Greece 2020

Greece

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OLDEST WRITTEN LANGUAGE Greek is the oldest written language still in existence. The Greek language is unique and has continuously been used for more than 5000 years.

WORLD’S FIRST DEMOCRACY The Athenian Democracy was a system dating back to the fifth century B.C. It was a system of direct democracy, where citizens with voting-rights voted directly on legislation and executive bills.

ONE OF THE SUNNIEST COUNTRY The whole country has more than 250 days of sun on average.

That’s more than 3000 sunny hours per year.

WILDLIFE Greece has one of the richest varieties of wildlife in Europe.

Home to 116 species of mammals, 18 species of amphibians, 59 species of reptiles, 240 species of bird, and 107 species of fish.

MORE THAN 2000 ISLANDS That’s a lot of islands, but only 170 of them are populated. The other islands are uninhabited.

GREECE

Cooperation is Expanding In All Fields Zero problems but plenty of room for expanding and deepening of our multilevel cooperation is exactly the core of our bilateral relations his is my second term in Belgrade. I served as Deputy Head of Mission here between 2000 and 2004.

I am very happy that I returned to Serbia as Ambassador after 15 years.

I like very much the country and its people. This is an opportunity to express my sincere thanks to the Government and the people of Serbia for their hospitality and kindness. I really feel at home.

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What are your impressions of Serbia’s cooperation with Greece?

— Our countries have traditionally been very close. We fought together, on the same side, in two Balkan and two World Wars. We shed our blood together for freedom and against oppression and tyranny. Nowadays, cooperation is expanding in all fields.

As you may remember, in December last year, President Vucic travelled to Athens where he signed the Declaration on the Strategic Partnership between our countries. This is a very important document highlighting not only the excellent state of bilateral relations but also the potential to expand them in all fields; especially in trade and new technologies, which provide for new opportunities.

Greece has managed to slow down the spread of COVID-19 thanks to strict measures. What is the situation today?

— Thanks to early and severe containment measures, Greece has successfully managed to flatten the curve very quickly and slow down the spread of the virus. We suspended public events and closed down schools even before

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the first 90 cases were detected. On June 1, we reopened gradually and under restrictions our borders for the summer period.

Unfortunately, the second wave of the virus occurred and the European continent seems to be affected the most. Today, Greece is in a much better epidemiological situation than many other countries thanks to the individual responsibility of the vast majority of the Greek people.

However, we are fully aware that the current picture may change at any moment. Therefore we remain vigilant and the government successfully continues with its plan to strengthen the Health System, with the recruitment of medical staff and the increase of the number of ICU beds.

How much did the Greek economy suffer because of the coronavirus’ impact on the tourism industry?

— As governments began to take measures in order to protect the health and safety of their citizens, such as travel bans and restrictions in the free movement of people between countries, it was evident that the tourist industry would be enormously affected by the crisis. Let me give you some figures: Tourism is a key pillar of the Greek economy, directly accounting for a 11.7% of the country’s GDP, while its indirect contribution to it is estimated between 25.7% up to 30.9%. Taking into consideration that 90% of tourism comes from abroad, it is safe to assume that the country could suffer a significant blow from the global impact of the pandemic.

Athens International Airport marked an average 70% decline be-

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H.E. GEORGIOS DIACOFOTAKIS Greece Ambassador to Serbia

Greece welcomes the progress that has been made so far in Serbia's negotiations with the EU

tween March and August this year, compared to the same period in 2019.

According to data presented by the Minister of Tourism, the revenues for July amounted to 577 million Euros, down by 84.4%. Revenues in August reached 1.6 billion Euros, down by about 60%. According to the latest data, a total of 3.9 million visitors mainly from Europe have traveled to Greece so far this year, equal to 22% of arrivals in the same period last year. In sum, tourism-related revenues are expected to reach 20% of the 2019 total by the end of 2020.

On a positive note, Greek tourism achieved three very important goals this year: First, the tourism market gave Greece a vote of confidence.

Secondly, the country’s brand name and good reputation formed during the first wave of the pandemic was not only maintained but strengthened during the tourist season. Thirdly, the implementation of health protocols was exemplary. Of course, there are many lessons learned, so our goal for the post-pandemic future is to focus on sustainable tourism.

Greece traditionally supports Ser-

bia on its path to the EU membership. What should be the priorities of the new Serbian government?

— Integrating all WB countries to the EU is a long-term strategic objective of Greek foreign policy. The 2003 Thessaloniki Agenda for the Western Balkans, adopted during the Hellenic Presidency of the European Council, paved the way for these countries to join the European family. Almost 20 years later, in February this year, the Foreign Affairs Ministers of Greece, neighbouring EU states and WB countries, along with EU officials attended the Thessaloniki High Level Conference on the European Perspective of the Western Balkans “From Thessaloniki to Zagreb” and reaffirmed that the future of our entire region lies within the EU. Greece has always been a staunch supporter of Serbia's European integration. Let me remind you that the EU-Serbia accession negotiations began during the 2014 Hellenic Presidency of the Council of the EU. We welcome the progress that has been made so far in Serbia's negotiations with the EU and we are convinced that the country’s dedication to European integration will remain a top priority of the new government as well.

I have actually had the opportunity to discuss these issues during my recent meeting with Minister Jadranka Joksimović, to whom I reiterated Greece's firm support to Serbia's EU accession bid and its willingness to provide any practical assistance if needed.

Mechanism, which was launched on Greece’s initiative aiming at promoting security, stability and growth.

also an effort to see how we can establish our common future". I believe that this is exactly the core of our bilateral relations, zero problems but plenty of room for expanding and deepening of our multilevel cooperation.

In which areas can the two countries improve their relations and exchange knowledge and experiences?

— The signing of the Joint Declaration establishing a Strategic Partnership between Greece and Serbia – in the context of the 3rd High-Level Cooperation Council (HCC), which took place in Athens on 11 December 2019 – has upgraded and enriched our bilateral cooperation.

The Declaration covers six areas, including defence, security, civil protection, economy/connectivity, renewable energy sources, culture, education, sports, health, environment and support for Serbia’s efforts to join the European Union.

Last but not least, Greece and Serbia seek to expand their cooperation through multilateral schemes, such as the Greece – Bulgaria – Romania – Serbia Quadrilateral Cooperation

We discussed the past and we discussed the future but there is no difference between us

What is your view of the challenges we face once the pandemic passes and migrants become the number one topic again?

— The Greek government is currently developing the National Migration Strategy 2020-21 with measurable objectives: the substantial restriction of flows and the drastic reduction of the impact on local communities, both on the islands and on the mainland. By implementing a strict but fair migration policy, Greece respects international law and European values and at the same time aims at avoiding to be a getaway for migrants.

Among the important policy changes that have already taken place in the management of the migration problem, I could mention the reduction of the flows by 73% this year, the acceleration of asylum procedures, the positive balance of departures /arrivals and a new legal framework for controlling the operation and economic activity of the NGOs.

How would you assess the overall relations between Greece and Serbia?

— In an interview, during his visit to Serbia, in November 2019, Foreign Affairs Minister, Nikos Dendias when asked to comment on the Greek-Serbian relations, he replied, inter alia, "Talking today with Foreign Minister Dačić and with President Vučić, we had no differences to solve. We discussed the past and we discussed the future but there is no difference between us.

There is always an understanding and

Travelling to Greece When will Serbian citizens be able to go to our favourite destination?

— Since the beginning of the crisis we tried to strike a fair balance between public health and opening of our borders to foreign tourists. The government has been working intensively in order to adapt to a new normality

and is currently developing a comprehensive plan for the next summer. In the meantime, let me bring to your knowledge that Greece has ratified in September the bilateral agreement on tourism. This agreement lays down the groundwork for expanding our cooperation in this field.

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We are Working on Improvement the Current Cooperation As our countries have been recording better results in bilateral cooperation year-on-year, the HBA will provide all kinds of assistance within its capabilities to overcome obstacles

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reece traditionally represents an important economic and business partner of Serbia as the two countries have always enjoyed excellent bilateral relations reflected through important Greek investments in Serbia over the past 15 years. Unfortunately, the economies of both Serbia and Greece have been severely affected by this emerging crisis. In this fight against the Covid-19 pandemic, both countries struggle for the preservation of their economic systems.

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The economies of both Greece and Serbia have been hit by the crisis caused by COVID-19. What are your forecasts for the end of the year? — The Hellenic Business Association of Serbia (HBA) is witnessing an unforeseen period in which all parameters and predictions change from day to day. 2020 economic perspectives largely depend on the duration of the pandemic and there is still great uncertainty in terms of more accurate forecasts of economic trends,

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STYLIANOS ZAKOF President of the Management Board HBA

We believe that the engagement of our association has contributed to some extent in the implementation of mentioned measures

but the World Bank's latest projections show that the negative impact on the Serbian economy will be far weaker than in other European countries. As for Greece, the novel coronavirus has caused a nightmare regarding a recession that will possibly rise to 10 percent by the end of this year and perhaps even surpass this percentage. All in all, it is certain for both countries that the most difficult period, that is, the true dimensions of this crisis, will be revealed at the end of 2020.

What do you think of the measures adopted by the Serbian government and do you know to what extent Greek companies in Serbia have been affected by the crisis? — The government of Serbia had a timely and efficient response to the first peak of Covid-19, while addressing the health emergency, and the immediate economic impact. By undertaking sets of measures, it has chosen to take up the burden of sharply rising costs and loss in the private small and medium-sized sector and thus effectively help entrepreneurship. The main idea was to save jobs (as many as possible) and to maintain liquidity within the SME. We believe that the engagement of our association has contributed to some extent in the implementa-

tion of mentioned measures. As has been proven so far, the strongest effects caused by the pandemic were illiquidity, lack of contact with clients and working time limitations, and specifically for Greek companies in Serbia, the biggest hit from coronavirus was to those in sectors of food service, hospitality, storage industry and real estate. So, shortly after declaration of state of emergency in the country, in cooperation with other business chambers and associations, we requested government support for our member-companies that were most affected by the crisis.

Those measures were, in one way or another, implemented in most countries, and businessmen agree that they are the most important ones.

What will the business world look like next year and which sectors will be most affected? — The ramifications of the coronavirus and its global economic impact will be felt for decades to come.

While exactly how the pandemic will change the world is still unclear, what is certain is that business as we knew it has changed.

According to our opinion, three elements in particular will define the next normal, and businesses will need to come to terms with them in order to survive and thrive. First, there will

be more government intervention and therefore greater scrutiny of business.

How much, how fast, and in what ways governments will eventually reduce their economic role will be some of the most important questions of the next decade. Second, the world will see the rise of a contact-free economy. Areas where the pandemic could prove to be a decisive turning point are digital commerce, telemedicine, and automation. And finally, companies will need to reconsider how they can establish more resilience in the sense of building, or strengthening a backup or safety plan; be it deeper layers of succession planning or significantly expanding work-athome capabilities for more employees. Under these circumstances, the future will be very harsh on sectors like commercial real estate, tourism, hospitality and retail.

What can be improved in the economic relations between Greece and Serbia?

— Many Greek companies have recognised Serbia’s investment potential and have decided to locate and relocate their operations in Serbia.

For some of them, Serbia serves as a manufacturing hub that enables duty-free exports to a market of almost a billion people. Others are attracted by the great level of highly skilled and easily trained workforce, an environment of good incentives and a business-friendly tax system. But it should be said that, despite the great interest in Greek investments in Serbia, the two countries have not yet explored opportunities and complementarities in many sectors.

Bilateral cooperation is not equally reflected in the commercial sector, where our overall bilateral trade volume still remains low, despite the huge potential. This can be addressed by jointly exploring opportunities and complementarities in sectors, such as agriculture, food and beverage, building materials, energy, information and communication technologies etc.

What should the new Serbian government do to improve the business environment and attract new investors?

— Our companies operating on the Serbian market are very satisfied with the overall business climate, as the country has already come a long way in adopting measures to stabi-

The HBA has adjusted its strategic plan to current conditions so that it can improve its services and adapt them primarily to the needs of its members

lize public finances and to create a business friendly environment. During the last few years, consistent application of the ambitious structural reforms program has considerably improved the business and investment climate and has boosted economic activity. The state improved the business climate and worked on conditions related to fast incorporation and a favourable tax regime for foreign investors. Certainly, there are challenges that Greek companies face that need to be addressed to further promote trade and investment, related to modernizing the business legal framework by reducing red tape. Another challenge is harmonizing trade

regulations to reduce the administrative costs that remain on certain goods, to eliminate technical barriers to trade and to facilitate the issuance of construction permits etc.

Nonetheless, Serbia is one of the few countries in South-Eastern Europe where companies from abroad have found the proper place for development and stability.

HBA has continued its activities, and you are now organizing online

events and seminars. Do you have any indications that the situation in 2021 will improve and that we will return to the old way?

— Generally, we believe that next year will not be much different from this one, since it has been announced that the coronavirus vaccine will not be in use until 2022, at least as far as the healthy part of the population is concerned. The HBA has adjusted its strategic plan to current conditions so that it can improve its services and adapt them primarily to the needs of its members, but also to the needs of Greek entrepreneurs interested in the Serbian market during the Covid-19 pandemic. It is clear that segments that have to be addressed to a greater extent are those related to information sharing. Our plans for 2021 are aimed at conducting information seminars, panels and presentations for different sizes and types of companies, providing refined information on certain topics and guidelines on investment and financial opportunities in the country, and, of course, enhancing the existing ongoing dialogue between the association and system’s institutions in Serbia and Greece.

The HBA will certainly continue searching for new opportunities for business cooperation between the two parties and working on improving the current cooperation.

As our countries have been recording better results in bilateral cooperation year-on-year, the HBA will provide all kinds of assistance within its capabilities to overcome obstacles. That is why we will boost activities aimed at better acquainting our members with the Serbian legislation, the market and the opportunities for its utilization. We strongly believe that the time has come for Greece and Serbia to make a greater effort by joining forces to overcome problems that hamper their truly great economic potential.

Social responsibility How important is it to be socially responsible in times of crisis and to contribute to the community?

— This difficult time, if nothing else, brought a new dimension to the term “social responsibility”, both on the private and business level. Corporate social responsibility has become an integral part since companies today are expected to be continuing commitment in protecting the quality of life of the workforce and their families, as well as of the local community and society. We, as representatives of the HBA, are very glad that all our members have shown support to initiatives and activities that contributed to strengthening the traditionally friendly relations between Greece and Serbia, such as recent donations to the Serbian health care system.

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It is Important to be United and Coordinated

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Hellenic Business Association of Serbia (HBA) for its 17 years of existence has been always targeted towards bringing the Greek market and the market of Serbia closer and to give Greek companies the chance to operate in a safe investment environment

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BA is comprised of the representatives of 80 member companies which operate in Serbia, currently employing 4.500 people, and their investment equates to about half of the total Greek investment in the country, which stands at nearly a 1.5 billion euros. Members of HBA represent Greek economic interests, in the broadest sense, and successfully operate in Serbia in various fields banking, food and beverage, telecommunications, retail, real estate, construction, hospitality, heavy industry, various services etc., bringing Greece to the top of the list of foreign investors in the country.

In order to meet its goals, HBA perform activities that would be unduly costly or time-consuming for its members, including promotion in front of the Serbian public, lobbying, information gathering, and research. Association’s management board contend that by combining voices under one banner, Greek companies are able to establish a strong and unified presence and effectively protect their shared interests in Serbia. HBA organizes various events every year such as high-level seminars and conferences, speed business meetings, assisted networking cocktails, business forums, informal gatherings etc.

Then coronavirus arrived and

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SELENA DJORDJEVIĆ Executive Director, Hellenic Business Association of Serbia

We are very proud that most of Greek companies responded and provided support to Serbian health institutions

changed our world! After a decade-long debt crisis, and the economy growing by several per cent a year, Greek companies in Serbia faced once again economic and operational uncertainty across every industry and sector. The new virus has touched nearly every facet of organizations, from payroll to auditing standards to how conduct day-to-day operations. Almost overnight, most of our members shut their doors and turned remote to conduct business and that clearly marked for us in HBA a new way of providing services, or, fulfilling our goals.

The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic was a test to the relevance of our association and it has confirmed how important is to be united and coordinated. Informed businesses during a crisis are better positioned to make sound decisions, that is why we are focused on communication and information sharing. As there is a huge amount of information being spread about the coronavirus pandemic, we want to provide ongoing updates which are essential for businesses in the longevity industry to understand implications of the virus on both their businesses and their customers, whether it concerns government financial programs, accounting and legal incentives or travel rules.

We tend to raise social awareness and encouraged our member-companies to give their financial contribution in prevention of the spread of the new virus and the treatment of patients in Serbia.

Furthermore, for the purpose of educating, communicating, onboarding, and networking of our members, but also to be able to ask questions through direct dialogue, we intensify the organization of online seminars, business meetings and discussion panels. Video conferencing and virtual events have never been more important to business as it is now, so we motivate our members to get acquainted in using internet in so many aspects of their business. What we got as feedback is that Greek companies in Serbia, regardless of their size, are fully aware of the new business era - the era of internet business communication.

We were focused on providing support as much as possible to companies most vulnerable and affected by the crisis - small and medium-sized enterprises. In that sense, together with other bilateral business organizations, we sent a letter to the Minister of Finance of Serbia, requesting a set of facilities for SME, which were subsequently adopted. Such benefits included deferral of tax and contributions on salary, ease of access to loans, subsidies etc.

Overall, HBA is aware of this confusing and complex period. Now more than ever is the time to understand compliance, adjust expectations, renew focus and reposition in the wake of the next normal. As our members prepare to navigate the next normal, HBA make any effort to be a trusted advisor by their side and help them to move forward.

The Year Marked by Investments and Development Building a new business facility, expanding the range of machines and providing even more reliable services are the three key things we are working on to the requests of our customers, we continued to work in the company's premises in compliance with all epidemiological measures and employee protection. At some point, closed borders exacerbated our business, given that we have customers and clients in the neighbouring countries, especially the countries of the former Yugoslavia - Montenegro, Croatia, Macedonia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

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he MBL Company was founded over two decades ago and is the market leader in the graphic machinery segment in Serbia and abroad.

Under the recognizable MBL brand, the company provides services and servicing of high-quality laser machines for cutting. We talked to Georgios Kalaitzakis, the founder and Managing Director of MBL, about the way they organized their operations during the pandemic, investment in the new business facility, plans and expectations for the next period.

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The pandemic is in full swing throughout Europe. How have you adjusted your business in these changed conditions caused by the coronavirus contagion? — The whole world is facing a crisis and difficult conditions for doing business, including our company.

From the very beginning, we tried to continue operating normally, as much as possible in such changed circumstances. This entails no layoffs, working full time, and due to the large volume of work and the need to respond

GEORGIOS KALAITZAKIS Managing Director of MBL Company

We believe that we are on the right path and that the crisis that has befallen us all will contribute to us becoming even stronger and more successful

Many companies have recorded business growth this year, despite the crisis. What contributed to the success of your company? — We have been in business for more than two decades and we have regular customers who always come back to us. Thanks to having a stable business during all these years, we had enough room to lower the prices of one segment of our engraving machine range, which was reflected in the increase in sales volume and revenue. Due to the reduced prices of some machines, we have gained the trust of new customers. At the same time, we have raised the quality of our service segment to a higher and more reliable level. Expanding the range of our machines and presses for metal processing also contributed to the increase in the business volume.

facility. This is something that has been planned for years, and the implementation of that project is ongoing. The 960-square-metre facility is our investment and will house offices, a warehouse and a showroom. The construction works are expected to be completed in about a year. Despite the crisis and altered business conditions due to the pandemic, the works have not stopped. On the contrary, they are in full swing, and we are looking forward to meeting our customers and clients in the new premises. A large warehouse and showroom will facilitate our business a lot because we will be able to meet the market demands at any given time in terms of supplying high-quality machines for laser engraving and cutting and presses for metal processing.

We are continuing to work hard and develop the company. We believe that we are on the right path and that the crisis that has befallen us all will contribute to us becoming even stronger and more successful.

Tell us more about your plans and expectations for the next period. — We are very proud of the fact that we have started building our new

Fun facts About the application of laser engraving machines in the fashion industry.

Laser technology is widely used in the leather and footwear industry. The advantages of this technology lie in the possibility of engraving various samples, high speed and efficiency, and the application on various leather materials without damaging their surface. Besides, lasers are widely used in sandblasting jeans.

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CLICK ON ICON 

It is Important to Accept Changes Since the beginning of the crisis, the Junior Hotel has demonstrated great flexibility towards the implemented changes and restrictions, while always treating the health of our customers and our employees as the highest priority READ THIS ON WEB

C O R P O R AT E

OVID-19 has affected ever yone around the world, and the hotel industry suffered the heaviest blow. Like so many industries, the hospitality industry will also see both subtle and substantial shifts in the post-pandemic era. Some have already become apparent. I think that convincing customers that the hospitality industry can provide a safe environment is currently the biggest challenge the industry is facing.

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You have extensive experience in multinational and tourism companies. What is crucial for someone to be a good manager in tourism and what is most important?

— Hotels are extremely complex environments which require a lot of work performed behind the scenes to ensure a comfortable and relaxing experience for their guests. The following are skills that managers have to have to balance several different responsibilities and duties: • Communication skills to successfully handle situations involving other people. The manager is a public face

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that represents the vision and values of the hotel and should be able to communicate that to the customers, authorities, and investors.

• Interpersonal skills. In stressful situations, managers should always maintain their integrity, professionalism, patience and understanding as they interact daily with a diverse group of people, of different age, preferences, cultural background. There will be times when they will inevitably run into distasteful personality types and unusual international traditions or requests, thus it is very important to listen and adapt to different situations.

• Leadership-team builder skills. Hotel staff from different sectors constantly interacts with each other and with guests, in one way or another.

This means that it is very important to develop strong leadership skills to build, educate and continuously train one’s team. A more cooperative, open and effective team environment will help improve both the staff’s productivity and the guest’s experience.

• Operational knowledge. Daily re-

NIKOLAOS SLIOUSAREGKO GM of JUNIOR DOO GM of NOTOS DEVELOPMENT DOO

Since the beginning of the crisis, the Junior Hotel has demonstrated great flexibility towards the implemented changes and restrictions

sponsibilities and an obligation to make the right decisions demand that hotel managers have a fundamental and well-rounded basis of knowledge of how hotels work, including accounting, human resource management or cost control and pricing.

• Financial management skills. Managers should have the ability to handle financial reports, understand financial concepts, budget and analyze financial data to make the right decisions and maintain a successful business.

• Flexibility skills. As the job itself frequently involves unforeseen and unexpected issues arising at the most inopportune times, flexibility is a necessary skill that helps the manager make decisive and effective decisions.

• Detail-oriented. In the hospitality sector, customers judge everything in real-time. Managers must remain vigilant and focused on every detail, as well as delegate tasks and follow their implementation - from huge ones such as safety concerns to the smallest, e.g. if the picture on the wall is hanging straight.

• Last but not least, something that is applicable to everything we do, and I personally consider the most important characteristic is that you have to love what you do. This is usually the basic motive to train and develop our personality and skills.

You have been living in Serbia for ten years. What is the difference between being a hotel director in Serbia and a director in tourism in Greece? What can we learn from each other?

— The basic difference between the two countries is that Greece has a longer and larger tradition and experience in the industry hospitality, being a tourist destination. That gives Greece an advantage in the rally of investments in hospitality and tourism development. Serbia has about 500 categorized hotels compared to 13.000 in Greece. That translates to development and wage opportunities for hotel managers in Greece. On the other hand, in the last decade, Serbia has changed the overall goals and mentality and started to seriously focus on tourism, especially during the winter seasons. This has resulted in lots of infrastructure projects that have attracted many domestic and foreign investors. This also means that currently more opportunities are created here in Serbia, thus reducing the brain drain of young managers.

You run a hotel and a sports complex with great results. What challenges do you face today when we have a pandemic and a crisis not only in our country but in the whole world?

— Since the beginning of the crisis, the Junior Hotel has demonstrated great flexibility towards the implemented changes and restrictions, while always treating the health of our customers and our employees as the highest priority. That is why we have established cleaning and hygiene high standards in accordance with the relevant regulations. This means that we have taken all the required precautions, such as using disinfection barriers, masks, dispensers, dividers, keeping distance, etc. In addition to the measures implemented in collaboration with the local health authorities, our protocols also include sterilization of rooms before registration and total disinfecting all the public areas and sports fields two times a day, making our premises safer and cleaner while providing

time have all been elevated to a higher level. It is becoming increasingly complicated to deal with numerous tasks, maintain internal balance, have satisfied guests and run a successful business. "I'm getting older while being taught all the time," said the philosopher Solon the Athenian.

peace of mind for our guests. We do this thanks to the cooperation with the company Sterile d.o.o. that supplied us revolutionary devices and chemicals to make the war against COVID-19 easy. We are proud to be among the first hotels certified by HORES to be Clean & Safe.

Does the extensive experience contribute to a better solution everyday challenges and problems, and how important is it to reconcile not only external factors but also internal ones such as team management, information flow, etc.?

— Experience can be a great tool for any business. However, this very unusual period we face proves that experience alone might not be enough.

It is also important that a person has the ability to accept changes. The hotel industry is not the same as 10 years ago. Demands, information, data, speed, technology, norms and

The positive thing is that the gondola project is currently being implemented and will safely connect Brzeće with the centre of Kopaonik

The Junior Hotel is a leader in the development of tourism in the municipality of Brus and the tourist centre Brzeće. What are your plans for completing this and starting next year?

— Unfortunately, the coronavirus contagion has also affected our investment plans, which included largescale renovation, establishing a new conference centre and expanding our spa and our F&B facilities. The positive thing is that the gondola project is currently being implemented and will safely connect Brzeće with the centre of Kopaonik. The gondola project, combined with the continuous investments in ski resorts in Serbia which are creating new amenities and content both in winter and summer, will give a huge boost and new impetus to our region and hopefully a new motive to continue with our investment plans.

What can Serbia and individual hotel complexes, including the Junior Hotel, do in to attract more foreign tourists to our mountains (provided the pandemic calms down)?

— What needs to be done for Kopaonik is to be systematically and constantly advertised and promoted as a summer and winter mountain destination. That entails informing and attracting primarily tourists from neighbouring countries, such as Greece, who traditionally choose the Bulgarian mountains. With all the investments that have been made in infrastructure, services, accommodation as well as in road construction in recent years, Kopaonik stands shoulder-to-shoulder with other mountain destinations.

Combination of Many Things What makes a hotel and a hotel complex successful?

— It is a combination of many things that assist the customer in having a unique experience and having a great stay at a hotel. The staff’s attitude is by far the most important to me because through staff customers will experience the highest or the lowest degree of satisfaction. Inanimate materials like buildings and hotel design might initially attract customers, but it is the staff’s mentality, attitude and behaviour what will make them loyal or judgmental (or punitive).

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Great Opportunities for Improving Commercial Cooperation The fact that some Greek and Serbian products are sold in local retail chains has improved the cooperation in the last few years C O O P E R AT I O N

ccording to the data of the State Statistical Office (SSO), in the first six months of 2020, the total trade in goods with Greece amounted to 247.2 million euro. In the observed period, exports amounted to 96.3 million euro and recorded a 5.7% increase relative to the same period last year. Greece ranks 24th on the list of countries that Serbia mostly exports to with a 1.2% share. In the first six months of 2020, imports amounted to 150.9 million euro, which was a 1.2% growth compared to the same period last year. Greece ranks 20th on the list of countries that Serbia mostly imports from with a 1.4% share. In the first half of this year, Serbia recorded a deficit in trading with Greece in the amount of 54.6 million euro. The export to import coverage in the observed period stood at 63.8%.

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BUSINESS ENTITIES Based on the data collated by the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Serbia - Customs Administration, 2,028 business entities in Serbia do business with Greece.

- Number of business entities net exporters from Serbia to Greece - 548 - Number of economic entities net importers from Greece - 1 273 - Number of economic entities that export to and import from Greece - 207 BUSINESS ENTITIES IN SERBIA WITH MAJORITY GREEK CAPITAL According to the data collated by the Business Registers Agency of the Republic of Serbia, 436 active business entities are registered on the territory of the Republic of Serbia (as of June 3, 2020), which are majority-owned

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by Greek nationals, i.e. legal entities registered in Greece.

The largest number of business entities operates in the following economic branches: 1. Wholesale and retail trade and motor vehicle repair (150) 2. Professional, scientific, innovation and communication activities (61) 3. Administrative and support services (55) 4. Manufacturing (41) 5. Construction (37)

In the first quarter of 2020, the revenue generated by Greek residents in Serbia amounted to -2.5 million euro

POTENTIAL FOR BETTER COOPERATION Greek investors are mostly interested in investing in the following sectors: food and beverage industry, infrastructure, energy, environmental protection and transport. They have also showed interest in investing in the energy and renewable energy sector (Aktor, Terna, etc.). Greek companies are also increasingly interested in establishing and boosting cooperation in in the segment of organic production, tourism and innovation (technology transfer, etc.).

There is a great potential for improving trade cooperation between

the two countries, given that the cooperation is currently at a relatively low level. The fact that some Greek and Serbian products are sold in local retail chains has improved the cooperation in the last few years.

The laws regulating public-private partnerships have created the possibility for joint projects of Serbian public enterprises and private Greek companies in construction of motorways (primarily Corridor X), as well as anxilliary infrastructure (motels, shopping malls, restaurants, etc.).

In the first quarter of 2020, the revenue generated by Greek residents in Serbia amounted to -2.5 million euro.

Under the auspices of the Athens Chamber of Commerce, a Greek business delegation came to Serbia in March 2020. On that occasion, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, in cooperation with the Athens Chamber of Commerce, the Greek Embassy in Belgrade and the Greek associations for the promotion of the Greek economy - Enterprise Greece and SEVE - organized the Serbia-Greece Business Forum and bilateral talks between more than 100 Serbian and Greek businesspeople.

The Greek Language Around the world! www.staellinika.com

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L A N G UA G E

The platform can be used either as a stand-alone program to assist schools or to supplement existing curriculums unique digital platform for learning the Greek language and culture, www. staellinika.com, was officially released in the previous months by the Secretariat General for Public Diplomacy and Greeks Abroad of the Hellenic Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the “STAVROS NIARCHOS� Foundation Centre for Hellenic Studies at Simon Fraser University (SFU), Vancouver, Canada.

Thousands of Greek youngsters across the world, as well as children of different nationalities who learn Greek, are able to use the full version of the application with its additional content and courses to the already existing learning tools for the Greek language and culture.

In the current edition the parents,

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Users are exposed to video game features such as scores, points, skills and rewards to promote the desire for continued learning

teachers and learners will yield the new learning units on Greek language and culture that are addressed to learners of different age groups. These courses include Beginners Greek for Ages 4+, Beginners Greek for Ages 6+, Beginners Greek for Ages 9+, Beginners Greek for Teens and Adults (Ages 13+), History and Greek Mythology. The mobile apps are available for iOS and Android devices (phones and tablets).

As a core tool for teaching and learning the Modern Greek language, mythology and elements of Greek culture throughout the Greek Diaspora, the internet platform and series of applications www.staellinika.com is seeking to provide individuals ranging from preschool-aged children to young adults with an innovative and engaging product designed to re-connect Greeks around the world with their heritage language and culture.

The platform can be used either as a stand-alone program to assist schools or to supplement existing curriculums.

The platform www.staellinika.

com responds fully to the challenges caused by the pandemic on the traditional learning system of the young people across the world and is, at this stage, continuing to facilitate remote learning by privileging accessibility and innovative pedagogy. The platform can be accessed on mobile devices and relies on principles of microlearning and gamification for the facilitation of the Greek language web-teaching at schools, other educational foundations or at home. Users are exposed to video game features such as scores, points, skills and rewards to promote the desire for continued learning. An excellent interdisciplinary team of developers, animators, and educators coordinated by the Secretariat General for Public Diplomacy and Greeks Abroad and the SNF Centre for Hellenic Studies has been working to develop the online platform and suite of apps now available to the Diaspora. This team continues to work and will play a key role in the continuous updating of www.staellinika.com.

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GREECE

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Conservatively Optimistic about 2021 Next year we will strength our team further with the hiring of experienced associates, renovate specific facilities in front and back of the house but also prepare the launch of new products that we hope will surprise positively our clients and guests

ith Mr. Petrakis we spoke about impact of pandemic on tourism and hospitality industry. As he pointed out, this year is lost, and still we need to focus how to face with third wave of Covid-19 and to prepare for a challenging winter. But, they are preparing for 2021. In terms of new project, new staff and renovating.

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How do you see the impact of Covid-19 on the tourism and services industry in Serbia?

— Like in many other countries, the impact of covid-19 on the tourism and hospitality industry of Serbia is devastating as well. 2020 was expected to be a year of historic high records for the industry, and even though there was a positive start in January and February, it turned out to be a "lost" year for the industry with a disastrous outcome, if someone compares it with the budgets and the results of previous years. Many companies fight for their survival since their cash reserves reach record low levels, many people have lost their jobs and families, the bone of our society, suffer tremendously. It is not by accident that many people have reached a status of depression. Companies and people try to get through the next few months with the hope that speed tests and vaccines will allow again people to start travelling on leisure or business and bring back the industry to a more normal rhythm. At the same time, this virus has already left its stig-

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ma, and the industry tries to adapt to the "new normal", part of which will continue to exist even after the vaccine will be available in the market.

Has the state done enough with the adopted measures and can something else be done to help hotel chains and complexes in overcoming the crisis?

— It is a challenging period for governments globally. This crisis is different from previous ones since it has to do with the health of our society to the extent that potentially closes down the economies. Serbian State has taken several measures since March to protect the people, from strict regulations like the curfew to softer ones like the wearing of a mask, measures which have produced some positive results overall compared with many other countries. In terms of supporting the hotel companies, it was positive to see lately the grant given by the State that is of great help even though it is a one-off type of support.

In addition, the fact that the State has lifted many restrictions for foreigners to visit Serbia has still kept some demand for the country from foreigners who are still allowed to travel from their countries. Furthermore, HORES has sent several suggestions to the State, and I believe that some of them would be very helpful for the hotel companies if the government would adopt them, especially during the challenging winter months, which are coming ahead of us.

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YANNIS PETRAKIS Metropol Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Belgrade, Serbia

We are preparing the launch of new products that we hope will surprise positively our clients and guests

Were hotels in Belgrade more affected by the crisis than hotels in Serbia, which, despite the crisis, had such a visit in the months when the corona was with low impact?

— If I understand correctly you refer to the hotels located in the rest of Serbia in comparison to the hotels of Belgrade. Generally, the answer is yes, especially due to the summer months when many Serbians decided to take some days off within their own country from the moment they could not travel abroad. This domestic type of tourism in the country’s resorts is a trend that we saw in Serbia but also in other countries. However, this does not mean that these hotels escaped the crisis, or they do not suffer. On the contrary. Some hotels managed to get dissent occupancies mainly in July and August, but the outcome is not enough to “save” the year and the overall bad financial and cash flow situation for them. However, the hotels in Belgrade during the same period were on average below 15% occupancy.

What do you think about the forecasts by the end of the year, can any miracle happen that would reduce

the negative impact of the crisis?

— As mentioned, this is a lost year.

The boost of occupancies in Belgrade during October from specific markets that can still travel to Serbia will not save the year but will help to create a better cash flow for some hotels to be able to pay their obligations. The emergence of the second and third wave of covid-19 are expected to drive the results until the end of the year. Europe records new historic high in the number of infections, the region of Balkans as well. It seems that it is a matter of time to have more restrictions in Serbia and the other countries which will deter people from travelling again and postpone events even further.

What are Metropol's plans for development in the coming year?

— We, at Metropol Palace, are trying day by day, step by step, and conservatively and carefully, to re-launch our hotel after the lockdown period. We have still many things to do to be able to reach the high standards we had in February when the hotel had reached its peak. However, we have a plan in place that we follow and with a target to be in such a good position by April next year when we expect that the market conditions will be opening again. Therefore, 2021 is for us a year of re-launching the hotel in terms of strengthening our Team further with the hiring of experienced associates

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People and companies should prepare for a challenging winter and approach their actions in a conservative manner and with a focus on cash reserves.

The speed tests and the vaccines which would help change this environment should not be expected before the end of the first quarter of 2021. I am afraid that I cannot see a miracle happening, but then, it would not have been a miracle if we could forecast it.

and by renovating specific facilities in front and back of the house which need a facelift or deep maintenance. At the same time, we are preparing the launch of new products that we hope will surprise positively our clients and guests.

Of course, the speed of the plan’s implementation will depend largely on the evolution of the coronavirus and the opening of the business but we want to be conservatively optimistic about 2021.

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The COVID-19 Shock Abruptly Interrupts Greece’s Recovery Greece has responded swiftly to the pandemic and has effectively limited infections, but the economy has been hit hard

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ECONOM Y

s in other countries, containment measures, travel restrictions, social distancing and high uncertainty have led to a temporary but extraordinary drop in production and large loss of tourism demand and employment The government has responded with substantial packages to strengthen the health system, buttress incomes and liquidity, and support and restart sectors most affected by the shock, such as tourism. To reinvigorate the recovery, the government has set out an ambitious reform programme focused on boosting growth and investment. Before the pandemic hit, the Greek economy had been expanding for over three years at just below 2% average annual growth. Structural reforms, high primary budget surplus-

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The government is implementing a new asset protection scheme (Hercules) to help banks to dispose of the large stock of nonperforming loan

es and debt measures by European partners had sustained Greece’s recovery and rebuilt confidence. Rising goods and tourism exports had supported growth and jobs, reducing unemployment and buttressing private consumption.

FISCAL TARGETS In recent years, Greece has exceeded its fiscal targets and the current account deficit has narrowed. Increased revenues and better control of expenditure contributed, before the pandemic outbreak, to sustained and substantial primary budget surpluses, rebuilding fiscal credibility. Greece has successfully returned to the international bond market and rating agencies have raised its sovereign rating. The economy has become more open, although the COVID-19 shock

is projected to hinder export growth.

The public debt ratio is projected to rise from already high levels due to the extraordinary fall in nominal GDP and, to a lesser extent, fiscal support following the COVID-19 shock.

As the economy resumes its recovery, and the budget shifts gradually back to a primary surplus, the public debt ratio is projected to start declining again, helped by low interest rates. The European Central Bank’s decision to include Greek government securities in its asset purchase programmes have contained bond yields below the levels of mid-2019.

Past labour and product market reforms have improved Greece’s price competitiveness, and will stand Greece in good stead when domestic and foreign demand recover. In early 2019, Greece increased the minimum wage

for the first time in many years and ended the subminimum wage. This boosted incomes without any obvious negative employment effects prior to the COVID-19 shock. Following the COVID-19 shock, the 2020 review of minimum wages has been deferred to early 2021. Mechanisms to extend sectoral collective agreements to non-signatory workplaces have been reintroduced, while conditional opt-out arrangements were introduced in late 2019.

THE COVID-19 SHOCK ADDS TO GREECE’S CHALLENGES The COVID-19 shock risks exacerbating Greece’s long-standing labour market challenges. The employment rate has increased over the past six years but is still one of the lowest. Women and the young continue suffering from low employment rates. The dearth of child and elderly care centres restrict women’s job opportunities as caregiving responsibilities often fall on them. The lack of prospects has pushed many talented young people to emigrate, lowering the country’s entrepreneurial and innovation potential. Difficulties of integrating migrants into the labour market and education system together with limited support from other EU countries to deal with the large influx of asylum seekers compound these challenges. The COVID-19 crisis risks aggravating these problems as job growth has collapsed and a large number of discouraged job-seekers have left the labour force. Poverty and material deprivation, while improving, are high, especially among the young and families .

Following past reforms, Greece’s social protection system was much better prepared to deal with a large shock than at the onset of the global financial crisis. The government’s temporary income support measures have buffered household incomes from the COVID19 shock. However, despite improvements in recent years, poverty rates among the young and families with children remain high while retirees fare significantly better. This and the large impact of the COVID-19 shock on the working age population and the young further underline the need to address the intergenerational imbalances of the social protection system. Pension payments as a share of GDP remain among the highest. The COVID-19 shock makes

the need to continue modernising Greece’s social protection system manifest so as to better target anti-poverty programmes to people in need and significantly strengthen retraining schemes.

ed to lower banks’ non-performing loans significantly over the next two years. However, the COVID-19 shock has slowed progress, and further action is needed to address the large stock of non-performing loans that will remain and improve the quality of banks’ capital.

ECONOMIC ACTIVITY Economic activity, though shifting gradually to tradable sectors, is still concentrated in traditional and low-innovation sectors, contributing to low productivity growth. Small and low productivity firms continue to play an outsized role in the economy. Despite recent progress, such as the digitalisation of the public administration, high tax burdens, red tape, low quality regulations and a slow justice system mar the business environment, discouraging domestic and foreign in-

vestment and preventing businesses from thriving. Banks’ non-performing loans (NPLs) were falling before the COVID-19 shock but they are still high, curtailing banks’ capacity to finance investment. The severe liquidity constraints many firms are facing following the COVID-19 shock risks increasing NPLs further. The government has introduced temporary credit lines and guarantees to address this challenge. Nonetheless, it remains urgent to durably lower NPLs on banks’ balance sheets.

Repair of the banking system needs to accelerate. The government is implementing a new asset protection scheme (Hercules) to help banks to dispose of the large stock of nonperforming loans. The plan is expect-

INCREASING PRODUCTIVITY GROWTH Increasing productivity growth is key to raising living standards and offsetting the large negative effect of demographics. Raising productivity growth will require additional efforts to reduce barriers to competition, especially in professional services, including notaries, lawyers and retail sales of medicines, and increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of the

The recent establishment of the independent National Transparency Authority goes in the right direction

public administration (including the justice system). This would contribute to enhance the rule of law, thus reducing the costs and uncertainties of doing business in Greece, attracting more foreign direct investment, and helping to rebuild trust in public institutions. The government’s efforts to reduce red tape, raise accountability and efficiency in the public sector, including through the use of digital technologies, are welcome, and demonstrated their effectiveness during the COVID-19 shutdown period.

Efforts to prevent and prosecute corruption need to be pursued following international best practices. The recent establishment of the independent National Transparency Authority goes in the right direction.

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Never Give Up On Your Dreams

I am the proudest of the fact that despite everything I have achieved and seen, I am still a simple man who appreciates little things I N T E RV I E W

NENAD PAGONIS

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Athlete and the founder of the Pagonis Foundation

think that the most important thing today is instilling a normal value system in children - caring for the environment, caring for each other and essentially fighting not to go down the wrong way because the young will inherit the world.

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You have established the Pagonis Foundation to help sick and socially disadvantaged children. What are the Foundation’s goals?

— The Foundation’s goals are caring for disadvantaged children and children suffering from various diseases, which implies providing normal living conditions for every disadvantaged child, i.e. food, clothes, shoes and schooling, i.e. books and basic school supplies. Another goal that is crucial to us is to provide financial support to sick children and their treatment. In essence, the idea for establishing this foundation came from a long struggle with these problems.

You have won ten world titles and three European titles. What important message would you like to send out to young generations today? How does a person become a champion?

— You become a champion by stepping out of your comfort zone when things are difficult. No-one has ever become a champion by lying in bed and doing nothing. It took a lot of

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blood, sweat and sacrifice for me to succeed. We all know what makes children spoiled today and that is the idea of quick and easy money. Such money and success vanish in the same way they came about - quickly and easily. When a person earns something through hard work, both they and people around them are aware of the weight it carries and will therefore respect it more. I think that loving what you do is the most valuable thing to achieve success. That's what I advise children.

How important is it to influence young people and fight against violence?

— This seems to me to be the biggest youth problem today. What scares me is not the number of bullies in schools, but rather the number of children who watch violence and do not react to it.

According to our research, 80% of children who are witnesses of bullying and do not react at all. They even record cases of bullying or make fun of it. That’s a pretty devastating fact.

When I teach in schools, I usually use my example of how roles can make a difference in life to draw their attention. I was bullied by an older student, and after many years, when I became a world champion I met that guy on the street. There was fear in his eyes. But, of course, I just winked at him because my priorities were in

Find something you love to do with all your heart, put all of your efforts into it and success is guaranteed

the ring. That example encourages them to contemplate a lot.

You sing, play and act, you wrote a book and you are the recipient of many awards. Which part of your abundant biography is the most interesting to you?

— My youth is the most interesting part of my biography, namely a constant struggle with poverty and existential problems, but also not giving up on my dreams and the love I felt for sports, which in the end brought me great success and inner satisfaction. I am also in love with music, which has given me emotional breadth and depth throughout my kickboxing career. I'm quite creative, so maybe that's where my multidisciplinary side comes from. I am the proudest of the fact that despite everything I have achieved and seen, I am still a simple man who appreciates little things because happiness is found in little things.

What are your work and life plans?

— My work plans certainly revolve around working with youth and children, that is a hundred children through my foundation and a hundred that I work privately with in my club. One of the plans is also to create a large martial arts centre that will accommodate a lot of young people who are still looking for their way in life. Let's face it, not everyone has to become a champion, but the fact that they play sports and have role models gives them a much better chance of succeeding in some other segments of life.

Hrana Mediterana on Your Menu A concept based on carefully selected products from Greece to be served at any table

C O R P O R AT E

rana Mediterana (Mediterranean Food) is a guarantee of the highest culinary standards and is a great addition to every kitchen. This concept brings products of protected geographical origin. The abundance of food that can be prepared thanks to Hrana Mediterana products can be served at breakfast, lunch, dinner, as salads, appetizers, side dishes, desserts...

The so-called Greek salad is a wellknown staple in Greek cuisine. The Greeks also call it a peasant salad or χωριάτικη σαλάτα. It is made with cu-

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cumbers, tomatoes, onions, peppers, olives, olive oil, oregano and of course, the real Greek feta cheese.

The Hrana Mediterana portfolio also includes products from the most reputable food producers. Dodoni, a producer of Greek dairy specialities, created on the slopes of Epirus with a touch of sea and mountain climate, is a part of this concept.

The current offer includes olives, extra virgin olive oil and olive paste from the leading producer of olives and extra virgin olive oil – Konstantopoulos. The best olive varieties are included in the Hrana Mediterana

Hrana Mediterana (Mediterranean Food) is a guarantee of the highest culinary standards and is a great addition to every kitchen

portfolio. The Kalamata extra virgin olive oil, which is made from koroneiki, a variety of olives from Kalamata, validates the top quality of Hrana Mediterana.

As of recently, the Hrana Mediterana concept also comprises Greek white cheeses made from cow's milk, the socalled Lefkotiri, produced by Belas.

Also, there are traditional Greek salads produced by Pitenis (melitzano salad, hummus), as well as Pitenis dried tomatoes.

The Sithon honey from Sithonia and Thassos, from the eponymous honey producer, is a valuable addition to the health component that is a must in Hrana Mediterana. Their portfolio includes varieties of pine and wild mountain flower honey.

The Hrana Mediterana range also offers 100% natural freshly squeezed pomegranate juice ASOP, as well as pomegranate and aronia juice and organic pomegranate juice.

Sweet preserves and jams from the producers of traditional Greek desserts, Papageorgiou, make the Hrana Mediterana range even more abundant. Papageorgiou's offer includes traditional preserves made of rose petals and oranges as well as pomegranate, fig and strawberry jams.

www.hranamediterana.rs

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GREECE

READ THIS ON WEB Zeus and Hera

T R A DI T ION

Greek Mythology and Gods

egends are like myths, but they are slightly different.

While myths are completely made up, legends are based on events that really happened.

The Greeks believed in gods and god-

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desses who, they thought, had control over every part of people's lives.

The Ancient Greeks believed that they had to pray to the gods for help and protection, because if the gods were unhappy with someone, then they

Greek mythology is the body of myths originally told by the ancient Greeks and a genre of Ancient Greek folklore. These stories concern the origin and the nature of the world, the lives and activities of deities, heroes, and mythological creatures, and the origins and significance of the ancient Greeks' own cult and ritual practices Poseidon

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would punish them. They made special places in their homes and temples where they could pray to statues of the gods and leave presents for them. Modern scholars study the myths in an attempt to shed light on the religious and political institutions of ancient Greece and its civilization and to gain understanding of the nature of myth-making itself.

At the center of Greek mythology is the pantheon of deities who were said to live on Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece. From their perch, they ruled every aspect of human life. Olympian gods and goddesses looked like men and women (though they could change themselves into animals and other things) and were–as many myths recounted–vulnerable to human foibles and passions. The Greeks imagined that the gods lived together, as a family. They did not see them as perfect, but just like people. In the Greek myths the gods argue, fall in love, get jealous of each other and make mistakes.

There are many famous Greek myths and legends. Some of them are reused in stories and films today. In one, a woman called Pandora, the first woman whose curiosity brought evil to mankind, opens up a box full of all the bad things in the world, and lets them out. Theseus and the Minotaur tells the story of a prince who chases a monster through a labyrinth to save the woman he loves. In another tale, two inventors called Icarus and Daedalus try to build wings so they can fly away from prison. Heracles is the adventurer who performed 12 impossible labors for King Eurystheus (and was subsequently worshipped as a god for his accomplishment). Pygmalion is the king who fell in love with an ivory statue. Arachne was the weaver who was turned into a spider for her arrogance. Handsome Trojan prince Ganymede became the cupbearer for the gods. Midas was the king with the golden touch, and Narcissus was the

Greek Mythology is the set of stories about the gods, goddesses, heroes and rituals of Ancient Greeks

Aphrodite

young man who fell in love with his own reflection. Perhaps the most exciting is Perseus and the Gorgon in which a man called Perseus has to kill a woman who can turn people to stone just by looking at them!

Monsters and “hybrids” (human-animal forms) also feature prominently in the tales: the winged horse Pegasus, the horse-man Centaur, the lion-woman Sphinx and the bird-woman Harpies, the one-eyed giant Cyclops, automatons (metal creatures given life

by Hephaestus), manticores and unicorns, Gorgons, pygmies, minotaurs, satyrs and dragons of all sorts. Many of these creatures have become almost as well known as the gods, goddesses and heroes who share their stories.

The characters, stories, themes and lessons of Greek mythology have shaped art and literature for thousands of years. They appear in Renaissance paintings such as Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Raphael’s Triumph of Galatea and writings like Dante’s Inferno; Romantic poetry and libretti; and scores of more recent novels, plays and films.

Around 700 BC, the poet Hesiod’s Theogony offered the first written cosmogony, or origin story, of Greek mythology. The Theogony tells the story of the universe’s journey from nothingness (Chaos, a primeval void) to being, and details an elaborate family tree of elements, gods and goddesses who evolved from Chaos and descended from Gaia (Earth), Ouranos (Sky), Pontos (Sea) and Tartaros (the Underworld). Later Greek writers and artists used and elaborated upon these sources in their own work. For instance, mythological figures and events appear in the 5th-century plays of Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides and the lyric poems of Pindar. Writers such as the 2nd-century BC Greek mythographer Apollodorus of Athens and the 1st-century BC Roman historian Gaius Julius Hyginus compiled the ancient myths and legends for contemporary audiences.

Did you know?

Most important Greek gods were:

Many consumer products get their names from Greek mythology. Nike sneakers are the namesake of the goddess of victory, for example, and the website Amazon.com is named after the race of mythical female warriors. Many high school, college and professional sports teams (Titans, Spartans and Trojans, for instance) also get their names from mythological sources.

Zeus, the leader of the gods, in charge of rain and the sky. Hera, Zeus's wife, was the goddess of marriage and childbirth. Poseidon, the god of the sea. Aphrodite, the goddess of love. Hades, the god of the Underworld, where the dead lived. Ares, god of war and battle. Hermes, god of travel, hospitality and trade and Zeus’s personal messenger. Dionysus, god of wine, pleasure and festivity. Athena, goddess of wisdom and defence. Apollo, god of prophesy, music and poetry and knowledge.

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Churches and Monasteries in Greece The Orthodox Church forms the third largest branch of Christianity after the Roman Catholics and the Protestants

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C U LT U R E

eligion is an important aspect of Greek culture.

Greece is a profoundly Christian Orthodox country with countless examples of holy sites such as churches and historic monasteries scattered in the Greek land and the Greek islands. The rest of the population consists of Muslim, Roman, Catholic and Jewish religions.

Of unique interest are the architecture and the character of the churches in Greece, scattered on top of the hills, in isolated spots among green landscapes, at the center of large squares and amidst the picturesque quarters.

The Orthodox churches are characterized by their particular domed architecture and the well-decorated interiors with beautiful frescoes and holy icons. Their passionate character charms everyone and varies depending on the construction period

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and the region of Greece.

Churches in the Cyclades islands, for example, are mostly whitewashed with blue painted domes whereas, in other regions, the churches are painted with earthy colors. Churches in the Ionian islands are strongly influenced by the Venetian and Renaissance period while on the mainland churches date back from the Byzantine times.

You can also find Byzantine churches in the islands. An island called "small Mystras" for it numerous Byzantine churches is Naxos.

Santorini is famous for the much photographed blue domed and colorful churches that can be seen in the entire island. Each church bears witness to a unique history and has a feast to celebrate, upon which great festivals take place in the villages. Religious plays a significant role in the life of the locals. There are many church-

es of outstanding interest in Greece.

We have selected to describe some of the most important and popular ones. For more churches in Greece, you can find more information about churches in different regions and locations in Greece and the Greek islands.

Santorini is famous for the much photographed blue domed and colorful churches that can be seen in the entire island

MOUNT ATHOS, HALKIDIKI, MACEDONIA Mount Athos or Holy Mountain is the most important monastic state complex in Greece located in the eastern peninsula of Halkidiki. It consists of 20 Orthodox monasteries. It counts on 1,400 monks who live in ascetic ways, even in caves, like hermits. Women are not allowed to enter Mount Athos and men need special permission. Every monastery is a rich storehouse of medieval history with many paintings, manuscripts from the Byzantine era.

MONASTERIES OF METEORA, METEORA, THESSALY Meteora is the second largest monastic state, after Mount Athos located in Thessaly area, close to kalambaka. It is a living monument part of the world culture and consists of 24 monasteries perched on the huge smooth grey rocks. Today, only 6 of them are actively inhabited by either monks or nuns. Most of the monasteries were built by hermits between 14th and 15th century. Given the secluded location, it is worth mentioning that the survival of these monks was based on the use of the fertile valleys where corn, grapes, and potatoes were cultivated. Meteora is a unique place with a divine atmosphere and a bewitching view from the top of the rocks.

MONASTERY OF SAINT JOHN, PATMOS, DODECANESE The Monastery of Saint John is one of the most important religious sites in Greece located in the holy island of Patmos. It is built next to the cave where Saint John wrote the Book of Apocalypse (Revelation). It lies at the center of the island, on the hill above Chora. Its strong walls make it look like a fortress and inside are many chapels. It was built in 1088 by Saint Christodoulos. It can be accessed by the stone paths.

CHURCH OF MEGALOCHARI, TINOS, CYCLADES The Church of Megalochari in Tinos island is one of the most important pilgrimages in Greece. On this holy site, the icon of the Virgin Mary was found, after a vision of the nun Pelagia. Tradition has it that the icon is miraculous and visitors arrive by thousands to pray and ask for help

Monasteries of Meteora

Monastery of Hozoviotissa

(usually for health issues). The church is located on a hill above Chora and pilgrims go on their knees from the port to the church entrance. Inside the monastery complex lies a great chapel and a lovely fountain with holy water.

times is located in Paros island, in the village of Parikia. The church complex dates from the 6th century and consists of two churches dedicated to the Virgin and Agios Nikolaos.

Many consider the church as miraculous and thousands of pilgrims visit every year on the 15th of August, the day of its celebration.

MONASTERY OF HOZOVIOTISSA, AMORGOS, CYCLADES The Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa is one of the most important Byzantine monuments in the Aegean standing on the slopes of Amorgos island, above the sea. The monastery was founded in 1088 in this symbolic site by Alexios Komninos who found the miraculous icon of the Virgin on this exact place. Thousands of pilgrims visit the Byzantine monument for prayer and relaxation as the view is breathtaking.

CHURCH OF EKATONTAPILIANI, PAROS, CYCLADES The Church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani, one of the most important monuments from the paleochristian

Monastery of Saint John

Churches in the Cyclades islands, for example, are mostly whitewashed with blue painted domes whereas, in other regions, the churches are painted with earthy colors

AGIOS NIKOLAOS MONASTERY, SANTORINI, CYCLADES The historical female Monastery of Agios Nikolaos is located between the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli in Santorini. The monastery is dedicated to three saints, Agios Panteleimon, Zoodoxos Pighi (which means life-giving source in Greek) and Agios Nikolaos. This monastery was originally founded on December 6th in 1651 and it was the second monastery built in Santorini. The Gizi family, one of the few Orthodox families who lived inside the Venetian Castle of Skaros, decided to turn their private chapel into a monastery, which eventually remained on that position till 1815.

Church of Megalochari

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TOURISM

The Pearls of the Peloponnese When you think of Greece it's often the islands that spring to mind. But the Peloponnese, a three finger-shaped peninsula that hangs from the mainland, offers all the romantic ruins, dramatic beaches and quiet hotels you've been dreaming of too

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egin your Greek adventure with travelling to Greece’s former capital Nafplio, one of the jewels of the Peloponnese and then on into the Mani, an area full of typical Greek villages and small towns. Spectacular views greet every turn in the road, from the myriad olive trees around Kalamata, the soaring mountain peaks of Mount Taygetus or the vivid blue and green of the seawater, it is impossible not to fall in love with Greece.

Add in some typical Greek experiences such as some Greek dancing, olive oil indulgence, sailing and cookery lesson and you have the recipe for the perfect holiday. Yiamas!

Why go to the Peloponnese? If you’re looking for the real Greece, rent a car and drive around the leaf-shaped peninsula of the Peloponnese – it's proudly declaimed its Greekness since time immemorial. Familiar names such as Olympia (the birthplace of the Olym-

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pics) and Mycenae evoke the Homeric legends of ancient Greece, yet it’s lesser-known towns like Monemvasia and Mistras that show the centuries’ Hellenic continuity.

NAFPLIO AND THE ARGOLID The port of Nafplio was the first capital of modern Greece from 1828 until 1834 when King Otto decided to decamp to Athens. Today it ranks as one of the most delightful towns in Greece and competition is stiff on that front. Not content in being superbly sited under two castles – the Venetian fortress of Palamidi and the ancient acropolis of Akronafplia – Nafplio also claims a third: the photogenic fort of Bourtzi set on an island in the harbour.

SPARTA AND LACONIA Given that this region has bequeathed the words “laconic” and “spartan” to the world, it’s no surprise to find

that the warlike Spartans didn’t leave much behind, so there’s not much to see in the modern capital of Laconia.

Stay here for a range of sights nearby, most notably Mistras, reached by bus in half an hour. This is a stunning, never-to-be-forgotten Byzantine ghost town complete with cobbled streets, frescoed churches, medieval mansions and Imperial palaces. Although the climate is perfect in spring and autumn, avoid high summer.

KALAMATA AND MESSENIA Kalamata, the capital of the district of Messenia, may be famed for its olives, but, once there, you’ll fall in love with the longest city beach in the whole of Greece spanning just under two miles. Kalamata also claims the only international airport in the Peloponnese, the gateway to Sparta and the Laconic coast, the Mani peninsula and the Messenian gulf resorts.

Yet, before you set off, linger on for a bit to enjoy the city’s California-style unfussy disposition.

MANI Famed Mani, the long middle “finger” of the three-pronged Peloponnese peninsula is dominated by imposing Mount Taygetus that gets a namecheck as far back as the Odyssey.

Spectacular mountain passes, deep limestone caves, vast pelagic views, evergreen citrus trees and tall defensive towers dot the land of the Maniots, a tough mountain people who kept their autonomy even under the Ottoman occupation in 1770.

Add in some typical Greek experiences such as some Greek dancing, olive oil indulgence, sailing and cookery lesson and you have the recipe for the perfect holiday

Monemvasim

a 600-year old Turkish bath, the oldest in Europe still in operation. Plus, as the large university can vouch, it has a more than decent nightlife centred around a large, pedestrianised street grid.

WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK IN THE PELOPONNESE The Peloponnese is one of the most fertile areas in Greece so you should expect gallons of freshly squeezed fruit juices along with kayanás (scrambled eggs with tomatoes) for your breakfast. Indeed, oranges are in such supply that they’re used to flavour sausages in Kalamata as well as syrupy sweets like portokalópita (orange pie).

Olives and olive oil are plentiful and are used liberally in salads and in cooking, including delicious vegetable dishes called laderá. Wine features heavily alongside olive oil. The plain of Nemea grows the famed Agiorgitiko variety (red, dry) while Mantinia in the interior produces Moschofilero (white, dry). The region around Monemvasia gave its name to malmsey wine – a corruption of “Malvasia”, itself a Venetian corruption of “Monemvasia” – which is currently making a comeback. The biggest wine region is, however, Achaïa, the department around Patras where you can taste aromatic white Muscats and sweet Mavrodafni reds.

PATRAS AND THE NORTH If you’re arriving by ferry from Italy, then your first impression of Greece will be formed in Patras and it’s going to be a pleasant one. Greece’s third-largest city has much to commend it, including the ruins of a castle, a Roman Odeon, a museum with no fewer than 14 Roman mosaics and B E ST B E AC H E S

Elafonisos

B E S T S M A L L T OW N S A N D T I N Y I S L A N D S

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Kalamata-Sparta-MonemvasiaNeapoli-Elafonissos

If you lust after the archetypal Greek island vibe, then the Messenian coast offers resorts and beaches aplenty. Costa Navarino is the most developed with Caribbean standards of service but try also Gialova just below for a more intimate experience. Between the two lies one of Greece’s main birdwatching wetlands featuring a chameleon sanctuary and Voïdokoilia, a perfect semicircle of a beach.

Fly into Kalamata and take the Langhada pass to Sparta, a dramatic 38-mile (60km) hairpin-rich road over Mount Taygetus and one of Greece’s great road trips. A few hours’ drive further on rises “The Gibraltar of the East”: the rock of Monemvasia. Joined by a small causeway with the mainland, the rock hides the medieval, fortified town of Monemvasia, a Byzantine time bubble if ever there was one.

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GREECE

Favourites from Serbia and Greece in one Place CLICK ON ICON 

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It is always hard when we have to choose between things and when we can’t have it all and need to decide what to let go of. Fortunately, we don’t have to do that in Super Vero. We can have both - the best from Serbia and Greece in one place C O R P O R AT E

t is well known that the story of the family company VEROPOULOS begins in Greece in 1880, but it doesn’t end there. Starting its journey in Greece, cruising through North Macedonia, Super Vero came to Serbia in 2002. That was a big step, with a big dream, having in mind that, at that time, Super Vero was the first foreign hypermarket in our country. By having courage to be the first and never forgetting its roots, Super Vero now offers a wide range of high-quality products from Greece, but also takes great care to find a place in its supermarkets for the best Serbian products.

As the freshness of the goods is one of the main objectives in Super Vero, the majority of the products in the store that are consumed daily, such as meat, are from local suppliers. It can’t get any fresher than that.

Also, the quality of the products is very important for everybody in Super Vero, so all products have to undergo through detailed quality control, so we can offer our customers only the best. Locally sourced and of top

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quality is a perfect equation that results in success and perfect choice.

As Super Vero always invests in the community in which it operates, we are especially proud to be able to help the development of Serbian entrepreneurship, cooperating exclusively with small meat farms.

There is no better way to live up to the slogan “Think globally, act locally” than to do that in practice.

But, as a company with Greek heritage, and we all know how the Greek people treat their heritage, only the best of Greece is sold at Super Vero.

When you think of Greece, you usually think of beautiful, juicy oranges that are so characteristic for this country. It is exactly those oranges and other fresh fruits with such a distinctive Greek taste that can be found in Super Vero. There is much more that Super Vero offers than fruits. There is a wide range of delicious Greek products, which we all have missed so much this summer, which can be found in Super Vero stores, not only during the season, but all year around.

Super Vero is especially proud of its Monoxilitis products – products from the Mount Athos that are made in the Monoxilitis monastery.

Monoxilitis are completely natural products, created by hard work of the monks from the Mount Athos. Clean air and unpolluted nature from which these products originate boost the quality of these products. In addition to honey, jam and tea, this assortment includes incense, holy oil and red wine, which are an obligatory part of every celebration, and can only be found in Super Vero stores.

As someone for whom tradition is an important postulate in business, Super Vero takes special care of its loyal customers, since loyalty has to be rewarded. That is why we have created a special programme called the Vero Klub which provides useful benefits and advantages for all frequent shoppers and the ones who have been shopping at Super Vero since the very beginning.

Because family always comes first!

Jamas!