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CONTENTS FOREWORD

Slovenia Consolidating Ties with India

t is a pleasure and a satisfaction for me to see that a special publication emphasizing Slovenia -India Irelations is being published on the occasion of Slovenian National Day 25th of June. The publication represents an opportunity to explore the possibilities of strengthening the existing good relations between Slovenia and India in many fields, even further. Although being a new European country, bonds between the people of Slovenia and India have a long tradition. It is an honour and privilege for me to be posted in India, a cradle of humankind that was known in an ancient story by Slovenian people as ‘Koromandia’ and was painted in the story as a land of happy people and a land of abundance. Being here gives me an opportunity to understand the diverse cultural and social traditions that make Mr. Miklavz Borstnik India so unique. Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. of Slovenia to the Republic of India Slovenia and India established diplomatic relations in 1992 and since then relations were growing steadily. Relations are warm and friendly. This is also reflected in the opening of the Indian Embassy in Slovenia this year that will contribute to the intensification of our bilateral relations and enhance dialogue between the two countries. In the first half of 2008 Slovenia will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union that by itself is a great challenge for the country that became a member of the EU in 2004. I hope that we shall be able to contribute to the growing strategic partnership between European Union and India. I am happy to observe that trade and economic relations have also increased in the last few years. More and more Slovenian companies are looking for business opportunities in India which is becoming a global economic power. I strongly believe that there is space for more cooperation between the two countries in many fields and I welcome this publication as an excellent mean to further promote Slovenia - India relations and to the visibility of Slovenia in India.

Slovenia in Focus 4 FACTS & FILES

Facts about Slovenia

Location in Europe: Larger Slovenian towns and population: Ljubljana 330,000 Maribor 103,000 Celje 40,000 Kranj 37,000 Velenje 27,100 Koper 24,600 Novo Mesto 22,600 Ptuj 19,000 ------Geographical division of Slovenia in percentage of territory: Alps 42.1 % Dinaric land 28.1 % Panonian plain 21.2 % Mediterranean 8.6 % ------Climate: Alpine in north-west Slovenia Continental (sub panonian) in central Slovenia Sub-Mediterranean in south-west Slovenia (coastline) ------Central Europe - Mediterranean Europe Economy: Area: 20,273 km2 The highest peak : Triglav (2,864 m) GDP per capita: US $ 19,200 Length of Slovenian Adriatic coastline: Currency : Euro ~43km ------Population: ~ 2,000,000 SLOVENIAN ANTHEM: Neightbouring countries and length of God’s blessing on all nations, borders: who long and work for that bright day Italy: 232 km when o’er earth’s habitations Austria: 330 km no war, no strife shall hold its sway; Hungary: 102 km Who long to see Croatia: 670 km that all men free no more shall foes, neighbours be. ------France Preseren (1800-49)

5 Slovenia in Focus EU PRESIDENCY Slovenia Ready to Lead the EU An analysis of Slovenia’s EU membership to date and its impending EU presidency

Three years of membership conditions have not changed advantage. Many also see the in EU drastically and that they still live possibilities of studying abroad in the same way as before. as very important. Just over one- It has been three years since fourth of respondents believe Slovenia along with other new If a referendum on joining the EU that the greatest advantage is the member states entered the EU. were called today, 80 per cent of freedom to cross national borders, However life did not change those who answered the question while one-fifth state that the most significantly in the three years would vote in favour, which shows important aspect of being an EU following Slovenia’s accession to that support for the EU remains member is to have the opportunity the EU. Slovenes still perceive the extremely strong. When asked to of working in some member EU in largely the same way, which state the most important aspect of states. Seventy-four per cent of all is to say that they are favourable being an EU member, the majority respondents claim that their living towards it. A great majority of answered that this fact alone (the standard has not changed since respondents believe that the status issue) was the greatest

Slovenia in Focus 6 EU PRESIDENCY the accession to the EU, which The most important priority of the leads one to the conclusion that in the last three years people have Republic of Slovenia was fulfilled when not experienced any significant Slovenia joined the European Union on changes. May 1, 2004. The most obvious changes that have taken place include the abolition of customs at state borders, the possibility of studying in EU member states, and the prospect of finding employment in some of them. The most important priority of the Republic of Slovenia was fulfilled when Slovenia joined the European Union on May 1, 2004. In political, economic and cultural terms, Slovenia is part of the European area, which is, despite ethnic differences, based on common values as well as a common cultural and historic heritage. By joining the European Union, Slovenia is responding to the challenges facing independent countries in a globalised world. It is introducing the achievements of Government Session in progress modern European economic and institutional culture that enabled three years and Slovenia’s results euro. After three years Slovenia the EU Member States to attain in the assessment of individual serves as a positive example also the highest level of material and areas, the country has certainly with regard to further enlargements spiritual well-being. Slovenia has been the most successful in of the EU. The country intends to been harmonising its legislation negotiations on the future EU remain active, particularly in the with European Union legislation financial perspective. Between Western Balkans, and provide in order to create conditions for 2007 and 2013 Slovenia will the countries of the region with its a democratic society and a social be a net beneficiary of 2 billion experience and expertise. market economy. euro. Moreover, the Cohesion Funds will quadruple in the same The introduction of the euro Good economic results period. Slovenia is one of the more successful new member states in The introduction of the euro In this time the Government terms of efficient phasing of EU on the first of January 2007 achieved some favourable general funds. In 2005 Slovenia took a is the historic milestone and economic results. Purchasing significant step forward in drawing evident sign that Slovenia and the power has increased significantly on EU funds. At the end of 2005 Slovenian economy have reached over the past three years; it now the tendered amount was 86 of a high level of maturity even stands at 81 per cent of the EU 25 all available funds, with a total though the transition process is average. The Slovenian economy value of 67.5 billion dollars. The not complete. The introduction of has adapted relatively quickly to the Government also estimates that the common currency will simplify demands of the European market. the drawing of EU funds from the lives, bring long - term stability Many pessimistic predictions current financial perspective, in and put Slovenia into Eurozone. about massive lay-offs following particular with regard to cohesion By adopting the common accession to the EU have not been policy, has been successful. The currency, the country renounces realised. Furthermore, Slovenia most important economical task the running of its own monetary has neither experienced a flood Slovenia has accomplished in the and exchange-rate policy, so of foreign labour, nor a significant course of these years is meeting sustainable budget policy is brain drain. Looking back on the the criteria for the adoption of the particularly important. Slovenia

7 Slovenia in Focus EU PRESIDENCY Slovenia’s foremost foreign has no problems meeting these criteria. policy priority will Let us quote the statement of Jaoquin Almunia (European Commissioner for be strengthening Economic and Monetary Affairs): “We the strategic have taken a significant, a historic decision to make Slovenia the 13th partnership with member of the Eurozone on January 1, Russia, developing 2007. We are convinced this enlargement transatlantic will be successful. It is great opportunity, but also a great challenge. After joining relations and the Eurozone, Slovenia will have to have strengthening an economic policy which will ensure continuing economic growth, taming ties with strategic inflation and the further consolidation partners such as of public finances.” Japan, China and EU presidency the biggest post- India. independence challenge for Prime Minister Janez Jansa Slovenia the EU and work towards setting The government adopted at its session a date to start the EU accession project but one of national on 25 January a draft declaration talks with Macedonia, which importance, he said. Slovenia outlining Slovenian activities in the obtained candidate country status wants to make some decisive EU for the period between January in December 2005. Moreover, steps in enlargement towards 2007 and June 2008. According to the the document underscores efforts Western Balkans during its stint, document, the main priority in 2007 will to continue the expansion of but none of these processes could be preparations for the EU presidency. the eurozone and the Schengen come to a close during Slovenia’s The declaration, and the report on passport-free zone to all the new presidency. The EU needs a new Slovenia’s activities in the EU for the members. constitutional foundation prior previous year, are amongst the most Expansion of the Schengen zone to the enlargement, he added. important documents the government and abolition of border controls Jansa said that Slovenia would adopts every year. are one of the most important also focus on liberating the full The document that outlines the Slovenian political priorities for Slovenia potential of the EU’s internal activities for the next 18 months is and the EU, the document adds. market as some restrictions still based on the yearly programme of the In the field of the European apply. This is also true for the European Commission and the18-month area of freedom, security and Eurozone, which primarily needs programme for the EU presidency. justice, special attention will be an open and competitive market, According to the document, the key issues paid to asylum and immigration he said. He also highlighted facing Slovenia’s presidency include the policies, along with building an Slovenia’s key achievements such strengthening of the European area of effective system of protecting as the adoption of the euro and freedom, security and justice and the the external borders of the EU. the key role the country has been debates on the future of the EU, the Slovenia’s foremost foreign policy playing in seeking solutions to the European constitution, enlargement and priority will be strengthening delay in expanding the Schengen the Schengen zone. Slovenia will also the strategic partnership with no-border zone. Jansa also called continue to strengthen its cooperation Russia, developing transatlantic for an agreement with political with EU institutions and other member relations and strengthening ties parties on cooperation before and states, especially with Germany and with strategic partners such as during the presidency to prevent Portugal, the two countries that with Japan, China and India. Slovenia the period from being used for Slovenia make up a trio of countries will also strive to improve the domestic policy tensions. successively holding the EU presidency cooperation between the EU and over the next 18 months. other international organizations, Free flow of knowledge to especially the UN and NATO. become the “fifth EU liberty” Also at the forefront of Slovenian activities in the EU will be the implementation of According to Prime Minister Janez European Science and Research the Lisbon Strategy and efforts to carry Jansa, the EU presidency is the Commissioner Janez Potocnik out institutional reforms of the EU. biggest challenge for the country presented in Brussels on April 4, Slovenia will also strive for headway in after it won independence. It 2007, the green paper on new the process of Croatia and Turkey joining is not only the government’s perspectives for the European

Slovenia in Focus 8 EU PRESIDENCY Many pessimistic predictions about massive lay-offs following accession to the EU have not been realised. Furthermore, Slovenia has neither experienced a flood of foreign labour, nor a significant brain drain. Research Area (ERA), saying that he was pushing above all for the free flow of knowledge to become the “fifth EU liberty”. “Free flow of knowledge is a necessity and all obstacles for researchers have to be removed,” said the commissioner, adding that this will not be possible without the support by the member states and business. The green paper presents the challenges Europe is facing today – modest investment, dispersed research and increasing globalisation of science and technology. Equipping the coming generations with knowledge and using this knowledge is of key importance if the EU is to reach the economic, social and Slovenian Graduating Quadrille Dance on the street of Ljubljana. environmental objectives set Photo: Katarina Gogala out in the Lisbon Strategy, the document says. The commissioner the question of multilingualism will be included in all the informal said that researchers had to to the centre of European politics. ministerial sessions taking place expand their knowledge outside Multilingualism is increasingly in Slovenia and interpretation will their own country. “We have to regarded as a key instrument be carried out by the European remove all obstacles to those for economic development and Commission’s interpreting service. researchers who are aware that efficient communication. Both In the case of events below the mobility is a part of their life,” consumers and citizens are most ministerial level, the interpreting said Potocnik. efficiently addressed in their mother will be limited to three working tongue, the newly-appointed languages – English, French Slovenian to become the European Commissioner for and Slovenian. On average, third working language of Multilingualism, Leonard Orban, every working language in the the EU said. EU requires 80 interpreters per day. According to the European During Slovenia’s presidency Countries tend to heed his Commission, 54 interpreters for of EU in the first half of 2008, argument – a country’s presidency Slovenian are available at the Slovenian will become the third is considered a powerful chance moment, amounting to only 67 per working language of the EU, to promote their language, and cent of the required capacity. together with English and French. an efficient translation and The number of official languages interpreting service is an essential Source: Ms. Vesna Zarkovic, in the EU has risen from 11 to 23 element. Slovenian, as the Government Communications Office, in the past three years, bringing language of the presiding country Republic of Slovenia

9 Slovenia in Focus MINISTER'S INTERVIEW “We are Interested in Developing Ties in Science and Technology” The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Dr. Jure Zupan, Ph.D. spoke to Harun Riaz in Ljubljana on the possibilities of India-Slovenia cooperation in science, technology and education

r. Minister, how where not only the scientists one quarter Indian company. This would you describe would collaborate but we want would make for larger projects Myour first visit to to encourage the companies as which would be goal oriented, India as Minister of Science well to join in the collaboration. product oriented or technology and Technology and what This is the European view of oriented and through this would impression of the EU-India scientific collaboration not only be a better agreement resulting Science Conference? scientists and universities but in better products and better To answer your first question, also the research departments satisfaction and what is much I would describe the overall of companies would contribute more important is the mutual impression of this European Indian contact as the European Community as a whole is interested in having good contacts with what we call regional players in the different parts of the world like India plays in Asia. We are very interested to have good relations especially in the field of science and technology and higher education because we regard the educated population as the best asset any state can have. My first impression was that India puts a quite strong accent on education. What we have done is basically making contacts and taking the first steps from which the relationship should develop.

I believe you also met your counterpart Mr. Kapil Sibal, a young and energetic Minister. "What we have done is basically making Yes. Mr. Sibal is very energetic contacts and taking the first steps from and I guess he has a very bright which the relationship should develop." future in his profession. We talked a lot about mutual collaboration; we have invited him to visit their parts on a common project. trust between the scientists and Slovenia. I hope this will come These should be target oriented companies will be created. through soon and of course we and of course both countries talked about different possibilities, should provide a little money I believe this was the first ever how to enhance, how to lead the lets say one quarter Slovenia, interaction between EU and agreement to a higher level. one quarter India and then one India on the issue of science. We want to have an agreement quarter Slovenian company and Is there more and more trust

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on India or is it that you look going to sign an agreement on "We want to have India more differently? industrial research between Definitely, I must say I visited the two countries. By when can an agreement India about 20 years ago. I was in we see this agreement? where not only the Bangalore which is of course the It is now up to the Indian side. It scientists would Indian intellectual city with a lot has to be negotiated. It has to be of universities and institutions. I discussed in Parliament. From our collaborate but we saw the enthusiasm. I worked with side we have sent the proposal. want to encourage several Indian scientists and we Now we are waiting for the Indian saw a larger capacity in the Indian response. the companies as well to join in the collaboration."

Dr. Zupan you are also the Minister of Higher Education and I see more and more EU countries are attracting students from India, but I do not see them here in Slovenia. That is mostly because of the language barrier. Language is one of the Slovenia’s highly prized treasures. We are a very small nation and the Slovenian language is one of those things that we cherish from the 10th century. And the Slovenian language is one of those things that it is very hard to say anything against. As a result all Slovenian universities are obliged to teach The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Dr. Jure Zupan, Ph.D. in the Slovenian language but as meeting with his Indian counterpart, Minister of Science & Technology and I know young students can learn Minister of Earth Sciences, Mr. Kapil Sibal in February 2007 at New Delhi Chinese or any other language, so we have a lot of Indian students people. Of course you have a lot And you also spoke of scientists who before they start their course of Nobel laureates but it was a co-operating with each other. spend half a year learning the kind of good work but not forward Of course, this is the usual thing. Slovenian language. Of course mobility or enthusiasm. Now we This kind of exchange of scientists for the researchers, this is not saw the spirit. It has made quite happens all the time. In 2006 so much of a problem because a big impression how such a big we opened the possibility that all the persons that they interact country can have such a big thrust any young researcher we give will know English. They may towards science. On the last day the money to the best people have a problem in examinations I also met with the students. We in Slovenia. We offer each year but you can always make an saw how eager they were and about 250 such fellowships and arrangement with the Professor. I they were asking the President these researchers then apply from have myself had foreign students of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam advertisements on the internet. when I was a professor and I questions, who was answering The fellowship is for about four have communicated in English with such vigour and enthusiasm. years. This is not just salary but with them. I was pleased to see this kind of also some money for research. support for science in India. So researchers are very eager to Mr. Minister, on the side obtain these fellowships. There lines of the EU-India Science Mr. Minister, you spoke about is strong competition; for 250 Conference you also met companies from Slovenia fellowships we got about 700 Mr. Sontosh Mohan Dev, the and India. I believe you are applications. Minister of Heavy Industries.

Slovenia in Focus 12 MINISTER'S INTERVIEW

Is there going to be business much time. We visited National which is not in the hands of in heavy industrial areas? Physical Laboratory where we scientists. It is in the hands of I was not authorised because you had a very fruitful discussion with politicians and much more in see I am not a Minister for Heavy Dr. Vikram Kumar, Director of the the hands of industry. It is here Industry. So we just had a very Laboratory and his colleagues. where big money comes in. The nice talk and I mentioned the The visit to the institute was first thing is that yet not all kind of agreement that companies very interesting for me, as I companies and all governments can enter into. So now it depends am a physicist. We also had believe that global warming is on the company. If it is a heavy a useful meeting with Prof. humanly caused. This is not industry company that has Vishwanatah Sinha, Director of yet fully understood because scientific problems these can be solved. Any industry that has this kind of agreement can look for a Slovenian counterpart a university or institution and propose their project. And on the basis of a mutual committee we will decide which project or company will get money.

Can we look for R & D centres in Slovenia in future including from Indian companies? "Agriculture is important for two aspects. One is of course food which we all need and the other is energy. The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, We have many Dr. Jure Zupan, Ph.D. being welcomed by Dr. Vikram Kumar, plans that can be Director of National Physical Laboratory in February 2007 at New Delhi

transformed as a the LNM Institute of Information some say that it might be a local renewable source of Technology. Incidentally, he is variation of thousand of years energy. That is now the first Indian citizen, who in of climate. But there is strong 1971 received a doctorate degree evidence of the last 50 years that one of the important in Slovenia. something has gone wrong. We topics in Europe." hope that all governments will I was also impressed by the somehow come to the conclusion No problem. Our administration efficiency of the Centre for Science that it is necessary to act together. is a little tough, but we are doing & Technology of the Non-Aligned Because global weather does not certain steps so that there will and other developing countries recognize boundaries. It does be no administrative problems. headed by the Prof. Arun P. not matter whether it is India or They are welcome. We do not Kulshreshtha, Director of the Pakistan; the weather goes all have any problem if any Indian Centre. over. From India to the Middle company would like to establish a East to Europe. Cyclones go from research and development centre One last question, you are Europe to United States or vice- in Slovenia. the Minister of Science. Is versa. We are all responsible. science failing to control global The role of science is to collect Mr. Minister, you also had the warming? exclusive evidence that this is opportunity to visit some of Science is controlling global caused by man. India’s scientific and industrial warming in the manner that centres. they are monitoring it. But how Photos: Ministry of Higher Education, Science & Technology Unfortunately we didn’t have that to control it is another question

13 Slovenia in Focus EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Maribor’s Transport Logistics Centre and Spas Beckon Indian Investors Franc Kangler, Mayor of Maribor highlights the attractions of his city for Indian investors to Harun Riaz

airport and if it’s in winter in 30 minutes time you can already be skiing or taking a swim in the nearby health resort. And you only need another hour to visit some interesting sites around Maribor or perhaps take a swim in any of the numerous health resorts. And if your question is what’s on offer to a foreign investor, it’s either investment in the cargo transport logistics centre or in tourism.

In how many years the cargo transport logistics system as well as the expansion of the Maribor airport will be ready? The infrastructure at the airport is state-owned. And projects are currently being prepared to Franc Kangler, Mayor of Maribor extend the runway by 800 metres from the current 3200 metres to o what is in Maribor other continents. And we wish allow the biggest cargo aircraft to which can attract Indian to develop cargo transport. And land. The land where this logistics Scompanies? What are the build the biggest cargo transport is going to be located is currently main features of investment logistics centre in central Europe. agricultural land. And we are and business possibilities of Why? Because the Port of Koper currently preparing, together with Maribor? is only two hours away from the state authorities, to convert There are several business and Maribor airport by road or rail. It this land from agricultural to economic zones existing in is 30 minutes to Graz in Austria one which can be constructed Maribor which can be interesting and two and a half hours to potentially for Indian companies Vienna. Both Zagreb and Sarajevo “It lies at an and their investments. What is are an hour away and two and a particularly important here is that half hours to Belgrade. And we intersection between Maribor lies at the intersection of have to exploit this opportunity. East and West and the coridor 10th and 5th transport And foreign investors have huge North and South. corridor. It lies at an intersection investment potential here in between East and West and North Maribor. And we can spread the And this is why and South. And we are aware of cargo transport network in the we are planning to this geographical location. And Balkans in the north and the east this is why we are planning to and the west. Maribor is also a build the biggest build a land based transport tourist centre in both summer and cargo transport logistics centre at Maribor airport. winter. The airport is only eight logistics centre in So it is not only interesting for the kilometres away from city centre. European continent but also for And as a tourist you land at the central Europe.”

Slovenia in Focus 14 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW upon. So depending on how Slovenia's popular wellness There is one in Maribor and you quickly the documents will be centres in India? can choose between more or less prepared I expect that with in This is true and perhaps it is chillies in your food. two to four years construction our fault that there is a lack of will start. The more there will promotion in India. Whereas One last question, when be aircraft landing at the airport on the other hand all our health Indians will start coming the quicker the expansion of the resorts, spas and wellness centres to Maribor how easy or centre will be. So the interest is are completely full both in summer huge, especially from the side of the foreign investors because this is the cheapest way to reach the European market as our airport taxes and landing fees are also the cheapest. As a result Maribor airport is interesting both for the corporate sector and tourists. There are several hot mineral springs in the region and these sites are suited for the construction of new health resorts. So, for example an Indian company or investor may construct such a health resort. We currently have three such unexploited mineral springs. And these are only 20 kilometres from the Maribor airport. “There are several hot mineral springs in Is the mayor of Maribor, or the region and these sites are suited for the the city of Maribor going construction of new health resorts. So, for to involve JAPTI and the Slovenian Tourist Organisation example an Indian company or investor in the promotion of Maribor as may construct such a health resort.” a new investment centre in Slovenia? and winter. The guests here difficult it is for Indians as Maribor has good relationships are mainly from Germany and people from Asia to live in with both the Public Agency Italy. This could be seen as an Maribor? for Entrepreneurship and opportunity for Indians to invest It’s simple. Many Arabs do come. Foreign Investments (JAPTI) and in capacity building here. I would They like our landscape. The Slovenian Tourist Board. And I like to stress once again that these green Pohorje mountain range. am personally acquainted with are healing waters; for example Or a mountain range covered Mr. Jan Stanovnik and Mr. Dmitri Dobrna Spa is meant for women in snow. The Drava River. The Piciga who is the Director General and the problems of getting wine-growing region. We have of Tourism which is part of the pregnant. excellent wines here. We have ministry of economy. And with excellent cuisine. And I am sure their support we have already As a journalist whenever I go as the British are coming once carried out activities which have to other European countries I proved beneficial to our city. notice that more and more Indian and returning and some even So, I can say that the relations restaurants are being opened stay forever. There has been between Maribor and the two and they are liked by Europeans an increasing trend of British organisations you mentioned are because of the chilli factor. It’s families purchasing real estate in good. very chilli food. For some people Slovenia. it’s bad but for a lot of people it’s good. However, I don’t see Indian How do you plan to deal with Photos: Harun Riaz the lack of awareness about restaurants in Maribor. www.maribor.si

15 Slovenia in Focus Janez Pipan, General Manager & Artistic Director of the theatre, photo by Ziga Koritnik

and hosts almost 100,000 theatregoers. Most of them are from Ljubljana, a third, however, SNG Drama Building, photo by Branko Pilih come from other parts of Slovenia or see the performances on tour. About 40 per cent of all spectators are students (high-school and The Slovene National university). SNG Drama Ljubljana also tours abroad, especially the international Theatre Drama festivals (in Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Germany, he tradition of the Slovene of 20 to 30 different performances. Austria, Great Britain, USA, National Theatre Drama During the season, there are two Romania, Sweden, Italy, Portugal, TLjubljana (SNG Drama shows on the programme each Croatia, Greece, Czech Republic, Ljubljana) goes back to year 1867 evening, one on the main stage Korea, Hungary, Montenegro, when the Slovene Drama Society and one on the small stage. Some Slovak Republic, France, Serbia (Slovensko dramaticno drustvo) shows are performed on special etc.). There is an on-going staged the first performance in locations. The theatre offers more exchange of performances with Slovene language. The theatre than 400 performances annually a number of theatres from both has had the status of the central national theatre since World War I. Today it is one of the three Slovene national theatres (together with the Slovene National Drama Theatres in Maribor and Nova Gorica). It is founded and financed directly by the state. With a permanent ensemble of 45 professional actors, 12 retired members who participate in productions regularly and more than 30 contract associates and student actors, SNG Drama is the central and the biggest theatre in Slovenia, staging 10 to 14 new productions each year. Like most Slovene theatres, SNG Drama Ljubljana is a repertory theatre, the programme consisting Sophocles' Oedipus the King, Directed by Mile Korun

Slovenia in Focus 16 ART & CULTURE

Brian Friel's Translations, Directed by Zvone Sedlbauer

Moliere's School for Wives, Directed by Mateja Koleznik

Sarah Kane's Cleansed, Directed by Jernej Lorenci

Slovenia and the neighbouring countries. SNG Drama Ljubljana is also a member of ETC, the European Theatre Convention. An extensive programme booklet is published for each première. The booklet offers information on the artists and the production and includes critical essays by Slovene and foreign authors along with some general information about the play and some theatre news Moliere's The Impostures of Scapin, Directed by Boris Cavazza from abroad. In the case of a first performance of a Slovene work world classics. A major part of the with interesting avant-garde, or the first Slovene production of programme, however, is devoted alternative and experimental foreign works, the complete text of to contemporary works by foreign projects. the play is included as well. authors, staged in Slovenia for Since 1994, the theatre has been As a Slovene national theatre, the first time. Apart from the best managed by Janez Pipan (Artistic SNG Drama pays special attention Slovene directors SNG Drama Director & General Manager), a to works by Slovene authors, both also employs directors from the prominent theatre director of the classical and contemporary. younger generations to introduce middle generation. However, Slovene theatre being fresh approaches, and a number very modern and open to the of visitors from abroad. The world, SNG Drama also stages programme is often spiced up Photos: SNG Drama

17 Slovenia in Focus Mitja Rotovnik General Manager

Gallus Hall Cankarjev Dom, Cultural and Congress Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia The Indian cultural troupe – Last Nomads of Rajasthan – performed at Cankarjev Dom in October 2006. ankarjev Dom (CD) believes that cultural, artistic and Cscientific creativity meets the basic condition for attaining spiritual freedom and richer spiritual lives of people and social development. Our cultural and congress centre presents, produces, co-produces, organises and provides cultural and artistic, congress and other events, state ceremonies, exhibitions and festivals. Since CD is mostly a cultural centre, over two thirds of the available halls are reserved for culture and the arts, annually.

Slovenia in Focus 18 ART & CULTURE

its versatile cultural, artistic and scientific events of internationally resounding character. CD believes that Ljubljana is compelling enough as regards its history, tourism and culture to become one of the most significant European cultural and congress centres. Cankarjev dom is determined to retain its key role in expressing the culture and the arts in Slovenia. This cultural centre will endeavour to continue engaging the finest artists and ensembles from all over the world and to be involved in international artistic co- productions of performance art. It will aspire to remain the most appropriate venue for celebrating momentous events in the history of Slovenes and numerous other state and diplomatic ceremonies.

Ethno Festival – a musical performance from Africa at Cankarjev Dom CD is intent on retaining its key role as a central Slovene congress centre with the highest number With its programme CD has CD cooperates with similar of international congresses and been attempting at enriching the cultural institutions at home a mobile group of professional quality of lives, to form, foster and abroad in the realisation congress organisers in other and effectuate cultural and wider of contemporary cultural and Slovene congress venues. national identity and educate artistic projects. It has been young people in culture and the endeavouring to contribute to the Article & Photos: Cankarjev Dom arts. openness of the capital city with www.cd-cc.si

Peter I. Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker; Directed and choreographed by Youri Vamos; Photo: Rober Balen – CD

19 Slovenia in Focus ECONOMY Slovenia: Attractive Investment Destination Revoz – Renault production plant in Novo Mesto

mall countries need an and its people are deeply involved the highest government level introduction even if their with international developments and JAPTI - Public Agency for Strack record is excellent as in – both political and economic. Entrepreneurship and Foreign the case of Slovenia. Over 30 years Investments as the implementing of sound economic performance One would expect such a dynamic body provides a comprehensive led to Slovenia’s special position country so often quoted as a role range of free investor services in former Yugoslavia where thanks model for transition countries in including practical advice, to open borders foreign trade was the south-eastern Europe, to have professional assistance and last far ahead of other countries in high FDI inflows. Analysts have but not the least an extensive central and south-eastern Europe. identified a number of reasons for database of companies in all Foreign investors were quick Slovenia’s low FDI stock and the sectors of the economy. By to recognise the geostrategic Slovenian government has taken pursuing a pro-active stance to advantages of the country nestled the necessary action to attract marketing Slovenia as a location between the Alpine peaks and the foreign investors. The necessary of choice for FDI, JAPTI has blue waters of the Adriatic Sea, laws have been adopted to launched a campaign aimed at so important for the development facilitate leasing and acquisition informing handpicked companies of Slovenia’s only cargo port. of land for industrial purposes, to of the benefits of investing in Renowned corporate names cut the red tape and encourage Slovenia built on the platform of such as Bayer, IBM, Microsoft, entrepreneurship by simplifying the Government Programme 2007- Renault, Siemens - to mention just administrative procedures and 13 and incentives to be made a few - paved the way for Bosch, easing the tax burden. available to foreign investors. Danfoss, Goodyear, Henkel, The invitation to potential Source: JAPTI Novartis .... Open-mindedness foreign investors is coming from www.investslovenia.org and a readiness to embrace changes, combined with labour flexibility and commitment have proved to be a winning formula for attracting investors from the field of services. The international recognition of Slovenia’s successes “across the board” came in 2004 with its accession to the European Union and adoption of the European single currency in January 2007 as the only country of 12 new Member States. Slovenia’s membership of a number of leading world organisations (WTO, NATO) and its forthcoming presidency of the EU in the first half of 2008, sends a clear message that the country Slovenia's machining and metalworking

Slovenia in Focus 20 BUSINESS PROFILE

Farmachem Group

armachem SA Machineries & Marketing was established in Switzerland in the year 1983 with the aim of providing Marketing / Consulting services to the International FPharmaceutical Industry world wide. Over the years, it has earned a reputation for itself as a reliable partner for various API as well as Finished Dosage Forms producers world wide as their distributor of choice to Generic Companies.

Farmachem Group is managed by professionals with vast experience in Pharmaceutical Industry thereby bringing with them a rich experience in the fields of Intellectual Property, Regulatory, Research as well as commercial fields for their business partners.

Today Farmachem group is actively involved in the following fields :-

 Development of Dossiers for formulations / DMFs in CTD formats for APIs  Contract Research / Custom Synthesis projects  Strategic sourcing of APIs / FDFs for their partners world wide  Contract Manufacturing Projects

Farmachem Group has its own offices / affiliates in Italy, Czech, Croatia, Iran, Ukraine, Russia, India and Venezuela with their Corporate Head Quarters at Mendrisio in Switzerland. Having a geographically well spread offices gives the group the advantage of reaching out to their business partners easily and the knowledge of local culture and language ensures business transactions are carried out smoothly.

With India emerging as one of the most strategically important supply base to International Pharmaceutical Industry, the Group set up their subsidiary (Farmachem SA India Pvt Ltd) in India in the year 1999. Over the last 8 years, the Indian subsidiary has emerged as one of the group’s most important entity contributing major share of the group’s business.

CONTACT DETAILS FARMACHEM SA M&M, FARMACHEM SA INDIA PVT LTD., Via Rime 38, 607, Saptagiri Towers, 6850, Mendrisio, 1-10-75/1/1 to 6, SWITZERLAND, Begumpet, Hyderabad – 500 016, INDIA Ph : 0041 91 9111000 Ph : 0091 40 27764029 Fax : 0041 91 9111009 Fax : 0091 40 27762008 E-mail : [email protected] E-mail : [email protected] BILATERAL TIES Slovenia – India Trade A synopsis of the current bilateral trade and investment by Sabina Kolesa, M.Sc., Director General, Ministry of Economy

Main export products of 2006 • Heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen heteroatoms (21.2 per cent) • Rolled stainless steel sheet more than 600 mm wide (10.6 per cent) • Plastic sheet material (7.6 per cent) • Instruments, apparatuses, devices for measuring and checking (7.3 per cent) • Rods and sections of alloy steel (6.6 per cent) • other products for the chemical industry (5.1 per cent). Sabina Kolesa, M.Sc. Director General, Ministry of Economy Main exporters in 2006 TRADE IN GOODS Lek d.d., Acroni Jesenice d.o.o., Metal Ravne d.o.o., India is one of Slovenia’s most important trading AGB LAB d.o.o., Portoroz, Plama –Pur d.d., Podgrad, partners in Asia. In 2006, the total trade in goods Radece papir, d.d., Iskraemeco, d.d., Eti d.d., PGP between the two countries amounted to EUR 84.7 Trzic d.o.o., Melamin d.d. Kocevje. million, representing only 0.2 per cent of total Slovenian international trade in goods. It is still Main importers of 2006 far below the potential possibilities for cooperation between the countries. • Heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen heteroatoms (33.7 per cent) In the area of trade in goods, both imports and exports • Heterocyclic compounds with oxygen are on the increase. In 2006, Slovenia exported goods heteroatoms (9.8 per cent) to India totalling EUR 31.9 million, or 79 per cent • Antibiotics (8.2 per cent) more than in 2005. In 2006, Slovenia imported goods • Ferro-alloys (7.8 per cent) from India totalling EUR 52.8 million, or 11 per cent more than in the previous year. • Nucleic acids and their salts (6 per cent) • Bed linen, table linen, toilet linen and kitchen In 2006, India, with its 0.02 per cent of total Slovenian linen (3.5 per cent). exports, is ranked 41st among the countries to which Slovenia exported in that year; concerning imports, Main importers in 2006 India, with its 0.3 per cent of Slovenian imports, is ranked 32nd among the countries from which Krka d.d. Novo Mesto, Lek, d.d. Kovintrade d.d. Slovenia imported in 2006. Celje, Alpina d.d. Ziri, Tosama d.d., Galex d.d., Beti moda d.o.o., BPT Svilanit d.o.o., Milcom d.o.o. Koper, Table 1: Trade in goods between Slovenia and Mercator-Emba, d.d. India by year (EUR million) 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 I SERVICES 06/05 Exports 18.8 24.6 17.2 17.8 31.9 179 Table 2: Services exchange between Slovenia and India by year (EUR million) Imports 33.9 25.0 42.3 47.6 52.8 111 2004 2005 2006 Total 52.7 49.6 59.5 65.4 84.7 129 Exports 2.153 1.341 2.040 Balance -15.1 -0.4 -25.1 -29.8 -20.9 70 Imports -1.485 -1.615 -2.212 Source: Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia (exports Balance 0. 668 -0. 274 -0. 172 by destination country, imports by country of origin and since 2003, by country of consignment). Source: Bank of Slovenia

Slovenia in Focus 22 BILATERAL TIES

The share of foreign investment in Slovenia to its GDP is slowly but steadily increasing. In 2005, the share of foreign investment in GDP already amounted to more than 20 per cent.

In the area of services, cooperation between the two countries is also relatively modest. In the export of services, transport services, construction services, licences, computer and information services and state services prevail. In the import of services, travels, and state services prevail.

FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENTS (FDI) Direct investments of the Republic of Slovenia in India amounted to EUR 3.6 million in 2005. Direct investments from India to Slovenia amounted to EUR -0.1 million, i.e. the receivables exceed the level of equity capital and payables (disinvestment). This means that a Slovenian company established with Indian capital has more receivables from the parent company than the level of equity capital. NLB, the largest Slovene international financial group No data is available for 2006. In the state of Tamil Nadu, southeast of Bangalore, in to increase attractiveness of Slovenia as location for the city of Trichy, Iskraemeco Kranj has a company foreign investments through promotion, services for for the production of energy meters (with 51 per cent foreign investors and various incentives for foreign equity holding and employing approximately 300 investors. We would also like to mention that decision people), representing the first Slovenian investment on investment is a long term process and it will take in India. some time to see a full effect of our present activities in this field. In India, four Slovenian companies have their own representatives: The share of foreign investment in Slovenia to its GDP is slowly but steadily increasing. In 2005, the share • Krka (Bangalore), of foreign investment in GDP already amounted to • Intertrade ITC (Mumbai), more than 20 per cent. • Olympia International Ljubljana (New Delhi) We see a lot of positive impacts of foreign investments and to Slovenia such as the creation of new jobs, transfer • Luka Koper (representation of Globus Marine of knowledge and technology and others. Companies Services Private Limited, New Delhi). which are at least partially owned by foreign investors generally create higher added value per employee, INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR have a significant share of local suppliers and INDIAN COMPANIES IN SLOVENIA are frequently ranked among the largest Slovene exporters. Foreign investments are one of the priorities of the present Government and we are planning to We expect further growth of FDI in the future also continue and strengthen activities which are aimed taking into account the introduction of the euro and

23 Slovenia in Focus BILATERAL TIES

the continuation of the privatisation process in some which run through Slovenia. We would additionally sectors, interesting for foreign investors. Through highlight the importance of the Port of Koper as the recent reforms of legislation in different fields (such as European port that enables the shortest maritime tax reform) we aim to establish even more stimulating link for countries of Central and Eastern Europe with environment for foreign investors. the countries of Southeast Asia. Precisely because of these geographic advantages, foreign investors can Slovenia is an ideal location for foreign investment use Slovenia as a logistics and distribution centre for with higher added value, since it has a highly Central and Eastern Europe. educated and productive workforce whereas it is not very suitable for labour intensive investments Taking into account its strategic position, historical in comparison with other countries in the Central links and knowledge of foreign languages, foreign and Eastern European region. One of the factors companies can also use Slovenia as a jumping off influencing foreign investors not to invest in Slovenia point for the markets of southeast Europe. Their was also the size of the Slovene market but after our investments in Slovenia, its being a EU member membership in the EU Slovenia has become a part and introducing the euro in the beginning of 2007, of the much greater EU market. would be safer and not exposed to such risks as if a company decided on direct investment in the area An investor assesses all the advantages and of the Balkans. At the same time, foreign investors weaknesses of an individual country, whereby could also use the understanding of the markets of Slovenia usually gets a lower assessment for labour southeast Europe that Slovene partners have. costs, in the price and availability of industrial land and, also, our tax legislation is not competitive, even though recent tax reforms improve that. Slovenia tries ADDITIONAL STATISTICS partially to compensate for these weaknesses with financial incentives for foreign direct investments, FDI to Slovenia by countries (as of 2005) • Austria 28.9 per cent Taking into account its • Switzerland 16.3 per cent strategic position, historical • The Netherlands 10.6 per cent • France 8.7 per cent links and knowledge of foreign • Germany 8.6 per cent languages, foreign companies • Italy 5.7 per cent can also use Slovenia as a • Croatia 4.8 per cent. jumping off point for the FDI to Slovenia by industries (as of 2005) markets of southeast Europe. • Financial agency 18.6 per cent being in place since 2000, which reduce the entry • Manufacture of chemical products 15.7 per costs for foreign companies. cent • Other commercial activities 9.3 per cent As sectors which could be on the grounds of available • Agency, wholesale trade 8.5 per cent knowledge and existing capacities of interest for • Manufacture of rubber and plastic products foreign investment, we would highlight the automobile industry, tourism, power supply, ICT, R&D, chemical 5.1 per cent and pharmaceutical industries, electronic and • Manufacture of paper and paper products 4.8 electrical industries, logistics and distribution, and per cent other service and consultancy activities. • Manufacture of motor vehicles, caravans and trailers 4.3 per cent Existing foreign investments to Slovenia are • Supply of electricity, gas, steam 4.2 per cent predominantly in service sector, but we have some very large investments in the fields of the automobile • Manufacture of machinery and equipment 4 industry (Renault), pharmaceuticals (Novartis or the per cent Sandoz Group), rubber (Goodyear) and the electro • Retail trade (without motor vehicles) 2.9 per industry (Siemens, Bosch). cent. Slovenia is investing a great deal in building In 2005, the Government founded the Public Agency infrastructure, which will enable even faster links of the Republic of Slovenia for Entrepreneurship with all parts of Europe, also using the advantages (JAPTI), which offers foreign investors comprehensive offered by the 5th and 10th pan-European corridors, support and assistance in investing in Slovenia. The

Slovenia in Focus 24 Slovene Railways economic counsellors at our embassies abroad also The proposal was made to India to take advantage of assist in this (there are currently 19). the opportunities offered by the Ministry of the Economy of the Republic of Slovenia or the Public Agency for The activities of internationalisation of the Slovene Entrepreneurship and Foreign Investment (PAEFI) (in economy, including foreign investments promotion, 2007) within the public invitation to tender to promote will shortly be strengthened with the opening of foreign direct investments. The Decree on financial representative offices of the Slovene economy abroad, incentives for foreign direct investments (hereinafter: in Milan, Düsseldorf, Istanbul and Bucharest, and in decree) was published in the Official Gazette of the the coming years we plan to open new representative Republic of Slovenia on February 9, 2007, and it was offices in relation to the needs of the Slovene notified to the EC as state aid scheme. economy. In the Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia SLOVENIA – ECONOMIC INDICATORS No 39/2007 of May 4, 2007, the Public Agency for Population 2,009,029 Entrepreneurship and Foreign Investment published Area 20,273 sq km a public invitation to tender to promote foreign direct investments in 2007 and 2008 (total value of tendered Capital Ljubljana funds accounts for approx. SIT 1.4 billion or EUR Currency Euro (EUR) 5,842,000, whereas in 2008, approx. SIT 660 million GDP (2006 estimate) €29.7bn or EUR 2,754,131 – 80 per cent of this value). GDP (2005) €27.4bn The content of the public tender stems from the Decree GDP real growth rate (2006 5.2% taking into consideration the EC guidelines for regional estimate) state aid, whereas the decree itself contains Article GDP real growth rate (2005) 4.0% 22 laying down the possibility of allocating financial Inflation (end of the year 2005) 2.3% incentives without public tender, but only in exceptional Inflation (end of the year 2006 2.8% investments of national significance (consent given by estimate) the Government of the Republic of Slovenia). *Source: Institute of Macroeconomic Analysis and Development, Photos: Government Communications Office, 2007 Republic of Slovenia

25 Slovenia in Focus ECONOMY REVIEW Slovenia Your Business Partner Natasa Turk, Area Manager, of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia provides an outline of the Slovenian economy

lovenia was the first Yugoslav republic which from a regional economy to a national economy. declared free elections in the spring of 1990. The Entering the euro area in 2007 has been the most Scountry opted for its independence in December important step for Slovenia towards becoming 1990 and declared independence, supported by a a modern, advanced and competitive European great majority of population, on June 25, 1991. economy since the EU accession in 2004. First years of independence were tough, especially The GDP growth was sustainable in the last decade, for business entities. Previously, more than 60% of meaning 4 per cent on average. The Slovenian Slovenia’s production was sold to the markets of economy flourished in the run-up to the euro other republics of former Yugoslavia and suddenly adoption. In the year 2006, the economy grew at those markets were lost overnight, because of the 5.2 per cent in real terms year-on-year. Along with independence conflict. Through diligent efforts an impressive build-up of investments and moderate and reconstruction of the economy, the country private consumption, exports were the major impulse managed to overcome the tough times. Slovenia is to GDP growth. now a prosperous country, with a good economic potential. According to the Eurostat’s latest forecast of January 2007, Slovenia is seen to achieve 84 per cent of the Changes in the Slovenian economy might be EU25 average GDP per capita by purchasing power illustrated by the following figures: in 1991 there parity and was ranked 16th among the Member were only 3,000 companies registered, while today States. the number of registered companies is over 65,000 and 98 % of those companies are dynamic small Slovenian exports and imports of goods and services and medium sized companies, most of them private in 2006 surpassed 41 billion Euros. Foreign trade is owned. The State still owns important shares in rail balanced; exports contribute 68 per cent of GDP. transport, telecommunications, energy sectors and In fact, Slovenia is one of the most export-oriented some strategic companies through so called Capital countries in Europe. and Compensation funds. The inflation rate was kept low in the last four years What are the achievements of Slovenian economy, and reached 2.5 per cent in 2006. 16 years after its independence? The unemployment rate remains below the EU The economy has gone through basic transitions: from average. According to ILO standards, it was 6.2 per a centrally planned economy to a market economy, cent in 2006.

Slovenia in Focus 26 ECONOMY REVIEW

The analysis GDP real growth rates reveal that for the most of the past 10 years Slovenian GDP growth was as twice as high as the EU average. The forecasts for forthcoming years remain optimistic in that aspect.

As mentioned before, Slovenia is a very open, competitive and export oriented country. The EU market is the most important export market for Slovenian exporters and accounts for 68.5 % of total A glimpse at the general economic structure reveals Slovenian exports. The countries of South East Europe that service sector represents over 62.5 per cent of the account for 18.4 % of total Slovenian exports, the Slovenian GDP. The manufacturing sector contributes Russian Federation – 3.6 %, USA – 2.3 %, and India 35 per cent – out of that industry contributes 30 per 0.2 %. These facts show rather low diversification cent and construction five per cent. The agricultural of Slovenian exports, a problem which should be sector contributes less than three per cent of the certainly addressed, soon. Slovenian GDP.

80.3 % of imports come from the EU market, followed Metal, textile, shoe-making and wood industry have by countries of South East Europe with 8.4%. Imports a long industrial tradition in Slovenia. The main from Russian Federation account 1.9%, from USA manufacturing activities, which contribute a major 1.0% and from India 0.3%. share to the overall value added today, are: metals and metal products, especially automotive industry; chemical industry, especially pharmaceutical industry; electrical and optical equipment; machinery and equipment and food processing industry which is losing its pace due to European competition. Paper and publishing industry is also very important, followed by transport equipment, rubber, plastics, textiles, and non-metallic mineral products. The main product groups in trade are: motor cars (Renault), parts and accessories for motor vehicles, pharmaceuticals, furniture, refrigerators and freezers, paper and paperboards, electric water heaters, new pneumatic tires and carpentry products.

27 Slovenia in Focus ECONOMY REVIEW

Our principal trade partners are Germany, Italy, countries and lately more and more to the Russian followed by Austria, Croatia and France. The most Federation. important trade partner of Slovenia is Germany with a 20 per cent share in the export and import PROSPEROUS INDUSTRIAL SECTORS of goods. Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Slovenia’s most successful companies are in the pharmaceuticals sector. They have excellent network of offices and subsidiaries abroad and invest heavily in R & D. Their key products include: • Pharmaceutical formulations • Coatings, paints and varnishes • Tires and other rubber products • Basic chemicals • Plastic products • Fibres • Advanced and polymer materials

Let’s start with the chemical and pharmaceuticals industry, reinforced by rubber and plastics it represents 4.5 % of the entire Slovenian GDP and 21 % of value added in manufacturing industries. 20% of Slovenian exports is related to that industries and also 20% of foreign direct investments is placed in this sector. In general, the most successful Slovenian companies are based in this sector – especially in the field of pharmaceuticals. Typical is very well developed network of offices and subsidiaries abroad. As said, Slovenian chemical and rubber industry is quite internationalised, not only in terms of foreign trade and inward investments but also in terms of The latest available official information on FDIs outward FDIs. Companies have established their in Slovenia shows that a year-end-stock of inward own production units in Romania, Poland, Russian foreign direct investment in Slovenia amounted close Federation and other courtiers, including former to 6 billion Euros. 40% of investments come from Yugoslavia. One of the reasons for success is off neighbouring countries, meaning Austria, Italy and course high level of investment in research and Croatia, followed by Switzerland – mostly due to a development. takeover in the pharmaceutical industry, Netherlands, The main products, also present in exports, are France, Germany and Belgium. pharmaceuticals, paints, tires, basic chemicals, plastic The latest available official information on Slovenian products, products from polymer materials and man- FDIs abroad shows that a year-end-stock of Slovenian made fibres. investments abroad is almost 3 billion Euros. The most preferred investment destinations for Slovenian Electrical & Electronic Equipment companies are countries of former Yugoslavia, where Electrical & Electronic Equipment manufacturing has Slovenian companies maintain good economic a long tradition in Slovenia. Its key competencies position and enjoy a status of desirable business lie in R&D and production. This sector is well and investment partners. Close to 57 per cent of established in European markets and beyond and Slovenian investments abroad are placed in that has good experience in value added-supply chain region. Investments are made with the intention industry. This sector also invests a lot abroad. Not of developing trade and distribution networks, only representative offices but also production units manufacturing facilities and services. Important are organized in former Yugoslavia, Czech republic, investment destinations are also to some “old” EU Spain, Poland, Belarus, Russian Federation, USA,

Slovenia in Focus 28 ECONOMY REVIEW

China, India, even Ecuador and Iran. It’s quite clear suppliers and motor vehicles manufacturers – the that industry has experience in value added-supply Automotive Cluster of Slovenia. The cluster was chains and can provide “blue-print” solutions - tailor established in 2001 by 12 members and today made for specific users. Being in such a good shape, operates as an open network of 54 members including the industry attracts considerable interest of foreign seven faculties and R&D institutions. By establishing investors, such as Siemens, Danfoss and others. of the “Polycentric Technology Centre”, the cluster aims to become an innovative association involved Their key products include: in global research and development. • Household appliances The tradition of the industry goes way back to the • Electronic and electro-mechanical end of 18th century when first cars were driven in components Ljubljana and first auto repair shop opened. The • Electrical motors, transformers serial production of cars began already in 1906 by • Telecommunications equipment engineer Janez Puh aka Johann Puch, whose surname • Electricity power meters is still kept in famous Austrian car production factory • Electrical and electronic components for (Daimler-Chrysler-Puch). Large bus and truck automotive industry production also took place very early. Although those productions were abolished during the transition period, the production of Renault cars which started Metal Processing in early 1960s and was taken over by French in The economic activity which makes up to a quarter 1970s remained. Today REVOZ-Renault is the biggest of exports of entire Slovenian industry is the metal Slovenian exporter and importer. processing industry. The average share of exports Eighty per cent of the sales of the cluster, which is in its total sales amounts to 62 per cent. The most 1.5 billion euros, are directed to exports. Indicative of important export markets of the metal processing their orientation towards research and development industry are Germany, France, Italy and Austria, is the fact that 2000 employees out of 17,000 are followed by Croatia, Spain, Bosnia and Herzegovina, registered researchers. Serbia & Montenegro, Poland, Great Britain, Hungary, Russia, Switzerland and Czech Republic. The main activities of the members of the cluster are production of automobile seats, car body parts and The metal industry experienced its greatest mechanical, electrical and electronic components development in the 1960s and 1970s and suffered a for engines. We could also say that cluster is lot after the break-up of the traditional Yugoslavian “producing” new technologies, for example in the area markets. In 1990s they adopted their production, of robotisation, microelectronics and mechatronics technical regulations and environmental standards components. The term mechatronics describes a to western European markets. The Slovenian metal convergence of metals, other materials, electronics processing industry has been facing prosperity again and information technologies. from 1995 onwards. The main markets of the Slovenian automotive This industry is especially competitive in market suppliers industry are Germany, France, Italy, Austria, niches such as special machinery and metal products. United Kingdom and USA. Their list of customers The flexible production enables them to meet includes VW, BMW, Daimler Chrysler, Opel, Audi, special requirements and demands. Due to high MAN, Ford, PSA, Renault, Fiat, Magna Steyer and quality professional staff the industry can act as a so on. development-intensive supplier to the leading EU and world automobile industry companies, machine building and construction. Information & Communication Technology (ICT) There are three main industries included in metal ICT is a relatively new economic branch, characterised processing activities: metalworking – meaning by intensive development. Companies belonging to manufacturing of metal products, the manufacturing this activity come from different fields. In respect of (non-electrical) machinery and equipment and of ICT Slovenia qualifies as one of more highly manufacturing of transport equipment or better developed countries. In Slovenia there are more than vehicle components. 2000 ICT companies registered and two per cent of the active population is involved in the activity. The last Automotive Cluster of Slovenia - ACS available data show, that the Slovenian ICT market is growing in all respects faster than the average. Interests of Slovenian automotive supplier industry The growth of the ICT sector in 2003 surpassed five are represented by the association of automotive per cent.

29 Slovenia in Focus ECONOMY REVIEW

The sector can roughly be divided into production 5. 7228 other bars and rods of other alloy and selling of hardware, office equipment, software, information technology services and 6. 3824 prepared binders for foundry telecommunication services. Slovenian ICT companies moduls are mostly service providers, with the strongest sector 7. 4810 paper and paperboard being telecommunications. Slovenia incidentally, 8. 9028 electric meters has one of the highest mobile phone penetrations 9. 3003 medicaments, not for retail sale worldwide at 93 per cent. 10. 2934 other heterocyclic compounds EXPORTS AND IMPORTS OF THE REPUBLIC OF SLOVENIA Imports YEAR EXPORTS IMPORTS TOTAL VALUE VALUE VALUE Rank CODE GROUP OF PRODUCTS /** 000 EUR 000 EUR 000 EUR 1. 2933 heterocyclic compounds 1996 9,002 12,351 21,354 2. 2932 heterocyclic compounds 1997 9,620 15,785 25,406 3. 2941 antibiotics 1998 9,540 17,255 26,795 4. 7202 ferro-alloys 1999 8,695 19,932 28,627 5. 2934 other heterocyclic compounds 2000 18,217 24,334 42 ,551 6. 6302 bed linen, table linen, toilet linen 2001 16,758 34,190 50,949 7. 4112 leather further prepared after tanning 2002 18,828 33,996 52,824 or crusting 2003 24,632 39,307 63,939 8. 2921 amine-function compounds 2004 17,215 *42,325 59,540 9. 0901 coffee 2005 17,843 47,649 65,492 10. 2935 sulphonamides 2006 31,907 52,834 84,741 ** Names of product groups are made on the basis • Note that Slovenia has entered the EU on May of 4 digit TARIC codes. A complete specification of TARIC code is available on http://europa.eu.int/comm/ 1, 2004 and took over new methodology of data taxation_customs/dds/cgi-bin/tarchap?Lang=EN collection. Therefore data on import value for the year 2004 is not directly comparable with Major Importers and Exporters of 2006 data for the time before the year 2004. Exporters SLOVENIA-INDIA 1. LEK D.D., LJUBLJANA 2. ACRONI, D.O.O., JESENICE 3. METAL RAVNE D.O.O., RAVNE NA KOROSKEM 4. AGB LAB D.O.O., Portoroz, PIRAN 5. PLAMA-PUR D.D. PODGRAD, ILIRSKA BISTRICA 6. RADECE PAPIR, D.D., RADECE 7. ISKRAEMECO, D.D., KRANJ 8. ETI D.D., ZAGORJE OB SAVI 9. PGP TRZIC, D.O.O., TRZIC 10. MELAMIN d.d. Kocevje, KOCEVJE Exports Importers Rank CODE GR OUP OF PRODUCTS /** 1. 2932 heterocyclic compounds 1. KRKA, D.D., NOVO Mesto 2. 7219 flat-rolled prod of stainless steel 2. LEK D.D., LJUBLJANA 3. 3921 other plates, sheets of plastics 3. KOVINTRADE D.D. CELJE 4. 9031 measuring instruments and machines 4. ALPINA, D.D., ZIRI

Slovenia in Focus 30 ECONOMY REVIEW

5. TOSAMA D.D., DOMZALE 6. GALEX D.D., MURSKA SOBOTA 7. BETI MODA D.O.O., METLIKA 8. BPT - SVILANIT D.O.O., KAMNIK 9. MILCOM D.O.O., KOPER 10. MERCATOR-EMBA, D.D., LJUBLJANA ***Note: Data for the last year are provisional.

6th Session of India-Slovenia Joint Committee Meeting and 5th Session of India-Slovenia Joint Business Council organized by FICCI in New Delhi, India on November 10, 2005

of the CCIS, and provides a free market with all the opportunities and challenges that such entails. Concern for the interests of all our member companies remains the primary objective of the CCIS’s 160 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY employees, the 26 branch associations and 13 OF SLOVENIA (CCIS) regional chambers. With over 150 years of tradition behind it, the Chamber The CCIS provides accurate and up-to-date of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia (CCIS) information on: represents the interests of Slovenia’s economy. The country’s new Chambers of Commerce Act, adopted • Slovenian companies in late 2006, introduced voluntary membership • Economic outlook in Slovenia • Business environment and current economic policy • Foreign trade policies and procedures • Statistical data and information • Customs regimes • Market data and research analyses

The International Co-operation Department of the CCIS organizes seminars, business conferences for incoming and outgoing business missions in order to assist establishing business links between businessmen from Slovenia and India. The CCIS has signed MoUs with National Centre for Trade Information, The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry in the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India, Indian Merchant’s Chamber of Bombay. The CCIS can be contacted at: Dimiceva 13, SI-1504 Ljubljana, Slovenia Meeting of Mr. Tarun Das, Chief Mentor of the CII with Phone: +386 1 5898 000 the Slovenian business community, organized by CCIS E-mail: [email protected] in Ljubljana, Slovenia, on May 16, 2007 www.gzs.si/eng

31 Slovenia in Focus AMBASSADOR'S INTERVIEW Slovenia – India’s Door to Europe H.E. Dr. Villur Sundararajan Seshadri, Ambassador of India to Slovenia outlines the potential of India-Slovenia ties to Paul J. Menezes in a written interview

lovenia is generally regarded as a gateway Sto Eastern as well as Western EU member states. Could you elaborate on how this would help Indian exporters targeting the EU? Slovenia could form an important gateway for India to countries in south eastern and central Europe. On the one hand, the port of Koper in Slovenia, which has expansion plans, could provide an easier and quicker access for India’s exports to not only Slovenia but also to all other neighbouring countries which can be reached by road or by rail within a matter of few hours. This position could also get further strengthened as Slovenia H.E. Dr. Villur Sundararajan Seshadri, Ambassador of India to Slovenia embarks on its plans to expand the rail and road infrastructures between the two countries are directions are encouraging, the to ensure speedier movement from scheduled for 28th August, 2007, potential for expansion are much Koper to all these destinations. when the Secretary in the Ministry more considering the various of External Affairs Mr. Nalin Surie opportunities available. Our Secondly, I notice that Slovenian is expected to visit Slovenia. immediate task will be to make companies have a good presence Dates are also under discussion businesses here become better in some of the South-East- for holding the next session of aware of the attractive trading European countries, where they the Joint Commission on Trade prospects that India presents have subsidiaries, collaborative and Economic Cooperation and – both in terms of sourcing their ventures or representative tie-ups. the Joint Commission on Science imports or for contracting their Trade and investment cooperation and Technology both of which services requirements. Investment between Indian and Slovenian are also expected to be held in opportunities should also be of companies can, therefore, have a Slovenia later this year. interest for many of the investment potentially wider reach. funds in Slovenia. Imports from Slovenia though When is the next Government still half of Indian exports Moser Baer India recently level visit between the two to that country, are growing acquired a 40 per cent stake countries? at more than four times the in a Slovenia based firm. Are Several Governmental visits are rate of Indian exports. What there any India-Slovenia JVs in expected later this year. We are is your Embassy doing to the pipeline that you are aware hoping that as and when the promote Indian products and of? How does your Embassy Chancery premises for the newly services in Slovenia? facilitate this activity? established Embassy of India Promoting greater trade and Indian companies have yet to becomes ready in Ljubljana, a high technology and other economic build any significant investment level visitor from India will be able exchanges between the two or business presence in Slovenia to visit and formally inaugurate countries will be a key priority and this again I think is due the premises. Apart from this, for the Embassy. While the to lack of adequate awareness the Foreign Office Consultations existing trade levels in both and familiarity among them

Slovenia in Focus 32 AMBASSADOR'S INTERVIEW

"Our immediate task will be to make between India and Slovenia. What is important, till we have businesses here become better aware of the volumes for a direct flight, the attractive trading prospects that India is to make the people of the two presents – both in terms of sourcing their countries become better aware of the tourist attractions in the imports or for contracting their services two countries. Participation in requirements." tourism promotion fairs, exchange of cultural troupes and holding of about the trade and investment are already in contact and these film festivals, facilitating shooting opportunities available here. We can be further expanded. In of feature and other films in each need to have greater exchange fact, eleven projects are already other’s countries and bringing of business delegations and under implementation and this about more business travel can all participation in business summits will come up for review when the contribute to this process. by the two countries. For example, Joint Commission on Science and it would be good if our businesses Technology meets next, which is The International Centre for can come and participate in the expected to be held soon. Promotion of Enterprises major business events held here (ICPE) is located in Ljubljana. including the one to be held in Travel to Slovenia from India How do you see ICPE’s role in November in the coastal town of is circuitous at best, with promoting greater interaction Portoroz which is being organized travellers often having to go between Indian and Slovenian by the Faculty of Economics as far as Paris before catching trade and industry? of Ljubljana University and another flight into the country. ICPE has unfortunately run the ‘Finance’ daily newspaper. What moves are afoot to make into some difficult times and Similarly it would be good if travel links easier and more is in immediate need of some some of the Slovene companies direct? revival and revitalization. Mr. can participate in the business While direct flights, no doubt, can Priyadarshi Thakur, its Director summits organized by CII, FICCI, be the most convenient and will General, is already taking some etc. in India. be a force multiplier in boosting initiatives towards enhancing its tourism, I am not sure, if we scope of activities in collaboration What in your opinion are the need to wait for that to happen with reputed institutions and by sectors that hold the most for enhancing tourist travel making it relevant to today’s promise for India-Slovenia economic cooperation? There are several areas that can be of mutual interest. Sectors like automobile components, steel, chemical and pharmaceuticals, bio-technology and IT are some of them. Both countries also have a strong interest in promoting SMEs where some assistance may be needed for facilitating contacts among them. All these are areas which, I am sure, will be addressed by the Joint Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation when it meets later this year in Ljubljana. Science and Technology and Research collaborations are areas where reputed institutions from the two sides, including the Joseph Stephan Institute and the National Institute for Chemistry in Ljubljana and the Indian Institutes of Technology and Indian Institute of Science The Sariko shop in Ljubljana AMBASSADOR'S INTERVIEW

context. The successful holding "It would be good including in the promotion of of an International Conference Indian handicrafts. on Lending to SMEs for Bankers if our businesses by ICPE recently marks a good can come and Are there adequate cultural beginning in this regard. participate in the contacts between India The Government of India is major business and Slovenia? How do you committed to strengthening intend forging closer cultural ICPE and this is reflected in events held here cooperation? the fact that India has recently including the one to This is very important in doubled its contribution to ICPE. promoting greater understanding Furthermore, from my various be held in November and awareness. At present, there is interactions here, my sense is that in the coastal town paucity in the exchange of cultural Slovenia is also very interested in of Portoroz" troupes, the holding of various seeing this International institution exhibitions of various forms of art located in Ljubljana grow in or in holding film festivals. These structure and substance. I do need to be augmented. While There is a small Indian community hope, therefore, that this process some Slovenian poets, scholars in Slovenia. Some among them are of revival succeeds since ICPE and thinkers have focused on professionals working for different has not only very good potential India and there are also some international companies or are for enhancing interaction between courses devoted to Indian studies doctors or IT experts providing the businesses but also academic in Slovenia, there is great potential software or other services. There and other institutions among all for expanding them further. are also some who are involved its member countries including in trade and other businesses, Photos: Harun Riaz India and Slovenia.

Indian universities and institutes for higher learning A young Slovenian couple attract thousands of foreign enjoying an Indian meal students every year. How at Namaste an Indian popular is India as an Restaurant in Ljubljana. education destination in the INSET: Vesna Dolinar (left), minds of Slovenian students? owner of the restaurant And what moves are afoot to with her mother Koki Veber, make travel links easier and business woman in Slovenia more direct? Higher education is another area that opens up vast possibilities. I am happy to note that a Slovenian student has just been offered, and she has also accepted, a scholarship by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) to undergo a masters’ programme in Arts and Aesthetics in the Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi for the academic session 2007-08. The Mission will also endeavour to make aware to the Slovenian student community about the programmes available in our other universities and institutes of higher learning.

How big is the Indian community in Slovenia? And what sectors are they mostly concentrated in?

Slovenia in Focus 34

BUSINESS INTERVIEW ‘Port of Koper – the Better Choice for India-EU Trade’ The Vice President of Luka Koper, Aldo Babic in a written interview to Harun Riaz explains the importance of this port to enhance cargo business between Slovenia and India

uka Koper Port is very Europe ports. With its location time from India, passing Suez, keen to attract container and other advantages (hinterland to the Central Europe. Moreover, Lcargo business from communications, effectiveness, good railway and road inland India. Can you provide details flexibility…) and of course its connections of Koper to Central about this interest? plans for future development, we Europe have equal importance. India, as one of the fastest think Koper is good alternative developing countries with fast for Northern ports. Can you provide figures or growing export and one of the most statistics on existing business favourite geographic locations, What are the advantages, if from India at Luka Koper? intersecting busiest transport Indian business will use Luka In last years through Port of routes is very interesting for our Koper for cargo transport? Koper goes approximately 20,000 port. At this moment most of the Beside fast and reliable port tons of cargo per year. Cargo cargo coming to Europe from operations we see our main mostly arrives in containers, India is manipulated in Northern advantage in the short transit which means approximately

Koper skyline with the Port in the background BUSINESS INTERVIEW

Have you any What have been the major plans to organise achievements, milestones and a business or developments at Luka Koper investment meet in the past two years since last in India from Slovenia in Focus magazine was Luka Koper? published in June 2005? I n d i a ’ s r a p i d Total cargo throughput grew to 14 economic growth million in 2006 tons (13 million tons r e p r e s e n t s a n in 2005). Remarkable growth was opportunity for registered in the container and car b o t h , P o r t o f handling but also in other cargoes. Koper and Indian In 2005 Luka Koper, d.d. bagged exporters, that’s the European Business Excellence why a business Award, while in 2006 the company A Cargo ship with 8,000 cars at the Car Handling meeting in the entered the competition for the most Terminal of the Koper Port future seems quite prestigious European Business a must. Excellence Award, and became an Excellence Award Finalist. Many 3,000 CNT/year. There is a variety Would you be interested in development projects started in of cargoes; most common are inviting an Indian business the past two years, including timber, coffee beans, paper and delegation to visit Luka Koper capacity enhancement at the iron products. In the past it was from the Shipping Lines Adria terminals and the passenger very important the import of cars sector? terminal project. to European countries (Tata and Yes. Maruti Suzuki). Photos: Luka Koper CURRENT AFFAIRS Slovenia to Join the Schengen Area at the End of 2007 Vesna Zarkovic

confirmed delays in implementing the SIS II information system, which is one of the prerequisites for the enlargement, it became clear that the process might stall. New member states, including Slovenia, reacted vigorously and reproached the Commission with the assertion that the reasons for the delay were political rather than technical.

SIS I Project for Everyone After several months of trying to find a solution for the Schengen delay, in which Portugal and Slovenia played the major roles, on December 5, 2006 EU interior ministers gave the green light to Ljubljana -the capital city the enlargement of the current Schengen Information System, or lovenia is to become a the new member states are to a temporary solution which will member of the Schengen be abolished in December 2007, enable new members to connect area (which has no internal while international airports, where to the current information system, S the so called ‘SIS I for all’ project. border controls) in December changes are possible only twice a 2007. The enlargement of the year due to the seasonal basis of According to some estimates, this Schengen area from December local times, are to adopt the new should shorten delays, which 2007 to March 2008 at the regime in March 2008. could otherwise be as long as latest was approved at the EU two years. The final decision on summit, while the prerequisite of According to the original plans, the enlargement of the Schengen meeting all the conditions was the area without internal border area, which currently comprises still emphasised. Slovenia’s Prime controls should have been enlarged thirteen EU member states (all Minister Janez Jansa stressed in October 2007; however, ‘old’ members, excluding the that Slovenia would meet these after the European Commission UK and Ireland) and Norway, conditions in time. and Iceland. The preparedness of each candidate will play a Slovenia is supposed to join decisive role, which was again the Schengen Aggrement before emphasised at the December assuming the presidency of the EU Summit, where an appeal EU in the first half of 2008. was made to new members to Eliminating control on the borders continue their endeavours to with Austira, Italy and Hungary meet all the Schengen conditions. would be symbolic. According to A country can only join if the the new schedule approved by EU assesses that it is prepared the interior ministers of the 25 to implement the Schengen EU member states, the internal acquis in the areas of police land and sea border controls in cooperation, data protection,

Slovenia in Focus 38 CURRENT AFFAIRS

“SLOVENIA CAN EXPECT TO ELIMINATE INTERNAL EU LAND AND SEA BORDER CONTROLS BY 31 DECEMBER 2007 AND THUS JOIN THE SCHENGEN AREA IN 2007. THIS IS AN ATTAINABLE GOAL.” Interior Minister Draguitn Mate (Meeting of EU interior Ministers, Brussels, December 5, 2006)

Vineyard from Stajerska Region

issuing visas, and land, sea and air control, and can connect to the computer system, in this case SIS 1+. The spring evaluation showed that Slovenia had to eliminate deficiencies regarding the inadequate infrastructure at the Brnik Airport. According to plans, the airport will meet the Schengen standards at the beginning of July, which means that domestic and foreign traffic will be physically separated. According to the Slovenian interior minister Dragutin Mate, the problem of crossing the Sloven ian-Croatian border with IDs will be solved in time.

How will the connection to ‘SIS 1 for all progress? As explained by Mr Mate at the beginning of December, the Rafting on the Soca River technical work will end in August 2007, and in September the Expanding and implementing their share of the costs arising countries will begin to connect to the ‘SIS I for all’ includes costs. from ‘SIS I for all’, so the other the Schengen Information System. Slovenia will spend about 1 million countries have to cover them. Tests of the connections and the euro on joining the Schengen functioning of the system will take Information System, and 100,000 At the beginning of December place in September and October; on the so-called historical cost the interior ministers agreed to the results will be published in and the expansion of SIS 1+. The the enlargement of the current October, and on the basis of these United Kingdom and Ireland, information system, Le. the ‘SIS results and other assessments the which are not members of the I for all’ project, which should interior ministers will reach the Schengen area, but nonetheless shorten the delays which have final decision on the enlargement want to connect to the Schengen arisen with SIS II - according of the Schengen area in November Information System (SIS II, when to the European Commission, 2007. it is ready) do not want to pay the project would otherwise be

39 Slovenia in Focus CURRENT AFFAIRS

“TODAY’S DECISION ON A NEW TIMELINE IS A ‘POLITICAL DECISION’, AS THE EU HAS A C O M M O N ‘ P O L I T I C A L GOAL’ - TO UPGRADE THE ENLARGEMENT OF 2004. WE CANNOT PROVIDE EQUALITY TO NEW CITIZENS, UNTIL THE INTERNAL BORDER CONTROL IS ELIMINATED.” European Commissioner for Justice, Freedom and Security, Franco Frattini (Meeting of EU interior ministers, Brussels, December 5, 2006)

Visiting the Postojna Cave

delayed by one or even two years, but this should now be only a few months at most. Mr Mate said that the go-ahead for the ‘SIS I for all’ project “means that according to the new timeline, Slovenia will Slovenia will gain access to the Schengen Information System next year.” The minister explained that “In August the technical work will end; in September countries will start connecting to the Schengen Lipica Horses Information System which is a prerequisite for lifting the internal the Minister, but he cautioned to offering mutual expert and borders.” that Slovenian and Portuguese IT technical support, and the older experts have a lot of work to do to members vowed to do the same. “We do not expect technical ensure the perfect functioning of problems, and the shortcomings the information system according “The development of SIS II in all new member states which to plan. Slovenia will have to continues and definitely remains have been discovered when construct new facilities at Brnik our top priority,” stressed the assessing them will be remedied. Airport. If it is to meet the Slovenian Minister of the Interior, Therefore, we expect to abolish Schengen standards, passengers representatives of the Finnish EU land and sea border controls in flying on internal and external presidency and Commissioner 2007, while the target date at flights have to be separated. Mr Frattini. the airports remains the same, as Mate also said he was convinced this is connected to the seasonal “SIS II is not being developed that other candidate countries change in timetables,” said Mr because of new members, but would meet the criteria for joining Mate. to provide security in managing the Schengen area. At meetings in data,” explained Mr Mate, adding “I am quite certain that Slovenia Brdo pri Kranju and Vilnius new that so far, only the legal basis for will fulfil its commitments,” said members committed themselves SIS II has been adopted.

Slovenia in Focus 40 CURRENT AFFAIRS

job excellently,” said Mr Frattini. With the expansion of the SIS I + information system, Slovenia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia will join the Schengen area. The Schengen area, which was established in 1995 (the first Schengen Agreement was signed in 1985), does not include United Kingdom and Ireland. However, three non-EU Krvavec Ski Slope countries have signed the “For everyone, SIS I is only a Commissioner Frattni said Schengen Agreement: Iceland, tool which will facilitate the new Slovenia had played a very Norway and Switzerland. The first countries joining,” he stressed. important role in finding a solution two are already members, while “Our citizens will be equal to to the Schengen delay, with Mr Switzerland has not yet decided other EU citizens and thus one Mate leading efforts to integrate the on further steps. of the key points in the Hague new members into the current SIS Source: Sinfo – February 2007 programme will be achieved - I +. “I have publicly congratulated Government Communications Office, freedom of movement within the the Slovenian minister. He did his Republic of Slovenia EU,” he said.

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190-2007_KRKA_SOJ_ad_FanDek_184x1 1 23.5.2007 8:59:12 DEVELOPMENT PLAN Goal: To Reach the Average EU Development Level

Resolution on National Development Projects – a Bold and Courageous Government Project

Highway in Slovenia he government decided on to build business centres, which includes modernising the judicial 12 October that in the next should provide 17,000 new jobs and health systems. Tten years, or as early as and increase the development 2013, the average EU development potential of approximately 2,000 A selection of thirty-four projects level had to be achieved, and small and medium-size companies. will influence government budgets therefore approved a Resolution Priorities also include linking in the next few years. “It is an on National Development natural and cultural potential, important white paper, which projects for the Period 2007- and developing a scholarship Slovenia has never drawn up 2023. This document includes scheme, efficient environment before,” said Prime Minister Janez key development and investment management, sustainable energy, Jansa. The selection includes projects aimed at speeding up mobility to support business projects which are already in Slovenia’s development and development, for which building their initial phases or being achieving the main goal. Priority road and railway infrastructure implemented, but do not have a areas are development networks is planned, and institutional and financial breakdown yet, such as of Slovenia, including projects administrative knowhow, which the hydro-electric power plants

Slovenia in Focus 42 DEVELOPMENT PLAN on the lower Sava River and the and lowered the number of Megalaksija amusement park in National and University Library unemployed by 15,000, while in Hajdina near Ptuj, and Terme 2, and the modernisation of 2013, 50,000 new jobs should Janezovci spa. The latter is to the railways. The deadline for have been created and the number be set up at a crossroads of the latter, the most financially of unemployed persons should major roads, boast 163,000 demanding project, coincides with have been reduced by 30,000. square metres of space, give the end of the Resolution. The work to at least 300 people, and Resolution encompasses two and Development projects in indirectly contribute to creating a half EU Financial Perspectives North-Eastern Slovenia more than 2000 new jobs. Its and presents “a big picture”, Besides building business centres value is estimated at 100 million which will help the MPs decide called ‘Eye’ in the Pomurje region euros, while Terme Janezovci, on each year’s state budget. When approving budget funds, it is advisable to have a broader overview of the funds needed to implement goals. According to the Minister of Finance and leader of the New Slovenia party, Andrej Bajuk, the required amounts are extremely high, “more than the budget can handle”. Therefore it is important that the Resolution opens up a discussion which will stipulate areas in which we can expect public-private partnerships to implement the goals. The resolution defines the priority tasks necessary to fulfil Slovenia’s ambitions, thus putting into practice Slovenia’s Development Strategy, which is based on an economic and social reforms framework. A package of 35 projects to cost 24 billion euros Ptuj Castle and the old part of the town All projects will be funded by the state budget, EU funds and and ‘Noordung’ in Koroska, with hotels and guest houses private investments, which have the most interesting project is offering 800 beds, and a golf been stipulated by law for the first a multi-modal logistics centre centre, is estimated at 53 million time. The latter should contribute in the Podravje region, which euros and will offer 200 new jobs. more than 14 billion euros, while will include a business and Podravje will also benefit from 7 billion would be earmarked university incubator, scientific the introduction of a national in the budget. Most projects park, the Ormoz industrial zone broadband network with which will start at the beginning of the a project included in the Alureg the government aims to provide Financial Perspective 2007-2013. programme in Slovenska Bistrica, equal opportunities to all citizens The funds will be more or less and particularly the Oreh logistics and connect with the countryside. uniformly distributed across the centre in Hoce. North-eastern The goal of the government is whole period until 2023, which Slovenia is the fastest growing to facilitate broadband internet is important for ensuring the tourist region in the country. The connections to as many citizens sustainability of public finances. Resolution does not specifically as possible. Energy projects Implemented projects should mention the city of Maribor; are divided into three areas: increase purchasing power by however, the government will developing new energy facilities, 3.3 per cent by 2010 and by continue to strive to revive the transmission and distribution 6.8 per cent by 2013. By 2008 local airport, which is important networks, and the storage of the Resolution projects should for developing this industry. energy products. Even though have created 12,000 new jobs The Resolution envisages the all these projects are of national

43 Slovenia in Focus DEVELOPMENT PLAN significance, Kozjak Pumping Hydro investing in the railways is to million are to be allocated from Power Station, worth 168.8 million increase maximum axle load and the EU Funds, while 200 million euros, is particularly important. facilitate an increase in speed on euros should come from public- The project will ensure flexible and the main routes to 160 kilometres private partnerships. Concrete optimal operations for the Dravske per hour or more, modernise proposal for financing the latter Elektrarne Maribor (DEM) hydro signalling and safety devices, and have not yet been drawn up. power plants, as well as the entire provide remote control for stable As private partners will need to electric power system, and improve electo-traction devices. The line see a return on their investment, the conditions of operation for part between Pragersko and Hodos is either from the state budget or a of the DEM in terms of increasing to be electrified and a new double- concession, some development available power. track line, which allows greater axes will be toll roads, which will speed, is to be constructed. It is be of a higher standard than state Tehnopolis business centre, imperative that Slovenia, which is roads, sometimes at least high- main project in Savinjska region a transport hub of corridors V and speed roads, such as between X, modernises its railway network, Celje and Novo Mesto. The centre was opened on 26 October, or transport routes will circumvent and in the next few years a university it. Priorities include shortening the This speeds up the modernisation incubator, a higher education centre time of travel by changing traffic of the road network. About 170 and adjoining facilities, regional capacity, facilitating increased kilometres of road on the third network incubator and a network of speed and greater maximum development axis (from the technology centres, a big business axle load. border with Austria in Koroska and industrial logistics centre of through the Savinjska Valley national significance, and a design centre in Velenje will be established. The main purpose of the project is to build a central cooperative strategic technological centre for Southeast Europe, facilitate establishing 230 companies and institutions, and create 2,000 new jobs. Regarding energy projects, the Celje region is closest to Sostanj Thermal Power Plant, which will invest in building Unit 6, while closing down Units 1, 2 and 3, thus increasing production by 10 per cent. The region also plans a gas depot in Senovo, a new unit at the Krsko Nuclear Power Plant, the construction of hydro power plants on the lower Sava River, and the modernisation of electricity networks and Kozjak Pumping Hydro Power Station. Shepherds' cottages at Velika Planina Nine billion euros for railway modernisation State road network on three towards Novo Mesto and through Between 2008 and 2020 almost 9 development axes by 2020 Dolenjska and Bela Krajina to the billion euros are to be invested in The Resolution on National border with Croatia) will connect modernising the railway network in Development Projects by 2023 important business centres and Slovenia. In financial terms this is also stipulates modernising the reach across the border. The road the most ambitious project in the state road network according to should shorten the road distance Resolution on National Development priority development axes. The from Celje to Novo Mesto by a Projects. The amount represents value of the project is estimated at quarter, and travel time by a half. more than two thirds of all required 1.446 billion euros. To implement The selected version of the project funds - 12.2 billion euros - needed to the projects, the state budget is estimated to cost 1.23 billion implement the four transport projects should earmark 963 million euros euros and should be finished by of the Resolution. The main goal of between 2007 and 2020; 283 2020.

Slovenia in Focus 44 DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Nordic sports centre in EU Funds will provide 60 million expanding the infrastructure in Planica for 100 million euros euros, while private investors will the Skocjan Caves area, and contribute 10 million euros. The establishing a Karst regional Planica will host a new Nordic Slovenian island in the Adriatic park. centre by 2013, and in the next Sea, which will measure 30,000 few months the government will square metres and three metres in South-Eastern Slovenia initiate the first procedures for height, will be built from material entrepreneurship and the drawing up refurbishment and left over from constructing the third development axis construction plans. The renovation Semedela Tunnel on the high- of ski jump hills and equipment, According to the Minister of speed road connecting Koper and building an athletic stadium with the Economy, Andrej Vizjak, Izola. The island, which will run a system for artificial snow, ski the main projects in this region along the current coastal road lifts, a football stadium with an include establishing a business and industrial area in Novo Mesto, which is to become a regional centre. Realising the entrepreneurial incubator and the third development axis should facilitate the development of the wider region, including Bela Krajina.

In the planned development period, economic breakthrough is to be achieved by creating better conditions for establishing small and medium-sized companies. Mr Vizjak stressed that the Novo Mesto region is industrially well- developed; however, there are not enough small companies which would facilitate additional development and employment. Vizjak sees great potential in Kanin with Mt. Triglav in the background developing the business sector. athletics track, accommodating between Koper and lzola, will bike lanes and walking routes, have one peninsular beach on The second important project is and a park of cultural heritage each side. The main area, called the third development axis, which are scheduled to be carried out Sun Island, will be connected to should provide better development in several phases. The works will the land by a beach promenade. opportunities for Bela Krajina. start next year. The state budget The island will have facilities The goal of the Ministry of the will allocate 15 million euros, promoting sea and health tourism Economy is to create 1,300 new EU Funds of 40 million and the and offering entertainment, and a jobs and provide 100 million euros remainder from private sources. pier. This project will create many for business and industrial zones new jobs, boost the development in the area. The third development axis is part of the project to build An artificial island on the of tourism in the coastal area and, and modernise road infrastructure, coast among the main while promoting the destination, which is one of the priorities. As development projects provide additional opportunities to small and medium-sized Novo Mesto is to be the centre of In the Resolution on National companies. Southern Primorska is Dolenjska, the Ministry envisages Development Projects 2007-2023 of vital importance for Slovenian establishing higher education a Slovenian island in the Adriatic tourism, therefore other tourism institutions to satisfy the needs of Sea is one of the investments projects might be added at a the business sector, and building a which will be realised between later date. The Resolution also university campus. To meet these 2013 and 2020. The project is mentions connecting the natural needs, a scientific and technology estimated to cost approximately and cultural potentials of the park is also to be constructed. 100 million euros. About 30 Karst region by upgrading Lipica’s million will be earmarked in state, Source: Sinfo – February 2007 tourist offer, renovating Stanjel, Government Communications Office, regional and municipal budgets; Republic of Slovenia

45 Slovenia in Focus Slovenia Invites Indian Tourists

Brina Cehovin, Marketing & Communications Director, Slovenian Tourist Board lists all the myriad and close at hand attractions of her country

he thermal spas, the sea, The Euro and the EU six months numerous meetings the Alps and the unique Presidency of leading European politicians cave world – all Europe’s will take place across the country, T Holidaying in Slovenia has now variety is united here in one which will lure many guests and become even easier since the Euro compact area. representatives of the media to became the legal currency after the country. This small country is a big January 1,2007. Slovenia was the attraction. Extending over 20,273 first of the newly joined countries square kilometres and situated in that could satisfy all the conditions The Julian Alps Central Europe between Austria, regarding economic and political With the Julian Alps in the North, Italy, Hungary and Croatia, stability for the introduction of Slovenia can call one of the most Slovenia has become a tourism the European single currency. It beautiful parts of the European magnet that can easily be reached eliminated the annoying money mountains its own. Between using all forms of transport. Within change for tourists and with that Kranjska Gora, Bled, Bohinj and a few hours drive holidaymakers and the prices are also easily to Bovec nature enthusiasts and in Slovenia can enjoy the majestic compare for consumers on holiday. active athletes will find a unique peaks of the Alps, relax in modern Nobody should fear that the paradise for walking, biking, thermal spas, admire the lively introduction of the single currency mountain biking, kayaking and towns of Ljubljana and Maribor, could lead to a solid price push. fishing. The 84,000 hectares spend a wonderful time on sun- Comparisons with Slovenia’s of the Triglav national park is soaked beaches and swim in direct neighbouring countries on outstanding with its untouched the Adriatic Sea. Beside that the Adriatic Sea illustrate the great plant and animal world, with its there are other highlights, such restraint in prices for hotels and majestic peaks and thundering as the cave systems of Postojna other services. waterfalls. It is one of the oldest and Skocjan, unique across the On the January 1,2008 Slovenia protected areas in Europe and is world, and a cuisine that unites will take over the presidency of ideally suited for hikers because many influences from different the European Union for the first of its excellent labelled paths. European countries in the best time and therefore will be in the The crystal-clear lakes of Bled possible way. limelight of world politics. For and Bohinj and the wild emerald

Slovenia in Focus 46 TOURISM STRATEGY

waters of the Soca River also lure water enthusiasts. The history of tourism in Bled, one of the most renowned holiday destinations in Slovenia, dates back to the 19th century. Splendid hotels, marvellous villas and the all dominating castle shape the picture of the lake and its surroundings, with its typical church island in the middle. Besides a very large choice of sporting facilities, such as walking, mountain biking, tennis or golf, the place also offers to its guests top cultural events all year round. Dimitrij Piciga, M.Sc. Ski Centres for Everyone Director General, Slovenian Tourist Board The winter sports facilities have become the focus of attention and family suitability. Kranjska lifts. Besides the modern hotels more and more. The Slovenian Gora is Slovenia’s most famous and studio apartments, there are ski centres in the Alps and in the ski centre. It has 30 kilometres of also a large number of private Pohorje mountains stand out due light ski-runs of medium difficulty rooms and farms where winter to their high snow safety, fair prices – mostly family friendly and 18 ski guests can experience Slovenian

sto_ oglas_diversity184 x135mm_eng.indd 1 15.6.2007 10:36:06 TOURISM STRATEGY

hospitality first-hand. Ski-runs of light to medium difficulty also await skiers in Bohinj at the Vogel ski centre, at 1,800 meters above sea-level. A family-friendly skiing area with 21 ski lifts also awaits its guests on the other side of the Alps, in Pohorje, near Maribor. This is a densely wooded ski area at 1,350 meters above sea-level that also has a good international reputation and every year the world cup women’s racing takes place here. Fifty kilometres of ski- runs in an area of 220 hectares are prepared for skiers each day. A skiing school, a skiing school for nursery children, a rental company for ski equipment and a five kilometres long ski-run with floodlights for night time skiing are at the guests’ disposal. The hotels If you are looking for a chic ambience, in the town and in the skiing area offer first-class comfort, some of entertainment and typical beach flair on them having thermal spas for your holiday, you should come to Portoroz. wellness after the ski-runs. And finally, at the southern slope of This bathing and spa resort, which has Pohorje Mountain, there is Rogla, everything that demanding guests looking an insider’s tip for families and for entertainment could wish for, was skiing enthusiasts.

already popular in the time of the Austrian- The Slovenian Riviera Hungarian Monarchy. The Slovenian share of the Adriatic coast is 46 kilometres long, between the Italian and Croatian borders. As the nearest sea to Central Europe it can be reached easily, particularly thanks to the new motorway system. The standard of the hotels, the gastronomy, entertainment, the variety of events and the tourism infrastructure are among the best in the Adriatic area and can stand any comparison with other European top holiday destinations. If you are looking for a chic ambience, entertainment and typical beach flair on your holiday, you should come to Portoroz. This bathing and spa resort, which has everything that demanding guests looking for entertainment could wish for, was Golf Bled already popular in the time of the

Slovenia in Focus 48 TOURISM STRATEGY

between April and August the importance of this treasure is substantially celebrated by the population.

Magical Worlds under the Earth World-class attractions are hidden under the earth in the area stretching up from the coast. Postojna has enjoyed an international reputation for more than 800 years. More than 30 million tourists from all parts of the world have visited this Skocjan Caves approximately 20 kilometre long cave system, 5.2 kilometres of The Skocjan caves are another highlight of which are now developed for the Karst landscape. The uniqueness of this tourists with 3.5 kilometres of it even comfortably passable on an cave system prompted UNESCO to include it electric train. The concert hall, in the list of world natural heritage sites. with a capacity for 10,000 guests, where concerts and other events Austrian-Hungarian Monarchy. cedars, it has a particularly mild regularly take place-between There is a typical beach life on and salubrious climate because the stalagmites and stalactites is the fine sandy beaches of the neat of the ancient salt pans. With its extraordinarily impressive, even bathing resorts during the day. modern therapy centre by the sea, for visitors who come again and One strolls along the promenade, Strunjan is not just a good choice again. enjoys a cappuccino in a beach for bathing holidays but also for The Skocjan caves are another cafe and watches the colourful health cures and wellness. highlight of the Karst landscape. hustle and bustle. Numerous The uniqueness of this cave boutiques and sale stands invite A particularly interesting place to system prompted UNESCO to you for shopping. In the evening, visit is the salt pans of Socovlje, include it in the list of world however, Portoroz shows its situated at the coast south of natural heritage sites. The paths special charm. Everything is Portoroz. Designated a national for visitors are built into the steep possible: Thrills at the casino, a park since 2003, the fields for walls which are about 100 metres romantic dinner in a restaurant salt production that have existed high in some places. Underground or dancing at a disco. Numerous since the 14th century, present rivers spanned by bridges roar leading 4 and 5 star hotels themselves as a unique nature through mysterious canyons. with pleasant ambience and all reserve, containing over 200 different sea and migratory birds imaginable possibilities of leisure Outside the caves in the Skocjanske and rare plants. are situated in prime locations Caves Park a variety of historical along the coast. The place can At traditional public festivals museums and unusual flora await also boast a thermal spring with a Thallasso centre and numerous other facilities for wellness. It is quieter in the smaller places and Olimia Spa bays of the Slovenian coast. Romantics and those interested in culture will prefer the small medieval fishing towns of Piran, Izola and Koper. Silence is the great advantage of the bay of Strunjan. In the midst of rich Mediterranean vegetation, with pleasant smelling pines and

49 Slovenia in Focus TOURISM STRATEGY

When enjoying the air-dried Karst ham negative ions through to the Aquaviva sauna with colour – prsut, olives and the noble red Teran and sound effects. The Olimia wine, even the most experienced gourmets thermal spa, with two new water will begin to clamour for more. slides and a varied animation programme, also offers fun and interested visitors. Near Lipica square metres of waterfront offer relaxation for children and adults. there is another attraction of a variety of possibilities for guests Top luxury in the hotel business world renown. The horse stud all the year round. From a classical is available at the Moravske farm, founded in 1580 by the health cure to a relaxing holiday, Toplice spa since the opening Habsburgs, has lost nothing of everything is possible. Different of the new hotel Livada. The its elegance and grace in these forms of alternative medicine hotel has 122 luxurious rooms modern times. In a typical Karst from traditional Chinese medicine with 221 beds and 95 additional landscape of pleasant smelling to Ayurveda are currently very couches, 28 of those being junior woods filled with oaks, limes and popular. Depending on the and 4 senior suites, equipped with beech groves, horse enthusiasts tourist’s personal preference period furniture. LCD television can take courses for either and taste, Slovenia can offer sets and Internet connection. beginners or advanced riders. both spas with an international Besides a classical bath, all the reputation and rich tradition or rooms also have a thermal bath relatively unknown new thermal with black water – the healing water of the Moravske Toplice spa. With the opening of the new

Ljubljana City Center

Those who are less active can centres. There are special spas beauty and relaxation centre, the enjoy the riding demonstrations for families and also just to Thermalium, two years ago, the and familiarise themselves with relax for a quiet holiday. The Moravske Toplice spa offers its the long tradition of the stud spas in Rogaska, Radenci or guests a total area of 3500 square farm. Dolenjske toplice have a long metres of various programmes tradition and they offer innovative according to most modern Modern Spas for a Wellness health programmes in relaxing European standards. The unique Holiday and natural surroundings. With “black” thermal mineral water is Slovenia boasts of 87 thermal about 12,000 square metres of really extraordinary, supporting springs on its territory and 15 very waterfront the spa Catez belongs classical and alternative therapies well equipped medicinal thermal among the biggest spas in Europe for the treatment of rheumatism, springs and spas are spread over and offers entertainment and diseases of the respiratory tract the whole country, offering health- fun especially for families with and skin diseases as well as oriented tourists both classical children. The sauna park is also rehabilitation after injuries and health cures and modern wellness one of the biggest of its type in operations on the mobility spas. Luxurious hotels, therapy Europe, with a variety of saunas apparatus. Finally, Portoroz and centres and more than 38,000 from salt or crystal saunas with Strunjan achieve the combination

Slovenia in Focus 50 TOURISM STRATEGY

olives and the noble red Teran wine, even the most experienced gourmets will begin to clamour for more. The wine routes that spread over the whole country are especially rewarding for culinary discoveries. The Brda, Vipava or the Karst wine routes will make you feel the Mediterranean atmosphere and the Jeruzalem and the Ormoz wine routes are also well known outside the Slovenian borders. And those who are very curious should 100 Women on highest peak of Slovenian Alps - Triglav investigate the cooking pots and cellars of the still little known wine routes in Bela Krajina or between of wellness and health holiday for all tastes. Those who need Novo Mesto and Krsko. with the holiday by the sea. refreshment after shopping will be happy with the great variety of trendy cafes and restaurants and Slovenian Central Tourist Ljubljana – Slovenia’s Reservations System Charming Capital their pleasant ambience. Then, for those who want to be seen in the The Slovenian Central Tourist Ljubljana is Slovenia’s metropolis, new, stylish clothes they just have Reservations System (CRS), one but at the same time it is an bought, the nightlife is extremely of the most important projects easily comprehensible town worth diverse and exciting, making a trip of the Ministry of the Economy living in, with numerous cultural to Ljubljana truly rewarding. and the Slovenian Tourist Board, attractions, shopping and the began operations on January18, flair of a lively restaurant and Culinary Discoveries for 2007. The Austrian company entertainment scene. The interest Connoisseurs Feratel Media Technologies AG of foreign tourists in Ljubljana is of Innsbruck was selected to set increasing constantly, as growth Slovenia has a lot to offer up and maintain the technical rates of more than 10 percent gourmets. Slovenian cuisine has applications of the CRS, while the compared with the previous taken over the best of the Slavonic, company TGTs6 - Odisej d.o.o. of year illustrate. The perfectly Austrian, Hungarian and Italian Kranj will be responsible for its preserved art nouveau ensembles cooking pots, producing many management. and baroque buildings give a interesting delicacies. Excellent special flair to the centre of the wines can be enjoyed in many This project is large and very city. Slovenia’s famous architect first class restaurants, the number demanding, because the CRS Joze Plecnik has left his stamp of which is growing every day. represents both the most up-to- on numerous buildings for the The quality of accommodation date market communication and future generations. With a more and gastronomic facilities is also promotional tool, and also an than 50-year long tradition the growing constantly, in order to important distribution and sales “Ljubljana Summer Festival” satisfy the high expectations of channel. The CRS will enable is the greatest cultural event of the gourmet tourists, who become the Slovenian accommodation its kind in Slovenia. For seven more and more critical. Slovenia and tourism service providers weeks in July and August, the has been regarded as an insider’s to advertise their offers on the Slovenian capital is filled with tip among the trend setters and Internet, while the tourists will be opera, dance, symphony concerts, culinary connoisseurs. The real able to make on-line reservations. chamber music, jazz and folk. highlight for them might be to CRS registration will be free There are also numerous stage enjoy the sour cream of Styrian of charge for tourism service performances and exhibitions by soup or the ricet, the barley soup. providers; however, the CRS artists from Slovenia and abroad. Gnocchi, goulash variations or administrator will be entitled to a As a shopping paradise, Ljubljana numerous types of strudel remind maximum 10 per cent commission has many new boutiques and us of the common history with on the value of the booked service shops in the lovely shopping the neighbours in the West and or accommodation. streets of the old town as well as the North. When enjoying the Photos: Slovenian Tourist Board modern shopping centres to cater air-dried Karst ham – prsut, www.slovenia.info

51 Slovenia in Focus BILATERAL DIPLOMACY ICPE: The Indo-Slovene Platform for International Cooperation Priyadarshi Thakur, Director General of the International Centre for Promotion of Enterprises (ICPE), Ljubljana on the Centre’s multifarious activities

he ICPE, Ljubljana is the project on Information Literacy, only inter-governmental and published its Report on TInternational Centre with its the Project in 2006 which has headquarters on Slovene soil. It been widely acclaimed as an traces its origin to the International authoritative summary of the Centre for Public Enterprises in status of Information Literacy, Developing Countries set up on an emerging area of research in a UN initiative in 1974 by the transitional economies. then Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY), which became A new series of extension lectures a fully-fledged international “Distinguished Speakers at the Centre in 1980 with more than ICPE” has also been recently 40 NAM countries as its Member- started. The idea is to bring States. After the independence intellectuals, industry and of Slovenia, the new Republic of business leaders, outstanding Slovenia inherited the Centre and Priyadarshi Thakur, Director professional managers etc. to took over the obligations of SFRY General of the International Centre address international gatherings, and the role of the host country for Promotion of Enterprises including participants of MBA of the ICPE. Later, in 1997, the (ICPE), Ljubljana Programme and other short-term formal name of the Centre was programmes, on subjects which whose academic collaboration it changed to International Centre could lead to greater international has been conducting, for the for Promotion of Enterprises, by a understanding and cooperation. last eighteen years, an intensive Resolution of the ICPE Assembly, So far, Prof. Dr. Danilo Turk, one-year international MBA in order to give to the Centre a an eminent Professor of Law Programme for the officers and more ‘inclusive’ and broad based in the University of Ljubljana executives from it member states. mandate in keeping with the and a Human Rights expert This programme is one of the changed economic and political (formerly Asstt. Secy. General foreign training courses approved priorities of Slovenia and many of the UN) and Ambassador by the Department of Personnel of the leading member states Mr. Tim Simmons, the British & Training of the Government of including India. Ambassador in Ljubljana have India (GOI). The GOI and its PSEs been “Distinguished Speakers at The ICPE has 19 countries of have been nominating a number the ICPE” and have addressed Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin of participants for this course gatherings on “Human Rights and America in its membership, but every year. The quality of this the UN system” and “Britain in of late Slovenia and India, one of MBA programme can be gauged European Union”, respectively. its founding members, have been by the fact that the FELU which the two main pillars of support is the affiliating faculty for it was The ICPE is currently busy in for the Centre. So much so, that granted EQUIS Accreditation in planning and executing a number it may not be inappropriate 2006 by the European Foundation of activities, of which special to describe, the Centre as an for Management Development mention may be made of the Indo-Slovene platform for (EFMD), the same Accreditation following: international cooperation in the as enjoyed by 97 of the best • International Conference on Business Schools/Management field of entrepreneurship and SME Lending for Bankers, management. Faculties worldwide (See www. efmd.org). 22-25 May ‘07 at Ljubljana. The ICPE also has close ties The Conference was the with the University of Ljubljana, The ICPE has also recently result of careful planning Faculty of Economics (FELU), with concluded a UNESCO research over the last eight months.

Slovenia in Focus 52 BILATERAL DIPLOMACY

• The Cent r e adopted, legally, the mantle is in touch with of the Donor country. It the internationally has been suggested that renowned Institute International Centre in of Technology in Slovenia with its past and Ljubljana, the Jozef present connection with the Stefan Institute and developing countries can be Indian institutes of a huge asset for Slovenia in Dr. Andrej Bajuk, the Finance Minister of Slovenia excellence like the discharging its Development formally inaugurated the International Conference Indian Business Aid obligations in a fruitful on SME Lending for Bankers and also addressed the School, Hyderabad manner. Inaugural Session in Ljubljana in May 2007 ( I S B ) a n d t h e • The ICPE is in the process Indian Institute of of revamping its Web site It brought around the table Management, Bangalore www.icpe.si to make it more about 30 bankers and SME (IIM(B)) to plan for initiating informative, interactive and experts from Slovenia, India, super-speciality Information user-friendly. Serbia, Austria, Hungary & C o m m u n i c a t i o n The ICPE which derives most of its etc, including nominees Technology (ICT) Masters financial and participation support representing the Government Programmes in selected from Government of India and the of India, Reserve Bank fields. In order to ensure Government of the Republic of of India and the Bank that these are selected in a Slovenia is engaged in the task of Slovenia, who would need-based manner, global of rebuilding its potential under focus on facilitation of easy IT companies like INFOSYS, the joint leadership of Dr. Andrej access of the SME sector WIPRO etc. are also being Horvat, ICPE Council President to institutional finance. consulted. The Centre is and former State Secretary in the Office for Growth of the GORS The ICPE organized this upbeat that, depending and Mr. Priyadarshi Thakur, Conference in association on the enthusiasm of the Director General, ICPE who is a with Bankworld Inc., a academic partners who former Secretary to Government Washington DC based have been approached, it of India. consultancy firm and the will be able to start some of The Government of India have British Embassy, Ljubljana these one-year programmes demonstrated their commitment who arranged for the in 2008. to developing closer ties with consultancy of Ms. Sarah • The ICPE is also looking Slovenia by recently opening Livingston, a noted British at starting short-term skill- their first-ever resident diplomatic SME expert. development exchange mission in Ljubljana under the • Later in the year 2007, ICPE programmes for private able stewardship of Dr. V. S. is expecting to receive a sector executives on Seshadri, the Ambassador of India group of 24 trainees from “Understanding Business to Slovenia, and by unilaterally the National Institute of with EU/Slovenia/Central doubling their annual membership Financial Management Europe” (for India and contribution toward maintaining the ICPE, Ljubljana. The Centre (NIFM) for a split-location other Member-States) and has been informally assured of interaction of two weeks “Understanding Business similar reciprocal measures from with local academia and with India” (for Europeans). the host-country Government European industry and This suggestion has been and is looking forward to the business leaders. recently made by one of the same being announced formally • Also in 2007, plans are Professors at IIM(B) during in the near future. With the afoot to have a week-long our interaction with them. consensus of commitment of these Symposium on Multilateral • Slovenia, though a small two leading Member-State), the T r a d i n g S y s t e m a n d country, is now an important ICPE is capable of becoming a WTO-related matters in Member of EU and will vibrant international Centre of Excellence in entrepreneurship association with ASTRO and be the President of EU development and knowledge- WTO experts. in Jan. 2008. It has also based innovation.

53 Slovenia in Focus BUSINESS PROFILE

Telsima Raring to Capture Wi-Max Market

elsima Corporation is a leading developer and Bojan Bostjancic, PhD, President Tprovider of WiMAX based Bojan joined Telsima in 2005, bringing more Broadband Wireless Access than 12 years of experience in IP and wireless (BWA) and mobility solutions networking, telecom regulatory framework and for media rich applications. The business development. Prior to joining Telsima he Company also has a product line was co-founder and CEO of a startup company of voice compression solutions focused on the development of WiMAX technology, for emerging markets where CTO of Iskra Transmission and a Deputy Minister bandwidth is scarce. Telsima‘s of Telecommunications in Slovenian Government. technologies offer service Earlier he had also co-founded Mibo Communications, a successful providers economic advantages company in networking integration business. Bojan Bostjancic holds of disruptive cost structures, new a PhD in High Energy Physics from DESY, Hamburg and spent business models and more capital several years as Research Associate at CERN, Geneva. efficient network investment profiles. The Company has been an active Principle Member of the marketing, and manufacturing The Company develops and WiMAX Forum since 2004 competencies to bring its leading markets base station and subscriber edge WiMAX system solutions station systems and network Telsima‘s vision is to become the to market. Telsima has created management software for the leading innovator and provider a worldwide network of core WiMAX telecommunications market. of mobile telecommunications competencies to succeed in the Telsima‘s WiMAX Forum Certified solutions and subscriber devices markets with some of the most products are differentiated by the for the emerging markets and for growth potential, namely Eastern integration of innovative embedded the innovators in the established Europe, Russia and India. To software, enabling provisioning and markets. best leverage regional capabilities management, to deliver advanced Telsima‘s mission is to leverage on a global scale the Company mobility and multimedia services global sources of technology has its headquarters in Silicon over the network. innovation, software development, Valley (California), design center and hardware design to create in Ljubljana (Slovenia), software Telsima develops and markets world-class mobile WiMAX development in Bangalore and WiMAX Forum Certified Base Station products and services. sales and customer support in and Subscriber Station systems New Delhi (India). complimented by the Company‘s Telsima‘s innovative technologies innovative TRUFLE, T-STORM and Telsima’s operations in Ljubljana, transform WiMAX standard SMARTS technologies and supported Slovenia offers the Company infrastructure into innovative by market leading provisioning and world-class embedded software networks enabling service network management software. providers to deploy and manage development, hardware design and system engineering capabilities in the ever-increasing complexity of Telsima addresses the needs of the addition to regional access to the mobile, broadband, media-rich WiMAX service providers today markets of eastern Europe and services delivering multimedia by offering Unique broadband Russia. In addition, Telsima’s experiences to mobile subscribers. mobility framework, Products EMEA sales and marketing efforts The Company continues to bearing WiMAX, Mobility are based in Ljubljana. These increase its Intellectual Property solutions, D+E=>DualMode markets represent opportunities portfolio in strategic areas related capability protecting your WiMAX to market the Company‘s to the implementation of mobile investment, Interoperable WiMAX WiMAX products today to enable broadband networks delivering Forum Certified products and Native broadband connections otherwise media rich applications. support of Voice-Data-Video Triple unavailable due to the lack of Play services. The Company is structured to wired infrastructure and adopt leverage worldwide leadership, the Company‘s Mobile WiMAX technology innovation, software platforms when they become Source: Telsima www.telsima.com development, hardware design, available. With best compliments from LITOSTROJ E.I., Slovenia - Manufacturer of Hydro Power Generation and Industrial Equipment

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M/S. LITOSTROJ E.I., Litostrojska cesta 50, SI-1000 Ljubljana, SLOVENIA Email: [email protected] • tel.: **386 1 5824 102 • fax.:**386 1 5824 171