthcare professionals to implement similar curricula on a larger scale.
How Do You See the Future of Healthcare Innovations, and Where Is Roche Striving to Make the Greatest Impact?
We aim to make the greatest impact precisely where patient needs are most pronounced—primarily in the fields of oncology, neurology, ophthalmology, as well as cardiology and metabolic diseases. It is less known that Roche is one of the few companies heavily investing in new antibiotics to tackle the pressing issue of antimicrobial resistance.
Additionally, we are committed to improving healthcare systems by supporting the introduction of new screening programs and educational initiatives. As a partner of the Bio4 Campus, initiated by the Government of Serbia, Roche seeks to support the development of scientific institutes and educational institutions, further positioning Serbia on the global innovation map.
I believe that with this approach, we will contribute to better accessibility and quality of healthcare, not just in Serbia but across the entire region.
Countries With the Most Islands
This summer, my attention was caught by the number of people going to some of the Croatian or Greek islands – every week, I got to know a new one. It seemed that the islands in Croatia and Greece were infinite in numbers. The old commercial about Croatia says that Croatia had 1244 islands, while Wikipedia enlists 1246, out of which 48 are inhabited. It sounds like an awful lot, but in fact, it isn’t. Greece, for instance, has 6000 islands. Serbia? About 50 (17 in the Belgrade area!), all of them effectively being river islands, also known as adas, a Turkish loanword for the islands. But what are the nations with the most islands? I bet you think these are all-island nations like Indonesia or the Philippines, but you are wrong!
Greece is in 13th place, with 227 inhabited islands, while the United Kingdom, an allisland nation, can claim possession of over 6349, out of which only 129 are populated. China follows, nearly missing the Top10 with 6961 islands. The 10th place is indeed re-
served for the Philippines, with 7641 islands – so many to count and name - thousands of islands are unnamed and tiny. Australia is a continent primarily known as a compact landmass, with Tasmania as the biggest island, but the number of Australian islands is staggering – 8222!
The 8th place is occupied by Indonesia, which was a clear choice of many of us as the champion. Still, Indonesia has “only” 17,508 islands – the largest archipelagic state, with five major islands and 30 smaller groups. About 6,000 islands belonging to Indonesia are inhabited. Impressive, but not as unique as the United States of America! Eighteen thousand six hundred seventeen islands in this gigantic country; who would say that? It is all because of Hawaii, someone would say – but Hawaii consists of only 132 islands. And it is not nearly the number the top possesses – next on the list is Chile, with an unbelievable 43,471 islands! Quite another magnitude, right? The 5th on the list is “an obvious giant”, Canada, with
52,455 islands, many instantly visible on the map at first glance.
Place Japan holds No. 4 - 120,729 islands, not only Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu and Okinawa, right? But it is an island nation, and this is expected. What we could not expect is that the 3rd place is occupied by –Finland, with 178,947 islands! Their neighbour Sweden is the silver medallist with 267,570 islands, which is hard to imagine. Slightly more than 8,000 islands had some form of buildings in 2013; most were uninhabited. More than 1.6 million (17% of the population) lived on an island in 2013. This figure is high because there are densely populated islands in the larger cities of Sweden. Stockholm is full of them, for instance. And the gold goes to – Norway, with 320,249 of them - according to Kartverket - 239,057 are considered proper islands, with the rest being islets. Wait, what about – Russia? Only 1,338. Micronesia? 607. New Zealand? 600. Sorry, guys, Nordic countries rule.
HUNGARY
Serbia-Hungary Strategic Cooperation Council
TAMÁS SULYOK
The President of Hungary visited Serbia
Member of Parliament in the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia Focus
H.E.
MAGYAR the Ambassador of Hungary to Serbia
THE HOUSE OF MUSIC
The House of Music Hungary (Magyar Zene Háza) is an iconic cultural venue in Budapest’s City Park (Városliget). Designed by Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto, it opened in January 2022 as part of the Liget Budapest Project, an ambitious urban development initiative. The building is celebrated for its unique architecture. Its perforated roof allows natural light to filter through, creating a connection between the indoors and the surrounding park. Trees surround the structure, blending harmoniously with nature.
Photo: Stefano Ember / Shutterstock
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DRAGAN NIKOLIĆ dragan.nikolic@color.rs
Journalist MIJAT KONTIĆ
Photo GORAN ZLATKOVIĆ, SHUTTERSTOCK, SÁNDOR PALACe / bY GYULA bARTOS THe GOveRNMeNT OF HUNGARY / PRIMe MINISTeR’S OFFICe
This special edition was created cooperating with the Embassy of Hungary in Serbia. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to H.E. József Magyar, the Ambassador of Hungary, and Ms Hetei-Vizi Éva, Second Secretary
16
SERBIA-HUNGARY STRATEGIC COOPERATION COUNCIL
ALEKSANDAR VUČIĆ
The President of the Republic of Serbia
20
BUILDING BRIDGES
H.E. JÓZSEF MAGYAR
the Ambassador of Hungary to Serbia
24
DIPLOMACY
THE EVERGROWING FRIENDSHIP OF TWO COUNTRIES
The President of Hungary visited Serbia 26
FEATURED INTERVIEW
BÁLINT PÁSZTOR
Member of Parliament in the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia
30
BILATERAL COOPERATION
A MODEL OF ECONOMIC AND ENERGY SYNERGY
Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia
Cover page photo:
A minimalistic white modern building interior with a spiral staircase. Modern architecture interior design. House of Music Budapest, Hungary. Photo: cvesper_stepan / Shutterstock
SERBIAN PRESIDENT ALEKSANDAR VUČIĆ STRENGTHENS TIES WITH HUNGARY
Serbia and Hungary Discuss Future Collaborative Projects
In a significant diplomatic event, the President of the Republic of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, participated in a formal dinner hosted by the President and Prime Minister of Hungary, Tamás Sulyok and Viktor Orbán. The occasion was marked by Vučić’s announcement on his Instagram account, highlighting the importance of the gathering.
Vučić emphasised that the event provided another valuable opportunity to reinforce the partnership, personal relationships, and camaraderie between Serbia and Hungary. He noted that the discussions also focused on exploring new collaborative initiatives.
“The exceptional hospitality of our Hungarian friends characterised the day in Budapest. The working meetings and the dinner featuring excellent cuisine, wines, and traditions that unite Hungary and Serbia symbolise mutual respect and a shared commitment to further developing bilateral relations,” Vučić stated.
He reiterated that the event was another chance to strengthen the partnership, personal connections, and friendship and discuss new joint initiatives that will contribute to even stronger cooperation. These efforts aim to lay the foundations for closer ties and a better future for both countries and their citizens.
“All this was done on the initiative and with the enormous energy and authority of Viktor Orbán,” Vučić mentioned on his Instagram profile.
Vučić also highlighted the significant shift in Serbs’ attitudes towards Hungarians and Hungary, pointing out that Viktor Orbán enjoys considerable popularity in Serbia.
“We are deepening those ties with bilateral agreements but also addressing the challenges we face together. Our connections are becoming deeper - fundamentally, structurally, politically, economically, and interpersonally,” Vučić remarked.
He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to discuss the interconnection of the two countries in the energy sector, including investments in gas power plants, the construction of transmission lines, and the development of the Pannonian Corridor network.
THE EXCEPTIONAL HOSPITALITY OF OUR HUNGARIAN FRIENDS CHARACTERISED THE DAY IN BUDAPEST
“Serbia will always be a reliable partner of Hungary because we know that we will always have a
friend in Hungary, just as they can rightfully expect the same from Serbia,” Vučić concluded.
The event highlighted the ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral relations between Serbia and Hungary. The discussions covered various topics, including economic cooperation, energy projects, and cultural exchanges. The leaders emphasised the importance of mutual respect and understanding in fostering a solid and enduring partnership.
The dinner in Budapest was a testament to the close ties between the two nations. It featured a blend of traditional Hungarian cuisine and wines, reflecting the rich cultural heritage shared by both countries. The atmosphere was camaraderie and mutual appreciation, with both sides expressing their commitment to furthering their collaborative efforts.
Vučić’s participation in the event highlighted Serbia’s dedication to strengthening its relationship with Hungary. The discussions aimed to identify new cooperation areas and build on the foundation of trust and friendship. The leaders explored various initiatives to enhance economic growth, improve infrastructure, and promote social development.
The Serbian President’s remarks on Instagram provided a glimpse into the positive dynamics of the meeting. He praised Viktor Orbán’s leadership and acknowledged the significant progress in bilateral relations. Vučić’s comments reflected a sense of optimism and a forwardlooking approach to the partnership between Serbia and Hungary.
The event also served to discuss key issues affecting both countries. Energy cooperation was a major focus, with both sides exploring opportunities for joint investments in gas power plants and constructing transmission lines. The development of the Pannonian Corridor network was also a key topic, highlighting the strategic importance of enhancing connectivity between the two nations.
In addition to economic and energy-related discussions, the leaders also touched on cultural
and social initiatives. They emphasised the importance of fostering cultural exchanges and promoting mutual understanding between the people of Serbia and Hungary. The event provided a valuable opportunity to celebrate the shared heritage and strengthen friendship bonds.
ENERGY COOPERATION WAS A MAJOR FOCUS, WITH BOTH SIDES EXPLORING OPPORTUNITIES FOR JOINT INVESTMENTS
IN GAS POWER PLANTS AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF TRANSMISSION LINES
Overall, the dinner in Budapest was a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral relations between Serbia and Hungary. The event highlighted the commitment of both nations to working together towards a brighter future. The discussions and initiatives explored during the meeting are expected to pave the way for even more robust cooperation and contribute to both countries’ overall development and prosperity.
Alexandar Vučić and Viktor Orban at the gala dinner
Photo
Suzana Vasiljević
COMBINING INNOVATION AND EXPERTISE IN
AESTHETIC AND ANTI-AGEING MEDICINE
Redefining beauty with precision, innovation, and a commitment to natural aesthetics
Dr Srđan Prodanović is a specialist in radiology and a certified physician in aesthetic and anti-ageing medicine. In his work, he combines innovative ultrasound diagnostic methods with the most advanced aesthetic protocols. He is an active member of SESIAM (Serbian Association of Interdisciplinary Aesthetic and Anti-Ageing Medicine), the largest association of aesthetic medicine doctors in Serbia. Dr Prodanović is also a participant and lecturer at numerous conferences both domestically and internationally and serves as a national and regional trainer for Sinclair. He is the owner and founder of the “Dr Prodanović” clinic.
What Does a Professional and Moderate Approach to Aesthetic Procedures Entail in Your Clinic?
How Do You Address the Taboo Surrounding Aesthetic Treatments Often Associated With Artificial and Unnatural Results?
We strive to nurture an individual approach to each patient, which means we act as “psychologists” to understand their desires, expectations, and motives for considering an aesthetic procedure. A moderate approach involves subtle improvements that aren’t immediately noticeable, highlighting the most attractive facial features and restoring a fresh, youthful appearance while maintaining a natural look. When someone looks better and more rested, but you can’t pinpoint why—that’s proof that an aesthetic correction has been done properly and with care.
Can You Tell Us More About Energy-based Devices Such as Morpheus8 and Ultraformer III? What Makes Them Effective?
The global trend in aesthetic medicine in recent years involves methods that stimulate the skin and subcutaneous tissues to regenerate naturally. Ultraformer III and Morpheus8 are state-of-the-art devices that stimulate collagen production, improve skin tone and texture, and can even be used for body con-
DR SRĐAN PRODANOVIĆ Specialist in radiology and a certified physician in aesthetic and anti-ageing medicine
ENHANCING NATURAL BEAUTY THROUGH PRECISION AND INNOVATION
touring and reducing localised fat deposits.
Ultraformer III operates using High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) and is the best alternative to surgical lifting, particularly for the lower third of the face, where signs of ageing are often most noticeable. The advantage of this treatment is that it is entirely non-invasive, as it doesn’t penetrate the skin barrier, allowing patients to immediately resume their daily activities after the procedure.
Morpheus8 combines microneedling with radiofrequency. Along with mild tightening effects, it is highly
effective for improving skin texture, reducing acne scars, and minimising stretch marks.
In Your Long Career as a Radiologist and Certified Aesthetic and Anti-Ageing Medicine Specialist, You’ve Encountered Many Trends Among Aesthetic Treatment Users. What Mistakes Do People Often Make When Considering Aesthetic Interventions, and How Can They Avoid Them?
I believe blindly following any “trend” is always a mistake, as the face and body should always be considered holistically, respecting the natural anatomy and the unique features that make someone distinctive. If there are certain imperfections, they should be corrected to enhance facial contours or, for instance, lips, while striving for harmony.
While beauty is often said to be subjective, numerous studies suggest that specific facial and body proportions are universally considered attractive, regardless of geography, race, or even age—children, for example, will find faces with more balanced proportions more appealing.
Another common mistake patients make is wanting to do “everything at once.” Some changes require time and multiple interventions at intervals, allowing the skin to adapt to the new shape and volume.
Your Biography States That You Combine Innovative Ultrasound Diagnostic Methods With the Most Modern Aesthetic Protocols in Your Work. How Does This Translate to the Results Achieved With Clients, and What Sets Your Practice Apart From Others?
Ultrasound provides a precise insight into the structure of various facial skin layers and subcutaneous tissues, making it an invaluable tool in more complex injection procedures and device-based treatments where assessing the depth of energy application is crucial. This enables us to target specific anatomical structures more accurately, achieving significantly better results while minimising the risk of complications
Are There Any Risks Associated With Aesthetic Procedures That Potential Users Should Be Aware Of?
Every procedure, even minimally invasive ones, carries some level of risk. It is crucial that aesthetic interventions are performed by trained and licensed medical professionals who can recognise potential complications early and address them appropriately.
Another essential factor is the patient’s health condition, as there are numerous medical conditions for which aesthetic procedures are contraindicated. Only a doctor specialised in this field can have the necessary knowledge to assess these risks accurately.
22 OCTOBER 2024
HUNGARIAN EMBASSY MARKS
HISTORIC EVENT WITH A WONDERFUL RECEPTION IN BELGRADE
The day serves not only as a remembrance of Hungary’s resistance to oppression in 1956 but also as a celebration of the country’s democratic rebirth
On the eve of the Hungarian National Day, H.E. József Magyar, the Hungarian Ambassador to Serbia, and the Hungarian Embassy organised a memorable reception at the prestigious White Palace in Belgrade. This annual celebration commemorates a pivotal day in Hungary’s history, combining the revolutionary spirit of October 23, 1956, with the declaration of the Hungarian Republic on October 23, 1989.
This national holiday’s dual significance symbolises Hungary’s journey toward freedom, democracy, and national unity. The day serves not only as a remembrance of Hungary’s resistance
to oppression in 1956 but also as a celebration of the country’s democratic rebirth.
The event was held in the elegant and historic surroundings of the White Palace, providing an ideal setting for such a meaningful occasion. Attendees included prominent government officials from Serbia, ambassadors and representatives from various embassies, members of the diplomatic corps, and distinguished international guests from the European Union and beyond.
The reception highlighted the strong diplomatic ties between Hungary and Serbia, reflecting their commitment to fostering regional cooperation and mutual understanding. In his welcoming speech, H.E. József Magyar emphasised the importance of this
historic day and expressed gratitude to the guests for their continued support and collaboration.
The evening featured a rich cultural program that celebrated Hungary’s heritage. Live performances of traditional Hungarian music and artwork showcasing the nation’s vibrant cultural history were featured. Guests were also treated to a curated selection of Hungarian culinary specialities and fine wines, reflecting the country’s gastronomic excellence.
The celebration was a powerful reminder of Hungary’s resilience and progress while strengthening the bonds between the Hungarian and Serbian peoples. It was an evening of reflection, celebration, and unity, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of Hungarian National Day.
BUILDING BRIDGES
HUNGARY AND SERBIA’S
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP FOR A STRONGER EUROPE
Ambassador Highlights Hungary’s Resilience, EU Vision, and Deepening Strategic Ties with Serbia
On the occasion of Hungary’s National Holiday, the Hungarian Ambassador to Serbia delivered a compelling speech in Belgrade, highlighting the enduring friendship and strategic partnership between Hungary and Serbia. Through reflections on shared history, economic collaboration, and Hungary’s unwavering support for Serbia’s European integration, the Ambassador underscored the importance of unity and cooperation in building a prosperous future for both nations.
I consider it a great honour to greet our dear guests in such a large number at our reception organized on the occasion of Hungary’s National Day, here in Belgrade.
October 23, 1956 is the national holiday of Hungarians living in the free world. On this day, Hungarians all over the world remember the revolution that broke out in Budapest 68 years ago with a pure heart and a strong sense of belonging. To live in freedom instead of dictatorship, in independence instead of subjugation, in a democratic country with leadership of their freely elected leaders instead of tyranny.
Therefore, respect to the heroes of ‚56!
The Hungarian people really suffered in the 20th century. After the two world wars, what remained intact in 1945 was destroyed in Budapest in 1956, followed with, whether you liked it or not, building of communism. With our past of 33 years of oppression, we became one of the first members of the Euro-Atlantic integration family, joining NATO for the first time 25 years ago. In 2004, exactly 20 years ago, we became a member of the European Union, and we now hold the position of president of its Council for the second time.
HUNGARY STRONGLY SUPPORTS SERBIA’S
EU ACCESSION
The founding fathers made the European Community a success by creating the internal market and the interoperability of borders, and then we continued to build it by adhering to the principle of „united in diversity”. Today, the old continent is once again facing serious challenges. Its peace is made uncertain by the protracted war in our neighbourhood, Ukraine and the Middle East. The European Union’s competitiveness, energy and green transition, migration and future electromobility policies are now characterized by a difficultto-interpret unity. And while we
H.E. JÓZSEF MAGYAR
the Ambassador of Hungary to Serbia
agree that enlargement has become one of the most successful policies of the European Union, which is developing peacefully and securely, hardly any progress has been made in this area in the last 10 years.
That is why the priorities of the Hungarian EU presidency in the second half of 2024 were to strengthen the competitiveness of the Union, the defence industry, a cohesion and farmer-centered agricultural policy, curb illegal migration and, above all, a consistent and merit-based enlargement policy. Hungary’s foreign policy is clear: it stands resolutely in favor of speeding up the accession negotiations with Serbia and the Western Balkan candidate countries. On the international fora, it cooperates closely with Serbia, whether it is about issues on the agenda of the UN or the Council of Europe.
The current Hungarian EU presidency represents a transitional institutional semester. In its first three months, we performed perhaps less spectacular events, but with 14 ministerial council meetings, 27 COREPER II and COREPER I ambassadorial meetings and 645 working group meetings, serious work was still going on. 90 of our 172 presidency events have already been held, and 10,000 foreign guests have participated in our events in Hungary. And the top is yet to come: in two weeks, Budapest will host the summit of the European Political Community and the informal meeting of the European Council, and in December we will organize the EU - Western Balkans summit.
BILATERAL TRADE WITH SERBIA EXCEEDED €5 BILLION LAST YEAR
In the last 10 days of the presidency, positive processes have started: the European Commission agreed with the countries of the Western Balkans on the support program called Growth Plan, it’s first payments will begin shortly, and an intergovernmental conference with Albania and it’s opening of the first cluster took place. We strongly support an intergovernmental conference and the opening of cluster 3 to take place with Serbia during the Hungarian semester. I can assure our Serbian friends that the Hungarian presidency will provide all possible help and assistance. At the same time, we congratulate Serbia on its economic growth, which is an exceptional achievement even compared to some European countries. That is why we say that it would only benefit the European Union to include Serbia as one of its members in a short period of time in this challenging world.
These things are particularly important for Hungary: Serbia is our good neighbor, we have formed a strong friendship with its people, and the leaders and governments of the two countries are guided by thinking in strategic
perspectives. We know the benefits of Serbia joining the EU. If we only think about barrier-free crossing of borders, the competitiveness of our region would be enhanced, and the mobility of Hungarian and Serbian people would increase exponentially instead of waiting at the border.
Relations between Hungary and Serbia reached a milestone this year. It has been a decade since the two peoples, overcoming their historical grievances, entered the level of reconciliation, good neighbourly relations, and then strategic cooperation. This year, the formation of the new Serbian government, Prime Minister Vučević’s message to Hungary during the presentation of the government program, and the fact that the Vojvodina Hungarian Association is a stable coalition partner of the current cabinet, as in previous government cycles, helped a lot. This also required good election results in December and June, which secured the Hungarian party 6 republican and 9 provincial parliamentary mandates, 8 governmental state secretary mandates, as well as the role of president of the Vojvodina parliament. Without the bridge role of the Vojvodina Hungarian and Hungarian Serbian communities, it would be difficult to plan our common future. The leaders of the two countries also take part in it: Serbian Foreign Minister Đuric’s first foreign trip was to Budapest in May, but Serbian defense, energy, European affairs and economic ministers also held talks in Budapest, while our interior and transport ministers visited Serbia several times.
Our speaker of the National Assembly held talks in Belgrade 2 weeks ago, for which we thank the President of the National Assembly Ana Brnabić for her hospitality. Our Prime Ministers exchanged their views in Berlin last week, while President Vucic will meet Prime Minister Orbán Viktor today in Komárno. Two weeks ago, we held the 14th meeting of the Hungarian-Serbian Economic Joint Committee in Budapest, which began preparations for the Budapest meeting in November of the Hungarian-Serbian Strategic Council established in 2023.
In a few days, the President of the Republic of Hungary, Sulyok Tamás, will come to Serbia for an official visit. In August, in recognition of the strengthening of Hungarian-Serbian relations, President Aleksandar Vučić was awarded the highest state award.
Our close relations also have more recent results: our foreign trade was 5 billion euros last year. Hungary is Serbia’s fourth most important foreign trade partner, while among the countries of the Western Balkans, Hungary has the strongest business and trade cooperation with Serbia, with a ratio of 70%. Last November, the train service between Szeged and Subotica started. On the Hungarian side of the Budapest-Belgrade high-speed railway, we laid the last pair of rails of the 150 km main section two weeks ago, and passenger traffic between Belgrade and Subotica will start in Serbia at the end of November. We agreed on the construction of three new crossings and two highway connections. We have extended the opening hours of the small border crossings, and we will soon introduce one-stop passenger traffic control at the Röszke-Horgos highway crossing.
Our energy relations ensure a safe gas supply, and Serbia stores it in safety reserves in Hungarian storage facilities. We have created a Hungarian-Serbian-Slovenian electricity exchange, which will start operating in Budapest at the end of the year. In 2028, we will build the second 400 kV transmission line and we are conducting businessbased negotiations to build a new crude oil pipeline. MOL Serbia opened its 73rd gas station in Serbia. The joint gas trading company SERBHUNGAZ started its work. The company Južna Bačka is strengthening its relationship with MVM, while MVM EGI is carrying out the renovation investment of one of the largest thermal power plants in Serbia in a joint consortium. The Hungarian company Pannonia Bio is building the region’s largest biogas plant in Serbia, and Duna Kút is renovating Belgrade’s clean spawning water supply system. OTP Srbija became the bank with the strongest capital concentration and the best digital service provider in Serbia, while two Hungarian companies have established serious cooperation with their Serbian business partners on the Serbian labour market.
HUNGARY
AND SERBIA’S TIES ARE MARKED BY STRATEGIC COOPERATION AND KEY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS
In addition, many businesses contribute to our economic cooperation. 35 of them are also sponsors of today’s event. We thank them for their cooperation with us. We are glad that your prominent business partners are also our guests tonight.
It is good that we also pay attention to each other’s in terms of leisure activities, which connect Hungarians and Serbs through tourism and sports. Both peoples have a rich tradition. Hungary’s tourism is expected to grow by 5.5% this year, to which Serbian visitors also contribute. We are happy about Air Serbia’s three daily flights to Budapest, which, among others, contributed to the visit of 14.5 million tourists to the Hungarian capital last year and 11.5 million in the first eight months of 2024. In addition to the top 10 most visited Budapest destinations in Europe, we also offer rich rural touristic attractions. We will present them briefly on the screens tonight, while we prepared a taste of our Hungarian heritage dishes for our guests in the Hungarikum Tent set up for this purpose this year.
It is a good feeling that the two peoples are also strengthening each other in sports. Many coaches and players are in the other nation’s teams. We supported each other in this year’s Euro league for our soccer players. Our water polo players competed together at the Paris Olympics, at which Serbia became Olympic champion again, as did Novak Djokovic. Congratulations to them. But we are also happy that Adriána Világos made the hearts of Serbs and Hungarians beat together this August.
The team of the Hungarian Embassy in Belgrade did a serious job again this year, for which I thank my colleagues, but I also thank all our partners and friends in Serbia for their openness and our truly successful cooperation.
Finally, I would like to thank my wife, Laura, for her understanding and patience with my dynamic and versatile work as the ambassador of Hungary in Belgrade.
I raise my glass to the success of Hungary and Serbia, to the flourishing relationship between Hungary and Serbia.
INNOVATION AND SAVINGS
– THE FUTURE LIES IN ENERGY
EFFICIENCY
Driving Energy Efficiency and Sustainability through Innovation and Strategic Partnerships
Energy efficiency and sustainability are imperative, and the company Smart Energy Investment Kft has set new standards in the field of energy services. As a trusted partner to local governments and collaborators, this Hungarian company provides innovative solutions that reduce energy consumption and ensure long-term sustainability. ESCo projects, based on the Energy Performance Contract (EPC) model, invest in energy sustainability. One of the company’s founders and its director, Obrad Tadić, shared his vision of the future of smart cities with us.
What is SEI’s role in today’s energy efficiency market?
Smart Energy Investment is today a respected partner for local governments, public bodies, and various local and international collaborators. We represent a stable, financially sound, and reliable company that implements modern energy solutions and provides long-term energy services.
Was it starting operations in the Serbia complex?
The start of 2016 was far more complex than we anticipated. Much of what we expected didn’t happen, and we had to navigate many challenges on our own. However, this made us stronger and more capable of tackling new business challenges and ventures.
How many projects have you completed so far?
Together with our partners, we have implemented around 30 projects in Serbia and developed over 100 projects in the region. We aim to implement these projects either independently or with partners.
To what extent do you collaborate with companies in the region and europe?
I prefer the term “synergy” instead of “collaboration.” We are synergised with companies from Hungary, Serbia, Slovenia, Austria, and other regional firms.
We are delighted that our partnerships transcend borders, focusing not on territorial or local limitations but on achieving strong energy alignments for optimal synergy.
What are SeI’s results and contributions to the quality of life for Serbia’s citizens?
Regarding results, our collaborators and partners know we usually emphasise the environmental and societal effects. Our main achievements are reducing energy consumption and directly and explicitly lowering costs while improving environmental conditions. Our projects save millions of kilowatthours annually and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by thousands of tonnes. Everything else stems from these effects.
What are your plans for the future?
We expect SEI to continue growing and developing at the same pace, opening new markets and introducing new business models. We are currently developing very exciting multidisciplinary energy efficiency projects related to agriculture, conservation, and sustainable development in every sense. This public-private partnership is designed to synergise within a single project, combining modern technologies with traditional ones to create quality integration, optimisation, and management.
What does the PPP model and technology offer?
Initially, Our idea was not to focus on just one type of technology. Instead, we aim to leverage everything the PPP model offers—the synergy and the inclusion of all resources, especially business know-how, to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs). We view technologies as tools for fulfilling our goals aligning with state development objectives. Consequently, we approach public lighting systems with the same perspective. Through our projects, exclusively public-private partnerships, we strive to be solid partners to local governments and public entities in achieving their sustainability goals.
You’ve entered the global market, representing Serbia in the best possible way through various projects. What has the world recognised in your projects?
We like to say that our projects represent us and the countries we come from. Thus, with our projects, we represent Serbia, Hungary, and the entire region, as our project partners come from a broader region and are integrated into our solutions. We are recognised as leaders in public-private partnerships. One of our projects in Zaječar was selected two years ago among the ten best projects globally, according to the UNECE methodology, and received special praise for its circular economy and sustainability. We are incredibly proud of that!
SMART ENERGY INVESTMENT’S PROJECTS SAVE MILLIONS OF KILOWATT-HOURS ANNUALLY, REDUCE GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS BY THOUSANDS OF TONNES, AND SET GLOBAL BENCHMARKS FOR SUSTAINABILITY AND PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS
OBRAD TADIĆ
Smart Energy Investment, CEO
THE EVERGROWING FRIENDSHIP OF TWO COUNTRIES
The President of Hungary visited Serbia to re-affirm the positive international partnership
On the 28th of October, the President of Hungary, Tamaš Šujok, visited Serbia to meet the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, and highlight and strengthen the friendly and neighbourly bilateral relations between the two countries.
THe MeeTING AT THe PALACe OF SeRbIA
The visit began with a meeting between the President of Serbia and the President of Hungary in the Palace of Serbia. In his address after the meeting with Šujok, President Vučić said that the Union of Vojvodina Hungarians (SVM) represents for Serbia a bridge of friendship and brotherhood with Hungary and that the policy of respect, mutual respect, friendly and fraternal relations with that country will be continued.
The President of Serbia highlighted the role of SVM and its leader, Balint Pastor, and thanked him for being present today. He stated that he discussed topics such as the position of Serbs living in Hungary, the upcoming
elections in the USA, the situation in Ukraine, and many other issues with the Hungarian president. President Vučić highlighted that Hungary is Serbia’s fourth-largest trade partner, with significant joint projects, such as the Pannonian electricity transmission corridor, expected to be completed by the end of 2028. He emphasised that citizens will significantly benefit from these collaborations.
VUČIĆ NOTED THAT TRADE BETWEEN THE COUNTRIES HAS GROWN FROM 768 MILLION EUROS 12 YEARS AGO TO 3.1 BILLION EUROS LAST YEAR
Vučić noted that trade between the countries has grown from 768 million euros 12 years ago to 3.1 billion euros last year. He also underscored the importance of the highspeed railway between Novi Sad and Budapest and expressed hope for a
All
photos:
Sándor Palace
(Gyula Bartos)
future agreement on a high-speed rail network connecting Hungary, Serbia, North Macedonia, and Greece.
Additionally, Vučić mentioned ongoing efforts to develop high-speed railways to Bratislava and from Budapest to Warsaw and Krakow. He also announced the imminent realisation of the oil pipeline project between Novi Sad and Aldja, with a feasibility study expected to be completed by year’s end.
He also pointed out that Serbia wants a joint electricity exchange with Hungary and Slovenia, adding that we are developing the Pannonian electricity transmission corridor with Hungary, which should be completed by the end of 2028.
The President of Hungary expressed his gratitude to the President of Serbia and the Serbian people for the stable position and orderly circumstances of the Hungarian people in Serbia.
He thanked Vučić for advocating for all initiatives that support friendly cooperation and contribute to the survival of the Hungarian minority in Serbia. He emphasised that it is precisely because of this that it is a great honour for him that he has the opportunity to visit Čurug together with President Vučić and to pay respect to the innocent victims from both sides jointly.
The President of Hungary also stated that Hungary will do everything to ensure that Serbia becomes a full member of the European Union as soon as possible because, as he pointed out, he believes that long-term stability cannot be achieved in the Balkans without European integration.
THE PRESIDENT OF HUNGARY STATED THAT HUNGARY WILL DO EVERYTHING FOR SERBIA TO BECOME A FULL MEMBER OF THE EUROPEAN UNION
VISITING ČURUG
After the meetings, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and Hungarian President Tamaš Šujok laid wreaths at the Reconciliation Monument in Čurug, as well as at the “Topalov magazine” Raid Victims Museum. After that, the two presidents attended the blessing of the restored Catholic Church of Snežne Gospe in Žablje.
Pastor and president of the National Council of Hungarians in Serbia, Arpad Fremont, also laid wreaths in the museum. They toured the museum, accompanied by the President of the Provincial Government, Maja Gojković, the Minister of Labour, Employment, Veterans, and Social Affairs, Nemanja Starović, and the President of the SVM, Balint Pastor.
President Vučić stated that Serbia currently has no closer and more excellent ally than Hungary and said that as long as he is involved in politics, he will try not to spoil the good relations between the two nations. The President of the Republic of Serbia expressed gratitude to the Hungarian government for helping restore the temple in Žablje.
He thanked Hungarian President Tamaš Šujok for his visit to Serbia, their support at the UN general assembly, and numerous ongoing collaborative projects in Vojvodina. He assessed that the visit made a new contribution to the creation of better relations between the two peoples and the two countries.
Vučić stated that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and former SVM leader Ištvan Pastor contributed the most to better relations between Serbs and Hungarians, to establishing a sincere and neighbourly friendship between Serbia and Hungary.
Šujok stated that today, the two countries opened a new chapter in their relations, as well as that the restoration and consecration of the Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Snows will become a symbol of HungarianSerbian friendship, that it will strengthen faith in humanity and the common European destiny of the two nations.
Šujok said that the Church of Snežne Gospe was in terrible condition until recently and that today, it is in a completely new guise and full of people.
He added that he and Vučić discussed everything that happened during the Second World War and concluded that the Serbian and Hungarian sides forgave each other for their bad deeds.
The President of Hungary pointed out that the former president of the Union of Vojvodina Hungarians, Ištvan Pastor, contributed a lot to the historic reconciliation of Serbs and Hungarians.
BUILDING BRIDGES, FORGING FUTURES
Bálint Pásztor Reflects on Serbian-Hungarian Reconciliation and Growth
In this exclusive interview, Bálint Pásztor, Member of Parliament in the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia, illuminates the remarkable progress in Serbian-Hungarian relations, the role of national minorities as bridges between nations, and the unparalleled support offered by the Hungarian state to its citizens in Vojvodina. From historic reconciliation to groundbreaking infrastructure projects, Pásztor highlights the transformative partnership that sets an example for the region and beyond.
During the official visit of the President of Hungary, Tamás Sulyok, it was stated that cooperation with Hungary is at “the highest historical level,” as noted by the President of the Republic of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić. In your opinion, what is the critical factor behind this successful bilateral cooperation between the two countries?
WE HAVE REACHED THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF COOPERATION; THERE ARE NO OPEN ISSUES OR NEGLECTED AREAS IN OUR RELATIONS
We achieved historical reconciliation 11 years ago and jointly closed the most painful chapters of SerbianHungarian history and mutual relations. I am referring to the horrors of the 1940s during World War II—first, against the innocent Serbian population in 1941-42, and later, in 1944-45 against the innocent Hungarian civilian population. Eleven years ago, we achieved historical reconciliation when the then-president of the two republics, Tomislav Nikolić and János Áder, jointly paid respects at memorials honouring the innocent Serbian and Hungarian victims. János Áder also issued
BÁLINT PÁSZTOR Member of Parliament in the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia
an apology in the National Assembly of Serbia for the atrocities committed in 1941 and 1942, while our National Assembly adopted a declaration condemning acts against the Hungarian civilian population in 1944 and 1945. Furthermore, Aleksandar Vučić’s government, precisely 10 years ago, on October 30, 2014, annulled two decisions from 1945 that had stigmatised the entire Hungarian community based on the principle of collective guilt or collective responsibility.
By doing so, we succeeded in closing that chapter of our shared past. Since then, we have been able to focus on planning and implementing joint infrastructure and economic projects. I believe that Serbia currently has no better neighbours than Hungary, just as Hungary has no better neighbours than Serbia.
How would you assess the position of the Hungarian national minority in Serbia today?
As part of the ruling majority, through the Alliance of Vojvodina Hungarians (VMSZ), we have been building a strategic partnership with the Serbian Progressive Party for 10 years. Within the institutions of the National Assembly and the government, we address issues related to the position of national minorities. The legislative framework is entirely satisfactory. While there is work to be done regarding implementation, there are no significant issues. Should any arise, we resolve them in collaboration with our partners.
To what extent do the national minorities in both countries contribute to strengthening ties between the Hungarian and Serbian peoples? They have undoubtedly contributed. It is often said that national minorities act as bridges between countries. I wouldn’t say I like to use that phrase because everyone else does. Still, the most significant benefit of such good
relations is for Serbs in Hungary and Hungarians in Serbia, particularly in Vojvodina.
Collaboration exists at all levels, for example, between representatives of Hungarians in Serbia and representatives of Serbs in Hungary. When I was elected President of the Alliance of Vojvodina Hungarians on March 2, my first official guests were representatives and leaders of the Serbs from Hungary. With that, I wanted to communicate clearly that we must prioritise cooperation and support. This ensures the success of all broader collaborations.
Is there any support or assistance from the Hungarian state for citizens living in vojvodina?
That support has significantly increased since Viktor Orbán became
OVER THE PAST EIGHT YEARS, THE PROSPERITATI FOUNDATION HAS INVESTED HALF
A BILLION EUROS IN VOJVODINA, BENEFITING 16,000 APPLICANTS
Prime Minister in 2010. Hungary’s national policy, particularly its approach to national minorities and the Hungarian minority living in neighbouring countries, serves as a model for the entire European continent. As an MP, I have spoken in the Serbian parliament to express that we have no objections when the Serbian government assists its compatriots and Serbian institutions in the surrounding region, as our homeland does the same for us as part of the Hungarian nation.
This support benefits Hungarian institutions in Vojvodina and initiatives on preserving identity, education, culture, and information. I particularly want to emphasise the economic support provided through the Prosperitati Foundation, which has been active in Vojvodina for eight years. Dual citizens can apply for projects funded by the Hungarian government. Over these eight years, approximately half a billion euros have been invested, with around 16,000 successful applicants. These funds have been used to purchase family homes in rural areas and agricultural land, start businesses, and support agricultural producers, entrepreneurs, and companies.
While this assistance may not directly fall under the traditional definition of preserving identity, it undoubtedly contributes to ensuring that we can continue to live and thrive in the areas where we have traditionally resided.
What are your expectations for future cooperation between Serbia and Hungary? Are you satisfied with it, and do you see room for further development?
It is often said that when interstate cooperation includes the national defence issue, it represents the highest level of trust, as there is nothing beyond that. We have reached this highest level. No open issues or areas have been neglected in the past; we have achieved something unprecedented in this part of Europe, and we must preserve it.
More concrete projects focused on infrastructure development and economic cooperation should be implemented to enhance this partnership quantitatively. In terms of quality, I believe it cannot be improved further. One example worth emphasising is Hungary’s position as Serbia’s fourth-largest foreign trade partner. About 15 years ago, Hungary ranked somewhere beyond the 20th place. This demonstrates how much the relations between Serbia and Hungary have improved.
NEVEN SAVIĆ
Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Energotehnika Južna Bačka i Elektromontaža Kraljevoa
SHAPING SERBIA’S ENERGY FUTURE
Driving Innovation and Sustainable Growth in Serbia’s Energy Sector
In this interview, Neven Savić, Chief Financial Officer of Energotehnika Južna Bačka and Elektromontaža Kraljevo, shares insights into the companies’ strategic role in Serbia’s energy market. He discusses the transformative impact of MVM’s investment, the companies’ leadership in green and sustainable projects, and ambitious plans for future growth, both locally and within the broader European market.
Just over two years ago, the Serbian energy market resounded with the news that MVM, Hungary’s national electricity and gas company, had acquired a minority stake in two private Serbian companies, Energotehnika Južna Bačka and Elektromontaža from Kraljevo. From today’s perspective, how do you assess that business move? When I was appointed in 2022 by MVM as the Chief Financial Officer for these companies, I saw it as a logical and standard business decision. However, today, I can confidently call that move revolutionary. By acquiring equity in Serbian companies that are leaders, primarily in the expertise they possess, MVM, to use sports terminology, secured a “season ticket” for the best seat on the Serbian energy market stage. When I say expertise, I don’t only mean technological expertise, which is undoubtedly present, but also expertise in managing capital projects, organizing such
MVM, BY ACQUIRING EQUITY IN LEADING SERBIAN COMPANIES, SECURED
A ‘SEASON
TICKET’ FOR THE BEST SEAT ON THE SERBIAN ENERGY MARKET STAGE
companies, and their readiness to actively participate in reshaping the structure and image of Serbia’s energy sector.
MVM is one of the largest companies in Central Europe, involved in producing, transporting, and distributing, primarily, electricity and gas. The synergy it will achieve with Serbian companies is beyond question.
What primarily defines the leadership position of your companies in the Serbian market?
Thanks to the continuous growth of the Serbian economy in recent years, the state of Serbia has reached a position where it can finance much-needed investments in modernizing energy and utility infrastructure. Considering that such significant projects require, above all, the aforementioned expertise, we see our opportunity here and are building our market position.
I am convinced that a great asset for Serbia is having companies like Energotehnika Južna Bačka and Elektromontaža from Kraljevo, which can successfully execute such complex projects. These companies have a proven track record of successfully completed and ongoing projects, where, as leaders, we have managed to bring together technology providers, major global companies, and predominantly Serbian contractors.
Moreover, these are not just projects directly related to energy infrastructure but also those that contribute to broader societal benefits, such as ecology, mining, and utility infrastructure. We are pioneers in constructing cogeneration plants, and we will showcase the peak of our capabilities by building a trigeneration plant for the “EXPO Serbia” project, bringing technology that only a few countries in Europe can boast.
Among the many large projects we manage, I will highlight just a few: the “Flue Gas Desulfurization at TENT-B,” the “Ash Handling System at TENT-A,” and the “Construction of the BTO System at the Kolubara Basin in Radljevo.” Together with major global companies, we are reshaping Serbia’s future toward sustainable development.
WE ARE PIONEERS IN CONSTRUCTING COGENERATION PLANTS AND WILL DEMONSTRATE OUR FULL CAPABILITIES WITH THE TRIGENERATION PLANT FOR THE ‘EXPO SERBIA’ PROJECT
How do you assess the performance of Energotehnika Južna Bačka and Elektromontaža Kraljevo from the perspective of a CFO? Leading projects of this scale requires not only expertise and strong references but also exceptional financial capacity, which often serves as a decisive factor. Companies lacking this capacity are frequently excluded, giving us a significant competitive edge. Over the past two and a half years, I am proud to say we have greatly enhanced our financial capacity, allowing us to confidently participate in high-value projects.
It is a true privilege to be part of the management of such distinguished companies. I view my role as CFO beyond the traditional scope, aiming to understand the broader business landscape, anticipate potential limitations, and address challenges proactively before they emerge. I also focus on fostering positive energy within the organization, investing in my team, and continuously improving their skills and performance. I am fortunate to work alongside a management team that shares common values and ambitions. Together, we consistently push boundaries and explore new opportunities. The record revenue growth and EBITDA we are set to achieve this year are a testament to our success. I am confident we have set the bar high, but I also see that my colleagues are capable of achieving great things, making this ambition entirely attainable.
What are your projections for the future of your companies?
First and foremost, we anticipate that MVM will acquire majority ownership of the companies next year. We are confident this will give us a new dimension in the market. The transfer of knowledge and technologies from a company of MVM’s scale positions us well to consider and pursue entry into the EU market through Hungary. We have already successfully completed some projects in Hungary, demonstrating our potential.
Meanwhile, in Serbia, the investment cycle will continue, particularly with the “Green Transition” in the energy sector and many other initiatives we eagerly anticipate. Currently, there are no companies on the Serbian market better prepared than us to execute such projects, and we look forward to embracing these new challenges.
BILATERAL COOPERATION BETWEEN SERBIA AND HUNGARY
A MODEL OF ECONOMIC AND ENERGY SYNERGY
Pioneering Regional Growth Through Trade, Investment, and Energy Innovation
Serbia and Hungary’s partnership has evolved into a robust and multifaceted relationship, underscored by significant economic exchanges, energy collaborations, and forward-thinking sustainability projects. This bilateral cooperation reflects strong historical ties and a shared vision for economic development and environmental responsibility.
eCONOMIC eXCHANGe: A DYNAMIC PARTNeRSHIP
Substantial trade volumes and diversified product exchanges define the economic relationship between Serbia and Hungary. In 2023, bilateral trade reached €3.1 billion, with Serbia recording a trade surplus of €27.1 million. Exports from Serbia to Hungary increased by 4% year-over-year, reaching €1.56 billion, driven by critical products such as electrical components, energy systems, and specialised machinery. Hungary’s exports stood at €1.53 billion, primarily natural gas, pharmaceuticals, and automotive components.
In 2023, Hungary ranked Serbia’s fourth-largest export partner and sixth-largest import partner. However, in 2024, the trade dynamics shifted, with Serbia reporting a trade deficit of €187.1 million during the first three quarters. This change underscores the dynamic nature of bilateral
THE PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN SERBIA AND HUNGARY SHOWCASES DYNAMIC TRADE RELATIONS, SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENTS EXCEEDING €1.3 BILLION, AND GROUNDBREAKING ENERGY PROJECTS THAT SAVE MILLIONS OF KILOWATT-HOURS ANNUALLY WHILE REDUCING GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS BY THOUSANDS OF TONNES
Photo: Shutterstock
trade, reflecting the evolving demands and opportunities in both markets.
eNeRGY
COOPeRATION: A CORNeRSTONe OF bILATeRAL ReLATIONS
One of the most notable areas of collaboration between Serbia and Hungary is energy efficiency and sustainability. Smart Energy Investment (SEI), a Hungary-based company, has become a key player in Serbia’s energy sector, demonstrating the potential of cross-border partnerships.
SEI’s innovative approach to energy services focuses on reducing consumption and ensuring sustainability through public-private partnerships (PPPs). With over 30 completed projects in Serbia and more than 100 regional initiatives under development, SEI has set new standards for energy efficiency. These projects have collectively saved millions of kilowatt-hours annually and reduced greenhouse gas emissions by thousands of tonnes.
A standout achievement is the Zaječar project, which UNECE recognised as one of the top 10 global projects for its circular economy practices and sustainability. This accolade highlights the global impact of Hungarian-Serbian cooperation in energy innovation.
INveSTMeNTS: A GROWING PReSeNCe
Hungarian investments in Serbia have significantly contributed to the latter’s economic landscape. With €1.3 billion invested since 2010, Hungary is the 10th largest foreign investor in Serbia. These invest-
BY LEVERAGING PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS AND MULTIDISCIPLINARY INNOVATION, SERBIA AND HUNGARY ARE SETTING A REGIONAL BENCHMARK FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND
ments span infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing sectors, reflecting Hungary’s strategic commitment to Serbia’s development.
As of November 2024, there were 673 active companies in Serbia with majority Hungarian ownership. These enterprises create jobs and introduce advanced technologies and business practices, fostering a competitive and innovative economic environment.
TRADe AND INveSTMeNT SYNeRGIeS
Beyond direct trade and investment, the relationship between Serbia and Hungary is characterised by strong synergies. Hungary’s expertise in technology and energy aligns with Serbia’s growing focus on sustainability and innovation. The energy sector, in particular, showcases how the two countries leverage each other’s strengths. Serbia benefits from Hungarian know-how in energy optimisation, while Hungary gains a platform to implement cutting-edge solutions in a new market.
FUTURe-ORIeNTeD COOPeRATION
The future of Serbian-Hungarian cooperation lies in exploring multidisciplinary projects that combine energy efficiency with other sectors, such as agriculture and environmental protection. SEI is at the forefront of this effort, developing projects integrating modern technologies with traditional methods to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs).
These initiatives address global challenges like climate change while creating local economic opportunities. Public-private partnerships remain central to this strategy, ensuring that public institutions and private enterprises share the benefits and responsibilities of these projects.
CONCLUSION: A MODeL FOR ReGIONAL COLLAbORATION
The bilateral relationship between Serbia and Hungary is a testament to the power of regional collaboration. By combining trade, investment, and energy innovation, the two countries have created a model of economic and environmental synergy. Their partnership strengthens their economies and sets sustainability and international cooperation benchmarks.
As Serbia and Hungary continue to deepen their ties, their shared commitment to innovation and sustainability promises a future of mutual prosperity and global relevance.
Photo: Nikola Fific / Shutterstock
Photo: Plam Petrov / Shutterstock.com
EXPLORING MODERN HUNGARIAN ARCHITECTURE
TRADITION MEETS INNOVATION
A Fusion of History and Modernity
Hungary, a country steeped in history and cultural heritage, has emerged as a hub for cutting-edge modern architecture. From Budapest’s iconic skyline to innovative structures in smaller towns, Hungarian architects blend tradition with contemporary design, creating a unique architectural identity that captures the nation’s evolving spirit.
Modern Hungarian architecture often draws inspiration from the country’s rich history. Iconic styles such as Art Nouveau, Baroque, and Gothic, which define Hungary’s historical buildings, are reimagined in contemporary designs. This fusion creates structures that resonate with the past while embracing the future. Architects are innovatively employing traditional motifs and materials, ensuring a seamless dialogue between old and new.
Opened in 2002, the National Theatre is a prime example of Hungary’s commitment to blending historical and contemporary aesthetics. Designed by architect Mária Siklós, the theatre’s exterior references traditional Hungar-
ian architectural elements, while its modern interior meets the functional demands of a 21st-century cultural venue. The landscaped surroundings, including an artificial lake and sculptures, enhance the building’s visual appeal.
HUNGARIAN ARCHITECTS BLEND TRADITION WITH CONTEMPORARY DESIGN, CREATING A UNIQUE ARCHITECTURAL IDENTITY THAT CAPTURES THE NATION’S EVOLVING SPIRIT
A masterpiece of minimalist modern design, Müpa Budapest is a multifunctional cultural centre on the banks of the Danube. Designed by Zoboki, Demeter, and Partners, it features a striking glass facade, clean lines, and state-of-theart acoustics. It houses the
Photo:
Pixachi
/ Shutterstock
Béla Bartók National Concert Hall, Ludwig Museum, and Festival Theatre, making it a cultural landmark.
Located in the picturesque wine region of Etyek, the Korda Filmpark Visitor Center in Etyek combines industrial design with contemporary aesthetics. The facility, used for filmmaking and tourism, reflects Hungary’s growing importance in the global film industry. Its design blends harmoniously with the surrounding countryside, showcasing sustainable and functional architecture.
INNOvATIONS IN URbAN
DeveLOPMeNT
Hungary’s cities and towns are witnessing a surge in innovative urban developments. In Budapest, the Millennium Tower and Budapest One Business Park exemplify modern office architecture with energy-efficient designs and open spaces catering to tech-savvy professionals’ needs.
Smart city initiatives in Debrecen and Szeged drive the adoption of sustainable building practices, incorporating green roofs, solar panels, and intelligent waste management systems.
Hungarian architects are gaining international recognition for their creative and sustainable designs.
Firms like Építész Stúdió and Napur Architect are leading the charge
with projects that emphasize environmental responsibility. Napur Architect, for instance, won accolades for its work on the Puskás Aréna, Hungary’s national stadium, which marries modern engineering with cultural symbolism.
Sustainability is a key focus in modern Hungarian architecture. Using locally sourced materials, energyefficient systems, and eco-friendly designs is becoming the norm. Projects like the Green House Office Building in Budapest demonstrate Hungary’s dedication to reducing its environmental footprint while maintaining aesthetic excellence.
Modern Hungarian architecture is a testament to the nation’s ability to honour its past while embracing future possibilities. Hungary creates spaces that inspire, function, and endure by merging traditional elements with cutting-edge innovation. Whether it’s a cultural landmark, a sustainable office building, or an urban renewal project, Hungarian architects are shaping a future that respects the country’s heritage while advancing its global architectural reputation.
With its unique blend of history,
Exceptional Business Results for dm Drogerie Markt in its Anniversary Year, with a 30.34% Growth
Efficient Investment in Digital Channels, Technology, and Sustainability
The company dm drogerie markt achieved record-breaking business results in the fiscal year 2023/24, marking two decades of operations in the Serbian market. With revenue from its branches and online shop reaching 38.2 billion dinars, reflecting a 30.34% growth, and investments totaling 1.07 billion dinars, the company set new milestones. The dm Austria group, including affiliated countries (excluding Germany and Poland), generated total revenue of 5.2 billion euros.
The dm chain expanded to three more cities in Serbia and now operates in 37 cities with 131 stores. Over 208 million dinars were invested in expanding and equipping its distribution center, increasing its capacity by 50%.
“In every lifecycle phase of its facilities, dm strives for environmental neutrality, emphasizing sustainable, energy-efficient construction, responsible use of building materials, renewable energy sources, and reducing carbon emissions. Human and environmental protection is a priority for dm,” said Branko Basar, Head of Expansion.
The company also contributed 40.8 million dinars in monetary and product donations through traditional projects, campaigns, and charitable initiatives. “We are proud that our anniversary year was marked by major endeavors in which we expressed gratitude to the broader community for their trust. We are particularly pleased that our socially responsible campaigns have been recognized by the public,” said Vesna Stojanović, Director of dm Serbia and North Macedonia.
The anniversary year was highlighted by significant innovations, including the launch of the
WE ARE PROUD THAT OUR ANNIVERSARY YEAR WAS MARKED BY MAJOR ENDEAVORS IN WHICH WE EXPRESSED GRATITUDE TO THE BROADER COMMUNITY FOR THEIR TRUST
dmLIVE format within the Moj dm app, which has been downloaded over 1.3 million times. Loyal customers also benefited from new shopping advantages in dm stores or online via the Moj dm app.
“Since opening the first dm store in Serbia in 2004 at Terazije, dm has consistently been much more than a brand, more than a store, and more than an employer. This approach remains integral to everything we do,” stated Alexandra
Olivera Korichi, Director of dm Serbia and North Macedonia.
One of dm’s pioneering initiatives in the retail industry is its introduction of long-term affordable prices, which remain unchanged for a minimum of four months under the ALWAYS AFFORDABLE concept. The dm chain offers over 14,500 products, including more than 3,000 high-quality dm private label products, providing identical quality in all countries where dm operates.
To celebrate its major anniversary, dm treated its customers to two unique events. The dm Feel event set new standards in the beauty industry, while the dmFem conference brought together numerous experts from various fields. As a symbol of inspiration, unity, and success, dm organized a unique anniversary celebration titled “20 Years Together for Each Other,” attended by over 1,000 guests from Serbia and abroad.
As part of the Women’s Health campaign, dm launched a new initiative dedicated to combating menstrual poverty. The company continued its dm Podcast series on women’s health and, for another consecutive year, hosted the dm Women’s Run in collaboration with the Belgrade Marathon.
For the third consecutive year, dm was ranked among the most desirable employers in Serbia, according to the Talent X survey conducted by the Poslovi Infostud portal. The anniversary year also saw dm increase gross salaries by 15% for all employees, alongside regular 13th and 14th salaries and numerous benefits.
14 OCTOBER 2024
Día de la Hispanidad
The Spanish Embassy in Belgrade, with H.E. Juan José Sanz Aparicio, ambassador of Spain to Serbia, marked the National Day of Spain on October 14th with a festive commemoration with esteemed guests from the diplomatic core and many others.
National Day of Spain commemorates the discovery of the Americas by Christopher Columbus for Spain on 12 October 1492. The date is crucial for Spain’s overseas influence and legacy to the world and the Americas.
The National Day of Spain was celebrated at the Radisson Hotel in Belgrade. Guests enjoyed flamenco, Spanish drinks, and gastronomy, such as San Miguel beer, Freixenet sparkling wine, Iberian ham and cheese, and paella.
15 OCTOBER 2024
Mexico – Taste of Planet
The Embassy of Mexico held the second edition of the gastronomic festival of Flavors of Mexico in Serbia at the Twenty Two Restaurant and Bar at the Metropol Palace Hotel in Belgrade from October 15th to October 22nd
On this occasion, people had the opportunity to witness the work of the renowned
Mexican Chef Diana Beltrán Casarrubias, originally from Acapulco, Guerrero.
The guests tasted authentic ingredients from Mexico, like mole, huitlacoche, pozole blanco, and popular dishes like VeracruzStyle fish (pescado a la veracruzana), tostadas and tamales. Moreover, guests could enjoy the traditional aguas frescas and light
non-alcoholic beverages, like Horchata, and for those who enjoy drinks like Tequilas, the classic Margarita was available.
The event’s opening started with a speech by H.E. Carlos Félix, and it was attended by many respected guests who had the opportunity to experience Mexican culture through its cuisine truly.
02 NOVEMBER 2024
Belgrade Celebrates Mexican Day of the Dead
On November 2, Belgrade embraced the vibrant Mexican tradition of the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos), honouring the departed with cultural events in the city’s heart.
The festivities commenced at 5 p.m. at the corner of Čika Ljubina and Knez Mihailova streets, where attendees had their faces painted in traditional styles. At 6:30 p.m., a parade of La Catrinas, participants adorned in traditional Mexican attire, proceeded along Knez Mihailova Street. The Cervantes Institute hosted the ceremonial presentation of the Altar of the Dead at 7:00 p.m., followed by screenings of short Mexican films on the institute’s plateau at 7:30 p.m. The evening concluded with a tasting of traditional Mexican delicacies at 8 p.m.
The Mexican Embassy in Serbia and the Cervantes Institute organised the event, aiming to share Mexico’s rich cultural heritage with the Serbian community. The Altar of the Dead remained on display at the Cervantes Institute’s gallery until November 12, allowing visitors to engage with this significant aspect of Mexican culture.
This celebration highlighted the growing cultural exchange between Mexico and Serbia, offering Belgrade residents a unique opportunity to experience the traditions of Día de los Muertos firsthand.
23 OCTOBER 2024
Celebrating Czech Independence in Belgrade
On the 23rd of October, the Ambassador of the Czech Republic, H.E. Jan Bondy, organised a reception at the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Serbia to mark the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Czechoslovak Republic in Belgrade.
This event is associated with the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the final achievement of independence for Czech and Slovak citizens. President Tomáš G. Masaryk became a state leader based on President Woodrow Wilson’s 14 points, especially the principle of self-determination. Czechoslovakia became one of Europe’s first successful multi-party parliamentary democracies.
Hundreds of guests attended the event and enjoyed this commemoration within the confines of the beautiful Embassy of the Czech Republic in Serbia.
24 OCTOBER 2024
Remembering the Origins of Austria
The Ambassador of Austria to Serbia, H.E. Christian Ebner, held a reception on October 24th at the Hotel Metropol Palace to celebrate Austrian National Day.
The Austrian National Day relates to political developments after WW II. After the end of the War, Austria was occupied by the four
Allied forces (Soviet Union, United States, Great Britain, and France), who divided the country into four zones.
The event was attended by government officials, guests from the diplomatic core and many others invited by the Austrian Embassy in Belgrade.
22 OCTOBER 2024
Hungarian Embassy Marks Historic Event with a Wonderful Reception in Belgrade
On the Hungarian National Day, H.E. József Magyar and the Hungarian Embassy hosted a reception at the White Palace in Belgrade.
Since October 23, 1989, this important day has been a double national holiday in Hungary. It is the day when the revolution began in 1956 and the day when the Hungarian Republic was proclaimed in 1989.
This event was held in the beautiful atmosphere of the White Palace premises, and many government officials, ambassadors from other respective embassies, and international guests from the EU attended.
Read more on this topic inside FocusOn Hungary
24 OCTOBER 2024
United Nations Day – Shaping the Future Through Youth
On October 24, Belgrade marked the 79th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations.
The event was addressed by Marko Đurić, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Serbia, and Matilde Mort, Permanent Coordinator of the UN in Serbia.
Matilde Mort referred to the growing global challenges. She emphasised the UN’s strategic priorities in Serbia: green transfor-
mation, development of human capital, and strengthening the rule of law and the human rights agenda.
She emphasised the importance of young people in these efforts: “Youth in Serbia have a central role in shaping the future. We are committed to ensuring that their voices are heard and respected in decision-making processes, as stated in the Pact for the Future,” said Mort.
29 OCTOBER 2024
101st birthday of the Republic of Türkiye
The ambassadors of the USA and Russia were among the guests, and the ambassador of Greece received a warm welcome.
On October 29th, H.E. Mr. Hami Aksoy and the Turkish Embassy in Belgrade celebrated the 101st birthday of the Republic of Türkiye.
The Turkish War of Independence started in 1919 with Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s land-
07 NOVEMBER
ing on the city of Samsun on the Black Sea coast. Anatolia’s liberation from occupation opened a new chapter in Turkish history, and the new country was recognised under the Treaty of Lausanne in 1923.
Many esteemed guests were present, including the ambassadors of the USA, Russia, and Greece, government officials, and other ambassadors and partners of the Turkish Embassy in Belgrade.
IWC Welcomes New President at Coffee Morning, Previews 2024 Charity Bazaar
On November 7th, at the National Museum, Mrs. Andrea Pavukova, spouse of the Slovakian ambassador, was introduced as the IWC’s new president. Her appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the club, just weeks before the primary fundraising event, the International Charity Bazaar.
“This event symbolises our dedication to fostering cultural dialogue and understanding,” said Andrea Pavukova. “We aim to act as a bridge between the local community and the international presence in Serbia, celebrating the cultural milestones of the society we are part of while supporting those in need.”
All proceeds from the Bazaar will directly benefit initiatives to support women’s empowerment projects in Serbia. Since the event’s inception, the IWC has raised nearly €700,000 for projects focused on aiding vulnerable populations, reinforcing its commitment to positively impacting the community.
30 OCTOBER 2024
Czech House in Belgrade Returns to the Scene
After decades of dormancy, the Czech House in Belgrade is coming back to life through culture, gastronomy, and, above all, human connections—those who form the essence of a home. It will become a space for neighbourhood gatherings, children’s performances, conversations over beer, promoting Czech culture and language, and an open stage for Serbian and international independent art.
The Czechoslovak House was built in 1928 by the Czechoslovak minority living in the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. It served as the centre of cultural and political life for all Czechs and Slovaks in Belgrade for many years. From 1964 to 1984, all building parts were gradually nationalised and transferred to the Savski Venac municipality. Despite the efforts of Czechoslovak and later Czech associations, this situation persisted until the 2020s.
Everything changed in January 2023, when the presidents of both countries, Aleksandar Vučić and Miloš Zeman, signed a memorandum handing over the Czech House to the Czech Republic. This act initiated a long and complex administrative process, culminating in June 2024 with the signing of a transfer agreement. The Czech House was officially returned to Czech ownership and entrusted to the newly established Czech Centre Belgrade for management.
The Czech House’s grand reopening took place on Wednesday, 6 November. Visitors can explore the completely renovated building, including its theatre hall and park, while enjoying the renowned Czech beer and a selection of wines from Moravia. The evening will be further enriched by a performance from the Czech brass orchestra HarMálek, joined by special guest Bojan Krstić, an award-winning trumpeter from Vladičin Han.
“This magnificent space will bring together the artistic communities of Serbia and abroad, creating a new, attractive point on Belgrade’s cultural map. In my vision, the Czech House is a living organism that responds to the needs of its environment while spreading a positive message about the Czech Republic as a creative, open, and confident country,” says Lucie Orbok, Director of the Czech Centre Belgrade.
This event marks the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the Czech House, placing it among Belgrade’s key cultural venues. Already in November, it will host events as part of the “Month of Czech Music” festival, including a classical music concert by the STRO.MY Ensemble (20 November) and a showcase of the best Czech and Slovak songs and music videos curated by journalist Daniel Sivaly (26 November). The programme details can be followed on the official website and social media channels of the Czech Centre Belgrade.
05 NOVEMBER 2024
70 Years Since Algeria Rose Against Oppression
On November 5th, at the Dom Vojske in Belgrade, the Algerian Embassy marked its national day in a glorious and crowded atmosphere with Serbian government officials, ambassadors, and many other friends of the Algerian Embassy.
After a choir that opened this event sang the national anthems of Serbia and Algeria, H.E. Fatah Mahraz, the Algerian Ambassador to Serbia, took the stage to give a speech on the importance of this date for the Algerian people.
“First of all, I would like to thank you for having honoured, in such a large number, our invitation to share with us the 70th anniversary of November 1st 1954. The historical date when the National Liberation Struggle was launched. On that date, men and wom-
en in Algeria decided to rise against oppression and injustice, which the colonial system had kept them since 1830. They aimed to retrieve their freedom and identity and make Algeria an independent and sovereign state. “H.E. Fatah Mahraz said.
He also emphasised the excellent relations between Serbia and Algeria: “This ceremony is also an opportunity to highlight the excellent quality of the relations between Algeria and Serbia that has been founded on friendship and solidarity even before the independence of my country.”
After the speech and cake-cutting between the Serbian Ministers and the Algerian Ambassador, the esteemed guests were free to enjoy the delicacies of Algerian cuisine.
15 NOVEMBER
Postage Stamp in Honor of 70
On November 15th, at the Museum of African Art, a personalised postage stamp dedicated to the 70th anniversary of the Algerian Revolution was presented.
A personalised postage stamp dedicated to the seventieth anniversary of the outbreak of the Algerian Revolution, on which, along with the Algerian flag, the portraits of the founder of the Museum of African Art Zdravko Pečar and the cameraman of “Filmskih Novosti” Stevan Labudović, was presented at the Museum of African Art in Senjak. The director of this Museum, Dr Marija Aleksić, welcomed the guests and
Years Since the Outbreak of the Algerian Revolution
pointed out that the Algerian Revolution was a struggle for the independence of Algeria and a symbol of resistance to colonialism in general.
The importance of celebrating the jubilee and the symbolism of the show were also addressed by the ambassador of Algeria in Belgrade, H. E. Fatah Mahraz, and acting Director of the Post of Serbia, Zoran Anđelković, who expressed his satisfaction that the Post of Serbia contributed to the commemoration of the jubilee of the Algerian War of Independence.
Ambassador Mahraz thanked the edition’s organisers and the Post of Serbia for their
philanthropic contributions and previous cooperation. Since 2013, three postage stamps have been published honouring the friendship between Algeria and Serbia.
The Museum of African Art, the Society of Friends of Algeria, Filmske Novosti, the Association Adligat, and the Embassy of Algeria in Serbia, in cooperation with the Post of Serbia, prepared the personalised stamp. The Museum of African Art and the Society of Friends of Algeria provided professional assistance in realising the edition. Nadežda Skočajić, the creator of Post Serbia stamps, created the artistic realisation.
19 NOVEMBER 2024
Seminar
on promoting Malaysian
palm oil to the Republic of Serbia
The Embassy of Malaysia in Belgrade organised a Seminar on Promoting Malaysian Palm Oil to the Republic of Serbia on Thursday, 14 November 2024, from 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Belgrade.
Mrs. Carmallia Budiaty bt officiated the event. Che Embi, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Malaysia in Belgrade, whose opening address highlighted the potential for higher direct engagement between the Malaysian and Serbian business communities and its benefits for further expansion of economic cooperation and overall bilateral relations between the two countries.
Aimed to raise awareness of palm oil usage for various consumers in the Serbian market, the Seminar included an address by Mrs. Belvinder Sron Kaur, CEO of the Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC), followed by insightful presentations by Mrs. Areej Taufik, MPOC Senior Executive and Mr. Hakan Alkan, Regional Manager of MPOC Turkey covering Serbia on non-residential basis, who provided in-depth information on the
wider use and benefits of palm oil to various consumers in the Serbian market.
The Seminar continued with the Sharing the Experiences interactive session with Mrs. Jovana Majstorović, Head of the Centre for Asia, Russian Federation and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, and Mr. Djordje Mihajlović, General Manager of the Port Pančevo and the representative of a significant Serbian importer and distributor of palm oil AD Vital Company, who shared their positive impressions of attending the Malaysian Palm Oil Forum (MPOF) 2024 in Kuala Lumpur and visiting a Malaysian palm oil plantation in early October this year.
As the first event of its kind held in Serbia, the Seminar drew attendance and received numerous positive feedback from Serbian Government officials and business association representatives, representatives of Serbian importers, distributors, and companies in the food and hospitality industries, as well as from the Serbia-Malaysia Friendship Club representatives and the media.
by Goran Zlatković
MY BIG GREEK...
Turkish ambassador to Serbia Hami Aksoy and his spouse warmly welcomed Greek ambassador Maria Levanti (Reception for 101st Birthday of Turkish Republic, Hotel Hyatt Regency, October 29th)
GUESS, WHO WILL WIN IN THE USA
Volodymyr Tolkach, Ukrainian ambassador to Serbia and Emanuele Giaufret, Head of EU Delegation to Serbia (Reception for 101st Birthday of Turkish Republic, Hotel Hyatt Regency, October 29th)
FRENCH CONNECTION
French ambassador to Serbia Pierre Cochard and Algerian ambassador to Serbia Fatah Mahraz (70th anniversary of Algerian Independence War (against French colonial Rule), Dom vojske Srbije, November 5th)
HOME ALONE
Russian ambassador to Serbia Alexander BotsanKharchenko, his spouse and colleague from the Russian embassy (Reception for 101th Birthday of Turkish Republic, Hotel Hyatt Regency, October 29th)
BELGRADE COMIC SCENE
US ambassador to Serbia Christopher Hill, minister of foreign affairs Marko Djuric and Matilde Mordt, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Serbia (UN Day, Jugoslovenska kinoteka, October 24th)
The Hidden Costs of Lithium Mining
The green transition is at a crossroads, raising critical questions about environmental and social impacts in Europe and beyond
DR. ALEKSANDAR MATKOVIĆ
Research Associate, Institute of Economic Sciences in Belgrade External Associate, Transnational Institute in Amsterdam
In this interview, Dr. Aleksandar Matković, a research associate at the Institute of Economic Sciences in Belgrade and external associate at the Transnational Institute in Amsterdam, delves into the complexities surrounding lithium mining in Serbia. He discusses the environmental and societal impacts of the “green transition,” questioning the motives behind foreign investments and the risks posed to local communities and civil society
An event titled “Balkans at the Crossroads: Lithium Mining, Human Rights, and the Fight for the Environment” was held at the European Parliament. How are these topics interconnected? The event’s name is not accidental. Lithium mining has previously been presented as a “win-win” situation for the EU and EU’s peripheral regions. However, recent events in
August have shifted this perspective. The fight for environmental protection and human rights should not be sacrificed for lithium mining, which has placed the Balkans at a crossroads. In Parliament, I also emphasised that this is not solely a Serbian issue but a European one. Although we are not part of the EU, we are part of Europe, and a joint discussion on this is essen-
tial. The green transition seems to have reached a crossroads as well and the European Parliament has become aware of this.
How significant is this event in the European Parliament?
It is quite significant, primarily because of its content, which I hope will be written about in the future. This is the first time the European Greens have organised something like this, with the support of the European Environmental Bureau (the largest coalition of environmental organisations in Europe), and the first time that a Member of the European Parliament from the Greens, Sara Matthieu, stood behind this as an organiser. This event aimed to bring our side of the story to light, and I believe it succeeded beyond all expectations, providing scientific arguments to caution those making decisions. During the event, there was also a clash of opinions between our side - lawyers, economists, and activists - and Jonathan Vanherberghen, Rio Tinto’s Director of European Affairs, who attempted to “clear the corporation’s name” but failed.". It seemed clear to everyone that the corporation did not provide a single counter-argument that could disprove our points.
Your article about this event mentioned a shift in the European Greens’ stance on lithium mining. Does that mean they previously supported mining but no longer do?
LITHIUM MINING WAS ONCE SEEN AS A ‘WIN-WIN’ FOR EUROPE AND SERBIA, BUT RECENT DEVELOPMENTS SHOW THE TRUE ENVIRONMENTAL AND HUMAN RIGHTS COSTS THAT CANNOT BE IGNORED
I wouldn’t necessarily say that this event alone “tipped the scales” for the Greens. The European Greens are less monolithic than one might think: for example, France’s Les Écologistes oppose the project, unlike Germany’s Die Grünen, whose leadership collectively resigned in September due to poor regional election results in Germany. At the same time, I know some of our contacts within the European Greens who initiated that letter of support for the Serbian struggle just before this event at the European Parliament. In this sense, the groundwork had been laid, and this event rounded off the process of changing opinions. This means the whole event was pivotal for the process, even though it did not initiate it on its own. After all, we were heard in Parliament, everything was recorded, and will be considered in future discussions.
This is significant as it is a step towards influencing the opinion of the Committee on Critical Raw Materials, as it will be deciding on whether or not to fund this project
with European taxpayer's money in November this year. The faction supporting us will use this event as leverage with the committee to prevent the Committee's decision to finance of a problematic project. Furthermore, as a result of the event, to my knowledge, several open letters from various associations linked to the Parliament are being prepared to argue against supporting the “Jadar” project on the grounds of human rights violations. If the EU were to provide funds, it could lead to controversies over potential breaches of ESG principles, given the uncertainty about whether the project might involve arresting activists, or the extra-judicial use of force like the one we saw when the the police started entering people's homes for no apparent reason, etc. So, I would say that the European Greens have changed their stance and moved from words to action. MEP Sara Matthieu even openly called this “neocolonialism” after our presentations, which shocked the audience.
The EU recently signed an agreement on critical raw materials with the Serbian authorities, highlighting the importance of supply chains. What lies behind this agreement, and what does it reveal to us? The agreement itself is pretty vague and general. Of course, the core focus is on developing a battery supply chain. Interestingly, it references a letter of intent signed by our government in New York in September 2023, while the “Jadar” project was still supposedly inactive. Rio Tinto’s economic study was published in October, indicating preparations further preparations were well underway. The agreement also mentions the possibility of securing additional funding for such projects, which I assume is a prelude to obtaining European citizens’ funds, i.e., EU subsidies. Naturally, Maroš Šefčovič is involved in all this. During a visit to the European Parliament, we heard many parliamentarians are dissatisfied with the European Commission’s lack of transparency, in their various attempts at fasttracking certain projects as much as possible.
A journalist who interviewed me is investigating connections between Šefčovič and Slovakia’s “InoBat,” which is set to come to Serbia. There are indications that it may have received some questionable support from the EC. I won’t go into more detail, but the fact that the current hype over the lithium mine
IF THE POSSIBILITY FOR DIALOGUE IS STIFLED IN OUR COUNTRIES DUE TO LITHIUM AND THE GREEN TRANSITION, IT WILL FUNDAMENTALLY ALTER THE STRUCTURE OF OUR SOCIETIES
is based on a letter of intent for a supposedly “nonexistent project,” conducted out of public view—even in Germany, where Scholz’s visit wasn’t even announced—and that this is non-transparent even to the European Parliament, should concern us. We can only imagine how future discussions might unfold, for example, on taxation, if, heaven forbid, issues like tax evasion arise.
The question of critical raw materials is who needs them: ordinary citizens, Europeans, or the industry?
This is a fundamental question regarding how the EU's needs for various critical raw materials are calculated. I would quote Majdolin Sbai, a French member of the European Parliament, who participated with me in a preparatory panel before the European Parliament event titled “Lithium Mining in Serbia, Argentina, and Chile.” She oversees the implementation of the Critical Raw Materials Act in Parliament and knows a thing or two about it.
According to her, calculations for these needs never included some fundamental questions: do we want citizens to buy a new phone every year during the green transition? Is it acceptable for the wealthy to own five electric vehicles during this transition? All of this greatly impacts the calculations for lithium demand, which are primarily based on industry needs without adjusting consumer demand. Furthermore, unlike China, the German automotive industry focuses on premium
consequences then raise questions about the green transition back in the EU.
How do you see the broader economic and social picture through the lens of lithium mining? What does this tell us about our society today (whether in Serbia, the European Union, or China—it’s all the same)?
It seems to me that, as elsewhere, we are witnessing a shrinking space for civil society, which includes critical voices from scientists who aim to provide reasoned opposition to harmful practices. Unfortunately, this appears to be a global trend we may regret, so it’s crucial to discuss it now. This isn’t only about lithium; it’s about the conditions for social dialogue. If the possibility for dialogue is stifled in our countries due to lithium and the green transition, it will fundamentally alter the structure of our societies. This is what’s truly at stake here.
and “high-end” vehicles (inaccessible to most consumers). Hence, these calculations assumed unchanged consumer habits of the upper-middle class in key EU regions. This has led to projections based on assumptions about the number of vehicles sold, the specific chemical composition of batteries, etc.
Agreements like this, along with the idea of mining lithium and other critical raw materials, are justified by the need for a green transition, but environmental destruction is overlooked. How do you explain this? Is it simply ignorance, or is it a mask for corporate greed?
I highly doubt that members of the mining industry are unaware of the environmental impact of mining. The term “green mines” is now en vogue, and I understand why—it’s how they justify the scramble for resources. However, this is part of a global process pointing to a broader picture: shifting production during the green transition away from China and the EU in the case of lithium. We see this clearly in Serbia, with the simultaneous arrival of steel manufacturers, automotive parts producers, and lithium mines. Sometimes, you’ll even see protest banners saying “Rio-Linglong,” as people recognise that something is coming from all directions—it’s the displacement of production.
Unfortunately, Serbia lacks adequate mechanisms to control foreign investments, making this shift particularly evident. The visible
Why is the Serbian government so invested in opening the Rio Tinto mine in the Jadar Valley? What is their motivation? Well, without concrete evidence, I can’t say for sure if anyone is personally invested. I think what’s remained out of public view is that we’ve missed the bigger picture by focusing on the details. The Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) has attracted significant foreign investment in the automotive industry, primarily from Chinese manufacturers. It seems that foreign automotive industries, now including electric vehicles, have been part of their strategy for over a decade, and there are connections there that we still don’t fully understand. Suppose the “Jadar” project goes through. In that case, it will allow SNS to extend its hold on power rather than changing the economic model of attracting foreign investors with a blank check and neglecting domestic industry. Their plan will likely make them appear as indispensable to the EU, on which they count for EU money, so they're closely aligned with this project despite all the controversies, and that is not going to change In this sense, the ruling SNS party has crossed the Rubicon; it’s now clear where their interests lie, and they lie outside of Serbia. This is why the project sparked such resistance, especially when they began changing laws to favour such a foreign corporation at the expanse of an entire nation, making their own self-interests obvious for all to see.
UniCredit Bank and the EIB Drive Animal Commerce’s Social Mission
Taking a closer look at how EIB and the Uni c redit Bank support socially responsible companies
Animal Commerce, a forward-thinking company dedicated to social responsibility, has received significant support through a credit facilitated by UniCredit Bank in cooperation with the European Investment Bank (EIB). Aleksandar Lejić, the financial director of Animal Commerce, emphasized that this partnership underscores their commitment to fostering inclusive employment opportunities and enhancing social impact.
The EIB together with UniCredit Bank provides essential financial resources for companies striving to improve their social footprint. This initiative is particularly focused on supporting the employment of women, youth, and other groups facing employment barriers.
Operating in the region of Vojvodina, Animal Commerce’s business units in Kruščić and Tovariševo embody the company’s inclusive ethos. The workforce includes individuals of various ages, genders, religions, and nationalities, reflecting the company’s dedication to diversity without any discrimination.
ANIMAL COMMERCE’S APPROACH TO BUSINESS, SUPPORTED BY UNICREDIT BANK AND THE EIB, SETS A BENCHMARK FOR OTHER COMPANIES AIMING TO INTEGRATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY INTO THEIR CORE OPERATIONS
The collaboration with UniCredit Bank has been crucial for Animal Commerce. The guidance from bank's consultants has helped the company to formalize its rules, procedures, and policies, integrating socially responsible practices into their operations. This ensured that the company’s inclusive practices are sustainable and poised for future growth and social impact. By integrating these policies, Animal Commerce has not only strengthened its internal framework but also enhanced its engagement with the local community. The company’s operations in Vojvodina reflect its commitment to supporting a diverse and inclusive workforce, contributing to regional development and social cohesion.
In addition to caring for people, which the company is extremely proud of, “Animal Commerce” also pays great attention to protecting the environment. They are authorized to use the trademark “Green Dot” (“Der Grüne Punkt”), because they manage packaging waste and thus protect the environment.
The loan from the European Investment Bank, accessible through UniCredit Bank, not only supports the company’s growth but also reinforces its dedication to socially responsible business practices. This partnership highlights Animal Commerce’s role as a leader in promoting inclusivity and social impact within the business community. Animal Commerce’s innovative approach to business, supported by
UniCredit Bank and the EIB, sets a benchmark for other companies aspiring to integrate social responsibility into their core operations. This collaboration serves as a catalyst for change, encouraging more businesses to adopt inclusive and sustainable practices.
UniCredit Bank, under the Loan Agreement with the European Investment Bank (EIB) and its Economic Resilience Initiative (ERI), provides financing opportunities for companies dedicated to improving the social impact of their business and creating long-term leadership and employment opportunities for women, young people and segments of the population that face greater obstacles to entering the labor market.
Monday, December 9, 2024
The Great Hall of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, Resavska 12-14, Belgrade
www.communications.rs/svetu2025
CONFERENCE
THE WORLD IN 2025.
CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS:
• Aleksandar Vučić, President of the Republic of Serbia
• Ivica Dačić, Vice President of the Government of the Republic of Serbia and Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Serbia
• Emanuele Giaufret, Head of the Delegation of EU to the Republic of Serbia
• Christopher R. Hill, U.S. Ambassador to Serbia
• Matilde Mordt, UN Resident Coordinator, Serbia
• Representatives of international organizations in Belgrade
• Foreign ambassadors and a representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs ...
Refugees on their needs and recommendations for support from the business community
Housing and employment are essential for the new beginnings of refugees in Serbia
Refugees and asylum seekers in Serbia gave recommendations to the business community and other stakeholders at the conference “Private Sector Engagement— from Refugees’ Perspective” regarding possible support for their new beginnings in Serbia. The recommendations relate primarily to employment, training, entrepreneurship, and various types of assistance for particularly vulnerable refugees and children.
The conference was organised by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and IKEA Serbia, as part of the private sector network “For Refugees”, which has
FOR THE FIRST TIME, REFUGEES DIRECTLY INFORMED COMPANIES AND INSTITUTIONS ABOUT THEIR NEEDS FOR A DECENT LIFE IN SERBIA
been providing assistance since last year to help forcibly displaced people integrate into society in Serbia and gain economic empowerment.
As the key need for a dignified life in Serbia, refugees identified private housing for the most vulnerable persons. At the same time, their second priority is the
opportunity for professional development through training and courses. Employment is recognised as the third most important priority, while support for starting a business ranks fourth, and public communications and nonfinancial donations are fifth.
andallotherbusinessactorswilling tohelpforciblydisplacedpeopleintegrateandlivewithdignity,recognisinghowmuchtheirexperiences andknowledgecancontributeto society.Thisisawin-winsituation–refugeesbecomemoreselfreliant and more involved in their economic and social lives. At the sametime,companiesbenefitfrom boththeirbusinessdevelopment andtheircontributiontoachieving sustainabledevelopmentgoals.We invitebusinessleaderstorecognise theopportunity,learnmoreabout the needs of this vulnerable community,andbetherefortherefugees,” said Soufiane Adjali, UNHCR Representative in Serbia.
Soufiane Adjali, UNHCR Representative in Serbia
In their recommendations, refugees praised employers who provide psychological support and flexible working arrangements for especially vulnerable employees and those who pay particular attention to preventing workplace discrimination. The most sought-after training and courses were identified in digital literacy, “soft skills,” and Serbian language learning.
“Refugees bring rich experience and skills but face obstacles in new environments. This conference explores how the private sector can empower refugees, create jobs,andfostersocialcohesion. Direct collaboration between refugees, local self-governments, and the private sector is essential. The Commissariat for Refugees and Migration continuously informs refugees about labour needs, and the trainings and workshops we organise in cooperation with international organisations help refugeesstartnewcareers.This conference will bring construc-
tive ideas and support to the business community in integrating refugees.Together,wecancreate a more inclusive society, and supporting refugee employment in theRepublicofSerbianotonly enriches our workforce but also contributes to building a community based on understanding, solidarity, and joint progress,” said Nataša Stanisavljević, Commissioner for Refugees and Migration of the Republic of Serbia.
One of the refugees’ recommendations is that companies should be familiar with their
documents in Serbia, which differ from those of citizens, as this would improve or enable access to payment accounts, telephone, internet, and TV services. Considering the increasing number of refugees starting their businesses, it was also noted that mentoring and educational support for business development would be of great value, as well as programs offering grants or loans, which are currently unavailable to them.
“As a values-based company, we have welcomed refugees into our workspace and continue
IN SERBIA, SLIGHTLY MORE THAN A THOUSAND FORCIBLY DISPLACED PERSONS HAVE RECEIVED A SPECIFIC TYPE OF PROTECTION. THEY MOSTLY COME FROM UKRAINE, LIBYA, SYRIA AND AFGHANISTAN
todoso.Refugeesaretalented and motivated, bringing a global perspective that strengthens our business. Partnering with UNHCR tocreatethe‘ForRefugees’network has proven that when we all worktogether,weallbenefit.We urge other companies to join this effort—doingsoisn’tjusttheright thing to do, it makes business sense,” said Otto van Daal, People and Culture Manager, IKEA South East Europe.
Regarding recommendations to UNHCR and relevant institutions, refugees and asylum seekers emphasised the importance of comprehensive access to available jobs, training, and employee rights. They also suggested that relevant institutions should inform companies about refugees’ personal documents and legal status.
UNHCR and IKEA Serbia launched the “For Refugees” initiative to create a support network within the business community for those forced to flee their countries and rebuild their lives in Serbia. According to the data available to the UNHCR, slightly more than a thousand people have received asylum, subsidiary protection, or temporary protection in the Republic of Serbia.
This article was produced within the project “EU Support to Migration Management: Fostering the Integration of Refugees and Migrants” implemented by UNHCR Serbia in partnership with IOM Serbia and SCRM with support of the European Union. The author of the article is solely responsible for content that does not necessarily reflect the official views of the European Union.
Photo: UNHCR K. Nsengiyumva
Otto van Daal, People and Culture Manager, IKEA South East Europe
Nataša Stanisavljević, Commissioner for Refugees and Migration of the Republic of Serbia
Matilde Mordt UN Resident Coordinator in Serbia
Brankica Jankovic Commissioner for Protection of Equality
Fighting Cybercrime – Making the Digital World Safer
Taking a closer look into the story of the Digital Forensics c onference and it’s c o-Founder
STANOJE RNIĆ
CEO and Head of Investigations of Archibald Intelligence, Co-Founder of the Digital Forensics Conference
As the Digital Forensics Conference approaches us, taking place in Sava Centar on November 12th & 13th, we had the opportunity to talk to Stanoje Rnić, the Co-Founder of this conference and the CEO and Head of Investigations of Archibald Intelligence, on the origins and goals of the DFC, his personal history in combating cybercrime, his motivations for choosing this line of work and many other important questions about the safety of the digital world.
As the CEO and Head of Investigations of Archibald Intelligence and a Co-Founder of the Digital Forensics Conference, could you give us some background about the origin of this initiative and how it came to be?
I’ve been involved with computers since childhood, starting in the early 2000s with IRC, creating bots like Eggdrop, and running game servers. Through this experience I learned about the risks in the digital world, which sparked a drive in me to find solutions to the online threats and combat malicious actors online. This passion led me to pursue studies in criminal investigations at the University of
the Archibald Initiative aiming to arm law enforcement agencies and prosecutors with the skills and tools needed to combat sophisticated cyber threats. Shortly after, I launched Archibald Intelligence, a company specialized in cybercrime investigations, in response to an increasing number of private investigation requests. Today, these two entities are recognized as leaders in the fight against cybercrime across Southeastern Europe, with our work and global events drawing attention from across the industry.
What is the main goal that the Digital Forensics Conference aims to achieve with this event? What can the audiences expect to see?
We launched the Blockchain Forensics Forum as one of Europe’s first events dedicated to blockchain threat tracking. After three successful editions of the Forum, it evolved into the Digital Forensics Conference, a leading European event in the field digital forensics.
Our mission is clear: to become global leaders in digital forensics. In just over two years, we have succeeded in bringing some of the world’s most distinguished experts in the field of digital forensics and cybercrime investigations to Belgrade, including experts from the leading agencies like the FBI and HSI. We delivered over 10 workshops which attracted over 300 participants from over 15 countries.
Criminal Investigation and Police Studies in Belgrade.
During my studies, particularly professional placements that we
OUR MISSION IS CLEAR: TO BECOME GLOBAL LEADERS IN DIGITAL FORENSICS
had to complete, I realized there was a significant gap in the capacities of both public and private sector entities to effectively fight cybercrime. As a natural response, soon after graduating I founded
This year, participants can expect top-tier content and valuable networking opportunities. We will be covering all the hot topics, including blockchain forensics, cybercrime investigations, abuse of artificial intelligence and machine learning, fraud detection, anti-money laundering, threat intelligence, and incident response. We are particularly proud that this year’s conference is organised in partnership with the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Serbia, which makes our event unique in the region and beyond.
We have prepared an exclusive line-up of speakers, including Christopher Wong, Special Agent at the FBI who led the investigation that resulted in the largest US government seizure of cryptocurrency to date, and Adi Albocher, Head of the National Cyber Center at the Israeli Police who has trained hundreds of police officers in cybercrime techniques. Additionally, Vladimir Grabulov, Head of Forensic, Internal Audit and
Compliance at KPMG will deliver a workshop dedicated to corporate fraud forensics.
We invite all experts from public and private sectors to join us in Sava Centar on November 12-13 for an exciting round of discussions and workshops.
How would you describe your line of work to someone that isn’t well versed on topics such as cybercrime investigations and digital forensics?
Digital forensics is an incredibly dynamic and captivating field. Imagine combining detective work with cutting-edge technology, uncovering information hidden within computers, phones, and networks. It’s a profession that keeps you on your toes every day, bringing new challenges that requires technical expertise combined with thorough understanding of criminal psychology and investigation strategy and tactics. Beyond just understanding how systems work, it’s about uncovering criminal behaviour and motives in the digital realm. To thrive here, you need a true passion for solving puzzles and a strong commitment to justice, making it one of the most exciting, impactful careers out there.
You’re currently participating in the State Departmant program in America (YTILI), could you share with us some details about your role there, about the program and its importance for prevention of cybercrime?
YTILI is a prestigious State Department initiative that brings together top European innovators to the United States for advanced training in business development and industry networking. Through the program, I’ve had the opportunity to share insights and strategies on combating and preventing cybercrime, foster cross-border collaboration, and engage with key cybersecurity stakeholders. Living in the U.S. has not only strengthened existing industry relationships but also opened doors to new partnerships, which will greatly benefit our work back in Serbia. This experience has been invaluable for building international alliances and enhancing skills essential to addressing global cyber threats.
What was your primary motivation for choosing this career?
My motivation comes from the deeply engaging nature of this field. Even though I’m constantly think-
EACH RESOLVED CASE REPRESENTS A MILESTONE—A TESTAMENT TO OUR TEAM’S HARD
WORK, EXPERTISE, AND DEDICATION TO MAKING THE DIGITAL WORLD SAFER
ing about cases, both during and outside work hours, it never feels like a burden. It’s a passion-driven commitment that keeps me fully engaged and dedicated, which I believe is the most fulfilling approach anyone can have in their career.
What would you pick as the biggest challenges in your field of work and what would you pick as your proudest milestone during this time?
The biggest challenge in cyber investigations is continuously finding the right approach to solve complex, evolving problems. Cybercrime is constantly shifting, with new tactics and technologies emerging all the time. Staying ahead requires not only technical skill but also adaptability and strategic thinking, as every case brings unique challenges.
As for my proudest milestone, it’s each time we successfully close a case. Bringing perpetrators to justice and helping restore a victim’s sense of security and justice is incredibly rewarding. Each resolved case represents a milestone—a testament to our team’s hard work, expertise, and dedication to making the digital world safer.
How can the average person online avoid becoming a target of potential scams and other cybercrime activities?
The best protection against scams and cybercrime is to stay vigilant and informed. For individuals, be cautious with offers that seem too good to be true, and always verify the sources of unexpected messages or links before clicking. Use strong, unique passwords for each account, and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible, as these add layers of security that make it harder for cybercriminals to gain access.
Regularly updating yourself on the latest scams can also help you recognize new tactics that criminals use. Safe browsing habits— such as avoiding unsecured Wi-Fi networks for sensitive transactions—are essential as well.
For corporations, the stakes are even higher, and continuous training for employees is critical. Cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and well-trained staff are often the first line of defence against these evolving risks. By building awareness and reinforcing security practices, both individuals and organisations can significantly reduce their chances of falling victim to cybercrime.
A Revolutionary Voice in Cinema and Society
Transforming Art Through Passion and Purpose
STEVAN FILIPOVIĆ Filmmaker
Stevan Filipović, a visionary filmmaker, delves into the intersection of art, politics, and society. Known for his innovative approach, he champions authenticity and challenges societal norms through cinema.
Usually, your name is associated with the title “director,” but you are much more than that: an editor, screenwriter, and creator of special effects. How would you describe yourself?
A filmmaker, a cultural worker (laughs). I don’t know; I think all those labels are less important. What matters most is that people do what they love and speak their minds. They should express themselves from a place where they feel they have something to say and contribute to the community. What label that gets is irrelevant. If someone checks Wikipedia, they’ll probably see that I’ve mostly worked as a screenwriter. I graduated in editing and now teach it at the Faculty of Dramatic Arts, but I have chosen to be a director as my life’s vocation.
Critics and experts describe you as a revolutionary in domestic cinema, primarily referring to your introduction of digital technologies and special effects. How did that come about? Did you have that in mind when working on films like Shaitan's Warrior, Skinning, or Next to Me, or was it simply the result
of your search for the proper artistic expression?
That’s an interesting question. I think it’s part of the digital revolution we’re still experiencing, which started in the 1980s and 1990s. I have one foot in the old world and the other in the new world. I grew up in the analogue era and then shaped myself personally and artistically in the digital age. So I remember how things used to be, but I also understand the new ways. At a very young age, I realised this is also a political issue—that digitalisation brings democratisation to our art form.
Cinema was a costly art form. It’s not like a book or a painting that someone can create alone at home. It required the collaboration of hundreds, sometimes thousands of people, to make a film. Film reels and the old chemical processes used for them were very costly. With digitalisation, we’ve reached the point where a mobile phone is practically enough for Soderbergh (Ed. note: Steven Soderbergh, American film director) to make a film (Tangerine) and shoot the entire thing on a mobile phone.
I grew up with Star Wars and The Lord of the Rings. They were very transparent in creating “making-of” documentaries— films about the filmmaking process. We learned a lot from those. When digitalisation arrived, enabling us to work on movies and develop special effects on computers, it coincided with my idea of making a film in the fantasy genre. That’s how Shaitan's Warrior came to be. We worked on it from 2002/2003, and it premiered in 2006. It was part of the first wave of films shot with digital cameras, and it featured a full range of special effects—from the earliest, traditional ones from the dawn of cinema to the most modern techniques.
In the second-to-last film I worked on (Next to You, the sequel to Next to Me), we included screens, Zoom calls, mobile phones, and conversations between our protagonist and others during the COVID-19 pandemic. Every other shot in that film is a visual effect, but they’re designed to be invisible—unlike in Shaitan's Warrior, where we had mythical creatures and more obvious effects. Now, it’s become part of the standard toolkit we use when making films, to the extent that it’s an integral part of our everyday lives.
DIGITALISATION BRINGS DEMOCRATISATION TO OUR ART FORM
Your films have undoubtedly marked a turning point in domestic cinema. How do you see it today? What would you like to see more of in Serbian films?
“I’d like to see less nepotism, less party-driven allocation of funds, and fewer films made due to money laundering—and more love for cinema. I may be biased because this is my field, but film is the most beautiful syncretic art form to me. It’s a fusion of so many talented individuals, yet directors are unfairly labelled as the sole authors of films. That’s not true. It’s just easier in the media to say - ‘a film by Stevan Filipović.’ Still, a film by Stevan Filipović is equally a film by Maja Radošević, the director of photography, Biljana Tegeltija, the costume designer, and so on. It’s the result of numerous departments filled with incredibly talented people working alongside gifted actors for years to create that artistic work.
I’d love to see that spark of genuine passion and love for the art of film. I’m not sure whether it’s possible to achieve that within the confines of a closed and unfree society. I’m also sceptical about this experiment of trying to produce quality through quantity. That might work on Netflix, but I
haven’t seen it succeed in Serbia. I think we’re ‘spinning our wheels,’ and that’s because cinema, like every other aspect of society— from healthcare to architecture—is tied to the nature and fundamental character of our society.
And right now, I believe we’re living in a closed, unfree, and authoritarian society. In this context, it’s tough to work authentically. You won’t get funding. Film is expensive, and we’re tied to these grant systems, making it almost an impossible mission for artists to come out ahead. And I mean ahead regarding mental health, the end product, and that basic existential aspect.”
Your films are socially engaged and reflective on a personal level. Do you think it’s possible to inspire awareness about specific social issues through culture?
“I stick to Brecht’s approach—he defined it simplest and most precisely. Everything personal is political, and all art is political, whether we want it to be. If I make a romantic comedy during a war, that’s also a political decision. In that case, my stance would be:
‘I’m not interested in the war. I’m interested in escapism.’ That’s a legitimate choice, but you can still infer the political stance of an art-
ist who chooses to work on something like that.
Films have a public platform that reaches a large audience, and with that comes the responsibility of addressing the subject matter and the ideas we’re putting forward. Ultimately, we commit ourselves to these projects—they’re like ‘marriages’ that last for years. Films evolve alongside us as artists, and I believe it’s incredibly selfish and irresponsible to be politically disengaged in such a context.
We are witnessing a fundamental societal shift—from a semi-successful, semi-failing democracy to authoritarianism. Yet how many series or films address this? Almost none. And if they do, it’s so veiled that it feels like we’re in North Korea. Well, I refuse to accept those conditions. I refuse to play by those rules, where I have to pretend we’re North Korea, where certain names can’t be mentioned, and everything has to be wrapped up neatly. I’m willing to pay that price. The ultimate price is not working at all. And if that’s the case, I’d instead not work. That’s just not who I am—I don’t tolerate suppression.
This is also why I love Star Wars. It’s epic fantasy, but it’s a profoundly political story. The first trilogy is about Richard Nixon, and the second is about George W. Bush—George Lucas has been quite explicit about this. These are highly auteur-driven films, and I’m unsure if audiences know, but
Star Wars are independent films. Lucas fought for complete independence from the Hollywood system to create and say whatever he wanted. That story about the fall of the Republic and its transformation into an Empire— that’s what moved me the most and remains my greatest inspiration. Through fantasy, you can often say more about politics than with a film that directly addresses something like, for example, the fall of the Roman Republic.
These are the two fascinations I carry. I always say that if I had to pick the ideal film that combines them, it would be Pan’s Labyrinth. It’s a story about fascism in Spain— a subject surprisingly underexplored in cinema despite being a pivotal point in European history. The fact that fascism was allowed to triumph there and Franco was tolerated until he died in the 1970s shaped much of what we’re still living with today. But I digress. In Pan’s Labyrinth, you have that story, and on the other hand, you have a little girl, the daughter of a woman involved with a Francoist officer, who tries to escape into a fantasy world. Guillermo del Toro perfectly merged those two elements in that film.
You can see that influence in my work. Sheitan’s Warrior was about staying sane in the 1990s through healthy escapism. Then there’s Skinning, more grounded in realism and addresses societal issues head-on. Next to Me carries nostalgia for teenage years, while Next to You is a more severe exploration of society, media, press freedom, and being a journalist. Now, with my upcoming film, Next to Us, I believe I’ll be concluding my exploration of our society—for now. I’m unsure if I’ll have anything meaningful to add after that film.
The film Next to Me opened the door to a different narrative in our society regarding LGBT topics. Do you think there has been any progress in the perception of the LGBT community now, nearly a decade after the film’s release?
Next to Me was a big surprise on many levels. First, it was a small film that emerged from experimental work at the Academy of Arts, where I taught before moving to the Faculty of Dramatic Arts. Mira Karanović, an acting professor, invited me as a director to work with the students. That’s where I first noticed a significant gap between myself as a professor and the new generation—I
EVERY
PERSONAL STORY IS INHERENTLY POLITICAL
realised how much I’d aged and that if I were to make a film about teenagers, I couldn’t do it alone. I realised we needed to shape the characters and story together.
One of the stories that was personally important to me was tied to my coming out, first to myself and then to my family. Art can be an excellent catalyst—it’s not a substitute for psychotherapy but can complement it. Through that, I created a space to openly discuss something that has always been a part of our lives. Since the beginning of time, there have been people—and even animals—who are, for lack of a better term (and considering politically correct and incorrect language) gay, meaning they are attracted to the same sex.
We live with this, and different cultures have had different approaches to it. There was acceptance in the ancient world, but later, with the rise of stricter Christianity in the Middle Ages, all aspects of human sexuality—es-
cency, and saw them as equals. I think that’s where true art comes from. I can’t speak from above as an artist, as if I have some higher authority. No, we’re all the same. I can only speak my truth or share my life experiences and use my platform—which is shrinking as censorship and self-censorship increase—to share those truths. Even if it’s just through social media, I can still communicate what I believe.”
Does society have the strength and capacity to accept you, cultural workers, as authorities?
“I don’t even know what society is anymore. We’ve fallen into a trap— a pattern of society that’s perhaps the most toxic—where the loudest voices on social media are perceived as society itself. As a result, we see society as worse than it is. Perhaps I’m wrong, but I think the algorithm favours the worst.
pecially those concerning women who became victims of this system—were suppressed. We’re still feeling the echoes of that today.
Jumping to the 21st century, I found it incredible that no single film seriously tackled this topic. We’ve had films that touch on these themes, but gay people are often portrayed as caricatures, as objects of ridicule rather than as real, complex individuals.
You often speak publicly about the issues this society is facing. Do you think you and other public figures from the cultural sphere can impact a society that is not particularly favourable toward culture and freedom of thought?
“I think it’s less about us looking down on people and more about approaching them with honesty, the way Žilnik did when making Marble Ass. He lived with those trans sex workers at Kalemegdan, treated them with human de-
The people profiting from social media—like Twitter, which has essentially become a cesspool akin to a Nazi meeting hall in 1930s Munich, or Instagram, which promotes body worship and nudity— push us into participating in this superficiality, this de-verbalisation and de-intellectualisation. These platforms amplify the worst, and the entire algorithm is designed so that a handful of people—Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk (the worst of them all)— can profit endlessly. And by profit, I don’t mean being ten times wealthier than you, but a billion times wealthier. These individuals, who are now beyond the control of any democratic institution, are the ones telling me what my society is.
I’m no longer sure about society, and it’s an easy trap to fall into. Similarly, we can fall into the bubble of like-minded individuals, which is also dangerous. We’ll draw the wrong conclusions if we judge society solely based on social media. We need to make an effort, on an individual level, to engage with people and use these platforms to share what we believe is valuable, important, or truthful. From this, perhaps, we can encourage people to return to some logical ‘factory settings.’
I’m not a doctor—I can’t perform an appendectomy. I can’t read three pages online and assume I’m qualified to debate a doctor who has studied medicine for six years. I might comment, but I can’t substitute their expertise.
The internet, however, has allowed people to undermine entire
professions. Everyone is an expert on history now, and history is no longer treated as a science but as a narrative—most often a nationalist one. While this remains the case, it’s difficult to answer your question. We lack the tools to quantify things or understand what society even is. Yes, some individuals thank me for my social engagement. And then there are plenty who don’t care at all. On the other hand, there are TikTokers with a hundred thousand times more followers than I have. So, all my knowledge, skills, qualifications, and teaching experience pale compared to these people’s influence.
This is a demon we need to fight on a global level. Serbia isn’t unique, but here, it’s particularly cancerous because the authoritarian regime uses these networks to mould new generations of voters. The less educated they are, the less they can react to or embrace Enlightenment ideas. The more apolitical or powerless they feel— ’We can’t change anything’—the easier they are to control. But we can change things; we can’t if we decide we can’t.”
You are a strong opponent of lithium mining and other extractive practices in Serbia. Our society is practically at war over this issue. Do you think ordinary people can triumph over big capital and neocolonialism? If so, what do we need to do to achieve it? It’s essential to build on what I’ve already mentioned. The social model we currently live in is one of absolute domination by the capitalist system. There are, of course, variations on this theme. In China, we have a kind of communist capitalism—an authoritarian state and a completely closed society. Then there’s mafia capitalism, seen primarily in Russia but also Turkey, Hungary, and Serbia. This is what Bálint Magyar described as a “mafia state,” sociologically defining it as a model of authoritarian society. It’s not a society or a state but rather a kind of mafia organisation.
We also have the neoliberal model—or, as I’d call it, the metastasis of capitalism—spreading worldwide. What’s most frightening about this form of capitalism is the way its proponents, particularly staunch neoliberals in places like America, dismiss it as being non-ideological. They often say, “You have your ideologies, but this
I REFUSE TO TOLERATE SUPPRESSION
isn’t one.” I think that’s one of the biggest lies they sell.
An ideology is a value system, and capitalism most certainly has one. It boils down to one principle: that money is more important than everything else—more important than the destruction of the planet, human lives, health, or even a minimal sense of civic dignity. Exposing this lie is the first step we need to take. Understanding and dismantling this system of values is crucial if we hope to challenge its dominance and prevent it from dictating every aspect of our lives and environment.
In your latest film, Next to Us, you address many negative social phenomena through the personal stories of young people and their search for identity. Do you think the audience has recognised this? Next to Us will be released in December 2024, so I hope the story we started with Next to Me in 2015 will finally conclude as a trilogy. The previous film, Next to You, was more of a digression we made during the pandemic. It follows the fate of a journalist working for a pro-regime tabloid who, in a polite way of putting it, personally experiences the consequences of such irresponsible journalism.
In the film, we explore whether ethics can awaken in people who are part of that system—this machinery that prints lies and
destroys lives daily. When such people are personally affected by it, could it awaken a sense of morality, even in just one person? Films always serve to explore these kinds of possibilities and even allow us to dream. Think of Quentin Tarantino’s movies and their alternate endings, like killing Hitler in 1942-43. It’s a game, but it’s also a serious experiment. Can dormant ethics be awakened? I always, somewhat naively, think they can.
Next to You is notable for featuring Miriam Margolyes, a BAFTA-winning British actress who has worked with Martin Scorsese in TheAgeofInnocence and appeared in Harry Potter. She accepted the role because she loved the character. The film also stars Svetlana Bojković, Bane Trifunović, Mina Nikolić, Darko Ivić, and a series of other fantastic Serbian actors.
This film was rejected five times for the most minimal funding the state should have provided. We have a written response from a commission stating they didn’t think journalism was an important topic in Serbia. In one instance, they refused even to watch the film. This was a grant process where people applied with scripts, and we used them with a completed film. That same film went on to be screened at Oxford and Goldsmiths, won awards at festivals, including the Auteur Film Festival and the
Digital Awards, and premiered in cinemas in Serbia, Pula, Sarajevo, and elsewhere. Yet, they deemed it unworthy of even being viewed. In the end, we received minimal funding through competition for post-production completion, thanks to a commission that had enough integrity to fulfil the obligations mandated by state regulations. But this process is exhausting—it takes years and years.
What are you currently working on that the public is allowed to know about? What can we expect from you soon? What’s already known because it has been announced is that the film Next to Us concludes the story of the class from the previous films, but it also works as a standalone film. In the first part, the kids are locked inside their school, but they find themselves in the wilderness, left to their own devices, unsure if they’re in a reality show or not. We then see what they’ve become 10 years later, having lived in Serbia. What kind of people are they now? Each story from the first film gets its conclusion, as all the characters’ arcs are resolved, and their fates are more fully developed.
This is the most complex shoot of my life, spanning Bulgaria, Montenegro, Croatia, and Serbia. The locations are incredible, with minimal computer effects: mountain peaks, caves, lakes, and rivers. It’s a full-blooded adventure action film with a strong sociopolitical backdrop—everything I love packed into one project in a way that hasn’t been done or seen in our region before.
Stevan Filipović and Miriam Margolyes
Transforming Delivery in Serbia
We present a unique concept in Serbia – a supply chain that provides clients with fast, high-quality, and efficient delivery
MILJAN BRANKOVIĆ
Regional manager of the company Mail Boxes Etc (MBE)
If you need import services, customs brokerage, goods storage, customised packaging, and delivery to the end user—a top-tier supply chain—the Belgrade office of Mail Boxes Etc. (MBE) offers all of this. The company’s greatest advantage, currently expanding its network across Serbia and seeking ideal franchise partners, is its warehouse and micro-logistics centre located in the heart of Belgrade.
“The fact that we have a warehouse at this location provides us with great operational flexibility and an advantage for our clients, while couriers find it easy to pick up packages,” says Miljan Branković, regional manager of Mail Boxes Etc. (MBE) and a logistics expert with over ten years of experience, in an interview with Diplomacy & Commerce.
Could you explain the concept behind your company, MBE?
The Belgrade MBE office is the first in this part of Europe, offering a wide range of services. For some clients, we handle import and customs brokerage; for others, we store locally produced goods, package items according to client specifications, and ship packages to the end user. MBE also provides a broad spectrum of marketing services, such as producing supplementary materials such as packaging paper, stamps, and tapes, corporate branding, event promotion, and using the MBE Print platform. We do everything to ensure our clients’ satisfaction, aligning with their capacities and available time. The essence of MBE is that we manage all logistics, allowing clients to focus solely on developing their products.
Considering the competition, what are the key advantages of MBE’s services?
Our biggest strength and advantage is our location in central Belgrade, where all our logistics
OUR UNIQUE LOGISTICS APPROACH, CENTRED ON REAL-TIME COMMUNICATION AND A ROBUST NETWORK OF PARTNERS, ENSURES RELIABLE, EFFICIENT DELIVERY SOLUTIONS TAILORED TO EVERY CLIENT’S NEEDS.
and warehousing are based. Our clients highly value this, allowing us to offer same-day delivery within Belgrade and express delivery within an hour from order creation, for clients who need it. MBE serves individuals and businesses, including entrepreneurs,
small and medium enterprises, and large companies. I’m also proud that we’ve developed a unique program for e-commerce clients, enabling them to track warehouse status, returns, shipment status, and more with just one click.
WE PROVIDE THE BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE
Although we live in a digital age, people still value personal contact, which we uphold. We communicate with everyone in realtime and have strategically planned our network of subcontractors. For example, we collaborate with multiple courier services, so if one is overloaded and unable to process and deliver our packages satisfactorily, we reroute shipments to another. Thanks to our experience, we offer the best customer service.
What are your plans regarding the expansion of services and markets?
Globally, we operate on a franchise model, and currently, our focus is on finding the right partners for our franchise in Serbia. MBE provides the know-how and brand, and it’s up to franchisees to leverage this brand. MBE offers immense opportunities in this regard. I am confident we will find franchise partners in Serbia, with a particular focus on Novi Sad and southern Serbia. We offer highquality services, remain competitive, and have earned the trust of large companies and individuals just starting their businesses. Last quarter, we opened our first centre in Podgorica, and we aim to continue expanding our client network.
Who are your current clients?
We’ve gained many clients in just two years of operation. They include well-known lifestyle portals, popular cosmetics lines, large global and domestic corporations, diplomatic missions, and entrepreneurs starting their businesses. I would particularly highlight that MBE has undergone specialised training and developed expertise in art and wine. We’ve specialised in packaging artwork and wine, ensuring the specific logistics conditions they require. This has allowed us to work with renowned galleries and museums, serve as a longstanding partner for sending artworks to the Biennale, and collaborate with the Serbian Chamber of Commerce for shipments to ProWine in Shanghai.
Finally, can you explain the difference between your company and a courier service? Courier services are just one segment of our much broader service portfolio, and that’s the main difference. People often assume we’re a courier service when they see goods arriving from MBE, but we’re not. Additionally, we don’t employ our couriers; our goods are distributed through our network of partners.
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Striving for Balance in a Polarised Media Landscape
Real News for Real People—A New Approach to Journalism in Serbia and the Region
ZORAN TRIFUNOVIĆ
Programme Director of TV NEWSMAX Balkans, editor and host of the show SINTEZA
In this interview, Zoran Trifunović, Programme Director of the new cable TV network Newsmax Balkans, outlines his vision for balanced journalism in Serbia. Trifunović discusses the channel’s approach to fostering trust and dialogue in a polarised media environment.
You are the Programme Director of Newsmax Balkans, Serbia’s new cable television station. Could you explain this channel’s unique concept? What new aspects will it bring to Serbia and the region?
OUR GOAL IS TO PROVIDE A SPACE FOR TWO-WAY COMMUNICATION, WHERE OPINIONS AND REACTIONS, INFORMATION AND ANALYSIS COEXIST
NEWSMAX Balkans is primarily a news channel where viewers can expect a different approach to topic selection, precise and accurate information on all major events, and quality analyses and commentary. Our presenters aren’t there just to read the news but to explain it. Together with their guests, they’ll allow viewers to hear diverse perspectives and opinions on every topic—and they may even share their views, all while respecting professional standards.
We often say we respect differing opinions and provide a platform for alternative viewpoints, criticism, or support—expressed with reasoned arguments in a civil, polite, and cultured manner. Our slogan is “Real News for Real People,” which is also the main slogan of our American colleagues. We didn’t adopt it just for that reason; we chose it because it
truly reflects what we aim to provide to viewers in Serbia and, in a few months, across the region. We strive to be competent, providing genuinely relevant information and an accurate interpretation of our reality. I believe we will also bring the energy that American journalists have. We saw this firsthand during our visit in April—they pursue their goal uncompromisingly, aiming to get the real story and explain every fact from all angles. Unsurprisingly, they’re the fastest-growing cable network in the US, with an impressive 84% growth from the first quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of this year—far surpassing others. They’re highly pleased with the Serbian team, but we can still learn a lot from them.
What are your vision and expectations for the new cable news channel?
Personally, I believe that news channels that work professionally, are dedicated, and aim for timely reporting have no need to worry about the future. We want to provide a space that online and social media currently lack—a space for two-way communication, a place where you’ll find both opinions and reactions, information and analysis, perspectives and commentary.
I’m aware that social media encroaches on information, creating new communication channels to reach readers and capture as many clicks, posts, and views as possible. We also place great importance and investment in various profiles. But I often say that, rather than clicks or viewership ratings, what matters most is influence—to be quoted, respected, and chosen as the go-to source on viewers’ channel lists. If you show and prove that you are both fast and credible, then you can claim what was one of our slogans in the promotional campaign: “We are your new friends.”
As you know, trust is hard to build but easy to lose, and we must always remember that.
In a world of marked polarisation, where everyone follows the “you’re either with us or against us” mentality, where do you position yourself as a new player on the domestic media scene? Can you find a place in the middle, “neither here nor there,” where the truth most likely resides?
I’m convinced that it’s possible. Over my career, working in various newsrooms, I’ve shown that it can be done. In just ten days at NEWSMAX, we’ve already demonstrated this approach. Analysis shows that a large number of people want to hear both sides, to see a respectful debate for ideas, and to engage in civilised dialogue. They don’t want deception, labelling, or fanaticism.
Why society has reached such polarisation is a topic for more profound analysis. One phrase I often use is, “Tell me something I don’t know.” Instead of acknowledging the state of things, I’d prefer we find ways to reduce divisions and foster an environment where we listen to and learn from each other. I’m convinced that’s the only way for us all to improve.
How can we, as journalists, resist this harsh divide between the “regime” and so-called independent media?
That’s precisely what I emphasised—decency, tolerance, and respect for the other side must be unquestionable principles. Suppose we work this way and allow everyone to express their views. In that case, we’ll reach a point where it’s not unusual for some media outlets to support specific individuals openly, provided they don’t hide behind fake profiles or worn-out phrases. This is not unusual in other parts of the world. Just be transparent and don’t distort the reality we live in. As a colleague once said, “You and I both love Serbia. I just love it differently.” That’s something I respect.
How will Newsmax Balkans cover domestic events? Will there be room for government criticism, and will all sides be heard? For example, will you report on citizen protests against lithium mining? We have already reported on that and on protests by teachers, nursery staff, and other workers. However, we also included different perspectives, analysing the underlying causes of these issues and including the government’s explanation for insufficient funding to meet the demands. On lithium mining, we allow both sides to explain their arguments for and against. These are serious issues; we cannot afford a one-sided
approach, as it leads nowhere. Through dialogue, we can reach the best solutions for our citizens.
Is there media freedom in Serbia today, and how do you respond to the increasing pressure, attacks, and intimidation of journalists by authorities? For example, the physical attack on journalist Vuk Cvijić, the kidnapping of Slavija Info portal editor Ljubomir Stefanović by the BIA, or the arson of journalist Milan Jovanović’s house. Unfortunately, there are many such cases.
In the first episode of SINTEZA, I hosted my colleague Veran Matić to discuss the future of television, journalism, and the situation of journalists in Serbia. Many journalists do their job honestly, often for meager pay, and they must be protected from all forms of coercion and pressure, especially threats and even physical harassment. I was glad to hear that the Permanent Working Group for the Safety of Journalists cooperates strongly with the relevant services, the police, and the prosecutor’s office. Authorities need to understand the role of the media and ensure journalists’ protection, as journalism is a matter of public interest. Journalists are the voice of the people and a check on those who influence the quality of our everyday lives.
IN TIMES OF CRISIS, TEAMWORK AND A SKILLED, WELL-COORDINATED TEAM ARE ESSENTIAL FOR DELIVERING HIGH-QUALITY JOURNALISM
You have distinguished yourself professionally during numerous severe crises in Serbian society. What is it like to cover events of such historical significance, like the assassination of Prime Minister Đinđić or the attack on the World Trade Centre in New York?
You realise the importance and weight of such events only after a few days, and sometimes, years later, colleagues reveal specific details to you by chance. Yes, these are moments that test you personally and professionally. You react instinctively, adrenaline giving you extra strength—more so, a will to do the job to the best of your ability. I knew Zoran Đinđić personally; I even spent time with him during his visit to Germany in December 2002, just three months before his assassination. I experienced the attack on New York as an attack on my city, as I had spent a lot of time there during the 1980s working in a different role. My aviation experience helped me do the job skillfully in such extraordinary circumstances. In these cases, however, teamwork is the most important thing. When you have a good, skilled, experienced, and well-coordinated team across all departments, there’s no doubt you’ll handle the work at the highest level. I can confidently say that NEWSMAX Balkans has assembled a great team. We have a fantastic mix of youth and experience. I know it sounds like a cliché, but it’s true. I didn’t make a mistake in taking on the challenge to return to television and the screen. I might even learn something new from all of them.
At the Pinnacle of Global Distilling Excellence
Podrum Palić Reaffirms Its Place Among the World’s Best, Ranking in the Top Four for the 2024 IWSc
As the official World’s Best Fruit Distillate Producer for 2023, according to the IWSC, the Podrum Palić distillery continues its successful streak this autumn with a new nomination by this prestigious global association. Although the distillery did not claim the top award again this year, it achieved remarkable recognition by ranking among the top four fruit distilleries worldwide—a significant accomplishment in an elite international field.
The IWSC far exceeds a standard competition—this year, over 4,000 samples from more than 100 countries were judged by a panel of 100 international experts. This rigorous yet fair selection process raises industry standards, setting benchmarks of exceptional quality and challenges for all producers.
In the year Podrum Palić re-enters the race for the most prestigious trophy—popularly dubbed the “Wimbledon of Distilleries”—the distillery has already secured seven IWSC medals for 2024. Four medals were awarded to premium rakijas from the Baraba collection, while three additional honours went to the Sinner dry gin and the portfolio’s latest addition, the bitter liqueur Gorshtak.
Baraba Plum and Baraba Apricot each earned gold medals with 95 points, while Baraba Grape Brandy and Baraba Quince Barrique won silver.
It is worth recalling that Baraba Grape Brandy not only won gold last year but also claimed the title of “Best of the Best” in its category, earning the prestigious Outstanding Gold Trophy with 99 points.
Despite fierce competition in the gin category, Sinner Dry Gin earned a bronze medal in its category, as well as silver for its gin & tonic combination in partnership with the renowned Franklin & Sons from London.
BUILDING ON ITS LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE, PODRUM PALIĆ RANKS AMONG THE WORLD’S BEST, ONCE AGAIN COMPETING FOR THE TITLE OF WORLD’S BEST FRUIT DISTILLATE PRODUCER.
Finally, the newest addition to the Podrum Palić family—the Gorshtak bitter liqueur, crafted from 37 different herbs—secured its first bronze medal at this year’s IWSC competition. poslednji pasus, u highlight, menja se kompletno sa sledecim tekstom:
The annual awards ceremony for 2024 took place on November 12 in London, where the laureates of IWSC’s most prestigious trophies were announced. Although the trophy did not return to Serbia this year, Podrum Palić’s place among the top four distilleries worldwide underscores its exceptional quality and growing international reputation..
PODRUM PALIĆ
Podrum Palić 1896 is a Serbian distillery with a tradition spanning over 125 years. Following a comprehensive reconstruction and modernisation completed in 2019, Podrum Palić has become one of the most technologically advanced distilleries in the region.
The fruit used for its premium products is grown on 120 hectares of its own orchards in the Palić region. Its dedication to exceptional quality has already been recognised with the title of World’s Best Fruit Distillate Producer for 2023, along with numerous accolades for the Baraba premium rakija collection and other products from its extensive portfolio.
ABOUT IWSC
The International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC), founded in 1969, is one of the most prestigious global competitions for evaluating the quality of wines and spirits. Renowned for its expertise and independence, the IWSC brings together leading industry professionals and sets the highest standards through rigorous evaluation and analysis processes.
Photo: Podrum Palić
The Golden Age for Donald Trump
Trump will not save America,
just as he will not bring peace to the world. The fact that he may end the war in Europe does not mean he won’t ignite new conflicts elsewhere.
These are not historic elections, just as most of the previous ones labeled as such were not. However, they are a megalomaniacal endeavour for a billionaire and the 47th President of the United States, who, despite all abnormalities, has been given the power to once again play with the world order.
And that is indeed a problem because his decisions affect the entire world. Yet, this is nothing new—just slightly more bizarre compared to elections of the past, but entirely expected when viewed within the context of today’s time and circumstances.
Donald Trump is the first president in 120 years to manage a comeback victory after being defeated, a fact that is particularly shocking as he is also the first president awaiting sentencing for a criminal offense. The future American president was teetering on the edge
of either ending up in prison or the White House. However, that wasn’t the reason why the world was glued to the November American elections.
Some were convinced, despite surviving his first term, that his reelection would bring about an apocalypse. Others anticipated witnessing
IS THERE A GREATER PARADOX THAN THE IDENTIFICATION OF THE ORDINARY PERSON WITH TRUMP? THE BELIEF THAT HE, A BILLIONAIRE, WILL SAVE THEM—THE WORKING CLASS
Kamala Harris becoming the first woman at the helm of the United States.
Both camps were wrong. The latter, not because Americans aren’t ready for a woman, but because they aren’t ready for Kamala, who gave them nothing but a smile (and this wasn’t a beauty pageant). The former were mistaken because they misinterpret what they hear in the media.
Following the press primarily means understanding what those in power want the reader to believe. Trump, as tradition dictates, will likely be worse in his second term, wielding more power and being more radical, but he won’t come closer to an apocalypse than the previous administration did.
Paying attention to Trump’s bombastic statements means being attuned to what he wants his voters to think of him. Believing that it will truly unfold as he says is to nourish illusions.
He claims he will fight for a strong, secure, and prosperous America. This, he says, will be the golden age of the United States.
The golden age will be—and already is—for Donald Trump, as well as for Elon Musk and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, who undoubtedly envision themselves in the Oval Office one day.
The new-old president will not save America, just as he won’t trigger an apocalypse or bring peace to the world. He will likely end the tragedy in Ukraine, which was inevitable even if Kamala Harris had won—the only difference being a matter of style and timing. There are already indications that he will drastically reduce support for Ukraine, as the money is needed for the American market. He will also turn his attention to the Middle East, which doesn’t rule out the possibility of new conflicts fueled by his personal obsessions, such as with Iran.
Analysts who dismissed him during the campaign or predicted an extremely tight race were either poorly informed or deliberately trying to shape voter expectations. Either way, it didn’t work—and that’s the truly amusing part.
Of course, Trump’s victory didn’t surprise many, even if it didn’t please them. They were paying attention to the signs, like the bullet at a rally that grazed his ear.
The final event that stripped election night of its element of surprise occurred just days before the vote, when Jeff Bezos, owner of The Washington Post and Amazon, decided to break with tradition by withholding clear support for Kamala Harris. More precisely, he chose to end the paper’s backing of the Democratic candidate just days before the election.
Previously, as they had done for decades, the paper had lent its full editorial support to the Democratic contender. Bezos’s move made it easy to imagine the long line soon to form— of those waiting to kiss Trump’s ring.
What comes as something of a surprise is not just Trump’s resounding victory but also the success of the Republican Party, which, most importantly, gained control of the Senate and secured a majority of gubernatorial positions across the states. In other words, they now have a free hand when it comes to the most critical nominations, which require Senate approval. For passing budgets and securing financial support for major projects, they will negotiate with the Democratic majority in the House of Representatives.
Anna Moneymaker / Shutterstock
Additionally, Trump won not only the Electoral College but also achieved a significant margin in the popular vote—far greater than when he secured his first term. The overall election results achieved by the Republicans have potentially made him the most powerful American president since Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Future Vice President J.D. Vance described this as the greatest political comeback in U.S. history. This claim holds even more weight considering that in 2016, no one took Trump seriously, and during this campaign, many argued it was impossible for him to stage a return after losing to Joseph Biden in 2020. Since then, he had become one of the most reviled political figures, subjected to media lynching after the post-election riots and the storming of Capitol Hill. His reputation was tarnished by numerous scandals, lawsuits, the loss of his social media presence, and even debates about whether he was fit to run again. He was declared unworthy.
Four years later, he has become the 47th President of the United States—with a result better than ever before.
AN OPTICAL ILLUSION
Trump’s success says a great deal about his opponent. The source of the phenomenon lies in what voters think about the Democrats and their conviction that someone like Trump represents them. That a billionaire will save them—the working class. Is there a greater paradox than the identification of the ordinary person with Trump? A man who tramples everything that defines the average person, simply because he constantly proclaims how bad the situation is.
Trump, a critic of the system, became their voice at the podium. The only one who says what they think as he rails against Washington’s bureaucracy, disconnected from everyday people. On that wavelength, a shamelessly wealthy man and voters with thinning wallets found common ground. His approach to foreign policy, whether he is racist, fascist, or anything else, is irrelevant to his base.
Kamala Harris, despite being “carried on the shoulders” of Hollywood stars, pop icons, and even Michelle and Barack Obama, failed to connect. Her pearly smile and open arms were in vain. That glamour is not of the people. That elite is not dissatisfied. Trump is—or at least, that’s what he claims.
Every attack by the system against him only boosted his popularity. Instead of being discredited when arrested and photographed for prison records, his mugshot became a symbol, attracting record donations to his campaign. Every lawsuit and scandal, from sexual misconduct to corruption and criminal charges, only brought him closer to the ordinary citizen. Each new clash with the authorities mirrored the average American’s struggles against the system.
ONCE AGAIN, THE ALIENATION OF LIBERALS FROM THE COMMON MAN HAS BEEN PUNISHED
He is the first convicted president of the United States. America has put a criminal offender in power and handed him the ability to pardon himself. The illusion that through Trump the people have defeated the establishment has coloured all shades of reality. The first and most glaring is that he is, in fact, the very embodiment of what they claim to fight against.
He and, to some extent, Elon Musk. We’ve witnessed his growing popularity among Latinos, young voters, and even African Americans. Trump is obsessed with expelling illegal immigrants from the U.S., building border walls, and erecting barbed wire fences, claim-
ing they steal jobs—despite automation being the far greater culprit.
His ally and great guru of the future American administration, Elon Musk, dreams of robotizing humanity. Machines will increasingly replace humans in the workforce.
Musk’s Best Investment
Tesla’s stock soared by more than 10% in a single day, pushing the electric vehicle manufacturer’s market value past $1 trillion. Following the election outcome, Tesla’s shares have risen overall by around 27%. Investors believe the return of the new-old president will benefit Tesla. It seems that the $130 million reportedly invested in Trump’s campaign by Elon Musk was his best investment yet—and this is just the beginning.
Analysts suggest that one thing is almost certain not to change, especially as China’s influence continues to grow: the U.S. stance toward Beijing. China was a key rival that Trump sought to contain during his first term, and that rivalry is expected to persist. However, there is growing speculation that the key figure shaping U.S.China relations might not be Trump but Tesla’s owner himself.
According to some, Musk represents a new approach—a sign that relations between the two powers don’t have to be defined by rivalry and conflict.
As for who should be most concerned come January, when Trump returns to the White House, most bets point to Brussels. Yet, keen observers are more intrigued by Washington’s future relations with Latin America than its dynamic with Europe. That promises to be an interesting new chapter.
As for Russia, as Moscow itself has admitted, relations with the U.S. simply cannot get any worse.
Photo: Rokas
Photo:
Hadrian / Shutterstock
Be gentle to each other
and yourselves!
New Borders, New States – Is c onsent Necessary? Absolutely!
Border shifts must always be a matter of mutual agreement between both sides, as should the recognition of independence. We witness all the tensions and wars stem from disregarding this simple logic—or applying it selectively: “only to my enemies, while I can do as I please.” Here are a few recent examples of potential new states and border changes that might complicate matters for travellers aiming to visit every country or those who have already done so.
The first piece of news, from 4 October, went largely unreported here: the United Kingdom has agreed with Mauritius to transfer all the islands of the Chagos Archipelago, except Diego Garcia, where a joint British-American military base is located. This island will remain under British control “for at least 99 more years,” subject to any future lease extensions. The Chagos Archipelago was part of the British Indian Ocean Territory, a British crown colony, along with Mauritius. Mauritius separated in 1968, becoming an independent state and a major tourist destination, while the opposite happened in Chagos. In 1971, the British and Americans agreed to build a military base and forcibly removed all 2,000 Chagossians to Mauritius. Since then, only military personnel have resided there.
ALL IN ALL, WHAT DISTINGUISHES RAPE FROM PASSIONATE SEX? THE ANSWER IS SIMPLE: CONSENT. POLITICIANS FIND IT EASY TO AGREE WITH THIS STATEMENT, YET THEY FORGET THIS ANALOGY REGARDING NATIONAL BORDERS ENTIRELY.
Between 2022 and 2024, negotiations took place to hand over Chagos to Mauritius, as both the International Court of Justice (2019) and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (2021) ruled that the islands could not belong to Britain. On 4 October, the UK government announced it would transfer the islands to Mauritius “soon.” All displaced individuals and their descendants will be allowed to return to the islands and atolls, with the UK funding the construction of settlements and infrastructure for the returnees. Diego Garcia, the largest island,
will remain British, just like Gibraltar and the parts of Cyprus known as Akrotiri and Dhekelia (yes, a part of Cyprus belongs to the UK).
The Chagossians have complained that they were not involved in the discussions and want Diego Garcia included in the negotiations, but there’s little hope of that happening. The atolls are expected to eventually become the new Maldives, with resort and hotel developments on the horizon.
Edi Rama recently announced plans to establish a “Bektashi Vatican” in Tirana, near the city centre—a new independent state with its passports, even more autonomous than the Orthodox monastic republic on Mount Athos. Although the news caused a stir, let’s consider some context. Despite the legacy of Enver Hoxha’s isolation and religious prohibition, Albania has long been a tolerant nation. It’s the only country in the world that, despite Italian and later German occupation, ended WWII with a larger Jewish population than it began with.
This same tolerance extends to the Bektashis—a Sufi order associated with a form of Shia Islam—which has become something of a “national religion” for Albanians. Albania’s diverse faiths, including Orthodox and Catholic Christians, coexist alongside Sunni and Bektashi Muslims, making the country religiously
Photo:
diverse despite its ethnic homogeneity. The Bektashis found their home in Albania after Turkey’s secularisation under Atatürk.
Why should this order, with its global centre in Tirana, be granted its state? Edi Rama is a shrewd leader who knows that this “tiny hole” on Albania’s map would be a minor loss but a major gain for tourism and the country’s image. For those who have already visited Albania and Tirana, it gives a reason to return and tick off a new “country” from our travel list. This could happen as soon as “by the end of the year”!
The furthest border change will occur in the Solomon Islands, where colonial conquests left part of the archipelago—German Solomon Islands—merged with German New Guinea, later joining British New Guinea to form Papua New Guinea. Meanwhile, the British Solomon Islands became a separate, independent state, creating ethnic tensions. From 1988 to 1997, an uprising and civil war occurred, resolved in 2000 by establishing the Autonomous Bougainville Government—essentially a “state within a state.”
The parties agreed on a future referendum for complete independence, and in 2019, 98.3% voted for independence rather than continued autonomy within Papua New Guinea. In response, regional authorities plan to achieve independence between 2025 and 2027, with a draft constitution for the “Republic of Bougainville” published in May 2024. Soon, a new Pacific state will emerge—challenging to reach but promising tourist interest from travellers eager to “complete the world map.” If Bougainville chooses, it could even become a “Pacific Maldives,” given its pristine beaches.
What makes forced violation different from a passionate love making? The answer is simple: consent. Politicians may agree in theory, yet they conveniently forget this analogy when it comes to borders. And they shouldn’t.
THE THUCYDIDES TRAP OF CHINA AND THE USA
We’ve discussed how media worldwide is filled with headlines declaring either “The US is in decline while China is on the rise” or “China is failing, and the US is stronger than ever.” Although much of this is propaganda, it’s clear that these two massive nations and economies are competing for global dominance. Their rivalry spans race, ideology, cul-
WE COME FROM DIVERSE RACES, RELIGIONS, WORLDVIEWS, AND CIVILISATIONS—THE WORLD WILL NEVER BE UNIFIED. AND SOMETHING IS REASSURING ABOUT THAT.
ture, language, civilisation, and economics. So, can there only be one winner? Or could there be more? This is where the concept of the Thucydides Trap comes in—a term defined by American political scientist Graham T. Allison, suggesting that when an established power fears a rising power, it often leads to conflict. But not always.
For instance, Portugal and Spain peacefully divided their spheres of influence with the Treaty of Tordesillas in the 15th century, continuing to build their empires without going to war. Yet, many empires—Austrian, Russian, Ottoman— and nations like Britain, France, Germany, and the Netherlands have clashed violently over su-
premacy. The UK, sensing after World War I that the US was becoming the world’s leading power, chose peaceful coexistence, forming alliances and “joint governance” through NATO and close historical ties. Similarly, the US and the USSR coexisted out of mutual fear of nuclear destruction until the USSR dissolved itself.
As a rising power, will China provoke fear in the US, or will the US wisely decide to “share the world” with China, as it did previously with the USSR and the UK? This could mean forming alliances with countries on good terms with both, like India, which is growing into a formidable force with impressive technological advancements. We hope for the latter. We all come from diverse races, religions, worldviews, and civilisations—the world will never be entirely unified. And there is something is reassuring in that. Politicians would realise there’s no need for tensions that chill us all to the bone.
QUO VADIS, OCCIDENS?
Lastly, but far from least important, where is the West headed? Mario Draghi has presented a critical document that warrants a detailed analysis, emphasising that “Europe has not yet failed, and won’t, if it gets its act together.” But action must be swift and concrete, as China and the US are poised to surpass our continent. Slow growth rates, an ageing demographic, immigrants essential to sustain the economy yet increasingly viewed as a disruptive force, the end of cheap Russian energy, and rising rhetoric about “containing China” (as though China were some “bull in a china shop”) all indicate that Europe is approaching a severe crisis.
The victories of right-wing parties across Europe’s heartland reveal that voters are discontent. Yet, the elites remain indifferent, following the adage, “If the people don’t vote as we wanted, we’ll choose a different people!” But power doesn’t choose the people—the people choose their leaders. Europe needs a New Deal with clear guidelines and a fresh ideology and vision of what Europe is. It is no longer the Europe of 1992 or even 2004. It must become something new—hopefully better than that of... 1938 or any other ominous year in history.
Photo: Joe Kuis / Shutterstock
In the neighbourhood of “THAT THIRD COUNTRY”
The “Yerevan Dialogue” conference, held on September 10 and 11 in Armenia’s capital, was an attempt to expand the country’s “soft power” in one of the world’s most geopolitically challenging positions
Ashot Hovakimyan is Armenia’s ambassador to Prague, covering Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina from the Czech Republic. He was educated in Yerevan and Moscow and speaks Serbian fluently. He graduated from the Institute for Slavic and Balkan Studies in the Russian capital. In the second week of the Ukraine war, at the beginning of March 2022, we had lunch at the Pupin Hotel in Novi Sad, precisely at the spot
THE ‘YEREVAN DIALOGUE’ CONFERENCE ATTEMPTED TO EXPAND ARMENIA’S ‘SOFT POWER’ IN A REGION FACING SIGNIFICANT GEOPOLITICAL CHALLENGES
where the Armenian church stood before its unnecessary demolition in 1964. I asked him why he was covering Serbia from as far away as Prague rather than from a closer embassy, such as in Budapest or Vienna. He replied, “We don’t have diplomatic relations with Hungary!”
After seeing the question mark above my head, he explained the details of a bloody incident that took place in Budapest over 20 years ago.
In brief: on 19th February 2004, Ramil Safarov, an officer in the Azerbaijani army, almost decapitated Armenian officer Gurgen Margaryan with an axe in Budapest. Both attended a three-month NATO seminar as part of the Partnership for Peace program. Safarov was sentenced in Hungary, but the government of Viktor Orbán decided to extradite the killer to Azerbaijan, where he was released, declared a national hero, and promoted to the rank of major. Armenia subsequently severed diplomatic relations with Hungary.
Twenty years after that crime, on a flight to Warsaw (our stopover en route to Yerevan for the “Yerevan Dialogue” conference), I noticed in the program the name of Péter Szijjártó, Hungary’s foreign minister. I learned that the two countries had reestablished diplomatic relations from my daughter Elena, whom I had suggested writing an essay on the incident
Monument from the Soviet Era
for her studies in Boston six months prior, prompting her to “follow the case.”
“Isn’t it logical that we would travel from Belgrade to Yerevan via Istanbul rather than going north to Warsaw, then back down along Ukraine’s border, through Slovakia, Hungary,
Romania, and over the Black Sea to Armenia?” I asked my travel companion, military analyst Nikola Lunić, who gave me an answer I already knew halfway through my rhetorical question. Of course, Turkey is an ally of Azerbaijan, and Yerevan isn’t a priority for flight connections via Istanbul.
The “Yerevan Dialogue” conference reminded me of the “Doha Forum,” which I reported on for NIN two years ago. Armenia’s desire is understandable—to expand its “soft power” by hosting events that gather statesmen, experts in economics, geopolitics, security, and journalists. Qatar has it much easier, given its resources—not only with the “Doha Forum” but also with the Al Jazeera TV network, the 2022 World Cup, and much more.
Armenia lacks such privileges—it has no oil, gas, or other valuable mineral resources, not even lithium, as cynics might say. It lacks the solidarity of “Muslim brothers” around the world. It has no access to the sea and is geopolitically squeezed: to the East, an openly hostile Azerbaijan with which it was at war until last year when, in just a few days, it lost (or, depending on perspective, Azerbaijan regained) Nagorno-Karabakh; to the West, Turkey, Azerbaijan’s ally, which refuses to acknowledge the “crime” (Armenians and some Western
countries call it “genocide”) committed against Armenians by the Ottoman Empire in 1915; to the South, the Islamic Republic of Iran; and the North, as some Armenians say with a bitter smile, “unreliable friends”—Georgia, and farther off, Russia. Incidentally, to preserve good relations with Turkey, Serbia officially does not call the 1915 events “genocide,” even though they were committed against a “brotherly Christian people.”
We landed at Zvartnots International Airport, named after the nearby town, at dawn, 10 kilometres from Yerevan.
THE BRUTALIST
ARCHITECTURE OF THE SOVIET-ERA CONTROL TOWER CONTRASTED SHARPLY WITH THE LUXURY OF THE VIP LOUNGE AND THE MODERN ‘SEVEN VISIONS RESORTS AND PLACES, THE DVIN’ COMPLEX
Descent from Ararat
Opera
National Gallery
The brutalist architecture of the concrete Control Tower from the Soviet era (the airport opened in 1961) clashed with the luxury of the VIP lounge, where we were escorted as conference guests immediately after disembarking.
The “Seven Visions Resorts and Places, the Dvin” complex in Yerevan, where I stayed, contrasts starkly with the somewhat rundown apartment blocks nearby due to its excessive luxury. Alongside the modern hotel, there is a Music Hall, conference centre, shops, and restaurants.
This amount of money wasn’t made in Armenia. It was built by a wealthy Russian of Armenian descent who amassed his fortune during the breakup of the USSR.
Tatjana Panajotović is our ambassador to Armenia and also covers Georgia on a nonresidential basis. While we drink coffee in the garden of the “Marriott” hotel in the city centre, she tells me how she arrived in Yerevan in 2019, before the pandemic, so she knows the region well and strives to strengthen Serbia’s relations with the countries she represents. This isn’t an easy task, as Azerbaijan is the only country in the Caucasus with an official embassy in Belgrade and excellent relations; Georgia has a chargé d’affaires, and Armenia only opened an office in Belgrade a month ago, with the embassy still in Prague. Exporting Serbian arms to Azerbaijan remains a central sticking point in relations between Serbia and Armenia.
The Armenians, meanwhile, seem to be trying to forget past wars; there are few reminders of them in the city’s streets. I only saw two murals dedicated to soldiers who fell in the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War in 2020. By contrast, when I was in Baku in 2015 for the European Games, I saw a cemetery for soldiers who died in the First Nagorno-Karabakh War in 1994 outside the Parliament building, as if they wanted to make clear to locals and tourists alike what happened and who was to blame.
The hosts held an “ice-breaking event” the evening before the conference began at Armenia Wine Company, the largest winery in the country, started by the Vardanyan family in 2006. While waiting for Nikola, who was coming from a different hotel, I was joined at the
THE CLOSENESS BETWEEN SERBS AND ARMENIANS AS PEOPLES IS INTENSE, THOUGH SERBIA’S RELATIONS WITH AZERBAIJAN HAVE STRENGTHENED SIGNIFICANTLY IN RECENT DECADES
bar by a man in typical American fashion who “works for a think tank that works for the US Department of Defense.” He was interested in my thoughts on relations between Russia and Serbia. When I asked his opinion on Trump’s statement that Haitian migrants eat pets in Springfield, he went to get more wine and never returned.
The band was playing Frank Sinatra and Charles Aznavour, arguably the most famous Armenian in the world. We ended up in the company of some young women who work for Ararat Mirzoyan, Armenia’s foreign minister. Later, the minister himself joined us. We discussed Armenia’s current position, and one of the women talked about her country, Georgia, as “the third Caucasus country.” She was referring to Azerbaijan, a country they often avoid naming here. “They took everything they wanted, yet it seems they’re still unsatisfied!” she added resignedly.
A similar situation happened to me in Beirut in 2019 when, as a guest of Brent and Jelena Sadler, I found myself, quite loudly and for reasons I still don’t know, mentioning the word “Israel” in nearly every other sentence over coffee at the Four Seasons hotel. My hosts pointed out that in Lebanon, instead of “Israel,” people say “Dixyland,” and instead of “Jerusalem,” they say “J-City.”
In any case, both in Armenia and Lebanon, these are better “synonyms” than some of those that have spread across the Balkans: “Ustashe,” “Chetniks,” “Shiptars,” “Balijas”...
Half an hour late, the conference began the next day with a speech from Armenia’s Prime Minister, Nikol Pashinyan, who, according to his opponents, “lost all the wars.” In front of a packed audience at the “Dvin,” Pashinyan spoke about the need to connect the South Caucasus countries through infrastructure— roads, railways, pipelines—and through people-to-people contacts.
Serbia was represented on one of the panels by Nikola Stojanović, a young state secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Nikola is 32 years old and speaks excellent English, French, and Chinese.
That afternoon, I had lunch with one of Pashinyan’s opponents who didn’t hold back: “He’s a traitor! He’s lost everything!” Two hours
Memorial mural for the fallen
Armenian Wine Company
Nikola Stojanovic Panel
later, I was sitting with another friend who supports the current government; he praised Pashinyan and criticised the previous administration. This is something that any foreigner might also experience in Belgrade, highlighting yet another similarity between our two nations.
Armenians genuinely adore Serbs. When we were in Yerevan in 2017, people would invite us to join them for a drink when we heard Serbians on the street. The closeness between Serbs and Armenians as peoples is intense, but it’s also true that over the past 20 years, our country has had much better relations with Azerbaijan. Parks and monuments in Belgrade and Novi Sad are dedicated to Azerbaijani leaders and artists, and in the 21st century, their energy resources and money have greater value than the Christian brotherhood and ties that Serbs and Armenians have shared since the 18th century.
After the conference, I visited the History Museum and the National Gallery of Armenia to explore the country’s rich historical and cultural heritage. I was impressed by the expected wealth of heritage but also disappointed by the somewhat outdated museological presenta-
AS I PONDER A PAINTING OF NOAH AND MOUNT ARARAT IN ARMENIA’S NATIONAL GALLERY, I REFLECT ON HOW EVEN ARMENIA’S GREATEST SYMBOL—MOUNT ARARAT—IS LOCATED IN NEIGHBOURING TURKEY
tion of these treasures—it’s all arranged like in a provincial museum in Serbia. Our Armenian friends could benefit from support from EU partners, including experts from our museums and galleries.
As I ponder a scene from one of the paintings in the National Gallery, depicting the biblical Noah with his family and the animals he saved from the Great Flood descending from
Mount Ararat, I reflect on how even Armenia’s greatest symbol—Mount Ararat—is not located in Armenia but in neighbouring Turkey. Ararat lends its name to alcoholic beverages and many other Armenian products, and it’s even popular as a male name, as in the case of the foreign minister mentioned earlier.
David Safaryan (1952), a film director, and Khachatur Almazian (1974), a violinist and music producer—both frequent visitors to Belgrade—hadn’t met before I brought them together that afternoon at “Beer Academy” in Yerevan. They spoke at length and passionately about Sergei Parajanov, the famous Soviet director whom both had the privilege of knowing. Sharing conversation with these two brilliant intellectuals over local craft beer was perhaps the best way to conclude my visit to Yerevan.
However, as fate would have it, upon returning to “Dvin” in search of a friend attending another conference, I stumbled upon an event that reminded me of a scene from the film “Hostel.” On two levels of one of the spaces in “Dvin,” participants of that gathering—whites, Arabs, Africans, all from the upper echelons of society, politicians, diplomats, parliamentarians—were drinking champagne and watching a young woman performing acrobatics as she descended on a rope in the central space.
As LOT’s sleep-deprived plane carried us back to Warsaw, I replayed Štulić’s lyrics about “Poland in my heart” and “Gdańsk in ’80, when autumn said - no.” How far is the world today, in the 21st century, from the ideals that Johnny sang about and that we believed in? Will the Armenians use “soft power” to surpass those with money, oil, and gas? Why were there no mass demonstrations by Christians worldwide when Nagorno-Karabakh fell in silence, as we’ve seen nearly a year of solidarity among Muslims for Palestinians in Gaza?
After our hosts told us that the “Yerevan Dialogue” would become a tradition, I said goodbye to Ashot with: “Next year in Yerevan,” hoping that the same slogan isn’t on the minds of some in the “third Caucasus country.”
Yerevan Dialogue
Control Tower
Cultural Diplomacy at the Highest Level
The 8th International Ethnology Fest, under the slogan SYNTHESIS, was held at the Ethnographic museum in Belgrade on October 10 and 11.
The event gathered esteemed guests from the cultural and public life of Serbia and the Republic of Türkiye. Supported by the First Lady of the Republic of Serbia, Mrs Tamara Vučić, and the Embassy of Türkiye, the festival focused on promoting intangible cultural heritage and protecting cultural identities.
The festival, founded and curated by Goga Grubješić, showcased unique fashion shows emphasising the importance of intangible cultural heritage. This year’s Ethnology Fest continued its tradition of being an ethnologyinspired cultural event. The opening ceremony was marked by a remarkable performance of the traditional Serbian song “Oj Moravo,” specially prepared for the occasion by Snežana Savić-Sekulić and Vladimir Andrić, lead opera singers from the National Theatre. They were accompanied by the choir and orchestra of the National
ETHNOLOGY FEST 2024 ONCE AGAIN CELEBRATED CULTURAL HERITAGE THROUGH CREATIVITY, PROVING ITS VITAL ROLE IN PRESERVING AND REIMAGINING TRADITIONS FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
Folk Dance and Song Ensemble “Kolo,” conducted by Ivona Vulović.
Supported by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Serbia, the festival highlighted the theme Synthesis. The Minister of Culture, Nikola Selaković, addressed the distinguished guests, commending the festival and emphasising the importance of supporting associations engaged in traditional crafts. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to connecting these crafts with contemporary designers and creative industries.
The festival was officially opened by Mrs Tamara Vučić, who delivered an inspiring speech stressing the importance of promoting Serbian cultural heritage both nationally and internationally, while encouraging cultural exchange and mutual understanding. The ceremonial ribboncutting was performed by Goga Grubješić, the festival’s founder, and Marko Krstić, the director of the Ethnographic Museum.
Photo: Etnology Fest
The audience was treated to two exceptional fashion shows, applauded enthusiastically from start to finish. Renowned Serbian designers Sonja Krstić and Ivana Najdanović presented collections inspired by the festival’s theme.
Sonja Krstić, with her collection titled “Antithesis”, showcased a synthesis of opposites, blending traditional patterns with contemporary fashion trends. Her designs, including coats and luxurious dresses, reflected the richness of folklore and innovative design.
Ivana Najdanović pushed the boundaries of tradition by using innovative materials and techniques, creating unique pieces that were both modern and inspired by traditional values.
Ethnology Fest 2024 once again celebrated cultural heritage through creativity, proving its vital role in preserving and reimagining traditions for future generations.
COUNTRY IN FOCUS: THE REPUBLIC OF TÜRKIYE
What makes the Ethnology Fest particularly special is its tradition of featuring a different guest country each year as the festival’s focus. This year, the spotlight was on the Republic of Türkiye. The exoticism of Turkish culture was highlighted through the collection “The Bride’s Treasure – A CenturyOld Heritage”, presented by the renowned Ankara Olgunlaşma Institute, with the support of the Turkish Embassy in Serbia. This exceptional showcase of traditional costumes of great value further enriched the festival’s programme.
Adding to the significance of the occasion was the presence of two First Ladies: Mrs Tamara Vučić, the First Lady of Serbia, and Mrs Emine Erdoğan, the First Lady of Türkiye. Also in attend-
THE ETHNOLOGY FEST HIGHLIGHTED THE EXOTICISM OF TURKISH CULTURE THROUGH THE COLLECTION ‘THE BRIDE’S TREASURE – A CENTURY-OLD HERITAGE’
ance were several female ministers from the Serbian government and Mrs Maja Gojković, the Deputy Prime Minister of Vojvodina.
The opening ceremony featured the song “Ruse kose, curo imaš” (“You Have Golden Hair, Girl”), underlining the cultural connection between Serbia and Türkiye. In her address, the First Lady of Serbia quoted the Ottoman thinker Khalil Gibran, who remarked that “ancient cultures are destined for intellectual death if they are not revitalised through the achievements of modern culture.” Mrs Vučić emphasised that the friendship between the two countries is, at its core, the friend-
ship between their peoples. She expressed particular joy at hosting Mrs Emine Erdoğan as the special guest of this year’s festival, highlighting their warm, friendly relationship.
First Lady Emine Erdoğan described Serbia as a “brotherly country” to Türkiye and expressed her happiness that Türkiye was chosen as this year’s country in focus. She noted that clothing reflects cultural identity, likening it to “an intimate letter that describes us.” Ahead of the bridal gown showcase, she explained how Turkish women have, throughout history, delicately woven their love, prayers, and
dreams into fabrics, creating rare and valuable works of art.
The bridal gowns on display, representing the joy and anticipation of life’s new beginnings, showcased the unique artistry of Anatolia. Mrs Erdoğan expressed hope that the traditional Turkish bridal gowns, with their unique aesthetic and originality, would inspire contemporary designers. It was evident that they inspired the many distinguished guests from Serbia’s public, cultural, and fashion spheres, as well as members of the diplomatic corps.
Ethnology Fest continues to pave the way for cultural diplomacy, bringing together artists, designers, and cultural professionals to celebrate the richness of cultural heritage and creativity. Thanks to its sponsors and media support, the festival has become a unique event celebrating our shared cultural heritage and enabling participation in the preservation and promotion of culture.
Exploring the Origin and History of Beer
Taste Awards Jury Visits Carlsberg Brewery in Čelarevo
As last year’s Taste Awards 2023 laureates, on the 23rd of October, the Carlsberg Brewery in Čelarevo was the host for the Taste Awards jury and other esteemed guests who had the opportunity to see a tour of the famous Carlsberg Beer Museum and the facilities in which the Carlsberg beers are made.
After arrival and the welcome speeches held by the staff of the Carlsberg brewery, the esteemed guests of the brewery visited different parts of the facilities, witnessing how various brands of beer, including Carlsberg, Lav Premium, Twist, Merak, and Somersby, were made from the very start to finish.
This included almost all of the phases a beer goes through while being produced, like milling, boiling, fermenting, and packaging.
In addition to high standards regarding the quality of products and services, one of the priorities of the Carlsberg Group, and therefore of the Čelarevo brewery in Serbia, is constant work on improving business sustainability and controlling the environmental impact.
Work in this area is recognised primarily through preserving natural resources such as water, electricity, different types of raw materials, natural gas, etc.
ONE OF THE PRIORITIES OF THE CARLSBERG GROUP, AND THEREFORE OF THE ČELAREVO BREWERY IN SERBIA, IS CONSTANT WORK ON IMPROVING BUSINESS SUSTAINABILITY AND CONTROLLING THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT.
After seeing how the beer was made, the Taste Awards jury learned about the history and origins of beer in Serbia, including the story of Lazar Dunđerski, the original founder of this brewery.
At the Carlsberg headquarters in Copenhagen, there is a museum dedicated to the company’s history. It houses numerous exhibits that witness how, in previous decades, a small beer workshop grew into the international brewing giant that Carlsberg is today.
The Čelarevo Brewery, in line with its parent company, has the task of telling a similar
story. Therefore, 116 years after the brewery’s establishment, a small visitor centre and the museum were opened, dedicated to the very founder of the brewery, the famous landowner Lazar Dunđerski.
Lazar Dunđerski, at that time one of the most prominent Serbian landowners, founded a brewery in Čelarevo, then Čibu, in 1892, on his family’s agricultural property. Before her, Lazar already owned a brewery, which operated successfully. However, the new brewery was entirely his work. He paid particular attention to its construction. Everything he learned and saw in big European cities he wanted to try in his new brewery.
Visitors had the opportunity to hear about the brewery’s history through old pictures and letters of the founder, Lazar Dunđerski, as well as how the workers cheered up during the celebrations. Very rare antiquities, which were not even managed to be collected by nearby museums, were searched for in locations around Čelarevo so visitors could also see catering inventory that was used over 100 years ago.
At the end of the event, guests could learn how to pour their drink from experts from the Carlsberg Brewery, who showed the jury how to pour themselves a perfect glass of cold beer.
Miodrag Kostić (1959–2024): Visionary Leader, Phi
He will be remembered as one of the most successful Serbian businessmen and a modern patron
Belgrade, November 13, 2024 - It is with great sadness that we notify the public that President and founder of MK Group, Miodrag Kostić (1959 – 2024), passed away today, on November 13. During 40 years of his active professional career, he was a visionary and a business strategist who created one of the biggest business systems operating beyond Serbian borders, for which he became internationally recognized as one of the most influential leaders and most successful businessmen in Southeastern Europe.
During his career, Miodrag Kostić achieved great success and pioneering endeavors in agriculture, tourism, green energy production and financial services, by which he positioned his companies as leaders in these areas. Expansion of his business was followed by numerous socially responsible activities. As the crown jewel of his philanthropic activism comes the Miodrag Kostić Endowment, through which he gifted the Palace of Science to the Serbian people, as the biggest individual act of benefaction in our region since the beginning of the 20th century.
He withdrew from active role in the company 5 years ago. He passed on the strategic governance of the business system to his son, Aleksandar Kostić, Vice President of MK Group, and Chairman of the Management Board of AIK Banka. Management of both companies, together with their employees, will carry on the vision of continuous growth and development paved by Miodrag Kostić.
Today Serbian and regional economy lost a great man, but his name and vision will carry on through his children and their families, as well as through MK Group, AIK Banka and the Endowment of Miodrag Kostić.
Like the great benefactors in Serbian history, he leaves behind a lasting value for Serbian society
Miodrag Kostić is recognized not only as one of the most successful businessmen but also for his continuous engagement and contributions to socially responsible causes. Support for children and youth, as well as for education and healthcare, has always been the cornerstone of his philanthropic activities. He personally initiated and followed through on a large number of actions, ensuring their implementation year after year. He launched the regional CSR program “Family Support”, as well as numerous aid projects that have been carried out every year for over a decade. These include various forms of support to SOS Children’s Villages and the NURDOR association, organizing winter trips for students from Kosovo and Metohija, donating food to vulnerable populations, and donating equipment to healthcare and educational institutions. The humanitarian actions he financed were primarily focused on the local communities where MK Group and AIK Bank operate.
During his lifetime, he allocated over 50 million euros for socially responsible activities and will continue to support Serbian society and its development through the work of the foundation bearing his name. The Miodrag Kostić Endowment was established with the aim of gifting the Serbian people the Palace of Science, the first center for research and popularization of science in Serbia. This humanitarian endeavor reflects his life and business philosophy, where knowledge stands as the greatest value. The allocation of 25 million euros for the realization of this project is one of the largest individual donations for philanthropy in this region. It represents a return to patronage and a legacy for the future of Serbia, through continuous support for education, scientific and technological development, and innovation.
This is the second foundation he has launched. Previously, in 2013, he donated his family house in Novi Sad, as the “Kostić Family Endowment,” to the “Institute for Health Care of Children and Youth of Vojvodina” for
MIODRAG KOSTIĆ 1959 - 2024
lanthropist, and Modern Patron of Serbian Progress
the purpose of more humane treatment, in cooperation with the NURDOR association. It is also worth mentioning the house he built in Kraljevo in 2012 for the needs of the SOS Children’s Villages organization.
The community has recognized his efforts to provide future generations with better living opportunities and the chance to progress, and Miodrag Kostić has received numerous awards for his humanitarian work. He is the only person in Serbia to have been awarded the Honorary Badge by the international organization SOS Children’s Villages in gratitude for his long-term support and contribution. He holds the Gold Badge of the Red Cross of Serbia, the prestigious title of “Friend of the Family” awarded by the Serbian Chamber of Commerce, as well as numerous awards for donating food to vulnerable populations. The VIRTUS Award for Philanthropy for national contributions to MK Group in 2020 followed after Miodrag Kostić was among the first to respond to the state’s call and provide various forms of aid during the COVID-19 pandemic, both in Serbia and the region. In 2024, he received a Special VIRTUS Award for his contribution to patronage, as well as a special recognition from the Serbian Managers Association (SAM) for his exceptional personal act in founding the Endowment bearing his name and launching the Palace of Science.
The career and most significant business achievements of one of the largest entrepreneurs in Southeast Europe
The company, which is now among the most successful groups in agriculture, tourism, green energy, and banking, was founded by Miodrag Kostić in 1983 as a graduate economist, positioning him as one of the pioneers of private business in Serbia. After starting in trade and establishing the brokerage firm M&V Investments, he began his development in the agri-food sector in 2002 with the acquisition of sugar refineries, which also marked the revival of the sugar industry in Serbia - a success for which he is credited. This effort led to the position of Sunoko as the largest sugar producer in the broader region. In the following years, several domestic agricultural companies were acquired, culminating in the takeover of PIK Bečej in 2016. Thanks to the digitalization of primary production and improvements in productivity, the MK Agriculture division today manages about 13,000 hectares in Vojvodina. He acquired the company Carnex in 2011 and, as part of MK Group, secured further investments that allowed it to achieve a leading position in the regional meat industry and revitalize Serbian livestock farming, making Carnex the largest pork producer in Serbia.
Miodrag Kostić’s entry into the tourism sector was marked by acquisition of the Grand Hotel on Kopaonik in 2008, which is a leader in luxury hospitality in Serbia. He continued expanding in this segment between 2015 and 2017 by purchasing two hotels in Istria and establishing a partnership with the global luxury hotel chain Kempinski, under whose brand the Kempinski Palace in Portorož and Kempinski Adriatic in Savudrija now operate. His expertise in the development of tourist destinations was internationally recognized with the opening of the first Sheraton hotel in Serbia in 2018, located in Novi Sad, in collaboration with the global Marriott chain. In the same year, he became the majority owner of Portorož Airport, and previously, he entered as a minority shareholder in the ownership structure of the Budva Riviera and Sveti Stefan hotel groups in Montenegro, in which MK Group today holds a 33.55% stake. Through these acquisitions, Miodrag Kostić expanded MK Group’s operations in the Adriatic region and laid the foundation for new investments in the real estate sector.
As a pioneer in renewable energy, together with the company Fintel, he built the first wind farm in Serbia in 2015, and then, by his withdrawal in 2019, opened two more wind farms, making the MK Energy division one of the largest independent producers of green energy in the country.
Among his pioneering ventures is the first entry of a Serbian bank into the European Union market. After acquiring a majority stake in AIK Bank in 2015 and acquiring Alpha Bank in Serbia in 2017, he restored customer trust in the domestic bank. In 2019, he became the owner of Gorenjska Banka in Slovenia. Through the expansion of business in banking and further investments in the development of AIK Bank, he made it one of the leading banks in Serbia. The balance sheet assets of the banking group today exceed 10 billion euros.
Miodrag Kostić, as one of the first entrepreneurs in Serbia, has built a business empire over four decades of active career, one that has expanded beyond the borders of our country. He grew his companies based on the principles of continuous growth and sustainable development, making them profitable systems and stable pillars of the Serbian economy. This has earned him recognition in international business circles and a reputation as a visionary in business.
He stepped down from his managerial positions five years ago and entrusted the strategic leadership of the business system to his son, Aleksandar Kostić, Vice President of MK Group and Chairman of the Management Board of AIK Bank, while executive management was handed over to professional management – the Board of Directors at MK Group and the Executive Board at AIK Bank. The leadership of both systems, along with the employees, will continue to follow the vision of continuous growth and development set by Miodrag Kostić, just as it has successfully done in the past.
A Life of Quiet Elegance and Lasting Friendship
ZORAN ĐERIĆ
1960 - 2024
It is difficult to speak and write about a recently departed friend, especially to those who didn’t know him. I don’t want to simply quote the facts from his official biography, but at the same time, there are some things that must at least be mentioned. So I share here a fragment of what others have written and said about him:
“Zoran Đerić wrote poetry, essays, and academic studies on literature, theatre, and film. He translated from several Slavic languages. He was a long-standing, distinguished member of Matica srpska. Twice, he served as the director of the Serbian National Theatre. He authored over 70 books, receiving many of the most prestigious awards. As a visiting professor, he lectured in Prague, Gdańsk, Krakow, Novi Sad, and Banja Luka. A brilliant intellectual.”
This is what I’ve been reading in various obituaries these days.
What these obituaries don’t say— but is easy to assume—is that Zoran was a man of immense knowledge. Those who encountered him in his professional life know that he could speak intelligently, thoughtfully, and with authority on any topic. And he spoke quietly, with the grace of a gentleman.
There are, of course, things about Zoran that only those who loved him and called him a friend could know—and I am privileged to be among those who can speak about him from that perspective. It’s hard to describe a friend in a few words, but of one thing I am certain: Zoran Đerić (whom all his friends affectionately called Đera) knew how to return the friendship he was given. This quiet and unassuming man had a remarkable ability to not get angry, even when he might have had every right to.
I remember one time in cold Vienna when he waited outside for me for over an hour because, as with all women, it’s never easy to
choose the perfect bag and shoes. When I finally appeared, all he asked with a smile was, “Are you happy?”
After that long wait in the freezing Viennese weather, Đera and I stepped into a ballroom where we were greeted by the air of a bygone era and music that’s no longer played today. Appropriately dressed among the evening gowns and tuxedos, he belonged entirely to that world of refinement that no longer exists. Measured, elegant, and poised, he looked like the discreet gentleman who had finally found himself in his natural surroundings—among polite people who valued etiquette and, even more so, genuine decency. I can easily imagine someone introducing him to a lady with the words: “Mr Zoran Đerić.” It would be so fitting.
Đera knew how to remain a friend even when times were hard—both for him and for others. He knew how to keep secrets. How to stay on the right side. He lived his own quiet way, never displaying bitterness or anger, even when he had every reason to. He just continued to be quiet and kind.
In the meantime, the world has become corrupt and harsh, and
every day it grows more so—a world where Zoran Đerić never belonged. He was one of the few who did not make the world worse.
It might sound unbelievable, but all of Đera’s computers and phones quickly started to resemble their owner. Somehow, all the factory settings would disappear, and these devices would magically quiet themselves. It was as if they, too, became more discreet. Of course, this sometimes meant he wouldn’t hear his muted phone— but he always returned my calls. He had an ear for friends.
It may not seem important to some, but he loved animals and cared for them. He had many of them. He had a heart for them too. Đera, his inseparable friend—his dog, Toša—and I often strolled through the city centre, sat at the café Lipa, got soaked in Danube Park, and shared many beautiful and difficult moments.
It will take a long time before I stop expecting my phone to ring quietly, only to hear the voice of my friend on the other end.
Mr Đerić is now at his own ball, one that we cannot see from here... In the silence we all hear.
by Sonja Damjanović
Hasta siempre, Comadante, SLOBODA NARODU!
PETAR MATIĆ DULE
The Last People’s Hero of Yugoslavia 1920-2024
Petar Matić Dule, the commander of the Srem Partisan Detachment and later the 6th Vojvodina Brigade, as well as a lieutenant general of the Yugoslav People’s Army (JNA), passed away in October at the age of 104. He died in the same apartment where, just a year earlier, I had the immense privilege, both professionally and personally, to conduct what turned out to be his final interview. For me, it was also the first interview in my decades-long journalism career where I felt both nervousness and a profound sense of “awe and reverence.”
Although he came from a relatively well-off farming family in his hometown of Irig, Matić was deeply affected by the social inequality and injustice he witnessed daily in Srem.
“Thanks to students and older members of the Communist Party of Yugoslavia (KPJ), I gained access to propaganda materials and literature, which not only informed me about world events but also introduced me to the ideas and goals of communists. These ideas were easier to explain in Srem, where people were literate
and acutely aware of the injustices of high taxes and class divisions,” he said, adding, “At that time, Srem was largely opposition-minded precisely because of these social injustices and class divisions.”
After joining the KPJ at the age of just under 20, he quickly became the secretary of the local committee. Upon joining the partisans, he rose to become the commander of the Srem Partisan Detachment and later the commander of the 6th Vojvodina Shock Brigade. He was first wounded in the summer of 1942 during the first Fruška Gora offensive, where he led two detachments—comprising just 150 Danube and 250 Fruška Gora partisans—in breaking through an encirclement of “nearly twenty thousand German, Ustaše, and Domobrani units.”
“I was shot in the leg, near the joint. The bullet hit me at close range, so the wound was scorched from the heat of the bullet, which actually turned out to be fortunate because it healed quickly. Leaning on my rifle, I managed to reach a vineyard and rolled back into the forest, saving myself,” Commander Dule
recounted with a smile. He added that his unit, despite the overwhelming disparity in numbers, managed to break through the encirclement and disappear into the Fruška Gora forests.
In 1943, through the same forests and enemy lines, 1,100 Vojvodina volunteers—with over 100 wagons loaded with food, clothing, and medical supplies—managed to break through in an operation immortalized by Veljko Bulajić’s famous film The Great Transport. This operation was commanded by none other than my interviewee.
“These people walked 300 kilometres from Fruška Gora to the Bosnian forests. The column was escorted by a brigade and two battalions of the Fruška Gora Detachment. Among them were Vojvodina farmers, mostly older men, with whom I had agreed that after delivering their supplies with their wagons, they would return to Vojvodina. However, since most of them had sons and daughters in the partisans, none of them returned. Instead, they stayed to fight. They remained with their children, donating their horses to the partisans, which for any Vojvodinian, especially at that time, was a great treasure,” Matić recalled.
Even after the war, Matić passionately advocated for the rights of Vojvodina and its people. He held various military positions, and after retiring in the early 1980s, he became a member of the Presidency of the Central Committee of the League of Communists of Yugoslavia and later the head of the Federal SUBNOR (Union of Veterans of the National Liberation War). He held this position until 1988 when he clashed with Milošević’s war-mongering policies. For Matić, the question of Vojvodina’s political autonomy was equally important during Tito’s time and the dark days of Milošević, right up to his final days.
“We didn’t fight and die for something abstract! Almost every government’s interest was to turn Vojvodina into some kind of food warehouse for the entire country. We only demanded the right to develop normally and to be equal. They never understood us, never. Because if they had, they would have had to acknowledge our political subjectivity,” Matić said.
Regarding the disgraceful historical revisionism in which Serbia renounces its antifascist past, Matić succinctly (and accurately) concluded:
“Today, those who lost the war have won, those who are not anti-fascists. The stage is given to those who didn’t even fight and who are utterly incapable in any statesmanlike sense. They’re just a bunch of scoundrels.”
Hasta siempre, Comandante!
by Ana Lalić Hegediš
Balkan Soul as Inspiration and Choice
Marko Louis is an author, producer, and performer whose unique energy and blend of Balkan and soul music captivate audiences across the region and Europe. His music is more than just a collection of melodies—it is a heartfelt artistic exploration of diverse cultural influences and emotional depths. From authentic Balkan elements to influences from African, Indian, and Middle Eastern traditions, Marko creates a distinctive musical style recognised as “Balkan Soul.” In his songs, he pushes and transcends genre boundaries, believing that “music is endless, but genres and the industry set limits.”
Throughout his career, Marko has collaborated with numerous artists, including Božo Vrećo, Helem Nejse, Edo Maajka, Marčelo, Dino Merlin, and Zdravko Čolić, among others. These collaborations, merging diverse genres and creating a unique synergy with each performer, have allowed him to reach new audiences while enriching his sound. “I’m flattered when people want to work with me,” Marko has said.
Marko’s discography (11 albums, including 6 solo studio albums) reflects his passion for exploring new styles and forms. His studio albums—Shine On Me (2015), Beskraj (2017), Euridika (2018), Sloboda (2021), and Beskraj 2 (2023)—along with a children’s album, Ja se zovem slon (2021), offer a mix of emotions and rich soundscapes. His songs, addressing themes like freedom, love, and spirituality, provide an escape from everyday life and invite listeners to personally connect with his lyrics and melodies. Marko is currently working on his seventh album, titled 25. His lyrics often explore themes such as freedom, love, and the search for identity, enhancing the emotional impact of his music. Marko describes his songs as windows into his inner world, with their depth and authenticity resonating with audiences of all generations. He believes that music can serve as a therapeutic space where people find refuge, inspiration, and support during challenging times—a mission reflected in his artistry.
GALA DONOR EVENING
The Studenica Foundation is organising a Gala Donor Evening on 28th November at 7 PM, at the Aeroclub in Belgrade, with the aim of raising funds to provide scholarships for the best Serbian students from vulnerable groups.
Scholarships are awarded to students from various fields, with special attention given to those training to become teachers and educators.
By purchasing tickets, you directly support talented young people from across Serbia, including students from Kosovo and Metohija and the Republic of Srpska. All
proceeds from ticket sales will be directed towards student scholarships.
Seats are limited. Tickets can be purchased through the Foundation’s website: https:// sr.studenica.org/gala-2024-prijava.html.The evening will feature performances by singer Marko Louis, actress Brankica Sebastijanović, and others, with the programme hosted by journalist Aleksandar Gajšek. The winner of the “Miroslav Michael Đorđević” Philanthropy Award, named after the founder of the Studenica Foundation, will also be announced.
By supporting education, we invest in the future of our entire society! Join us!
Marko Louis is also renowned for transforming his performances into interactive musical experiences, encouraging the audience to join him in reaching emotional highs through music and shared energy. “On stage, my feelings reflect through the emotions of the audience,” Marko has said, emphasizing that he views each concert as a mutual process where every note forges an emotional bond between him and his listeners.
His work extends beyond performance—he is deeply involved in creating each song, from composing to production, ensuring authenticity and fidelity to his vision. This dedication to detail and his passion for music distinguish him on the music scene.
Through his albums, concerts, and collaborations, Marko Louis bridges the past and present by incorporating traditional Balkan motifs into contemporary arrangements, introducing a new generation to the richness of Balkan culture in a modern context. His music acts as a bridge between cultures and generations, celebrating shared values through rhythm and melody. Remember the name.
1 DECEMBER – 10 JANUARY
Novi Sad, Serbia
With their diverse programs, the Christmas and New Year’s festivals complete the festive atmosphere enjoyed by the people of Novi Sad and their guests alike. Children’s choirs perform Christmas and New Year’s songs, and concerts of popular bands from Novi Sad are organised. In festively decorated wooden houses, visitors can buy a variety of holiday handicrafts, jewellery, sweet and savoury delicacies, as well as mulled wine and tea, which are indispensable parts of the winter festival. The event will be in front of the Promenada shopping mall in Novi Sad.
17th SCIENCE FESTIVAL
12 – 14 DECEMBER
Belgrade, Serbia
O62nd NEW YEAR’S FESTIVAL
15 - 30 DECEMBER
Belgrade, Serbia
The Belgrade New Year’s Fair is a recognisable manifestation of fun and good shopping. Adults can also enjoy this kind of introduction to the New Year’s festive mood and joy. Guests will be able to explore various foods, drinks, handmade jewellery, and festival rides and partici-
ver the past seventeen years, the Serbian Science Festival has grown into the largest scientific event in the region of Southeast Europe. By introducing scientific stages, by experimenting not only with science but also with scientists and how science can be brought closer to others, we opened the doors of the most reputable city institutions and spaces but also showed that science can be found outside the laboratory, in places such as city parks, restaurants, squares and streets. The creator of the Science Festival is the artistic production group “Night of the Museum”, which was founded in 2004, and the organiser is the Center for the Promotion of Science and Art “Fenomen”.
pate in many other exciting and fun activities with their families. The New Year’s Festival in Belgrade will take place at the Beogradski Sajam, in its impressive and big facilities, where it has traditionally been held for the last 62 years. In addition to exciting rides, visitors can buy New Year’s gifts, appropriate toys, souvenirs, and other consumer goods at holiday prices. Numerous catering services, from barbecue to sweets, provide additional inspiration for everyone who wants to calmly enter the winter and festive part of the year with a maximum dose of optimism.
