InFocus Slovenia 2019

Slovenia 2019

SLOVENIA & SERBIA

THE FRIENDLY RELATIONS

MARJAN ŠAREC

ZORAN DJORDJEVIĆ

DANIJELA FIŠAKOV

Prime Minister of Slovenia

Minister of Labour, Veterans' and Social Affairs

President of the Slovenian Business Club

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BOHINJ

The largest lake in Slovenia is Lake Bohinj.

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MORE ON WINE Old Wine in Maribor is over 400 years old: the oldest wine in the world.

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P OSTOJNA CAVE

The most popular cave in Slovenia that is available for the tourists is Postojna Cave.

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THE OLDEST TOWN

Ptuj, the oldest town of Slovenia, was built on Roman foundations and claims the distinction of being a museum town.

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S YMBOLS OF LJUBLJANA The Triple Bridge is one of the main symbols of Ljubljana. It was designed by Joze Plecnik, in 1929.

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FOREST

Half of Slovenia’s total area is forest. Over 55% of the territory is covered by forest, which places Slovenia among 3 most forested countries in Europe.

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SAUSAGE

Carniolan sausage is the most known Slovenian food, which has been named »kranjska« for the first time in 1896 and has become protected in 2015.

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HORSES

Lipizzaner horses, known throughout the world, originate from Lipica in Slovenia.

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THE FRIENDLY RELATIONS MARJAN ŠAREC

Prime Minister of Slovenia he joint session of the governments of Serbia and Slovenia will be held in December. The Slovenian Prime Minister of Slovenia Marjan Šarec talks about this event as well as the relationship between the two countries.

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Slovenia and Serbia have signed an agreement on the employment of Serbian nationals in Slovenia, which

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In December, we will carry out an overview of our cooperation as well as exchange views and suggestions on where cooperation could be further strengthened, particularly in complementary fields

began to be implemented in September. Could you tell us what this agreement means for both countries and what are the results of its implementation so far?  In Slovenia, 45 percent of employers are facing a labour shortage. This is why we aim to proactively plan and provide solutions to the long-term requirements of a suitable workforce. Since the implementation of the Agreement on the Em-

ployment of Citizens of Bosnia and Hercegovina had positive effects, we decided to conclude a similar agreement with Serbia. The agreement entered into force in September this year. I am glad that, even in this short period, we can conclude that the agreement is bringing positive outcomes – for the Slovenian labour market and for workers who enjoy better legal and actual protection. In addition to the agreement, Slovenia also held two

big career fairs in Serbia, one in Belgrade and one in Niš, with the aim of boosting activities between Slovenian employers and potential Serbian employees. The outcome was very good with a high level of interest shown among Serbian citizens to work in Slovenia, while Slovenian employers also showed great interest in participating in such events.

What are your expectations from the joint government session to be held in December this year?  For some years now, Serbia and Slovenia have an established practise of regular joint government meetings that positively affect the strengthening of cooperation in all areas, promote closer inter-governmental ties, enable more effective identification of joint projects and goals, as well as address the remaining open issues. Emphasis is put on bilateral political relations, the implementation of the succession agreement, economic cooperation and Slovenian support of the Serbian EU membership. To date, four such meetings have already taken place. Our intention is to continue cultivating positive relations and friendly ties, and to boost all-round cooperation between the two countries. In December, we will carry out an overview of our cooperation as well as exchange views and suggestions on where cooperation could be further strengthened, particularly in complementary fields. I would like to focus on as many concrete opportunities as possible, such as addressing challenges faced in rural development and empowering young people. Slovenia has many positive experiences in this field, especially due to the advantages offered by our EU membership. We wish to trans-

fer these positive experiences – Slovenia is not only a supporter of Serbia’s path to the EU, but can also be a partner to your country and a transmitter of opportunities offered by the EU already during the negotiation process.

Bilateral relations between the two countries are very strong, as evidenced by the high-level and top-level mutual official visits. Where do you see room for further advancement of relations between the two countries?

IN BRUSSELS, SLOVENIA, WHEN IT COMES TO SERBIA, CALLS ATTENTION TO THE IMPORTANCE OF THE DYNAMIC OPENING OF NEGOTIATION CHAPTERS WHEN THE CRITERIA ARE MET  This is true; the mere number of high-level meetings this year reflects the friendly relations between our two countries. Let me mention three important events – the visit by Slovenian President Pahor and his address to deputies in Serbia, the visit by the Speaker of the Serbian National Assembly Gojković in Slovenia and my very successful visit to Belgrade in late August, where Prime Minister Brnabić and I, among other things, agreed to hold a forthcoming government meeting. The relations between

Slovenia and Serbia are very dynamic and diversified. Good bilateral cooperation has been established in practically all fields. In economic cooperation, which has a prominent place in our relations, ever-new opportunities to take cooperation to a next level keep opening up.

Other areas with significant untapped potential include environmental protection, science, culture and education. Slovenian and Serbian people cultivate close ties, which is reflected in our thriving cultural cooperation. In education, we would like to further facilitate interaction between students, and I am happy to note that the number of Serbian students coming to study in Slovenia has been growing annually. We also regularly address contemporary challenges – the two countries have established very good cooperation in migration management, and Slovenia continues to deploy police officers to Serbia. I would also like to stress the importance of the implementation of the Agreement on Succession Issues. Progress has been achieved in recent years, which we applaud, but believe that the succession process itself could be intensified, and Serbia is Slovenia’s valued partner in this respect.

The trade between Slovenia and Serbia increased by 14% last year. What results do you expect this year?  According to statistics for the first seven months of 2019, we expect additional slight growth. It is important to note that in addition to the trade volumes between our two countries, Slovenian investments in Serbia amount to one billion euros, and Slovenia is also placing a portion of their products on the Serbian market. Further opportunities for increas-

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Close ties

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SLOVENIAN AND SERBIAN PEOPLE CULTIVATE CLOSE TIES, WHICH IS REFLECTED IN OUR THRIVING CULTURAL COOPERATION SLOVENIA 2019

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ing mutual trade and economic cooperation are in the ICT industry, digitalisation and innovative technologies, environmental protection, transport, tourism and energy infrastructure.

Tourist traffic between Slovenia and Serbia is increasing every year. What is the potential for cooperation in this segment?  In 2018, 137,517 guests from Serbia visited Slovenia, which is 10.4% more than in 2017. They generated 376,163 overnight stays, or 16.9% more than in 2017. I believe that significant increases are possible on both sides, taking advantage of winter holidays, Slovenian natural spas, summer on the Slovenian coast and business tourism.

You have asked the European Union to expedite the accession negotiations with Serbia. What is your view of Serbia’s efforts towards the EU accession?

How much can Slovenia help Serbia on its path to the EU?  Slovenia is a very strong supporter of the EU enlargement perspective for the Western Balkans. We are stressing the importance of strengthening and respecting the rule of law, and implementing the necessary reforms. At the same time, we firmly believe that once progress is achieved, the EU member states must respond and enable progress of the accession of countries on their path to the EU. The enlargement process is the EU’s most important tool for ensuring economic and political stability of the region. Personally, I was disappointed by the fact that last European Council was not able to agree on starting the negotiation process with North Macedonia and Albania. Slowing or shutting down the process could have serious repercussions for the reform progress and regional relations. This said, I believe it is vital that Serbia keeps reaffirming its commitment to the EU in all fields, and that EU membership remains high on the Serbian political agenda. The EU accession process is lengthy and I am aware that it may be difficult to sustain the momentum necessary for reform, but membership in the EU brings many advantages for the country and its citizens – security, the rule of law, a stable business environment, a larger econom-

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I BELIEVE IT IS VITAL THAT SERBIA KEEPS REAFFIRMING ITS COMMITMENT TO THE EU IN ALL FIELDS, AND THAT EU MEMBERSHIP REMAINS HIGH ON THE SERBIAN POLITICAL AGENDA ic area and market, and a higher standard of living. In Brussels, Slovenia, when it comes to Serbia, calls attention to the importance of the dynamic opening of negotiation chapters when the criteria are met. Furthermore, we are working persistently on raising awareness of the strategic importance of Serbia’s progress towards EU integration. The European Union will not be complete without this region. Slovenia will thus continue to grant political support and expert assistance in Serbia’s negotiation process with the EU, which is implemented in

the framework of bilateral technical assistance, twinning projects and various expert exchanges. The assistance provided by Slovenia responds to the current needs of the Serbian side in preparing negotiating positions and meeting the criteria for the opening of chapters. Slovenia has been providing technical assistance since 2015, and has so far covered the scope of ten negotiation chapters in Serbia’s EU accession process. At the moment, the technical assistance is focusing on regional policy and rural development. With regard to IPA-funded activities, Slovenia participates in two twinning projects – regarding the combating of human trafficking, and regarding migration and asylum issues. Let me also mention the projects carried out in Serbia within the scope of development cooperation that are not directly linked to the negotiation process, but improve the quality of life. For instance, the water purification plant project in Zlatibor, for which Slovenia allocated 1.5 million euros, is just about to be completed, and the public lighting project in Kraljevo, to which Slovenia contributed 0.8 million euros, should be finalised by the end of the year.

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WE ARE GRATEFUL TO SLOVENIA FOR THE EXPERIENCE AND HELP ZORAN DJORDJEVIĆ

Minister of Labour, Veterans' and Social Affairs

Our citizens who are working in Slovenia have the right to equal treatment especially concerning working conditions, including salary and termination of job contract, as well as equal treatment in terms of health and safety at work and the right to education and vocational training

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lovenia and Serbia signed the Agreement on Employment of Serbian Nationals in Slovenia, which entered into force on 1st September. This was an occasion to talk with Minister Zoran Djordjević about the context of this agreement, the cooperation between the two countries in this area, the forthcoming session of the two governments and many other issues.

zens, because they are employed based on pre-determined conditions for employment, working and staying abroad.

The agreement also contributes to the prevention of undocumented work and any kind of exploitation and discrimination by a foreign employer. Considering the aforementioned, the agreement also defines, among other things, that our cit-

Could you tell us what this agreement specifically means for our workers in Slovenia?  In situations when an increasing number of our citizens are finding employment abroad, i.e. when they do not use the services of the National Employment Office and licensed employment agencies, they are then at high risk of not exercising their work rights in the country of employment. In such a situation, and to protect this category of our citizens, the Government of the Republic of Serbia concludes temporary employment agreements. As a considerable number of our citizens went to work on their initiative in Slovenia, an Agreement on Employment of Citizens of the Republic of Serbia in the Republic of Slovenia was concluded between the two Governments, which came into force on 1st September this year. The aim of this agreement is that once citizens decide to seek employment abroad, the state will provide them with the necessary protection in the process.

This agreement is a guarantee that our citizens will get the same treatment as the citizens of the country of employment, in terms of working conditions and the exercise of all rights that stem from employment. Therefore, this agreement aims to ensure protection for our citi-

I BELIEVE THAT, IN THE COMING PERIOD, WE WILL EXPAND OUR COOPERATION AND FURTHER IMPROVE IT, ESPECIALLY IN THE AREA OF WORK-RELATED ISSUES

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Cooperation

izens who are working in Slovenia have the right to equal treatment especially with regard to working conditions, including salary and termination of job contract, as well as equal treatment in terms of health and safety at work and the right to education and vocational training.

Also, this agreement establishes cooperation between line institutions to better protect and inform our citizens who are working in Slovenia.

Furthermore, we have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Slovenia covering the topic of occupational safety and health. What can we learn from the Slovenian experiences in this field?  The relations with the Republic of Slovenia in work health and safety were

not regulated bilaterally, which is why the Ministry has launched an initiative to conclude a Memorandum of Cooperation between the Ministry of Labour, Employment, Veterans' and Social Affairs of the Republic of Serbia and the Ministry of Labour, Family, Social Policy and Equal Opportunities of the Republic Slovenia, in order to establish better cooperation between the two ministries in this segment. The Ministry of Labour, Employment, Veterans' and Social Affairs is in the process of transposing EU legislation into national legislation and we are keen to adopt the EU standards in the best possible way in order to better protect workers. When drafting the Law on Work Health and Safety, we used positive legal solutions from the Republic of Slovenia.

The experiences of the Republic of Slovenia in occupational health and safety are very important for us so we can reach the standards of highly developed countries.

The cooperation is implemented through the exchange of information and experiences on strategic goals regarding promotion of occupational health and safety, social dialogue and cooperation with civil society, issues related to the prevention and reduction of new and emerging risks, the challenges faced by SMEs regarding the monitoring of the health status of workers, keeping statistics on occupational injuries and diseases, improving the knowledge of occupational health and safety professionals and promoting health and safety in the workplace.

The Government of Serbia has decided to declare 2019 the year of occupational health and safety. What activities has the Ministry of Labour, Employment, Veterans and Social Affairs been imple-

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THERE ARE MANY AREAS IN WHICH OUR COUNTRIES ARE COOPERATING, BUT THERE IS ALWAYS ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT SLOVENIA 2019

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menting on reducing the number of injuries at work? What are the results?  Pursuant to the Decision of the Government of the Republic of Serbia declaring 2019 the year of occupational health and safety, the Ministry carried out various activities on improving the legislative framework, promoting occupational health and safety and bolstering inspection control. We have proposed a new Law on Occupational Health and Safety and we are working on the text of the draft Law on Occupational Work Accident Insurance for Compensation of Damages, as well as amendments to several by-laws. A large number of activities is focused on launching campaigns to raise a culture of prevention and awareness about the importance of prevention.

The aim of declaring 2019 „the year of occupational health and safety“ was to draw the attention of the public, employers and workers to the importance of occupational health and safety, adherence to work procedures and use of personal protective equipment at work, which directly reduces the number of work-related injuries.

 The Republic of Serbia is trying to follow the examples of good practice of other countries including in this case. Slovenia is an important partner to Serbia in many spheres, including work. Labour legislation in Slovenia is regulated by a series of acts and a law that governs this area in detail. Labour law is clearly defined in our country and this area is regulated by laws and by-laws. As the amendments to the Labour Law are scheduled for 2021, I believe that we will further improve the area. I'm sure that the experiences of our friends can help in this segment as well.

What experiences of Slovenia can we apply in our labour law?

How can we further improve cooperation with Slovenia?

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I EXPECT THAT ALLIMPORTANT ISSUES WILL BE DISCUSSED AT THE FORTHCOMING SESSION OF THE GOVERNMENTS OF SERBIA AND SLOVENIA

 There are many areas in which our countries are cooperating, but there is always room for improvement. I believe that, in the coming period, we will expand our cooperation and further improve it, especially in the area of work-related issues. Serbia is already an attractive country and we would like to create conditions for more people from Slovenia coming to our country, not only as tourists but also to come to live and work here. We are good hosts, and as Serbia becomes increasingly interesting to foreign investors and citizens every day, I am confident that many of them will want to come here in the future.

What are your expectations from the forthcoming joint session of the Serbian and Slovenian governments?  I expect that all-important issues will be discussed at the forthcoming session of the governments of Serbia and Slovenia. Our countries have traditionally good relations and the cooperation has never been better, also thanks to the personal contribution by our President Aleksandar Vučić. I am confident that the session will produce good results and contribute to the deepening of relations between the two countries.

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BETTER INTERCONNECTEDNESS OF SMALL ECONOMIES DEJAN VLADIĆ

Minister-Counselor at the Embassy of Slovenia in Serbia

In order to survive in the world of ever-increasing competition, our main priority is to achieve greater added value of the products, and this is only possible through education, investing in digitization of business processes and development of innovative solutions, i.e. the implementation of Industry 4.0

inister-Counselor at the Embassy of Slovenia in Serbia, Dejan Vladić, talks about the cooperation between Serbia and Slovenia, the forthcoming joint session of the two governments, as well as the potential for cooperation in the IT industry.

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In your previous interview, you said the growing economic relations between the two countries always occupied a special place on the agenda of the meeting of our two government. What do you expect to happen in this regard in 2020?  In February this year, on the brink of the visit of Slovenian President Borut Pahor to Serbia, we had a huge business forum in Belgrade where almost 1000 company representatives and people from different institutions met and exchanged their ideas on future cooperation. On 17th De-

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cember Serbian government will host a joint meeting of Slovenian and Serbian governments. On their agenda they are supposed to have also new projects to

SERBIA IS THE SECOND MOST POPULAR DESTINATION FOR SLOVENIAN FOREIGN INVESTMENTS

boost economic cooperation. Our two countries already have excellent cooperation in various segments, but our goal every year is to reach new forms of cooperation and resolve ongoing issues.

Thus, we would like to focus on IT sector, more precisely on IT solutions for agriculture, introducing e-business, e-billing and digitization of small and medium-sized enterprises on which both Slovenia and Serbia are basing their economic growth. SMEs have to implement changes in their business, because over the next ten-year period, 90% percent of the global economy's revenue will be generated by

small and medium-sized enterprises.

At the joint meeting our two governments will also discuss options for how to jointly approach the huge African market, where during the time of the former Yugoslavia, we were implementing largescale business projects. The connection still exists event today, and if we work together, we can find a place for our small business systems in African market again.

Agriculture and rural development are still very important economic branches and they still have great potential in Serbia. In terms of Serbian harmonization of its legislation with the EU's, there are opportunities for Slovenia transferring its know-how and digital solutions which must be compatible with EU regulations.

Slovenia did an excellent job in rural development also with great support from EU funds, and we want to help Serbia by bringing in several experts who will work with institutions, including local ones, on transferring solutions and the knowhow.

What is Slovenia's and Serbia's place in Industry 4.0?  Industry 4.0 is not considered a novelty in the world anymore. The Japanese are already working on the Society 5.0 concept, which addresses all the changes introduced by artificial intelligence and higher 5G data transfer speed.

For years, the Slovenian government has been offering and financially supporting investments in the implementation of innovative technologies and in general, digitization of businesses. In order to survive in the world of ever-increasing competition, our main priority to achieve greater added value of the production, and this is only possible through education, investing in digitization of business process-

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es and development of innovative solutions, i.e. the implementation of Industry 4.0. Bearing in mind substantial foreign investments in the last decade and a drastic reduction in unemployment, Serbia has made a major step forward, and with natural pressures regarding wage growth and achieving greater competitiveness in foreign markets, on which our small economies strongly depend, the country is now entering a phase of modernization of work processes and major investments in digitization of economic systems and higher education, in order to generate more revenue and pay out even higher wages, as welll as attract new long-term investors.

SLOVENIAN COMPANIES ARE SATISFIED WITH THE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT, BOTH IN SERBIA AND WHEREVER THEY OPERATE IN THE WORLD Apart from digitization, in which segments can the two countries better cooperate? What do figures say?  The figures indicate that there is great potential for cooperation also in tourism, ecology, especially environmental projects, the creative industry, as well as in energy, especially the development of renewable energy sources, and transport & logistics, where Slovenian Post Office is becoming a significant logistics pro-

IT solution

vider in the region. We will know, by the year-end, whether there will be a consolidation in the banking sector, which will further boost the role and cooperation of the Slovenian NLB in Serbia. Better interconnectedness of the countries in the region and concretization of significant ideas, such as the so-called “Mini Schengen“, will also significantly strengthen our cooperation in traditional areas of the economy such as agriculture and manufacturing. Investment exchange is also progressing well, as seen from the ideas about a greater integration in the region.

The greater integration of the region's small economies is very important in the race for the global market.

1,600 Slovenian companies operate in Serbia. Are they satisfied with the business environment in Serbia?  Slovenian companies are satisfied with the business environment, both in Serbia and wherever they operate in the world. Internationalized companies had to do their homework beforehand, adapt their business to the environment and culture of the country in which they launched or developed their business.

Serbia is the second most popular destination for Slovenian foreign investments, so there is no doubt that Slovenian companies are satisfied. Slovenia has invested nearly 1 billion euro in Serbia so far. Serbia is traditionally a significant market for Slovenian companies. Adjusting business processes becomes a little easier when there are no cultural and linguistic barriers, and considering that we have traditional business ties from the time of Yugoslavia, which may have given Slovenia a slight advantage over other countries.

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IN THE PROCESS OF ADAPTING TO THE EU LEGISLATION, SERBIA MUST ALSO INCORPORATE THESE REGULATIONS INTO IT SOLUTIONS, AND THIS IS WHERE SLOVENIA HAS BOTH THE EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE SLOVENIA 2019

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CORPORATE

We Understand the

LOCAL MARKET The importance of the Serbian market in the development strategy of the NLB Group is a guarantee of active support to the bank in Serbia, which we can count on at any given time, both by our parent bank in Slovenia and by all the Group members

BRANKO GREGANOVIĆ Chairman of the Executive Board of NLB Banka Beograd

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t is important for NLB that we have successfully completed the privatization process. In November it was a year since NLB was listed on the Ljubljana and London stock exchanges, and in June this year, Slovenia completed its privatization by selling its 75% share, less one share, in the bank's capital. The NLB Group ended last year with a profit of EUR 203.6 million, of which NLB Banka Beograd generated EUR 5.2 million. This year, we continued the trend of successful operations and we expect good business results at the end of 2019," says Branko Greganović, Chairman of the Executive Board of NLB Banka Beograd at the beginning of the interview.

What have you been particularly focused on this year, and what are your expectations and plans for next year?

— We have done a lot of work on improving our products and services, as well as all the processes in the bank. The modern life-

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style, supported by modern technological solutions, has contributed to the creation of new habits and expectations of clients, who increasingly want to complete all their dealings with the bank in just a few clicks.

They want to get everything they need quickly, easily, online, either on computer or via a mobile app. That is why, in the past period, we have invested a lot not only in improving the existing services, but also in creating a foundation for new services that we want to make available to our clients.

The new regulations have made it possible for us to do that and without it these solutions would not be possible.

EXPECTATIONS

This year, we continued the trend of successful operations and we expect good business results at the end of 2019 What do you think of the cooperation between businesspeople from Slovenia and Serbia, and what role does NLB plays in all of that?

— One of the strengths of NLB Bank in Serbia is the fact that it operates under the NLB Group, the largest banking group with headquarters in our region and which considers Serbia a strategic market. The importance of the Serbian market in the development strategy of the NLB Group is

a guarantee of active support to the bank in Serbia, which we can count on at any given time, both by our parent bank in Slovenia and by all the Group members. As a group based in this region, we have a good understanding of the mindset, business, and needs of people in these areas, making us a true partner for all clients doing business or wanting to do business with companies from other markets in the SEE region, a partner who can help them to prepare for whatever is coming their way.

An important part of the NLB Group's business strategy is its corporate social responsibility. Which project would you particularly like to highlight?

— For the eighth consecutive time, we organized NLB Organic, a competition for organic producers, which encourages the development of organic production, as we believe it is significant in terms of environmental and human health. Our NLB Gallery, which has already organized 14 exhibitions, is certainly a project worth mentioning because it supports young artists and helps them build their artistic careers. I would like to also highlight a project whereby with each housing loan we have granted in the last quarter, we have allocated 10,000 dinars to support institutions that care for the homeless. I think this is, in many ways, a true example of good CSR action. On the one hand, by complying with all the standards of good business practice, we help our clients to own real estate by providing finances for it, while raising funds to improve the quality of life of people who are homeless for various reasons.

CORPORATE

Big Plans for

THE FUTURE Our goal for Nectar is to process every second apple that is produced and that remained in Serbia

MIHAILO JANKOVIĆ Managing Director of Nectar

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ectar, as the real 100% family-owned Serbian company, is an excellent example of how a Serbian dream can come true - a family company that started from scratch to become one of the most successful companies in the region with six factories and an annual consolidated revenue of more than €107 million, all thanks to the work, commitment and upholding its values. On the other hand, we still think we have plenty of room for further development. That is why, in 2019, we launched a series of projects that will lead us towards organic production - we opened the largest organic apple plantation in Vladičin Han, we entered into a joint venture with Global Seed and thus into organic milk and dairy production, and we did a lot on protecting the geographic origin of the Arilje raspberry and Oblačinska sour cherry brands. And finally, as our final achievement, we are the recipients of Best of Serbia award, in two categories - as the best corporate brand in the beverage category and the best brand with geographic origins for the Arilje raspberry,” says Mihailo Janković, Managing Director of the Nectar Company, at the beginning of the interview.

You are focusing on the production of healthy food with an added value for consumers. How much of your operations will be directed towards organic production in the upcoming period?

— We believe that slowly but surely Serbia is starting to be recognized in the world as a source of good, quality, delicious organic food. That is why we have been investing in organic product development for a long time. This year, we opened the largest organic apple plantation in Serbia, spanning 45 hectares of land, and invested 200,000 euro in equipment and seedlings. Over the next four years, the plan is to invest another 300,000 euro and cover all 114 hectares of land with our organic apple plantations.

We will use the apples grown there to pro-

PLAN

Over the next four years, the plan is to invest another 300,000 euro and cover all 114 hectares of land with our organic apple plantations duce the Frutek Organic Baby Food, Life Organic Juices and for the first time in the Serbian market, organic squeezed juices.

This year we have also made another major step forward - we have entered into a joint venture project with the Bio Panon Company. We plan to strongly develop new product categories and offer a high-quality portfolio under the Farma Organica milk and dairy brand. This is a big market step because, for the first time, we are joining forces with our partner on this investment to launch a new category of organic dairy products. It is also very important to rec-

ognize the right partners and align our visions, and, of course, to meet the needs of today's consumers.

You also recently established a foundation called ‘Nije Svejedno’. How did you decide on this and how important is it to your business?

— Nectar has always strived to contribute to the community in which it operates. Socially responsible activities are an integral part of the business and an additional activity. We established the Nije Svejedno Foundation because we want to approach this area strategically and contribute to the society as much as we can with our hard work, know-how and experience.

As a domestic, family-owned company that was founded over two decades ago, it is important to us to share some of the success with the community in which we live and work. We want to be able to look back at some point in time and to see that we have made a difference because in that way we all win.

What are the company’s plans for the next period?

— I see Nectar products in shops around the world. I know that we will continue to invest, innovate and push the boundaries.

Our goal for Nectar is to process every second apple that is produced and that remained in Serbia. We also want to stay true to the 'Nije Svejedno' (It does matter) business philosophy in everything we do, as well as to become a regional leader in healthy food production and a global stakeholder in juice production.

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THE RESULTS ARE SIGNIFICANT DANIJELA FIŠAKOV

President of the Slovenian Business Club

he Slovenian Business Club (SPC) has been operating in Serbia for almost two decades. The SPC President, Danijela Fišakov talks about changes in our country during that time, the potential for cooperation, and the potential for growth.

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ADOPTING NEW VALUES ALSO BRINGS NEW OPPORTUNITIES

Most importantly, businesspeople have confidence in their organization in terms of supporting their business path, primarily in Serbia but also in Slovenia

The Slovenian Business Club was established 16 years ago. What have been the biggest challenges you have faced during all those years?  Since its inception, the Slovenian Business Club has encountered a variety of challenges on a daily basis. Going beyond these daily challenges, maintaining the

One of the goals of the Slovenian Business Club is to "provide information on investment opportunities in Serbia".

How have these opportunities changed in the last ten years?  Two basic trends emerged in the last ten years – there was a period of decline, followed by a period of growth.

The decline started immediately after the bubble burst, with the onset of the global economic crisis. Business conditions changed almost overnight. They became more difficult not only for what I call a "manipulative businesses" but

reputation of the Slovenian Business Club all these years, and developing the Club to become an important and influential factor in business circles in Serbia and Slovenia, have all been big challenges that persist to this day. Today, the SPC is a representative factor with a good reputation. Many people also say that it has become a brand. If that is true, and I like the thought of that, the Club has achieved that by growing, developing its offers and activities, constantly expanding, listening to the needs of its members, adapting to their wishes, demands and market opportunities but also by always offering something new, some new idea, some added value.

STATE INSTITUTIONS RECOGNIZE THE IMPORTANCE OF COOPERATION WITH SLOVENIAN COMPANIES IN SERBIA AND RESPOND TO OUR CALLS

The number of Slovenian Business Club members has been growing year-onyear. What has contributed most to the continued growth of membership?  The most important thing is that business people have confidence in their organization in terms of supporting their business path, primarily in Serbia but also in Slovenia. It is not that easy or simple to earn that trust and keep it strong. Thanks to our dedication and investing ourselves in our work, we are doing very well for the time being. Each year, the number of members is slowly but surely growing and this year, it stands at 161. The most important thing is that we listen and recognize the needs of the members and then offer them adequate quality support.

Due to the diversity of companies, all this work is quite complex, but the entire SPC team is very committed to it and works with dedication and love. In this way, we keep achieving good results, one after the other.

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Potential

also for businesses that base their operations on sound foundation and principles and which interests are represented by the Slovenian Business Club. Investments slowed down, the information was focused on survival and maintaining a presence in all markets, including this one. As with all diseases, the fever lasted for a while, and then business organisms that had strong immunity began to slowly recover. Global and Serbian markets have undergone significant changes. The development of new technologies has

brought innovations in the ways business is done and accelerated opportunities.

The Serbian state finally starting to walk down the path to the European Union and began to implement the same principles and rules as developed markets. Many deficiencies are still present, but, definitely, the Serbian business environment is characterized by fewer negative specifics. It is increasingly starting to resemble the open markets of the developed world. Adopting new values also brings new opportunities.

What kind of support do Slovenian business people in Serbia expect the most from the state in regard to further development of the economic ties between the two countries?  Companies that operate in Serbia, both from Slovenia and from other countries, as well as domestic ones, generally have objections to the Serbian business environment. This is the case in all markets and this is by no means a negative phenomenon. Objections existed, exist and will always exist. The suggestions should be viewed solely as assisting the Serbian state in its efforts to make progress in improving its business environment. In recent years, Serbia has been doing a lot to make its business environment as friendly as possible and the results of that work are evident. A stable monetary exchange rate has been achieved, infrastructure is being built on a large scale, public finances are more consolidated and transparent, far more progress has been made in the digitization of state administration and local self-government, and various permit issuance processes have been expedited.

The results are significant, but of

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THE SIGNIFICANT POTENTIAL IS FOUND IN THE SEGMENTS LIKE IT INDUSTRY, CONSTRUCTION, DIGITIZATION, AGRICULTURE, ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND TOURISM SLOVENIA 2019

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course, more should be done. Business people always want more transparency, fairer market relations, more principled law enforcement, better dialogue between the state and the business, and further changes to laws in order to improve the business environment. Undoubtedly, besides the direct market participants – that is business people and companies - the entire Serbian state and society benefit from every improvement of the business environment. It brings a greater influx of investments, significantly contributes to the success and revenues of companies, and, ultimately, to greater state budget revenues.

Which economic segments have the biggest potential in terms of new Slovenian investors doing business in Serbia?  A significant number of gatherings took place recently and a lot of substantive discussions have been held on the topic of linking the economies of Serbia and Slovenia and the potential investments by one economy in another and vice versa. Quite evidently, there are many opportunities for this. The significant potential is found in the segments like IT industry, construction, digitization, agriculture, environmental protection and tourism. Expanding to, finding and conquering new markets is something that economies have been doing for centuries. Like all other living organisms, business entities are always on the lookout for territories that are suitable for their survival and prosperity. They explore, listen, try and communicate.

Most notably, pioneers were responsible for the biggest shifts which have not always been the most profitable. That is why we should not be surprised if we see a Slovenian company interested in investing in a segment in Serbia that is not generally recognized as having great potential.

How would you rate the cooperation the Club has with representatives of the Serbian government and administration, the Chamber of Commerce and other institutions involved in creating the business environment?  As an organization that helps develop cooperation between the Slovenian and Serbian economies, we have the support of the state institutions of both countries.

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IN RECENT YEARS, SERBIA HAS BEEN DOING A LOT TO MAKE ITS BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT AS FRIENDLY AS POSSIBLE AND THE RESULTS OF THAT WORK ARE EVIDENT This support is very important because we are therefore in a position to positively influence business relations in the Slovenian and Serbian markets, that is, to give initiatives and to be supported. We are present at important events where we promote our members and ask questions on their behalf. In our daily work, we cooperate with various state institutions and in most cases, we are satisfied with the cooperation. State institutions recognize the importance of cooperation

with Slovenian companies in Serbia and respond to our calls.

In recent years, we have had many opportunities to host high-profile Serbian and Slovenian officials and business people. At such meetings, the SPC members get first-hand information about the most recent stances of the Serbian state bodies and economic institutions influencing the Serbian market.

Very often, such meetings are a unique opportunity for the SPC members to get in touch with people who are essential to solving their business problem, to get advice or guidance, and even a solid promise that their problem will be resolved. I must also underline the very important role of the guests at these meetings who are not top officials or as they are often called "high-level officials". As a rule, the SPC members find these guests to be extremely helpful in operational matters. Meetings with these guests are somewhat smaller in scope, but more professional, more to the point and extremely useful.

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EC ONOMY

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THE NUMBERS THEY PROMISE

The industrial sector represents 28.77% of the GDP and employment

s a member of the European Union since May 2004 and of the Eurozone since 2007, Slovenia is an advanced, independant and stable country. According to IMF and Bank of Slovenia estimates, Slovenia's economic growth was of 4.5% in 2018 and is expected to slow down to around 3.4% in 2019 and 2.8% in 2020.

In 2018, deficit grew again to 0.1%. For 2019, the government expects a budget surplus of 0.4%; while IMF expects a deficit of 0.8% for 2019 and 1% for 2020. Public debt fell as an estimated percentage of GDP to 69.7% in 2018 and 67.5% in 2019 (from 73.6% in 2016). Following deflation of 0.1% in 2016, Slovenia's average annual inflation reached 2.1% in 2018 and is expected to remain stable around 2% in the coming years. Slovenia has been an open market since its successful economic transition of the 2000's. It maintains a long tradition of trading with neighbouring countries, making it vulnerable to its neighbours’ economic health, and was lauded for its calm management of the immense flux of migrants passing through the country, mostly towards Germany and Sweden.

Unemployment fell continued to drop at fast pace in 2018 (5.8%), driven by strong

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exports and increasing consumption that boosted labor demand. It is expected to keep on falling but at slower pace (5.4% in 2019 and 5.3% in 2020). According to National Statistical Office, the overall poverty rate was 13.3% in 2017. Poverty amongst senior population, consisting of mostly women and marginalized minorities, is an area of severe concern; to address this, a 2020 Strategy for elder people has been implemented.

THE TOURISM SECTOR IS VERY DYNAMIC AND IS UNDERGOING A PERIOD OF STRONG DEVELOPMENT

MAIN SECTORS OF INDUSTRY Slovenia has a skilled and productive labour force of almost 980,000 people out of its 2.08 million population. The agricultural sector is declining and reached only 1.8% of the GDP in 2017 (compared to 3.6% in 1995). It employs around 4.8% of

the population. Total utilized agricultural area equates to 24% of the total area of the country, and 8.6% is dedicated to organic production. Forestry is a key economic factor, with 66% of land area forested and an annual production value of EUR 250 million to the economy.

The industrial sector represents 28.77% of the GDP and employment (31.79%). Historically, the dominant industries in Slovenia have been the forestry, the textile and the metallurgical industries. Since the 1980s, the mechanical industries (automobile, tool machines) and the high value-added industries (electronics, pharmacy and chemicals) have been greatly developed.

The services remains as the most significant sector in the Slovenian economy.

This sector, which represents 56.39% of the GDP and employed by 63.41% of the total workforce, has shown a strong growth pattern during the last ten years, especially in the fields of information and communications technology (ITC), financial and commercial services and retail business.

The tourism sector is very dynamic and is undergoing a period of strong development (3.5 million tourists in 2017), helped by the Strategy for Sustanable Development of Slovenian Tourism for 2017-2021.

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C OOPERATI O N

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AMONG THE TOP 10

efore the upcoming joint session of the Serbian and Slovenian government takes place, here is a summary of the nature of the economic relations between the two countries. What we can say at the outset is that the two countries are good partners to each other and have no unresolved issues.

Cooperation is good in both political and economic segment. Numerous visits

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Estimates have shown that in 2020, the value of external trade will exceed EUR 2 billion

by Serbian and Slovenian officials speak in favour of this. This year, the Slovenian Prime Minister Marijan Ĺ arec visited Bel-

1,600 SLOVENIAN COMPANIES OPERATE IN SERBIA

grade, after the spring visit of the Slovenian President Borut Pahor. During their visits, the two officials underlined that the economic and political cooperation between Serbia and Slovenia had never been better. Officials from both countries also voiced their hopes that, in 2020, the value of the trading in goods between the two countries would exceed EUR 2 billion.

The external trade between the two countries grew 14 per cent last year, with

Slovenia being one of the top ten investors in Serbia, making EUR 1 billion worth of investments so far. According to available data, 1,600 Slovenian companies operate in Serbia. The year 2019 was marked by Serbia recording a surplus in trading with Slovenia, which had not happened before. Significant potential can be found in the economic segments such as IT industry, construction, digitization, agriculture, environmental protection and tourism. Slovenia exports to Serbia all types of vehicles and parts for vehicles and tires, machines and machine parts and household appliances, while it mostly imports aluminium plates, medical devices, refrigerators and iron from Serbia.

It is also important to mention that close to 25,000 Serbian nationals work in Slovenia. This is a big and important figure that shows the extent of our economic co-

THE NUMBER OF SLOVENIAN TOURISTS IN SERBIA HAS GONE UP BY ALMOST 11 PER CENT operation, while the potential for further growth is reflected in the two countries concluding an agreement on the employment of Serbian workers in Slovenia, which was signed this year. The two countries have signed many intergovernmental treaties, so it is not that surprising that they have signed this agreement too.

The good news is that the economic relationship with Slovenia is no longer one-sided because an increasing number of Serbian companies are investing in

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Export

Slovenia. According to the latest available data, Serbian investments in Slovenia are expected to grow even more, which are now in excess of EUR 400 million. In addition, the number of Slovenian tourists in Serbia increased by almost 11 per cent. Therefore, it is not surprising that the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia opened a representative office in Ljubljana earlier this year, which is their first and only representative office in the region of the former Yugoslavia. From the former "raw-material base" for the Western Yugoslav republics, Serbia is now becoming an increasingly important investor in the region, including in Slovenia.

Lastly, we should also note Slovenia's support for Serbia's accession to the European Union and its importance given the active involvement of Slovenia in regional issues within the Brdo-Brioni process as well as the Berlin Process.

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SLOVENIA EXPORTS TO SERBIA ALL TYPES OF VEHICLES AND PARTS FOR VEHICLES AND TIRES, MACHINES AND MACHINE PARTS AND HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES, WHILE IT MOSTLY IMPORTS ALUMINIUM PLATES, MEDICAL DEVICES, REFRIGERATORS AND IRON FROM SERBIA SLOVENIA 2019

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SBC

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ACTIVITIES OF THE SLOVENIAN BUSINESS CLUB

SBC is today a significant and influential factor in connecting the economies of Serbia and Slovenia

Serbia-Slovenia business forum

or sixteen years now, the Slovenian Business Club (SBC) has been successfully organizing a significant number of large and small events with the participation of eminent representatives from Serbia, Slovenia and the region. The Club also cooperates with other business associations in Serbia. Continuing in the same direction, albeit at a faster pace, and with more energy and enthusiasm, the club provides backing and support to its members and friends. By working oneon-one, it helps companies to find partners for cooperation and overcoming problems.

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WORKING MEETING-EU DELEGATION IN SERBIA 24.01.2019 In collaboration with the German-Serbian, Swiss-Serbian and Italian-Serbian chambers of commerce, the SBC hosted representatives of the EU Delegation to Serbia.

Mateja Norčič Štamcar, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation and Yngve Engstroem, Head of the Delegation's Cooperation Sector, presented to the business people in attendance the Delegation's activities, explained Serbia's progress towards the EU accession and the possibilities of financing from EU funds in the Republic of Serbia.

SERBIA-SLOVENIA BUSINESS FORUM 28.01.2019 The Serbia - Slovenia Business Forum titled "Digitization of Economy and State" was organized in the Palace of Serbia.

After the opening remarks by the President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, Marko Čadež, and the President of the Slovenian Chamber of Commerce, Bostjan Gorjup, and presidents of both countries, Aleksandar Vučić and Borut Pahor respectively, addressed the audience. Three panels took place at the Forum - "Current Trends in the Devel-

Working Breakfast – Business Excellence Centre, Faculty of Economics From Ljubljana

Working Meeting-EU Delegation in Serbia

opment of Tourism Offer – the Glamping Case", "Circular Economy" and the central panel "Digitization of Economy and State". Over 250 B2B meetings were organized during the panels. The Business Forum is organized in cooperation with the chambers of commerce from both countries and the Enterprise Europe Network. The SBC was the co-organizer of the event itself, with many SBC members participating.

WORKING BREAKFAST – BUSINESS EXCELLENCE CENTRE, FACULTY OF ECONOMICS FROM LJUBLJANA 17.05.2019 In collaboration with the Faculty of Economics' Business Excellence Centre from Ljubljana, which is the third faculty in the world to include neuro-leadership in its MBA programme, the SBC held a working breakfast on the topic of "Brain leadership for the 21st century."

Panel Discussion - Industry 4.0 Slovenia – Serbia

Professor Nikolaos Dimitriadis, PhD, was the main guest at the working breakfast.

He has been applying neuroscience and behavioural sciences in marketing, communications, leadership and education for over a decade. He presented to the guests a new dimension of leadership, indicating to them how we can enhance our leadership approach and prepare people to positively embrace change with the help of neuro-leadership. The "Leadership in the 21st Century" panel was also held as part of the working breakfast.

PANEL DISCUSSION - INDUSTRY 4.0 SLOVENIA – SERBIA 21.05.2019 Under the auspices of the 63rd International Fair of Techniques and Technological Achievements in Belgrade, the SBC and the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Serbia held a panel discussion on the topic of "Industry 4.0 Slove-

nia - Serbia, Digital Transformation of the Economy". The panel was opened by Danijela Fišakov, MBA, President of the SBC, while the Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia in Serbia, H.E. Mr Iztok Jarc and Goran Križ, Economic Advisor at the Embassy, addressed the audience. Panellists included representatives of successful companies in Serbia, who spoke about the direction of the digital transformation of the industry, the experiences of companies regarding the implementation of Industry 4.0 solutions, and Serbia's potential to export software solutions and technically demanding products worldwide.

INTERNATIONAL NETWORKING COCKTAIL 23.05.2019 In cooperation with the German, French, Swiss, British and Dutch chambers of commerce, the Belgian-Serbian Business Association, the Hellenic Busi-

International Networking Cocktail

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Working Meeting- Siniša Mali, Serbian Finance Minister

ness Association, the Croatian Business Club, the Chamber of Italian-Serbian Business People, the Nordic and Japanese business alliances in Serbia and the Canadian-Serbian Business Association, the SBC organized a very successful International Networking Cocktail. The event was attended by over 300 companies, which is a clear indication of the strong interest of the members of all chambers in getting to know each other, cooperating, disseminating their ideas and creating a foundation for further successful bilateral cooperation in Serbia.

WORKING BREAKFAST – SKUPINA SIMIČ & PARTNERJI 13.06.2019 In cooperation with the SBC, Skupina Simič & Partnerji, headed by director Ivan Simič, MSc, who is also the former director of the Tax Administration of the Republic of Serbia and Slovenia, organized an event aimed at drawing parallels between the Serbian and Slovenian

Working Breakfast – Skupina Simič & Partnerji

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Working Meeting- Siniša Mali, Serbian Finance Minister

policies and regulation of resident tax status. The guests of the working breakfast also talked about corporate and personal income tax, tax for small business owners, royalties, inheritance tax, dividends, etc.

WORKING MEETING- SINIŠA MALI, SERBIAN FINANCE MINISTER

Slovenia was today among the ten largest investors in Serbia, and that there were more and more Serbian investors in Slovenia. Those present also had the opportunity to ask the Minister questions regarding current issues that they face daily in their work.

SEMINAR- JSP LAW FIRM 24.09.2019

19.09.2019 The SBC played host to the Minister of Finance of the Republic of Serbia, Siniša Mali at a working meeting. The business people in attendance were first addressed by the SBC President, Danijela Fišakov, MBA, and then H.E. Mr Iztok Jarc, Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia to Serbia. The Slovenian Ambassador thanked the Government of the Republic of Serbia for implementing activities aimed at enhancing the cooperation between Serbia and Slovenia. The Finance Minister said that the economic and political cooperation between Serbia and Slovenia had never been better, that

Seminar- JSP Law Firm

The Joksović, Simić and Partners Law Firm held a seminar on the topic of "Serbian GDPR - New Rights and Obligations" with many people in attendance. In addition to the SBC, the seminar was supported by the German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce, the Canadian-Serbian Business Association and the Swiss-Serbian Chamber of Commerce, whose members attended the seminar in large numbers.

The new rules and obligations stemming from the new Law on Personal Data Protection of the Republic of Serbia, which are mandatory for companies, were thoroughly explained at the seminar.

Martinovanje

MARTINOVANJE 2019 25.10.2019 Martinovanje (St. Martin's Day), a traditional Slovenian holiday dedicated to young wine, was celebrated in Belgrade by presenting the tourist and economic potential of different regions and cities of Slovenia. The hosts of this year's Martinovanje in Belgrade were the City of Piran and Portorož Tourist Board. The SBC President, Danijela Fisakov thanked the Municipality of Piran-Portorož for successfully conveying the atmosphere of these destinations to people in Belgrade and to the Serbian companies that supported the event. Numerous guests were also greeted by the Mayor of Piran, Djenio Zadković, Director of the Portorož Tourist Board, Igor Novel and Director of MK Group, Jovan Purar. As the event's main partners, MK Group and the Slovenian Tourist Board, gave their support to the promotion of local gastronomy, wine and tourist potential. Members of the SBC, Triglav Insurance Company, Diplomacy &

Martinovanje

Speed Business Meeting – Spk, Ahk, Amcham, Cansee, Jpas

Commerce and DHL Serbia were also the sponsors of this event.

SPEED BUSINESS MEETING – SPK, AHK, AMCHAM, CANSEE, JPAS 30.10.2019 In cooperation with the German Chamber of Commerce, the American Chamber of Commerce, the Japan Business Alliance and the Canadian-Serbian Business Association, the SBC organized a speed business meeting (SBM) at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, which was also a partner of the event. The meeting organizers and Managing Director of the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Mr Hom Parviz welcomed the participants of this B2B meeting. This year's SBM had both a working and welcoming atmosphere, bringing together a large number of member companies from all five chambers, as well as non-member companies, which also contributed to the meeting's success. A total of 56 companies had the opportunity to present their companies, services and

products during eight-minute-long oneon-one meetings.

SEMINAR – DATA 28.11.2019 In cooperation with the SBC and the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Serbia, the DATA Company organized an exceptionally successful and well-attended seminar called "The Slovenian Business Environment and Business Migration". The keynote address was given by the SBC President, Danijela Fišakov, MBA, Consul of the Embassy, Primož Križaj, and Economic Advisor to the Embassy, Dejan Vladić. The seminar focused on companies planning to expand their business activities in Slovenia and the EU. Considering the experience and knowledge that the DATA Company has in the field of economic and migration law, at the seminar, the company representatives talked about the stages of company registration, obtaining work and residence permits in Slovenia, how are businesses taxed in Slovenia, etc.

Seminar – Data

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THE FIRST WESTERN BAND TO PERFORM IN NORTH KOREA Always criticized, always expressing their views of the modern world loudly and clearly, the members of the Slovenian band Laibach are considered true artists on the contemporary music scene

he Slovenian music band Laibach was a pioneer in many things in this part of the world. They were the first band from the former Yugoslavia to conquer the world, to sign a contract with the famous label Mute and to perform in the most important concert venues in Europe and America. A few years ago, they did something that no-one before them had done. They became the first Western band to perform in North Korea on the occasion of the 17th anniversary of the country's liberation. The whole world watched their guest appearance in North Korea.

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THE WELL-KNOWN BAVARIAN RADIO STATION ZÜNDFUNK / BAYERISCHER RUNDFUNK CALLED THEM ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT MUSIC BANDS AND PERFORMERS IN THE HISTORY OF POP MUSIC

Laibach performed in Belgrade in early December, on a European leg of their tour on which they are presenting their newest album “The Sound of Music”. The album, released last year, is a result of the band’s performance in North Korea in 2015.

Always criticized, always expressing their views of the modern world loudly and clearly, the members of this Slovenian band is considered true artists on the contemporary music scene, and each of their performances is a multimedia spectacle that communicates with their loyal audience in the most direct way. Apart from the songs from their latest album,

the Belgrade audience also had the opportunity to hear the biggest hits from the band’s entire career such as “Life Is Life”, “Resistance Is Futile”, “Smrt za smrt”, “How You Will Pay”, “Eurovision” and “The Whistleblowers”, as well as the music they wrote for the film “Iron Sky – The Coming Race” which was directed

by Timo Vuorensola which is currently showing across Europe.

This Slovenian band has created a fantastic career on a global scale. The English press has declared them the most dangerous group in the world, while, during their US tour, a New York radio station called them “a band that is destroying countries and creating new ones”. Since their inception in 1980, they have played more than 1,000 concerts around the world, while on their first European tour in 1983, called "The Tour of Occupied Europe", they travelled and performed dressed in Yugoslav army uniforms. The well-known Bavarian radio station Zündfunk / Bayerischer Rundfunk called them one of the most important music bands and performers in the history of pop music, while the esteemed English music magazine WIRE ranked their extreme performance at the Trbovlje Thermal Power Plant in 1990 among "The 60 concerts that set the world on fire".

In their 40-year-long career, the band has released more than thirty albums, made films and wrote graduate and doctoral dissertations, while the renowned Boston-based university, MIT has published a book about them, called “The Interrogation Machine”. They have influenced a number of world-renowned musicians such as Nine Inch Nails, Marlyn Manson and Rammstein, while their record label is London's famous "Angry Records", which represents some of the world's most prominent musical names, such as Depeche Mode, Nick Cave, Goldfrapp, Moby, New Order and many more.

Next year, Laibach will celebrate four decades of its existence. The story about this iconic band starts in the Slovenian town of Trbovlje in 1980 when a group of young artists started an engaged art and music movement, which is how the band was formed. Laibach is a German name for Ljubljana that was used only during World War II. Initially, they performed together with groups such as Irwin (painting) and Crveni Pilot (theatre). Immediately after their inception, they put

LAIBACH PERFORMED IN BELGRADE IN EARLY DECEMBER, ON A EUROPEAN LEG OF THEIR TOUR ON WHICH THEY ARE PRESENTING THEIR NEWEST ALBUM “THE SOUND OF MUSIC”

together their first multimedia project called “Rdeči Revirji”, to provoke the then political structures in Trbovlje. The event was severely criticized by the media, which is something that they were secretly hoping for. Their visual style at the time related to mining iconography, but over time they introduced other symbols such as the Triglav Mountain, deer antlers and the cogwheel-framed Malevich cross. The identity of the band members is shrouded in secrecy, and the band’s setup is flexible. It took them two years to form an army of like-minded people, and they had their first concert exactly two years after their inception.

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T R ADI T I ON

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OLD AND PRESTIGIOUS

The wine made from its grapes is considered to be one of the most special and rare beverages in the world

he confirmed age of the Old Wine, which grows in Maribor, is over 400 years and it is entered in the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest noble wine in the world. It still bears grapes from which a very special wine is made.

The Old Wine bears grapes of the "Žametovka" or "Modra kavčina" variety, and is ranked among the oldest domesticated noble wines in Slovenia. The wine made from its grapes is considered to be one of the most special and rare beverages in the world. The wine is soft pink in colour, mild and drinkable and has a low alcohol content. It is a reflection of the conditions in which the Old Wine grows – by a river, on the south-facing side of an old house.

On average, the Old Wine yields 35 to 55 kilogrammes of grapes that make 15 to 35 litres of wine.

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Among the many distinguished recipients of this exclusive wine are Pope John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI, Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, former Japanese Emperor Akihito, former

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U.S. President Bill Clinton, former Czech President Vaclav Havel, former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Mayor of Vienna Michael Häupl, chess grandmaster Garry Kimovich Kasparov, Matevž Lenarčič, who flew around the globe in

THE OLD WINE BEARS GRAPES OF THE "ŽAMETOVKA" OR "MODRA KAVČINA" VARIETY, AND IS RANKED AMONG THE OLDEST DOMESTICATED NOBLE WINES IN SLOVENIA an ultralight plane, film star Brad Pitt and French footballer Michel François Platini, and many others. Wine made from the grapes of the Old Wine’s graft was also presented to the Queen Elizabeth II in 2008 on her visit to the Slovenian capital.

The Old Wine is a symbol of cooperation and friendship. Every year, the city of

Maribor presents grafts of the oldest wine in the world to its partner cities and institutions in Slovenia and abroad. The ceremonial gifts of the grafts are presented at the Old Wine Pruning. Pruning is the most important task in viticulture carried out by the city winedresser, as proper pruning enhances growth and yield. The event is attended by many invited guests, citizens, representatives of wine orders and fraternities, and wine queens. Official offspring of the oldest wine in the world, authenticated with an official certificate, grow on 130 sites in Slovenia and 84 elsewhere in the world. Many events are held in Maribor to honour the Old Wine. The spring pruning, the summer erection of the wind rattle in front of the Old Wine and the Old Wine Festival – a wine, culinary and cultural tribute to the oldest wine in the world. The events culminate in the ceremonial harvest of the Old Wine. To honour the rich wine-growing tradition and culture and to acknowledge the winemakers from the Štajerska region, every November sees the St Martin’s Day Celebration in Maribor – the largest one-day public St Martin’s Day Celebration in Slovenia.

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MAKE YOUR WISHES COME TRUE The Bled Winter Fairy tale

he image of the mountain lake with the island and castle, set against the backdrop of mighty mountain summits, charm visitors with peace and tranquillity. In winter we can take some time for ourselves and enjoy precious moments spent with our loved ones. The pristine natural environment and clear mountain air invite visitors to take a walk hand in hand, enjoy a romantic horse carriage ride or spend some time outdoors, with wellness and spa centres and the exquisite culinary completing the perfect experience of Bled.

Lake Bled with an islet and a church on it, and in the background the Bled

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Castle and the view of the mighty Julian Alps with the highest Slovenian mountain Triglav- is definitely one of the most famous Slovenian motifs. Destination of Bled is one of the best-known tourism destinations in Slovenia that is also able to present outstanding achievements in sustainable tourism development. This destination participated in the 2019 Sustainable Top 100 Destination Awards at ITB Berlin by submitting a sustainable tourism story.

This Alpine lake with the only island in Slovenia has been a world-renowned paradise for centuries, impressing visitors with its natural beauty, wealth of legend, and special powers to restore

well-being. Look out at the lake from a castle on a cliff and visit the island on a traditional “pletna” boat.

Even in winter, Bled Island is an alluring destination for tourists transferred to the island by skilled pletna boatmen. At the top of the 99-step staircase stands the island church, which has been welcoming visitors to the island for centuries. The air is filled with the ringing of the wishing bell which visitors to the island ring in hope of seeing their wishes come true. A visit to the church can be combined with a visit to the renovated bell tower Bled is surrounded by some of Slovenia’s top ski resorts. Kranjska Gora, Krvavec and Soriška planina are connect-

ed into a single “Julian Alps Regional Ski Pass”. The ski pass includes free ski bus from Bled. Bled’s central location provides skiers and snowboarders with a possibility to choose the resort with the best snow and weather conditions and enjoy a different ski slope every day.

MERRY, FESTIVE AND CULTURAL Bled in December is a merry and festive place with decorations, a Christmas market, concerts and many traditional cultural and entertaining events culminating in New Year’s Eve celebrations.

January is a month for music lovers with a passion for the saxophone. In February St. Valentine’s Concert will keep the spark of love alive, and in March the Carnival parade will finally drive the winter away.

HISTORY Bled Castle, according to written

sources, the oldest castle in Slovenia, first mentioned in a 1011 donation deed as castellum Veldes. Perched atop a steep cliff rising 130 metres above the glacial Lake Bled is a symbol of Bled and Slovenia – Bled Castle. The image of the castle forming a dramatic backdrop to the romantic island and the church on it has

DESTINATION OF BLED IS ONE OF THE BEST-KNOWN TOURISM DESTINATIONS IN SLOVENIA earned the resort worldwide recognition through the centuries. Castle terraces offer spectacular views of the lake and the island, down the Dežela area with Lesce and Radovljica and over to the

mountain ranges of the Karavanke and the Julian Alps. The fame of Bled and its beauties was spread around the world by world travellers, including Janez Vajkard Valvasor and his Glory of the Duchy of Carniola of 1689.

Owing to its strategic geographic location, Bled has always been an important venue of high–level political and other official meetings. Its castle has been visited by a number of high-ranking statesmen who enjoyed the breathtakingly beautiful views of the surrounding nature.

TRUE TASTE OF LAKE BLED This place, which has been attracting visitors for centuries, also offers excellent culinary delights. The most famous delicacy at Lake Bled is a dessert – the Bled Cream Cake (“kremšnita”) made using an original recipe from over 60 years ago.

More than 12 million pieces of this dessert have been sold in Lake Bled so far.

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CORPORATE

Visit Celje FAIRY-TALE CITY From 30th November to 31st December 2019.

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he Fairytale Celje brings light to the city where fairytales and dwarfs are awoken from a yearlong sleep and photo corners light up children’s eyes. In December, Celje transforms into a true Christmas fairytale with mythical heroes, horses and a Christmas Fair.

The December events in Fairy Celje begin with switching on the holiday lights on 30th November and end on New Year’s Eve. Children are most excited to see the Fairytale Land in Main Square, which opens on 13th December. Santa Claus, fairies and dwarfs all come to the Fairytale Land, and

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this is also where the Children’s New Year’s Eve celebration takes place later.

Things to do in the Fairytale Celje • TAKE A PHOTO AT FAIRYTALE PHOTO POINTS. • TASTE THE FAIRYTALE. • ADVENT TOURS OF CELJE.

SPECIAL

The Fairytale Celje is really special this year

•E NJOY YOUR FAVOURITE MUSIC. •S TAR PRINCE – OUTDOOR ACTIVITY GAME. •C HRISTMAS MARKET. •M AKE YOUR CHILDREN HAPPY – VISIT THE FAIRYTALE LAND Perfect Winter and New Year's Eve •C ELJE TOP ATTRACTIONS - Old Castle Celje, the Celje Regional Museum, the History Museum.

•W INTER BOOM - skiing for adults and children, ski-park, wellness, the restaurant at the CELJSKA KOČA. Visit www.visitcelje.eu

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CORPORATE

Insure Your Vehicle with

AMS OSIGURANJE Do not allow unforeseen circumstances disturb your everyday life; rather think on time and choose the safest protection for your vehicle today

I

f you do not want to bear the costs of repairing the damage done to your car, come to AMS Osiguranje. Buy our casco insurance policy and protect your vehicle from numerous risks including traffic accident, flooding, fire, parts of buildings or tree falling on your car and theft, providing your insurance terms and conditions stipulate so.

As part of AMS Osiguranje's care for its clients, you can now pay the insurance premium in 12 monthly instalments, while also being entitled to an additional discount for payment in full which is easier on your family budget.

Whether you opt for full, supplemental or partial casco insurance, compen-

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sation for any material damage to your vehicle will be paid out as soon as possible, whether it was your fault or someone else's fault.

Also, we would like to remind drivers that with every purchased casco insurance policy from AMS Osiguranje, you will receive

BEST

We put our clients first, which is why we have created the best prices and conditions in the market for you

a free AMSS Super membership and payment card, which provides the cardholder with free services and savings on the roads of Serbia and Europe for one year.

We put our clients first, which is why we have created the best prices and conditions in the market for you, and thanks to our long experience we can boast of quick and efficient payment of possible damages.

So, don’t wait another day. Come to our offices at 16, Ruzveltova Street in Belgrade or one of over 250 of our branches across Serbia where our friendly and knowledgeable staff will help you purchase a casco insurance policy.

For more information, call 0800-009009 or visit www.ams.co.rs.

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