The Ambassador of Spain to Serbia, His Excellency Juan Joseacute; Sanz Aparicio, visited Kragujevac today. The reception for the Ambassador, held at the City Administration building, was organized by Dejan Ružić, Deputy Mayor, and Danka Andonovski, Member of the City Council in charge of international cooperation and local self-government.

During the meeting, the parties discussed opportunities to enhance bilateral and economic cooperation, as well as to strengthen cultural ties between the two countries. Both sideshighlighted the importance of developing partnerships in the fields of business, education and culture, noting that there is considerable potential for closer cooperation between local institutions and organizations.

This year also holds particular significance in Serbianndash;Spanish relations, as it marks 110 years of diplomatic relations between Spain and Serbia, formerly Yugoslavia.

This evening, as part of the City Day celebrations, a ceremonial reception was held at City Hall for members of delegations from twin and partner cities, representatives of the business community, and the Cityrsquo;s closest associates. The reception was hosted by the Mayor of Kragujevac, Nikola Dascaron;ić, and the President of the City Assembly, Ivica Momčilović.

Mayor Nikola Dascaron;ić welcomed the delegations to City Hall, emphasizing that Kragujevac is a city of open heart, strong roots, and a clear vision for the future.

He noted that the occasion carries special symbolism, as it is being organized for the first time in a building that reflects the cityrsquo;s historical continuity, as well as its ongoing development and responsibility toward its citizens.

Recalling the year 1818, when Kragujevac became the first capital of modern Serbia, Mayor Dascaron;ić stressed that relations with partner cities are not merely formal, but grounded in genuine partnership, trust, and joint efforts. The presence of representatives from eleven twin and partner cities, together with local business leaders, confirms that sincere friendship is built over time and endures in all circumstances, he said, expressing his confidence that cooperation will continue through new projects and strengthened ties that transcend borders.

In addition to delegations from the cities and municipalities of Bijeljina, Bielsko-Biała, Pitești, Ohrid, Stari Grad Sarajevo, Foča, Budva, Zubin Potok, Kozarska Dubica, Oscaron;tra Luka, and Prijedor, the traditional ceremonial reception was attended by representatives of the local business sector and members of the Sports Association of Mostar.

Among the guests were also honorary citizens of Kragujevac - Tudor Pendiuc, former Mayor of Pitești, and Mima Andrejević Kri, philanthropist.

The President of the Republic of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, attended today in Kragujevac, together with the Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Belgrade, Alexander Titolo, the activation of new modules at the State Data Center, a new supercomputer, and solar panels, further strengthening the national digital infrastructure. The event was also attended by Dr. Mihailo Jovanović, Director of the Office for Information Technology and eGovernment, Mayor of Kragujevac Nikola Dascaron;ić, Head of the Scaron;umadija Administrative District Biljana Ilić Stoscaron;ić, and Deputy Mayor Dejan Ružić.

During his visit to Kragujevac, President Vučić stated that Serbia is making strong investments in the development of digital infrastructure and innovative technologies, emphasizing that such projects are crucial for the countryrsquo;s future. Many thanks to our partners for their cooperation, which, together with our clear ambition, is leading Serbia into the future. What has been presented today in Kragujevac has no competition in the region; in this respect, only Poland can compare with us, the President said, adding that some more developed countries are currently behind Serbia in this field.

He stressed the importance of cooperation with international partners, particularly with the company Nvidia, without whose technology and expertise, as he noted, such progress would not have been possible. The President assessed that Serbia must not miss the ldquo;artificial intelligence revolutionrdquo;, emphasizing that this field represents an opportunity for accelerated development.

Speaking about the State Data Center in Kragujevac, which holds the highest European TIER 4 certification, Vučić described this moment as historic for Serbiarsquo;s digital infrastructure. With the activation of the new modules and supercomputer, an additional eight megawatts of energy capacity have been secured, bringing the total capacity to 14 megawatts, while the total value of the investment exceeds EUR 100 million. A second supercomputer, worth EUR 5 million and almost seven times more powerful than the previous one, was also put into operation today, with a third, more advanced system expected soon.

Addressing security issues, the President noted that Serbia has been exposed to millions of cyber attacks but has managed to protect its infrastructure, and that key state institutions are being relocated to the Data Center to ensure the highest level of data protection. He added that the Data Center is already generating significant revenue from international companies leasing its capacities, with expectations that this revenue will continue to grow.

In addition to digital development, the President pointed to the importance of infrastructure and economic projects in Kragujevac and the Scaron;umadija region -including the construction of the Northern Bypass, the development of the road network, and investments in healthcare - emphasizing that the upcoming reconstruction of the University Clinical Centre, worth more than EUR 100 million, best illustrates the scale of change. He particularly highlighted the importance of industry and the company Stellantis, stressing that the state remains committed to strengthening the economy and creating new jobs.

I believe that by 2030 we will achieve all the goals set and that Kragujevac will become one of Serbiarsquo;s key development centres, President Vučić concluded, announcing support for the establishment of a faculty of robotics and information technology as another step toward a knowledge-based society.

Dr. Mihailo Jovanović, Director of the Office for Information Technology and eGovernment, stated that the State Data Center and the Innovation District in Kragujevac represent the largest digital infrastructure construction site in Serbia.

He emphasized that with the construction of the Innovation District, whose first building is expected to be completed by 1 September, Kragujevac will become the ldquo;Serbian Silicon Valleyrdquo;, with major international companies arriving. As he noted, preliminary agreements have already been signed with Oracle Corporation, Honeywell, and Palo Alto Networks, while SAP is joining as a new partner.

Speaking about technological capacities, Jovanović pointed out that with the third supercomputer, a total of 720 graphics processing units will be available, with access provided not only to scientific institutions and start-ups but also to the business sector. He added that development is based on the highest European standards (EN 50600), as well as energy-efficient solutions, including water cooling and the use of solar energy.

Kragujevac has evolved from an industrial centre of automotive production into a modern IT hub of Serbia, Mayor Nikola Dascaron;ić stated, assessing that the State Data Center has fundamentally transformed the cityrsquo;s economic profile. With the Innovation District and the development of the Science and Technology Park, as well as plans to establish a new faculty focused on artificial intelligence and robotics, a unique system will be completed in Kragujevac which, as he emphasized, has no counterpart in this part of Europe, Dascaron;ić concluded.

The City of Kragujevac has been named a recipient of the prestigious ldquo;Green Champions 2026rdquo; award within the framework of the Covenant of Mayors initiative, supported by the Network of Associations of Local Authorities of South-East Europe (NALAS). At the 21st NALAS General Assembly, held in the Romanian city of Sibiu, Kragujevac was recognized as one of three regional leaders in implementing sustainable solutions in the areas of energy efficiency, the use of renewable energy sources, and sustainable mobility. On behalf of the City of Kragujevac, the award was received by Ana Radojević, Energy Manager, who presented the cityrsquo;s projects and achievements in this field at the regional event in Romania.

The significance of this recognition was highlighted by Marko Janković, a member of the City Council for Investments and Project Management, who addressed the General Assembly of the umbrella organization of national associations of local authorities. He emphasized that green projects form the foundation of the cityrsquo;s development. Through such initiatives, Kragujevac not only improves its environmental profile but also creates a modern investment climate, he stated. According to Janković, investing in sustainable infrastructure and energy transition directly contributes to improving the quality of life of citizens and attracting new, socially responsible investments. Expressing his satisfaction at being part of the delegation of the Republic of Serbia, Janković thanked the Energy Manager for the high-quality projects she leads and for their successful presentation at the Assembly.

The ldquo;Green Championsrdquo; recognition is awarded to cities whose projects serve as a model for other communities. The aim of the initiative is to recognize and promote cities and municipalities in the region that demonstrate leadership, innovation and concrete results in implementing climate policies and the green transition at the local level. The award confirms the City of Kragujevacrsquo;s strategic commitment to energy transition, the reduction of harmful gas emissions, and the creation of a healthier and more sustainable environment for all our fellow citizens, stated Ana Radojević, Energy Manager of the City of Kragujevac.

The 21st NALAS General Assembly and the forum of the European Union and South-East European countries were attended by delegations from Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia, Tuuml;rkiye, Ukraine, Moldova, and the host country, Romania. The Assembly was also attended by Juan Mindao, Vice-President of the Chinese Association of Cities, while Emil Daić was elected as the new President of NALAS.

The third day of EU Opportunities Week was held today in Kragujevac. The event, whose main message is ldquo;You Can Do It Toordquo;, is organized by the Delegation of the European Union to Serbia and Europe House in cooperation with more than 50 national and international partners. Todayrsquo;s focus was on local development and the green transition. The EU Day in our city was opened by the Ambassador of the European Union to Serbia, Andreas von Beckerath, while Deputy Mayor Dejan Ružić addressed the participants on behalf of the local self-government.

Recalling that the City of Kragujevac has been recognized as a local self-government that has made significant progress in the field of energy efficiency, as confirmed by the Eco-Municipality Award received in 2022, Ružić emphasized that projects aimed at improving the energy efficiency of public buildings remain in focus, with particular emphasis on schools, as well as direct support to citizens. For the fifth consecutive year, he noted, in cooperation with the competent ministry, subsidies have been granted for the replacement of windows and doors, heating systems and insulation, with the aim of making Kragujevac a greener and more suitable place to live.

Among the most recent major infrastructure projects implemented with the support of European Union funds, Ružić highlighted the reconstruction of the bridge in Scaron;est Topola residential area, used by several thousand Fiat employees and citizens of Kragujevac. He added that the local self-government participates in every call for grants issued by the European Union in Serbia.

In addition to financial assistance, in the long term it may be even more important that through such calls for grants we acquire additional knowledge and strengthen the capacities of the local self-government in order to respond to the requirements of the green economy. Through the transfer of knowledge from our European partners, we will empower employees in the local self-government to provide even better and more numerous services to our citizens, who are already experiencing tangible benefits in cleaner air, Ružić concluded.

Emphasizing that Kragujevac, which he is visiting for the first time, deeply impressed him with its history, and particularly with the Sretenje Constitution, Ambassador von Beckerath assessed that this progressive and overly liberal document, focused on the individual rights of every citizen, represents a perfect link between our City and the fundamental values of the European Union.

EU Opportunities Week aims to explain to every citizen of Serbia all the opportunities offered by the European Union and to emphasize that, in the accession process, the individual must be placed at the centre. Reforms in the areas of the rule of law, media freedom and the electoral framework are not encouraged because Brussels demands them, but because they are beneficial and serve the interests of citizens, von Beckerath stated. He also announced that a Europe House will soon be opened in Kragujevac - a place where citizens will be able to obtain information, submit comments, engage in debate and learn more about EU programmes.

Today, in the heart of Scaron;umadija, we are focusing on local development and the green transition, which are key to a better quality of life and sustainable economic growth. You will also be introduced to the ldquo;EU Integrardquo; programme, which is the result of our joint efforts to improve development planning that contributes to social cohesion and more balanced regional development. Investing in the environment and in the green transition means investing in the future, the Ambassador said, inviting young entrepreneurs, farmers and students to take advantage of the available funds and programmes.

The opening lecture was delivered by urban planner Pietro Elisei, who referred to the strategic priorities of the European Union and the possibility of translating them into concrete activities at the local level. Participants in the third day of EU Opportunities Week attended numerous information sessions at which speakers who had already received funding shared their experiences. Deputy Mayor Dejan Ružić also spoke at one of the sessions, presenting initiatives and examples of good practice from the local self-government.

As part of his visit to Kragujevac, the Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Serbia, Andreas von Beckerath, visited City Hall, where a reception was hosted in his honour by Mayor Nikola Dascaron;ić.

During the meeting, the importance of the continuous cooperation between the City of Kragujevac and the European Union was emphasized, reflected in the implementation of numerous projects aimed at improving the quality of life of citizens, supporting local economic development, and strengthening institutional capacities.

Since 2010, with the support of the European Union, 32 projects have been implemented in Kragujevac, with a total value exceeding EUR 5.7 million, of which EUR 4.3 million were provided through donor funding. These projects cover infrastructure, support to the economy, enhancement of social protection, and the preservation of industrial heritage.

The parties noted that significant progress has been achieved in the previous period and that there is scope for further expanding cooperation, particularly in the areas of green transition, digitalization, and sustainable development.

Mayor Dascaron;ić stressed that the European Union is an important partner of Kragujevac in delivering the cityrsquo;s development priorities, emphasizing that cooperation is measured not only by financial assistance, but by tangible results visible in the daily lives of citizens.

Ambassador von Beckerath, who is in Kragujevac on the occasion of EU Opportunities Week, expressed his satisfaction with the cooperation to date and the readiness of the European Union to continue supporting projects that contribute to economic development, the strengthening of local communities, civil society, independent media, and the improvement of services for citizens. He also expressed hope that the EU Delegation will open a European House in Kragujevac by the end of the year and thanked the hosts for their outstanding cooperation on this matter.

nbsp;

The International Association of Peace Messenger Cities, of which Kragujevac is a member, is holding a meeting of its Executive Board in our city today. Representatives of seven member cities are taking part in the meeting, both in person and via an online platform: Morphou, Cyprus, represented by Mayor Victor Hadjiavram, President of the Association; Slovenj Gradec, Slovenia, represented by Mayor Tilen Klugler, Secretary General; Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; Żurrieq, Malta; Coventry, United Kingdom; and Płońsk, Poland. On behalf of the host city, the meeting is attended by Danka Andonovski, Member of the City Council in charge of international cooperation and local self-government.

As its very name suggests, the International Association of Cities Messengers of Peace is an organization dedicated to promoting peace - something we tend to take for granted and only truly understand once it is lost, Andonovski emphasized. She recalled that the Association has existed for nearly 40 years and that Kragujevac has been an official member since its founding. She underlined that the organization itself stands as confirmation of the responsibility borne by local authorities in each member city to create and preserve a culture of peace within their respective communities.

The Associationrsquo;s commitment to promoting anti-war values is also reflected in its support for the International Anti-War Cartoon Salon, which our city organizes every two years. As Andonovski concluded, the very essence of the organizationrsquo;s mission is to safeguard and promote humane principles above any wartime objectives.

Kragujevac has a strong historical legacy and has repeatedly affirmed its role as a guardian of peace, which is why it is hosting todayrsquo;s meeting, said the Associationrsquo;s Secretary General, Tilen Klugler. Speaking about the mission of the member cities and the message they wish to send to the world, he emphasized the necessity of building bridges among people, cities, and cultures. Peace does not come on its own - it requires daily effort, and we must strive to ensure that those who will shape the future, our children, embrace this value and aspire to live in peace. More than 100 wars are currently being waged around the world, and in every conflict it is civilians and children who suffer the most. Therefore, from Kragujevac today we will send a strong and clear message to all those responsible for peace, Klugler stressed, because the solution lies in establishing dialogue among the highest political and religious leaders.

Clinic No. 1 of the Kragujevac Health Center - the oldest clinic in the city, built in 1926 and now providing care to more than 14,000 residents of the central urban area - has been named after Dr. Elizabeth Ross.

The commemorative plaque featuring a portrait of Dr. Ross, a member of the British medical mission who, guided by humanitarian principles, came to Serbia during the First World War to treat patients suffering from typhus, was unveiled by H.E. Edward Ferguson, Ambassador of the United Kingdom to the Republic of Serbia, Nikola Dascaron;ić, Mayor of Kragujevac, and Dr. Vasilije Antić, Director of the Kragujevac Health Center.

Addressing those present, Ambassador Ferguson emphasized that this is a special day that reflects the strong historical ties between the two nations. He also said that Dr. Elizabeth Ross stands as a symbol of dedication and true friendship. The fact that both a healthcare institution and a street in Kragujevac bear her name, and that the anniversary of her death is commemorated every February 14, speaks to the deep and lasting respect that exists. She was not only a physician, but someone who shared the fate of her patients to the very end, the Ambassador stated, adding that the partnership between Serbia and the United Kingdom, initiated in difficult historical circumstances, continues to develop successfully today.

Mayor Nikola Dascaron;ić stated that this act carries special significance, as the clinic is no longer merely a number, but now bears a name deeply etched in the history of Kragujevac and the Serbian people. He pointed out that Dr. Ross is a figure whom the people of Kragujevac have long regarded as one of their own. Guided solely by humanitarian principles and a love for human life, she left her homeland to help a people she did not know, Dascaron;ić recalled, stressing that such an act can only be inspired by the highest human values.

Her story remains a lasting example of dedication and solidarity, as well as proof that bonds between nations are built on respect and unity. Elizabeth Ross is, and will remain, one of our own in Kragujevac, Dascaron;ić said, adding that Kragujevac is a city that remembers and honors those who have left a lasting mark on it and its citizens.

The decision to name the clinic after Dr. Elizabeth Ross was made in order to highlight the example she represents, said Dr. Vasilije Antić, Director of the Kragujevac Health Center. As a key pillar of healthcare in the city, the clinicrsquo;s new name serves as a reminder of the values that form the foundation of the medical profession and that continue to guide physicians and medical staff in their work today, Antić concluded.

The event was preceded by a reception hosted at City Hall by the Mayor of Kragujevac, Nikola Dascaron;ić, and Danica Andanovski, Member of the City Council for International Cooperation and Local Self-Government, in honor of H.E. the Ambassador of the United Kingdom, during which contemporary cooperation was discussed. On that occasion, it was stated that there is significant room for further advancement, particularly in the fields of education, cultural exchange, and the economy, and that a solid foundation for strengthening economic ties is reflected in the approximately nine percent increase in foreign trade between Serbia and the United Kingdom in the previous year.

With this act, Kragujevac has once again affirmed that it does not forget those who have indebted the city and its citizens through their deeds, preserving the memory of a humanity that transcends time and borders.

nbsp;

AutomotiveExpo amp; B2B Meetings, held at the Scaron;umadija Fair and organized by InTradeFairs, brought together around 200 companies from the automotive industry. Among the participants were manufacturers from Romania, including their national association of automotive parts manufacturers, as well as numerous representatives of the automotive components sector from the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary. The event was conceived as a business platform for networking through B2B meetings, aimed at further developing and strengthening relations between manufacturers, suppliers and the entire supply chain.

On behalf of the host city, Radomir Erić, Member of the City Council for Economic Affairs, welcomed the participants of the first Automotive Expo and wished them successful business meetings. On that occasion, he recalled that Kragujevac is not only a city with a rich industrial history, but also a center where the future of the automotive industry in Serbia and in this part of Europe is still being shaped. This gathering is yet another confirmation of Kragujevacrsquo;s position on the map of the European automotive industry. Meetings with the companies participating in the fair are an ideal opportunity to present the cityrsquo;s potential and open the door to new contracts, Erić said. He expressed satisfaction that the organizer had chosen Kragujevac as the strategic location for holding the event, emphasizing that this form of networking represents a strong incentive for the further growth of the local economy.

The further development of the automotive sector, the automotive components industry and information and communication technologies is our strategic goal, and this business event of national importance proves that Kragujevac offers outstanding capacities for connecting the most important companies in this part of Europe, said Predrag Lučić, Director of the Regional Chamber of Commerce of the Scaron;umadija and Pomoravlje Administrative District. B2B meetings provide the foundation for new contracts and further economic growth of Kragujevac and Serbia, Lučić explained, adding that the gathering of more than 300 participants and 200 companies represents a strong incentive for the economy.

The General Manager of InTradeFairs, Claudiu Georgescu, the organizer of the event, said that Kragujevac had been the first choice for hosting AutomotiveExpo, primarily because of its rich industrial history, but also due to the excellent conditions offered by the Scaron;umadija Fair. We are very satisfied with the organization, and the fact that the first edition has gathered more than 300 participants from around 200 companies confirms that coming here was the right business move, Georgescu said, expressing hope that such a start heralds the further growth and development of the professional fair.

nbsp;

The Mayor of Kragujevac, Nikola Dascaron;ić, hosted a reception for H.E. Martijn Elgersma, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the Republic of Serbia, on the occasion of his first visit to Kragujevac. During the meeting, the mayor presented Kragujevac, highlighting its values, tradition, economic advantages and the potential of the University of Kragujevac.

Kragujevac has much to be proud of. I expect that, following this exchange of information, we will establish certain contacts, particularly with Dutch investors interested in investing in Serbia, said Dascaron;ić.

Ambassador Elgersma emphasized that the purpose of the visit was to become acquainted with the business environment in Kragujevac and the possibilities for cooperation between Serbia and the Netherlands.

The Netherlands is the second-largest investor in Serbia. We discussed opportunities for cooperation between Dutch and Serbian companies. We visited the State Data Center Kragujevac, two partner organizations that we supported through the MATRA Programme, and had the opportunity to see the mural of composer Ljubica Marić, which was supported by our embassy, the ambassador noted.

The visit once again confirmed Kragujevacrsquo;s potential as a city open to investment and the development of international cooperation.

nbsp;

At the Old Assembly building in Kragujevac, the Statehood Day of the Republic of Serbia was solemnly commemorated with the Sretenje Academy, marking the adoption of the 1835 Sretenje Constitution. It was in this City that the foundations of modern Serbian statehood were laid through the adoption of a constitutional act which, in the context of the 19th century European circumstances, represented an advanced and visionary document and permanently established the values of freedom, constitutionalism, and a state governed by law.

In his address, the Mayor of Kragujevac, Nikola Dascaron;ić, emphasized that Sretenje is not merely a date on the calendar, but ldquo;the foundation of our statehood,rdquo; recalling that it was in Kragujevac that key historical acts were adopted which permanently determined Serbiarsquo;s course. He stressed that it is the duty of todayrsquo;s generations to preserve the values bequeathed by Vožd Karađorđe Petrović and Prince Miloscaron; Obrenović. According to him, 21st century Serbia must be a strong, well-ordered, and a modern state, ready to respond to the challenges of the contemporary era, while preserving unity and social cohesion. Our intention is clear - to make up for lost time and ensure that Serbia remains a country of hope and a secure future, Dascaron;ić stated.

The Mayor also emphasized that Kragujevac holds a special place in Serbiarsquo;s contemporary development, noting that the City is entering national development projects, including preparations for Expo 2027, relying on its industrial tradition, the University of Kragujevac, and its scientific potential. He also recalled that this year marks 550 years since the earliest recorded mention of Kragujevac, which, as he stated, represents an obligation not only to remember dates, but also the people who built, defended, and advanced the City.

At the Sretenje Academy, the Speaker of the National Assembly, Ana Brnabić, addressed the audience, emphasizing that the state and its institutions are the greatest common value and represent the foundations of freedom, dignity, and social stability. Recalling the historical responsibility of Prince Miloscaron; Obrenović and the adoption of the Sretenje Constitution, Brnabić stated that Prince Miloscaron; well understood that through a constitution and laws ldquo;a state is created that protects both the ruler and the poorest peasant.rdquo; The state is not something to be trifled with.It is built, defended, and safeguarded every day, and its institutions are the guarantee of our freedom and dignity, Brnabić emphasized, stressing that no one has the right to use the state for short-term political goals, and that caring for the state is a lasting obligation of all generations.

As part of the ceremony, the ldquo;Milovan Guscaron;ićrdquo; Medal was awarded for the first time, a newly established City award in honor of a first-class infantry captain, great benefactor and philanthropist born on Sretenje in 1822, who bequeathed his entire property to Kragujevac. The first ldquo;Milovan Guscaron;ićrdquo; Medal, by decision of the Assembly of the City of Kragujevac, was awarded to Bratislav Lazarčević of Kragujevac, owner of the company ldquo;Trnava Promet,rdquo; for exceptional contribution to the development of the local community and continuous humanitarian engagement.

The ceremony was complemented by an artistic program performed by the choir and orchestra of the Art Ensemble of the Ministry of Defence ldquo;Stanislav Binički,rdquo; as well as the monodrama ldquo;Miloscaron; the Great - Serbian Prince,rdquo; performed by Aleksandar Dunjić, based on a text by Milovan Vitezović.

nbsp;

On the occasion of 111 years since the death of Dr. Elizabeth Ross who was a Scottish humanitarian and member of the British medical mission, and 150 years since the founding of the Red Cross in Kragujevac, a reception was organized at the City Hall, attended by H.E. Michelle Cameron, Ambassador of Canada to Serbia, H.E. Peter Truswell, Ambassador of Australia, Dominic Otway, Deputy Ambassador of the United Kingdom, Đorđe Todorov, State Secretary of the Ministry of Labour, Veteran and Social Affairs, representatives of the Serbian Armed Forces, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and healthcare institutions.

The sacrifice of Dr. Elizabeth Ross and the other members of the British medical mission is a symbol of friendship among nations, a friendship that was born in war but also endured in times of peace. That friendship between Serbia and the peoples of the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia was built on the highest human values: humanity, solidarity, and mutual respect ndash; said Dejan Ružić, Deputy Mayor of Kragujevac, welcoming the guests. He emphasized that our City proudly preserves the memory of those who, in the most difficult trials, demonstrated the unbreakable strength of humanity.

Todayrsquo;s gathering shows how generous and consistent the City of Kragujevac is in nurturing the memory of these brave heroines ndash; said Dominic Otway, Deputy Ambassador of the United Kingdom, emphasizing that such generosity, based on shared good examples of cooperation from the past, is a good foundation on which we should build the future in other areas as well, whether it be the Data Center or something else.

After the reception at the City Hall, at the monument to Dr. Elizabeth Ross and the members of the British medical mission at the Varoscaron; Cemetery, His Eminence Metropolitan of Scaron;umadija Jovan, together with the clergy of the Scaron;umadija Diocese, served a memorial service, and wreaths were laid by delegations of the embassies and representatives of institutions and organizations.

Addressing the delegations at the monument to Dr. Elizabeth Ross, Jelena Pavić, Member of the City Council for Health and Social Protection, reminded that Dr. Elizabeth Ross paid for her humanitarian mission with the highest price; she lost her life fighting for the lives of others, here, in Kragujevac.

Her sacrifice is a symbol of selflessness and human solidarity, which is why the names of these brave women will remain forever inscribed in the history of our city ndash; Ms. Pavić stated.

nbsp;

The Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to the Republic of Serbia, H.E. İlhan Saygılı, accompanied by Trade Counselor Ms. Yasemin Yuuml;ce and Second Secretary Ms. Galena Kartal, visited the State Data Center in Kragujevac, where he met with the Mayor of Kragujevac, Nikola Dascaron;ić.

During the meeting, Mayor Dascaron;ić introduced Ambassador Saygılı to the development potentials of Kragujevac and presented the cityrsquo;s vision of successfully combining a rich industrial past with the technologies of the future. Special emphasis was placed on the significance of the State Data Center and the Innovation District, as well as on further plans to position Kragujevac as a regional center of knowledge and modern technologies.

The Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey highlighted the importance of strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries and expressed interest in further cooperation in areas of mutual interest, particularly in the fields of information technology, digitalization, and innovation.

During the tour of the State Data Center, which has been one of the key pillars of digital transformation in Serbia since 2019, discussions focused on the further development of the IT sector and opportunities to position Kragujevac as a regional center for artificial intelligence and advanced technological systems.

The construction of the Innovation District, which will also house the Science and Technology Park, opens up opportunities for new partnerships, knowledge exchange, and connection between domestic and international actors, representing an important step toward the long-term and sustainable development of the city.

nbsp;

A reception for the delegation of the Slovenian city of Murska Sobota, which is on a three-day study visit to the Preschool Institution ldquo;Nada Naumović,rdquo; was held today in the City Administration building. The visit is part of the implementation of the project ldquo;Inclusion for All,rdquo; which this city is carrying out within the Erasmus+ program. On behalf of the City of Kragujevac, the delegation from Murska Sobota was welcomed by Duscaron;an Aleksić, a member of the City Council in charge of education.

The first impressions we gained during the visit to the Preschool Institution ldquo;Nada Naumovićrdquo; are very positive. We exchanged experiences and gained some new insights that we will certainly apply in our work at the kindergarten in Slovenia, said Borut Anželj, head of the kindergarten from Murska Sobota.

The guests from Slovenia emphasized that there are many similarities in the work of kindergartens in Serbia and Slovenia, but that this visit is very important because they became acquainted with examples of good practice from Kragujevac, which they discussed with colleagues from the Preschool Institution ldquo;Nada Naumović,rdquo; primarily relating to inclusion.

Such visits are always a good opportunity to exchange experiences. Our colleagues from Murska Sobota, who are implementing the project ldquo;Inclusion for Allrdquo; within the Erasmus+ program, chose precisely our preschool institution as a project partner, selecting from among partners from Germany, Croatia, and Serbia, explained Suzana Milovanović, Director of the Preschool Institution ldquo;Nada Naumović.rdquo;

We are very satisfied with what they can offer us and with what we can offer them within this exchange. This is yet another proof that our institution is developing in the right direction and is continuously working on the quality of educational work, also at the international level, said Suzana Milovanović.

At the invitation of the Minister of Culture and National Heritage of the Republic of Poland, Marta Cienkowska, and the Mayor of Bielsko-Biała, Jarosław Klimaszewski, the Mayor of Kragujevac, Nikola Dascaron;ić, together with his associates, attended the ceremonial opening of the event Polish Capital of Culture 2026, held on January 17, 2026, in this Polish city.

In addition to representatives of Kragujevac, the ceremonial event was attended by numerous international delegations from the United States of America, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Malta, Austria, and Italy, which confirmed the strong international character and importance of this event.

As part of the visit, the delegations toured the Princes Sułkowski Castle, attended the opening of the exhibition ldquo;A Light-Sensitive View. 50 Years of Photographyrdquo; by Roman Hryciow, as well as the presentation of the Polish national dance ndash; the polonaise ndash; at Polish Army Square, and a concert at the square in front of the City Hall. The central event was the ceremonial opening of the Polish Capital of Culture 2026, which officially marked the beginning of a year dedicated to culture in Bielsko-Biała.

The Mayor of Kragujevac, Nikola Dascaron;ić, emphasized that this was a significant experience and a strong inspiration for Kragujevac, which declared 2026 the Year of Culture. This event in an exceptional way demonstrates the power of culture as a space for meeting, dialogue, and connecting cities and peoples. Colorful processions, the joint performance of the polonaise, and concerts in city squares and halls confirmed that culture has the power to shape the identity of a community and build lasting ties, Mayor Dascaron;ić stressed.

He added that the experiences of Bielsko-Biała clearly show how much culture can be a driver of development, cooperation, and international networking, and that this visit will contribute to the exchange of experiences and best practices, as well as to the design of future joint projects.

Along with sincere congratulations addressed to Mayor Jarosław Klimaszewski, and all citizens of Bielsko-Biała on the occasion of receiving the title of Polish Capital of Culture, Mayor Dascaron;ić expressed his confidence that the year 2026 will bring a rich program and further strengthen the cultural and friendly ties between the two cities.

Kragujevac and Bielsko-Biała have a long tradition of cooperation ndash; following the Protocol on Cooperation from 1977, on May 18, 2002, a Charter of Twinning was signed, thereby laying solid foundations for the development of lasting friendly and partnership relations.

As part of her working visit to Kragujevac, the Ambassador of France to Serbia, H.E. Ms. Florence Ferrari, visited the City Hall today, where Mayor Nikola Dascaron;ić and his associates hosted an official reception.

During the meeting, the participants discussed topics in the fields of culture, education, and economic cooperation, as well as opportunities for joint projects in the coming period. The two nations are connected by more than half a century of partnership, initiated by the Twinning Charter between Kragujevac and the French City of Suresnes in 1967, and further strengthened by the Convention on Cooperation signed in 2023.

France is today a strong participant in Serbiarsquo;s economy, with more than 130 companies successfully operating in our country. Kragujevac is part of this positive trend - the companies Trigano and Decathlon confirm that the City is one of the key strongholds of French investment in the region.

Special attention was devoted to the fields of innovation and digital technologies. Thanks to a recent agreement between the Government of Serbia and the company Bull/Atos, the ldquo;BullSequana XH3000rdquo; Supercomputer will be installed at the Data Center in Kragujevac, representing crucial infrastructure for the development of artificial intelligence and advanced digital solutions in Serbia.

Assessing the visit as an important step in continuing successful cooperation, the officials emphasized that the City of Kragujevac and France share a common vision of modernization, innovation, and development - a solid foundation for new initiatives and projects in the years ahead.

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Mayor Nikola Dascaron;ić took part today in the international conference CORE Days 2025, held on 27- 28 November at the ldquo;Ložionicardquo; venue in Belgrade, organized by NALED. This regional event brought together more than 50 distinguished speakers from Serbia and across the region - Sweden, Belgium, Slovenia, Greece, Romania, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Albania.

Mayor Dascaron;ić spoke on the panel ldquo;Local Policies that Foster Social Inclusion,rdquo; dedicated to the role of local governments in advancing inclusion, strengthening social entrepreneurship, and creating an enabling environment for responsible business. In his remarks, he emphasized that the City of Kragujevac prioritizes two groups of citizens - young people without qualifications or work experience, and persons with disabilities - while also devoting special attention to womenrsquo;s entrepreneurship.

These groups face limited opportunities to enter the labor market, which is a challenge both for them and for the City. We see the private sector as a key partner in mentoring, supporting social enterprises, and employing vulnerable groups, Dascaron;ić noted. He also presented a new three-year Social Entrepreneurship Support Program for 2026-2028, for which the City has allocated 10 million dinars. The program provides for the creation of a network of social entrepreneurs, mentoring schemes in cooperation with companies, support for participation in fairs, and the introduction of green and social criteria in public procurement.

We also discussed how we foster a favorable and stimulating environment for lsquo;greenrsquo; and socially responsible businesses ndash; from public procurement that encourages inclusion to support through local incentives and capacity-building programs. I believe that this blend of economic development and social sensitivity creates the best conditions for sustainable growth, the Mayor said. He cited the mismatch between the needs of the local economy and the education system - namely, that young people often train for professions that do not match real labor-market demand - as one of the significant drivers of unemployment. The panel also highlighted good examples of cooperation between the City and the business community, such as Agromarket, Forma Ideale, Yanfeng, Milanović Industry, and Sunce Marinković, companies that for years have actively supported social enterprises and hired people from vulnerable groups.

The Mayor recalled that five years ago, 1,700 persons with disabilities were registered with the National Employment Service, and through joint programs with the City, 700 of them have since been given an opportunity to work. The new program, Dascaron;ić concluded, will help advance this policy and raise it to a higher, systemic level.

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The Serbian-Greek Friendship Association Philos, which initiated the twinning of the Cities of Kragujevac and Katerini, organized the ldquo;Greece in the Heart of Serbiardquo; festival for the third time. Supported by the City of Kragujevac and the Scaron;umadija Fair, the event brought together numerous exhibitors. Representatives of both cities - Kragujevac and Katerini - addressed the audience, highlighting the strong, long-standing ties between the Serbian and Greek peoples.

The ldquo;Greece in the Heart of Serbiardquo; festival is one of the finest examples of how friendship and close bonds with the Greek people are reflected in everyday life, said Stefan Bulatović, Assistant Mayor for Tourism. This year we have even more exhibitors, which shows that people recognize the strength of our fraternal cooperation. The signing of the cooperation agreement between our two cities - by the Mayors of Katerini and Kragujevac - is a continuation of a long relationship that has lasted for generations, Bulatović stated. He emphasized that the agreement is particularly important for the City, especially in the field of tourism. Our peoples are connected not just by a single document, but by history, culture, faith, shared values, and mutual respect that have endured for centuries.

The Philos Association also organizes Serbian - Greek Friendship Days in Katerini. The cooperation between Kragujevac and Katerini, which has lasted for more than 30 years, is most evident in tourism, said Evangelos Nikolaidis, Assistant Mayor of Katerini for Tourism and International Cooperation. Our goal in the coming period is to further strengthen economic cooperation as well, so that the products Serbs enjoy buying in Greece become available here, too, Nikolaidis noted, adding that the signing of todayrsquo;s Agreement is the result of decades of partnership.

nbsp;

The traditionally good relations between Kragujevac and the Greek city of Katerini were formalized today with the signing of a Cooperation Agreement at the City Hall. The Agreement, under which the two cities will deepen their cooperation and strengthen their ties, was signed by Nikola Dascaron;ić, Mayor of Kragujevac, and Dimos Ioannis, Mayor of Katerini.

I expect substantial cooperation, first in the areas of culture, education, and tourism, and later in other sectors such as industry, because Kragujevac is a significant industrial city, said Dascaron;ić, reminding that the first bilateral relations between Greece and Serbia were established as far back as 1867 between Prince Mihailo Obrenović and King Georgios I. We must preserve that tradition of friendship, both as states and as cities, Dascaron;ić emphasized.

With todayrsquo;s Agreement, we are beginning major cooperation - not only within the framework of our citiesrsquo; friendly relations but also in areas that will expand further, especially tourism, given the large number of tourists from Serbia who visit our country, said Dimos Ioannis, Mayor of Katerini, noting that there is great potential and goodwill for establishing cooperation in the field of the economy.

The news about the signing of the Cooperation Agreement was also reported by the official website of the City of Katerini: https://katerini.gr/?p=62185