Embassy of the Republic of Serbia
|
Embassy of the Republic of Serbia |
|
EVENTS
Gathering and presentation of Serbian food products organized by the Association for Cultural Exchange Japan - Serbia, December 23, 2009
The Association for Cultural Exchange Japan-Serbia, at a traditional year-end gathering on December 23, 2009, organized a presentation of Serbian food products. The gathering was attended by the representatives and members of the Association, Serbian people living in Japan, as well as friends of Serbia from various institutions and circles of the Japanese society. H.E. Mr. Ivan Mrkic, Ambassador of Serbia with his wife and Embassy staff also attended the gathering.
The guests enjoyed traditional Serbian food and delicacies, which will be on sale at the charity mini bazaar, to be organized by this Association at the beginning of the next year.
 |
 |
 |
|||
|
|
|
Lecture on Serbia at the International School in Tokyo, December 17, 2009
On December 17, 2009, First Counselor of the Embassy Mrs. Snezana Jankovic gave lecture on Serbia to the students of the International School of the Sacred Heart (ISSH) in Tokyo.
The students were introduced with the history of Serbia, genesis of the conflicts in the territory of the former Yugoslavia, as well as with the Serbian position regarding the unilaterally proclaimed secession of Kosovo and Metohija and with the integration process of the Western Balkan region in the European Union.
 |
|
|
Stage-reading of Serbian play "Tracks" by Milena Marković, December 16 & 19
Japanese Centre of the International Theatre Institute/UNESCO presented a play "Tracks" ("Šine") by Milena Marković, as a part of the stage-reading project "Contemporary Theatre in Balkan Peninsula – Theatre in Trouble Spot".
The event, planned to mark "Japan-Danube Friendship Year 2009", has been supported by Agency for Cultural Affairs of Japanese Government and our Embassy, and was held at the Theatre Iwato in Tokyo.
Ambassador Mrkić hosts dinner for organizers of Autumn Harvest Fair in Yokohama
On the occasion of the successful opening of first Serbian booth at the traditional Autumn Harvest Fair in Yokohama this autumn, Ambassador Mrkic and his wife hosted a "Thank You" dinner for our friends and benefactors, who were involved in the organization of this event.
Japanese guests - Mr. Kenzo Yoneda, Chairman of Board of Japan-Serbia Association, Director of "Toagas" Mr. Toshio Tanabe with his wife and son, member of the Yokohama Autumn Harvest Fair Organizing Committee Mr. Tsuruta with his wife, and Mr. Mori, Mr. Tanabe's associate - were served with hand made Serbian specialities, wine and spirits.
For details about the Autumn Harvest Fair in Yokohama, please see the following link:
http://www.serbianembassy.jp/ENGLISH/events_2009.html#OCTOBER 2009.
 |
|
|
NGO "Actions For Children in Crisis" Christmas Charity Fair in Tokyo, December 6
ACC organization held their annual Christmas Charity Fair in Tokyo, selling the hand made products by internally displaced women from Serbian province of Kosovo and Metohija.
According to ACC Director Ms. Matsunaga, this year's Fair was visited by many people. Serbian artifacts also drew a lot of attention, which resulted in attracting a valuable support and new collaboration with other Japanese charity and non-profit organizations.
The representatives of ACC are planning another trip to Serbia in February next year to continue with their programs of support for refugees, elderly and orphans in Belgrade and other cities.
Representatives of Kanagawa TV visit Embassy
Ms. Etsuko Iwata and Ms. Ikuyo Azuma from Kanagawa TV, together with the member of the Yokohama Autumn Harvest Fair Organizing Committee, Mr. Tsuruta, visited our Embassy to discuss about current and future collaboration in the media promotion of Serbia.
Kanagawa TV, which covers a wide area of Kanagawa Prefecture with around 10 million viewers, was a major broadcaster at the Autumn Harvest Fair in Yokohama. The popularity of Serbian booth, the only foreign exhibitor at the Fair, grew also as a result of Kanagawa TV's support, which broadcasted the performance of Serbian national dancers from Ensemble "Kolo" at the main stage.
 |
|
|
"F-Commu" interviews Ambassador Mrkić
Japanese company "Sedna Corporation" interviewed Ambassador Mrkic for its veb content "F-commu", which focuses on the talk about the country and profession to which the guest belongs.
This project includes series of inteviews with the heads of diplomatic missions in Tokyo. It is intended to introduce foreign cultures and various careers of their guests to the younger generations in Japan.
To see the videocast of the interview (by Quick Time), please click on the following links.
http://career-finders.net/images/videocast/file_video/Sno92.mp4
http://career-finders.net/images/videocast/file_video/Sno93.mp4
http://career-finders.net/images/videocast/file_video/Sno94.mp4
http://career-finders.net/images/videocast/file_video/Sno95.mp4
To download the software of Quick Time for free http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/ .
Serbia participates in Charity Fair "International Ikebana Fair", December 01
Once again, Serbian Embassy participated in this year's bigest annual International Charity Fair and Ikebana Exhibition, held in Tokyo Prince Hotel on December 01. In this event, supported by its Honorary President H.I.H. Princess Takamado, many foreign countries presented their products and delicacies. Our booth was visited by many guests, which showed a lot of interest in our country, its beauties and various products, that were on sale.
During her visit to our booth, H.I.H. Princess Takamado showed her interest in some of Serbian traditional food. Mrs. Ivona Mrkić, the wife of the Ambassador, presented to H.I.H. Princess Takamado the postal stamps, issued on the occasion of Emperor's 74th birthday and of marking 125th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic correspondance between King of Serbia, Milan I Obrenović, and the Emperor of Japan.
The event has been widely reported in the press and TV channels.
 |
 |
||
|
|
 |
 |
||
|
|
Second JATA Study Tour in Serbia, November 25-27
After succesfull visit of tourism representatives from Japan to Serbia, Japanese Association of Travel Agents (JATA) decided to organize for their members a second tour across Danube countries.
Tourism Agency of Serbia was the main host of their stay. In Belgrade, a seminar for Serbian travel agents and other representatives from tourism sector was organized, in the course of which Japanese guests had the opportunity to introduce their know-how and give valuable advices aiming to increase the number of Japanese tourists in Serbia.
JETRO Mission visits Serbia, November 18-20
In a joint organization of Japanese External Trade Organization (JETRO), SIEPA, Embassy of Japan in Belgrade and our Embassy, a delegation of JETRO and Japanese companies’ representatives visited Serbia to find out more about the business environment and investment opportunities.
On this occasion, the Embassy of Japan in Serbia hosted the seminar on foreign investment climate in Serbia with speakers, such as Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Bozidar Djelic and representatives from SIEPA, City of Belgrade and Foreign Investors Council.
Japanese delegation also visited several factories around Serbia and met with their management.
 |
 |
||
|
|
Serbia participates in Christmas Charity Fair ILBS, November 28
Our Embassy parcitipated in organization and preparation of the hand made products sale at the Christmas Charity fair, hosted by International Ladies Benevolent Society in Tokyo.
This society is known for its world wide support of the children and socially groups. Some of its representatives has already visited and extended help for the Serbian community in Kosovo and Metohia province.
 |
 |
||
|
|
Luncheon with Ms. Akiko Santo, Vice President of the House of Councillors, November 17
On the invitiation by Ms. Akiko Santo, Vice President of the House of Councillors, extended to one number of spouses of the Diplomatic Chiefs of Missions in Tokyo, Mrs. Ivona Mrkić, wife of the Ambassador, participated at the luncheon and cultural exchange event at the Official Residence of Vice President Ms. Santo.
The guests talked about their countries' cultural heritage, customs and differences, and were presented with the "temari" ball by their host.
 |
 |
||
|
|
His Holiness Mr. Pavle, the Patriarch of the Serbian Orthodox Church, passed away
We have learned, with deep sorrow, that His Holiness Mr. Pavle, the Patriarch of the Serbian Orthodox Church, has passed away on Sunday, the 15th of November in Belgrade, at the age of 95.
Serbian people lost its spiritual leader, whose life testified the highest moral values and philantropy.
His Holiness Mr. Pavle was the 44th Head of the Serbian Orthodox Church, who held the position for almost 19 years.
Our Embassy opened the Book of Condolences for signing on Wednesday, November 18th, and Thursday, November 19th, 2009.
 |
|
|
Embassy's prize awarded to the naive artist in Japan, November 3
On the occasion of the opening of the 35th annual exhibition of Japanese Naive Art Society, held on the Culture Day in Tokyo Metropolitan Art Musem, ambassador Mrkić and Head of Cultural Section Ms. Kovač participated in the event, along with two Vice Presidents of Japan - Serbia Friendship Society, Ms. Hamada and Prof. Shiba, and some other members of the Board of Directors.
Ambassador Mrkić gave a speech and presented an "Award of the Embassy of the Republic of Serbia in Japan" to Ms. Eiko Nagata. This is the first time our Embassy was honored to give a prize to the Japanese naive artist, while other awards are given by various institutions (MEXT, Tokyo Government, museums…) and companies like JAL.
Earlier that day Prof.Shiba held a lecture on Naive Art in Serbia and the representatives of Japanese Naive Art Society organized a presentation about their recent trip and exhibitions in Serbia.
|
Serbian Booth at the Autumn Harvest Fair in Yokohama, October 31 - November 1
This year Serbia participated for the first time at the annual "Autumn Harvest Fair" in the center of Yokohama as the only foreign exhibitor among 100 participants from Japan.
This was a great opportunity to promote delicious food products and wines from our country, as well as culture and tourism. Our presence was strongly supported by Prof. Kenzo Yoneda, President of the Board of Directors of Japan - Serbia Friendship Association, and his colleagues Mr. Toshio Tanabe, President of "Toagas Co." as well as by Mr. Riichiro Tsuruta.
Ambassador Mrkić, his family and other Embassy's colleagues with their families participated in the event and worked, alongside Serbian volunteers, at the stand to promote our country. Ambassador and First Counsellor Ms. Janković also greeted the visitors.
The dance and singing perfomances of Ms. Anđelka Petrović and Ms. Milica Miladinović from Serbian National Folk Ensemble "Kolo" attracted a great number of visitors to our booth, and was even broadcasted on the regional TV Kanagawa. Prefectural Governor Mr. Shigefumi Matsuzawa also came to Serbian stand.
The visitors had also an opportunity to see a demonstration of the invention by Serbian scientist Nikola Tesla, "Colombus Egg".
 |
 |
||
|
|
 |
 |
 |
|||
|
|
|
Official visit of H.E. Mr. Vuk Jeremić, Foreign Minister of Serbia, to Japan
Serbian Foreign Minister Mr. Vuk Jeremić visited Tokyo on the invitation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan, Mr. Katsuya Okada, from October 29th to 30th, 2009. It was the first official visit to Japan of Foreign Minister of the Republic of Serbia, which marked the significant moment in our 127 years long bilateral relations.
During his stay, Foreign Minister Mr. Jeremić had a range of meetings aimed at enhancing bilateral political and economic cooperation between our two countries.
Apart from official talks and dinner with Foreign Minister H.E. Mr. Katsuya Okada, program of the visit included talks with President of JICA Mrs. Sadako Ogata, signing the Joint Statement with Deputy President of JBIC Mr. Yoshiko Morita, receptions by Upper House President H.E. Mr. Satsuki Eda and Lower House Speaker H.E. Mr. Takahiro Yokomichi and meeting with the Honorary Consul General of Serbia in Osaka Mr. Naohide Ueyama.
 |
 |
 |
|||
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
|||
|
|
|
Serbian translators awarded for the work on "Kojiki", October 27
The Japanese Society of Translation presented an award to the team of translators from Faculty of Philology, University of Belgrade, headed by well-known translator Mr. Hiroshi Yamasaki Vukelić, for their translation of the representative work of Japanese literature "Kojiki".
Mr. Yamasaki Vukelić, who came from Serbia for this occasion, received the award and made a speech during the award ceremony in Tokyo.
Photo Exhibition "Portraits of Serbia" opened in Tokyo, October 23 - November 8
Japanese Photographer Haruo Matsuya, who visited Serbia several times, exhibited his impressions on Serbia in the photos and videos at Tokyo's "Up Field Gallery".
Head of Cultural Section Ms. Kovač greeted the guests at the opening, expressing gratitude for his impressive works which celebrate Serbian people and its historical heritage.
 |
|
Japanese performance of "The Šopalović Travelling Theater" held in Tokyo, October 14-22
The work by outstanding Serbian writer and member of the Academy of Serbia Mr. Ljubomir Simović was performed in Tokyo's "Theatre Iwato" by the Japanese theater company "Black Tent". This is the very first time that a theatrical troupe from Japan presented such a significant and awarded drama, which left an imprint in the contemporary theatre in Serbia. For this purpose the whole text of the play was translated into Japanese.
The play was directed by Mr. Prosper Diss, French theater director.
The project was supported by Japan Foundation and our Embassy. We are delighted that, after touring in various parts of the world, &"The Šopalović Travelling Theater" has reached Tokyo as well.
 |
|
Serbian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science Mr. Božidar Đelić participated in the Science and Technology Forum, October 4-6, 2009
Mr. Božidar Đelić, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science and Technology of the Republic of Serbia, participated in the annual Science and Technology in Society Forum, held on 4-6 October, 2009 in Kyoto.
During the Forum, Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Đelić and State Secretary Ms. Snežana Pajović met with the representatives of MEXT and AIST from Japan, as well as numerous dignitaries from other countries, participating in the event.
 |
|
|
Serbian Tennis Women Players Jelena Jankovic and Ana Ivanovic took part in 26th PPO Tennis Tournament in Tokyo, September 23-October 3
In the final of the Pan Pacific Open, 24-year-old 7th-seeded #8 (former #1) Jelena Jankovic won the second place. In the match with Maria Sharapova, Jelena retired due to a right arm injury winning the second prize. Ana Ivanovic finished at 11th place.
Ambassador I. Mrkić and Serbian football coach of Nagoya Grampus Eight Team, Mr. Dragan Stojković Piksi, attended the tournament with their families and colleagues, cheering for our best tennis players.
 |
|
|
The representatives of Serbian folklore "Kolo" visit Japan, September 22-October 7, 2009
We were happy to greet in our premises Mr. Tetsuo Masunaga from "Folklore Report" and Serbian delegation from state traditional dance ansamble "Kolo" (www.kolo.rs), headed by Director Radojica Kuzmanović. Their visit is of preparatory nature, ahead of the Japanese tour of Serbian most famous "Kolo" dance group in 2010.
We learned more about the ongoing preparations and program of the concerts, which will be organized in February and March 2009 in various cities throughout the country.
The Embassy will continue with its support to this important event and invites all our friends, colleagues and interested parties to the "Kolo" performances next year.
 |
 |
||
130th Anniversary of birth of famous Serbian scientist Milanković celebrated in the Embassy, September 24th
Following the decision of the Government of Serbia to mark 130 years since the birth of one of the world's most significant scientists and geophysicists, Milutin Milanković, a Serbian, the Embassy organized a reception on September 24 in Tokyo, remembering his astonishing achievements.
In addressing the guests, Ambassador Mrkić underlined the importance of Milanković’s work, whose contributions to the world of science are considered as indispensable. Representatives of our friendship associations, Japanese academic and scientific circles, our students and other guests had the opportunity to enjoy the presentation on Milanković's life and research, followed by coctail and musical performance.
On this occasion, Ms. Kovač, Head of the Embassy's Cultural Section, gave the interview for Serbian TV "F Magazine" in which she talked about the historical links between our two countries and bilateral cultural cooperation.
 |
 |
 |
|||
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
|||
|
|
|
Serbia participates at the JATA World Tourism Congress & Travel Fair (September 18 - 20, 2009)
For the fourth consecutive year Serbia was participating at the JATA World Tourism Congress & Travel Fair at Tokyo Big Sight (http://www.jata-wtf.com), which is one of the biggest international fairs in Asia.
Ambassador Mrkić and Third Secretary Ms. Kovač attended the opening reception on the first day, along with the great number of Japanese tourism institutions and agencies, media and diplomatic corps.
The representatives of the Tourism Organization of Serbia (TOS) and of the Tourism Organization of Belgrade (TOB) introduced diverse touristic offers from Serbia, focusing on the tourist attractions in the vicinity of Danube river. This year our booth joined other European countries around Danube river, as the initiative supported and promoted by the main organizer JATA.
TOS representative, Mr. Rolović, also had the opportunity to introduce the tourist strategy and priorities of Serbia at the seminar on Danube countries on September 18th, underlining its positive effects and the increase in number of Japanese tourists to our country.
 |
 |
 |
|||
|
|
|
Serbian participant from the Commission for Protection of Competition in JICA Seminar
Ms. Vesna Džagić, Head of Restrictive Agreements Assesment Department of the the Commission for Protection of Competition of the Republic of Serbia, is participating in JICA Seminar on Cometition Law and Policy, from August 19 to September 19, 2009.
This course is a part of technical assistance of Japan to Serbia, held in Osaka and Tokyo. During her stay in Tokyo, Ms. Džagić met with Ambassador Mrkić and Third Secretary Ms. Kovač to share some of her experiences and opinions on the cooperation with Japan.
Pursuant to the current Serbian Law on Protection of Competition (came into force on September 23, 2006), Commission for Protection of Competition has been set up as an independent and autonomous authority in the capacity of legal entity, located in Beograd and responsible for its activities to the National Parliament. For more information about Serbian Competition Commission, please click here.
 |
|
|
Serbian Opera Singer performs in Tokyo
We had a pleasure to learn that Ms. Mila Vilotijević, soprano opera singer from Serbia, came to Japan to perform this September in two famous operas by renowned Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi: Aida and Don Carlos.
Ms. Vilotijević is a member of La Scala from Milan – one of the most distinguished opera houses in the world. Ms. Vilotijević had already been introduced to Japan during her previous tours here. This time she also visited our Embassy.
 |
|
|
Ambassador's visit to Waseda University, September 8
Ambassador Mrkić and Third Secretary Kovač met with Prof. Katsuhiko Shirai, President of Waseda University, Prof. Masataka Ota, Vice President, and their colleagues from University's International Affairs Division Director Shinichi Adachi and Mr. Tsutomu Harada.
They exchange views on the possibilities of future cooperation regarding the high level official's visit expected this year. They also reaffirmed the wish to continue the on-going academic cooperation and student exchange between Waseda University and University of Belgrade, established in 2005.
Movie "Maradona" by Serbian filmmaker Emir Kusturica to be shown in Japan
New movie by renowned film director, Emir Kusturica, whose previous work "Promise me this" ("Zavet" in Serbian) was released last year in cinemas in Tokyo and across Japan, will be coming to cinema in Shibuya and then to dozen more in the country in December 2009.
The preview of the movie, portraying the famous Argentinian football player Diego Maradona, was shown on August 31 in IMAGICA Center in Tokyo. Ambassador Mrkić and Head of Cultural Affairs Section Ms. Kovač attended the preview and met with the representatives of film distribution company and others involved in this project.
Serbian team in Okinawa karate-do World Tournament, August 14-16
Seven members of Serbian team, headed by Mr. Vladimir Popovic, took part in this year's tournament in the traditional Okinawa sport of karate-do, among 43 countries and over 900 other participants. In this event, held in Okinawa's capital Naha, Okinawa karate-do master from Serbia, Mr. Nebojsa Baba, was placed among 16 best in the world.
Ambassador Mrkić with his colleague Ms. Kovač, who were invited to support the tournament, met with Serbian karate-do players and congratulated them for the achievements and zealous work. They were also guests at the Welcome party on August 15 organized by Okinawa karate-do Association, which has been nurturing a long relation and friendship with Mr. Popovic and our country. Ambassador Mrkić addressed the gathering. The speeches by the President of the Association Mr. Nobuhide Asato and Prof. Shigeru Takamiyagi, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Society for the Advancement of the Traditional Okinawan karate, were very moving and full of warm emotions extended to Serbia and its people.
Ambassador and Mr. Popovic, together with their colleagues and Okinawa karate-do Association representatives, had the opportunity to meet on separate occasions with H.E. Mr. Hirokazu Nakaima, Governor of Okinawa Prefecture, and Mr. Tomokazu Takamine, President of daily paper "Ryukyu Shimpo".
 |
 |
||
|
|
 |
 |
||
|
|
 |
 |
||
|
|
Ambassador's participation at Mayors for Peace Conference in Nagasaki, August 7-9th
Nagasaki this year too commemorated its victims (150.000 altogether), who died in the atomic bombing on August 9th, 1945.
The main guest speaker was H.E. Miguel d'Escoto Brockmann, the President of the United Nations General Assembly. The mayors coming from cities from all over the world, together with many diplomatic representatives, encountered the representatives of the survivors (hibakusha) and visited the museum devoted to those who lost their lives in the attack and use of this unhumane weapon.
 |
|
|
Ambassador's participation at the 64th Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony, August 6th
Ambassador Mrkić participated in the memorial ceremony devoted to the victims of the atomic bomb, an abhorrent weapon used for the first time against many civilians, who perished instantly or were later affected by the radiation.
The whole leadership of Japan, headed by the Prime Minister Taro Aso, and great number of guests and representatives of diplomatic corps were also present at the ceremony.
As always, the whole event passed in a dignified atmosphere and emotional remembrance of those who lost their lives.
 |
 |
||
|
|
High School Students from Hiroshima visit Honorary Consulate General
On July 23, the Honorary Consulate General of the Republic of Serbia in Osaka, with support of our Embassy, had a pleasure to welcome a group of students from Hiroshima.
Honorary Consul General, Mr. Naohide Ueyama and the Head of the Serbian Embassy's Culture and Press Section, Aleksandra Kovač, talked about Serbian history, its cultural heritage and natural beauties and engaged in lively discussion with students about various topics regarding environmental protection, education, lifestyle and sport in Serbia.
 |
|
|
Our colleague’s Wedding Day, July 12
On July 12 in Tokyo, the Embassy was celebrating the wedding of our colleague Mrs. Tijana Zdravkovic to Mr. Keigo Nagato. Isn’t this event the vivid confirmation of the closeness and mutual affection between Serbian and Japanese nationals?
We wish Tijana and Keigo the very best in their matrimony, plenty of children and above all good health and happiness!
 |
 |
||
|
|
 |
 |
||
|
|
Serbian official participates in JICA Seminar on Cool Earth Partnership Program
Ms. Danijela Bozanic, official of the Ministry of Environmental Protection of the Republic of Serbia, took part in the Seminar on Cool Earth Partnership in Osaka and Tokyo, organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in July 2009.
During her stay in Tokyo, Ms. Bozanic had the opportunity to visit us and talk about current growing cooperation and projects between Japan and Serbia in the environmental area.
 |
|
|
Serbian film "Here and There" at the International film festival in Japan, July 10-20
Darko Lungulov, remarkable Serbian filmmaker, was invited to this year's SKIP City International D-Cinema Festival in Saitama to present his awarded and praised new movie "Here and there" (2009). The international film festival is held from July 10-20 in beautiful cinema complex (http://www.skipcity-dcf.jp), attracting short and feature movies from around the world to compete for generous awards.
The movie will be shown on July 11th and 17th in the same complex in Saitama. For summary, trailer and recent news about the movie, please visit http://hereandtherethemovie.com/ and http://www.skipcity-dcf.jp/en/program/feature/#f01.
 |
 |
||
|
|
Cooperation Agreement signed between Serbian Singidunum University and Japanese Teikyo University, June 29, 2009
The Agreement on cooperation between the Singidunum University from Belgrade and Teikyo University from Japan has been signed by the representatives of both universities at the Hachioji Campus of Teikyo University, on June 29, 2009.
On behalf of Singidunum, Prof. Dr. Nada Popovic Perisic, Dean of the Faculty for Media and Communication and Dean of the School of Diplomacy and International Relations (in the process of establishing) has signed the Agreement on the Serbian side, while Mr. Yoshihito Okinaga, President of the Teikyo University Group, headed the Japanese side.
The Agreement envisages the exchange of students and professors, credit equivalences, joint researches and projects, as well as joint publishing activity.
The Agreement on cooperation between Singidunum and Teikyo universities is the first of its kind that has been concluded between the private universities of the two countries. It is expected to widely contribute to the scientific and educational exchange, as well as to the enhancement of bilateral relations and friendship between Serbia and Japan.
 |
|
|
New Japanese investment in Serbia
"Asahi Food & Healthcare Co. Ltd." together with "Mitsui Co." joined hands with the American partners to start a new production in the food industry in Serbia.
President of "Asahi Food", Mr. Hikaru Kawamura, visited our Embassy with his colleague and exchanged views with our Ambassador inform about this important project, which aim to the markets in Europe, US and even Japan.
 |
|
|
The exhibition of Serbian photographer Nebojša Babić opens in Tokyo, May 28
In collaboration of Japan-Yugo Art Project and Gendai Heights DEN Gallery, a photo exhibition "Power" by Nebojsa Babic, one of the leading and winning phographers in Serbia, (http://www.babic.cc/), was introduced to the Japanese public. Apart from Japanese organizers, Mr. Babic was present to personally greet his guests and expess his gratitude for all the support.
Mr. Babic is the founder of multimedia art project O3ONE (www.o3one.rs), urban magazine "Ambijenti", Belgrade festival of new communications B-link festival (www.b-link.org) and is a member of various professional and artistic organizations. Some of his photographs constitute a part of the permanent collection of Belgrade Museum of Applied Arts. This is his second exhibition in Tokyo.
Exhibition is opened until June 9. For details, please visit the web site http://www.gendaiheights.fc2.com/ (opened every day from 13.00-22.00, except Wednesdays).
Serbian participant in JICA Programme (May 11-29)
Representative of Ministry of Economy and Regional Development of Serbia, Mr. Miroslav Spasojevic, Chief of Sustainable Development Section, participated in this year's JICA Program "Energy Policy JFY 2009"
Serbia is committed to the Kyoto Protocol Agenda as developing country and is committed to follow its European counterparts in negotiations for the new, Post Kyoto agreement, expected to be reached in UNFCC Conference in Denmark in December. In regard to this policy, Serbia needs Japanese support to contribute to the protection of environment and its sustainability. JICA Program was good opportunity to exhange opinions with Japanese side on this matter.
 |
|
|
Visit of the Parliamentary Vice Foreign Minister of Japan, Mr. Yasutoshi Nishimura, to Serbia, May 23, 2009
Mr. Yasutoshi Nishimura, Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who is also a member of the Japan-Serbia Parliamentary Friendship League, visited Serbia on May 23, 2009.
During his stay in Belgrade, Mr. Nishimura held talks with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Serbia Mr. Vuk Jeremic and Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Bozidar Djelic, about future bilateral cooperation in the field of political dialogue, economic relations, visa regime and many other issues.
 |
|
|
Visit of Kashiba Junior High School Students from Nara Prefecture, May 14th
Once again, we had the pleasure of hosting a high school students' visit to our Embassy. We introduced to students from Nara Prefecture our Embassy's facilities and work, showed them Serbian national costumes and other handicrafts and talked about all aspects of Serbian history, tradition and culture, they were interested in. We really had a nice time together learning something new about Serbia.
 |
|
|
Contract between Japanese company "Nagai Hoshi" and Serbian Company "Agrostemin D.O.O." signed on May 13, 2009
Japanese company "Nagai Hoshi" and Serbian company "Agrostemin D.O.O." signed contract on representing this Serbian company and its product, Agrostemin, in the Japanese market.
Agrostemin is natural biostimulator, widely used in the agricultural production. It is created on the base of corn cockle (Agrostemma githago), dust and other plants (cultivated, as well as weeds), and invented by Serbian scientist Dr Danica Gajic. Agrostemin significantly increases the quantity and quality of yield and optimizes the cost of agricultural production.
Signing of contract between "Nagai Hoshi" and "Agrostemin D.O.O." is expected to enable export of this famous Serbian product not only to the Japanese market, but to other countries' markets as well.
 |
 |
||
Mr. Dragan Stojkovic Piksi, Nagoya Grampus Eight Manager, visits the Embassy, May 11
Most popular Serbian sportsman in Japan, best known by his nick name Piksi, Mr. Dragan Stojković, visited our Embassy with his spouse Snežana on May 11th. He shared his insights and impressions on his work and life following his return to Japan after several years.
Being a great player with generous and kind personality, Mr. Stojković has earned a good reputation and huge fame in Japanese public eye. He contributed greatly to Japanese soccer and his country while on the contract as a player in the 90's, and we are sure he will continue to do so in the future in the new role of manager of Nagoya Grampus Eight Club.
 |
|
|
Serbian participant awarded at the International Coin Design Competition in Tokyo, May 1st
Ms. Aleksandra Stokic from Serbia was awarded for her design of the coin on the theme "The International Year of Astronomy 2009" in the International Coin Design Competition organized by Japan Mint. 67 works competed from more than 10 countries.
It is the third award for Ms. Stokic in this competition, which she received at the award ceremony on May 1st in Tokyo.
The representatives from mints of Canada, Ukraine, Australia, diplomatic corps and our Embassy were also present at the ceremony.
 |
 |
||
|
|
Visit of H.E. Mr. Božidar Djelić, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science and Technological Development of the Republic of Serbia, to Japan (April 13-18, 2009)
During his official stay, Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Djelić had a range of meetings aimed at enhancing bilateral economic and scientific cooperation and strenghtening political dialogue between our two countries.
Deputy Prime Minister Djelic talked with governmental officials and high representatives about possibilites of closer cooperation in the various projects in Serbia, seeking their support and opinion on issues of mutual interest. He also informed Japanese counterparts about the current political and economic situation in Serbia, attractive opportunities for bigger Japanese investments and ongoing initiatives in the field of trade, science and overall bilateral cooperation.
Deputy Prime Minister's schedule also included talks with Japanese business circles.
H.E. Mr. Djelic had encountered a warm welcome in Osaka by Honorary Consul Mr. Naohide Ueyama and his associates. With their kind support, Deputy Prime Minister held a presentation on economic sitation in Serbia during Serbian Business Seminar organized for this occasion in Osaka Chamber of Commerce on April 15, which attracted attention of many leading Japanese companies and media.
Having also in mind the importance of Japan as a leader in the field of science and advanced techologies, H.E. Mr. Bozidar Djelic visited two highly valued national institutes, that nurture long and fruitful cooperation with our distinguished scientists and experts: the National Institute for Fusion Science (NIFS) in Gifu Prefecture and the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST).
H.E. Mr. Djelic met with his counterparts from renowned universities of Tokyo, Kyoto and Keio and was given an opportunity to give a lecture on Serbian and European Integration at Aoyama Gakuin University in Tokyo.
 |
 |
 |
|||
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
|||
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
|||
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
|||
|
|
|
 |
 |
||
|
|
 |
 |
||
|
|
Study visit of Mr. Jovan Ratković, Foreign Policy Adviser to the Serbian President, to Japan (March 11 - 18)
On invitation by the Japanese government, Mr. Jovan Ratković, Foreign Policy Adviser to the President of the Republic of Serbia, Mr. Boris Tadić, took participation in this year program "Leaders in the next generations", held for representatives from eight countries of South and Eastern Europe.
During the program, Mr. Ratković attended various seminars and lecture on political and economic situation in Japan by distinguished governmental representatives.
He also informed Japanese and other counterparts about political situation in Serbia at the Opinion Exchange session on the first day of the program and during his separately held talks with Mr. Ichiro Aisawa, President of Parlamentary League of Japan - Serbia Friendship, and Mr. Yasuaki Tanizaki, Director General for Europe at the MOFA.
 |
 |
||
|
|
Serbian children awarded at "The 16th Annual World Children's Picture Contest"
On March 27th, among close to 52,000 applicants from 68 countries, four Serbian children - Nenad Kuzmanovski, Dejana Bukazić, Marko Molnar and Kristina Jovanović - were awarded for their pictures at this event organized by charitable organization IE-NO-HIKARI Association.
Embassy representatives from each awarded country were invited to attend the award ceremony in Tokyo.
Film by director Kusturica to be screened in Tokyo
Japanese company "Desperado" will be bringing in the middle of spring a new movie by Emir Kusturica "Promise me this" to Tokyo's Cinema Rise in Shibuya, where the filmmaker showed his famous movie "Underground" more than 10 years ago. His new work will then be shown around Japan. For the program details, please check the website http://www.weddingbell.jp
Serbian ceramic artist presents her works in Seto City Museum of Arts
From March 7 to April 12, Seto City Museum of Arts in Aichi Prefecture (http://www.city.seto.aichi.jp/setomono/art/) is having a joint exhibition of works by this year's participants in Seto International Ceramic & Glass Exchange Programe 2008-2009. Ms. Lana Tikvesa, Serbian ceramic artist and Assistant Professor at the Applied Arts Faculty, University of Arts in Belgrade, who had the opportunity to be a part of this program, will also have her works presented.
Serbian Fair and Serbian night held in Tokyo, March 20 - 31
This March, Serbia Cultural Exchange Association (www.japan-serbia.org), supported by the Embassy of Serbia in Japan and the company "Adria International Co. Ltd.", decided to open again Serbian Charity Fair, that offered a wide variety of best quality Serbian wines, spirits, home made fruit preserves, traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
On this occasion, the organizers hosted two events:
Serbian artists from Vojvodina region exhibit in Tokyo, March 23 - 31
Japanese organization "Japan Yugo Art Project" together with Serbian curator Stepanov, galleries Toki Art Space and Den, hosted two exhibitions of seven representative visual artists from Vojvodina region for the first time, curated by Mr. Sava Stepanov from "Golden Eye Gallery" in Novi Sad.
Mr. Stepanov, together with Ms. Vesna Latinovic, Art Manager of "Bel Art Gallery" were guests at the opening. In his address, Mr. Stepanov expressed gratitude for this opportunity to present
The first installation of "Visual Art in Vojvodina" exhibition was opened in Toki Art Space from March 23-29, followed by the other in Gallery Den (www.gendaiheights.fc2.com) from March 26 - 31.
Serbia - Japan art collaboration works exhibited in Bumpodo Gallery
On March 16, Japanese organization "Japan Yugo Art Project" together with Bumpodo Gallery (www.bumpodo.co.jp) in Tokyo opened an exhibition of works from the collection of Iwano Atelier, that was first held in the Fukui City Museum of Arts 2 years ago.
It included art works produced during years of cooperation between Mr. Heizaburo Iwano, one of the three best known specialists for hand made washi paper in Japan, and the Serbian artists. Every year, at the international art workshops organized by ";The Iwano Project" in Serbia, artists create using Iwano's hand made paper.
Serbian participation at FOODEX 2009, March 3 - 7
Following the positive experience in Serbia's participation in last year's fair with its first solo stand, six Serbian companies ("Sicoberry", "IGDA Impex", "Elixir Food", "Frigo Grand", "Sirogojno Company" and "Wine Cellar Jelić"), supported by Serbian Investment and Export Promotion Agency (SIEPA) and this Embassy, had the pleasure of exhibiting their line of products to many interested Japanese and foreign visitors and companies.
Among 2400 exhibitors from various countries in FOODEX 2009 (March 3 - 7), Serbia presented its fruit, mushroom and wine selection, that had gained international attention and awards, establishing also good business cooperation around the world. On this occasion, Ambassador Mrkić attended the opening ceremony with other distinguished guests from Japanese and foreign governments and diplomatic corps.
As a part of our efforts to promote Serbian industry in Japan, Embassy hosted a coctail for Serbian participants and Japanese companies on March 2nd.
 |
 |
 |
|||
|
|
|
 |
 |
||
|
|
Annual Assembly and Merging of two Friendship Associations
On February 24, Japan - Serbia Exchange Association held its fifth Annual assembly and reception in our Embassy.
It was announced that the Association has reached an agreement of merging with the oldest Japan - Serbia Friendship Association. Following that decision, the leadership agreed to take the official name "Japan - Serbia Association" for the friendship society and to enlarge the Board of Directors with new members.
After the plenary meeting for the members, President of the Association, H.E. Dr. Takehiro Togo, President of the Board Mr. Kenzo Yoneda and ambassador of Serbia to Japan, H.E. Mr. Ivan Mrkić, greeted the guests. The new Board Members, Mr. Owada, former Ambassador of Japan to Serbia, Prof. Iwata from Tokyo International University, Prof. Abe from Meiji University and Mr. Osamu, President of JPS Company, were introduced to the guests.
After the toast by Board Director and Honorary Consul General of Serbia, Mr. Ueyama, guests had the opportunity to enjoy some Serbian traditional food and spirits.
 |
 |
 |
|||
|
|
|
 |
 |
||
|
|
National Day of the Republic of Serbia celebrated at the Embassy, February 16, 2009
On February 16, the Embassy organized its annual reception on the occasion of Serbian National Day known as "Sretenje" which is formally commemorated as public holiday on February 15.
This year we had more than four hundred distinguished guests joining us in the celebration. Representatives from Japanese political, business, academic, cultural circles and media, foreign diplomatic missions and Serbian expatriate community enjoyed in our traditional cuisine and music, performed by Japanese guitarist Mr. Shimodate.
 |
 |
 |
|||
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
|||
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
|||
|
|
|
 |
 |
||
|
|
Visit by Kuki Junior High School students, February 10
Group of students of "Kuki Junior High School" from Saitama Prefecture visited the Embassy, as a part of their Studies for International Understanding. In lively conversation on various topics with Ms. Kovač, in charge of cultural affairs, students had the opportunity to hear more about Serbian education system, traditions, sports and cuisine.
 |
|
Ambassador visits Teikyo University, February 6
Ambassador Mrkić met with Mr. Y. Okinaga, the President of Teikyo University, in Tokyo to discuss the possibilities of strengthening academic cooperation through joint projects and exchange programs with private universities in Serbia.
Teikyo University was established in 1930's in Tokyo and has branch offices in USA, Great Britain and Asian countries. Japanese university with such a good reputation and wide international academic network as this one, is seen as a valuable experience and an important partner to a still young private university sector in Serbia.
Taking into the account that Mr. Kenzo Yoneda, Chairman of the Governing Board of Japan - Serbia Friendship Association, is also a Professor of International Relations at Teikyo University, the cooperation between our universities would definitely contribute more to the friendship between Serbia and Japan.
Theatrical performance of Serbian play in Tokyo
“Black Tent Theater”, an avant-guarde performance group from Japan, is planning to introduce a work of famed Serbian author, Ljubomir Simović, to audience in their Tokyo-based theater in October (from 8th till 18th). The play, known as "The Travelling Troupe Šopalović", is a successful and long running and has been performed numerous times in Serbia and around the world, ever since it was written in 1985.
We had a pleasure to hear more about this project and theatrical ties in general between our two countries during the visit of Black Tent representative, Mr. Hiroyuki Muneshige, to the Embassy. Mr. Muneshige has recently come back from Serbia, where he spent several months researching about contemporary performance art, which would help to a better understanding of Serbian culture in Japan.
Ambassador Mrkić toured statue of Nikola Tesla in TEPCO Museum in Yokohama, January 29th
On invitation by the Group of Support of Tesla's Deeds and TEPCO Museum, H.E. Mr. Ivan Mrkić visited the museum and bronze bust tribute to Nikola Tesla, Serbian scientist and innovator, which was presented to the public last June (see the link). Ambassador Mrkić also met with their representatives Mr. O. Hirashita and Director Y. Haraguchi, as well with representatives of Japan - Serbia Exchange Association - President T. Togo and Vice President Y. Hamada, and former Ambassador of Japan in Belgrade Mr. T. Nagai.
Museum Director Haraguchi expressed his gratitude for the support of our Embassy, stressing the importance of the establishment of Tesla's statue for the strenghtening of mutual relations and public awarness of Tesla's achievement. This is especially due to the fact that it is the only statue among 16 famous electricity scientists, whose work is part of Museum's exhibition. More than 30.000 people visit this Museum every year, among which the representatives of Imperial family and governmental institutions.
Ambassador Mrkić presented to Mr. Haraguchi the envelope "First Day", issued in 2007 on the occasion of Emperor's 74th birthday and of marking 125th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic correspondance between King of Serbia, Milan I Obrenović, and Meiji the Emperor of Japan.
Ambassador Nagai also gave a valuable present to the Museum - Egg of Columbus, one of Tesla's inventions, announcing that he will give one to our Embassy to commemorate our cooperation on this project.
 |
|
|
 |
 |
||
|
|
Renowned Serbian cardiologists Dr Ostojić and Dr Nedeljković at CCT International Congress in Kobe, January 29th - January 31st
Two Serbian specialists from Clinical Center of Serbia, Prof. Dr. Miodrag Ostojić and Prof. Dr Milan Nedeljković, visited Japan again to participate at this year's International Congress "CCT 2009 Complex Cardiovascular Therapeutics" in Kobe, from January 29th till January 31st.
They participated in the last year's "CCT 2008 Complex Catheter Therapeutics" when Dr. Ostojić, President of Cardiology Society of Serbia, Member of Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts and Head of Department of Cardiology, gave a presentation at Congress in Kobe, sharing his experiences in cardiovascular treatment in Serbia.
Elementary school students visit our Embassy, January 27th
We had a pleasure to meet a group of young Japanese students, who were eager to learn more about Serbia, its world heritage, traditional food, customs, sports and educational system.
Our Embassy is usually a subject of interest of high schools from around Japan, which are more involved with international exchange and foreign cultures, so we were excited to meet even younger generations, also curious and determined to contribute to the friendship between our countries.
We had very enjoyable and fun time together and are looking forward to meet other visitors in the near future.
Serbian artist participates at the Seto International Ceramic & Glass Exchange Programe 2008-2009
Ms. Lana Tikveša, Serbian ceramic artist and Assistant Professor at the Applied Arts Faculty, University of Arts in Belgrade, is participating in this year's Seto International Ceramic & Glass Exchange Programe 2008-2009, Part 2 (January 7th - February 28th), organized by Seto City Cultural Foundation. This is another artist from Serbia, invited to be in this program, along with Prof. Velimir Vukičević from University of Arts in Belgrade who participated in 2007.
Ms. Tikveša gave a lecture on January 16th in the Seto City Cultural Center on Serbian contemporary ceramics from 1990-2008.
For details regarding the lecture and other activities planned during the program, please see the inclosed leaflet (Japanese language only).
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Embassy of the Republic of Serbia, 4-7-24 Kitashinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan |
tel. +81 (3) 3447-3571, fax +81 (3) 3447-3573 |
email: embassy@serbianembassy.jp, web site: www.serbianembassy.jp |
