The 10th International Cooperation Forum, organized by the Development Agency of Serbia and the Development Agency of the Republic of Srpska, was officially opened today at the MIND Park industrial zone in Kragujevac.

Supported by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (PKS) and the European Union’s Enterprise Europe Network (EEN), the event brought together over 160 participants — mainly business representatives from across the region, as well as officials from state institutions, regional development agencies, chambers of commerce, scientific and technological organizations, and other institutions that support economic growth.

In his opening remarks, Radoš Gazdić, Acting Director of the Development Agency of Serbia, highlighted the results of previous forums, noting that more than 2,000 business meetings have been held, hundreds of cooperation agreements signed, and dozens of panel discussions organized on relevant economic topics. He emphasized that the Forum, as a joint initiative with the Republic of Srpska and the EEN, has significantly contributed to strengthening trade ties and fostering the exchange of knowledge and experience between the two economies.

Addressing institutional support for businesses in the fields of the green economy, artificial intelligence, innovation, and modernization of production, Gazdić noted that the relevant agencies offer a wide range of programs. He encouraged entrepreneurs to select the best options and prepare for the rapid changes currently reshaping Europe and the surrounding region.

Marinko Đukić, Director of the Development Agency of the Republic of Srpska, expressed particular satisfaction that the Forum is celebrating its tenth anniversary, having become a well-known venue for business networking not only between companies from Serbia and the Republic of Srpska but also from the wider region and beyond. He underlined the importance of the event as an opportunity for entrepreneurs to establish concrete partnerships and pointed out the successful cooperation with the Development Agency of Serbia, especially in attracting foreign investments, where Serbia has extensive experience and serves as a model to follow.

Welcoming the participants, Dejan Ružić, Deputy Mayor of Kragujevac, said he was pleased that such an event is taking place in a city that is emerging as a key economic, scientific, and technological hub in Serbia.

The Forum was officially opened by Igor Crnobarac, Assistant Minister of Economy of the Republic of Serbia, who welcomed the fact that this year’s Forum focuses on crucial topics such as decarbonization, the green economy, and the application of artificial intelligence in industry. He stressed that, in times of global challenges, the Forum plays an important role in finding practical solutions.

“These are not just technical terms — they represent vital questions about the future of Serbia’s economy and how we can ensure its sustainable growth,” Crnobarac said.

He also emphasized that Serbia is increasingly recognized as an attractive investment destination, citing the country’s S&P credit rating, and noted that the government continues to invest heavily in scientific and technological development, with more technology parks planned in addition to the existing four.

The main feature of this year’s Forum is the business matchmaking event, giving entrepreneurs a valuable opportunity to form new contacts, collaborations, and partnerships.