Newsletter October 2011

I S S U E 

09 

O C TOBE R 

2 0 1 1 

SLOVENIAN EMBASSY 

SKOPJE 

MONTHLY e-NEWSLETTER 

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 

OF INDEPENDENCE 

Celebration marking the 20 years of Independence of the 

Republic of Slovenia in Bitola 

Bitola, 20 October 2011 

A celebration marking the 20 years of Independence of the 

Republic of Slovenia organized by the General Consulate 

of the Republic of Slovenia, Slovenian Association Triglav 

from Bitola and in cooperation with the Embassy of the 

Republic of Slovenia in Skopje, was held in Hotel Premier 

in Bitola. The event was attended by the Mayor of Bitola 

Vladimir Taleski, a number of honorary consuls in Bitola, 

representatives of the business community, artists from 

Bitola, culture representatives and of course members of 

the Slovenian Association Triglav from Bitola, and many 

other Slovenians and friends of the country. The event was 

also attended by all employees from the Embassy of the 

Republic of Slovenia in Skopje. 

In this issue 

Celebrating 20 years of Independence P.1 

National Holidays in Macedonia: 11 October and 23 October P.2 

Progress Report 2011 on Macedonia P.3 

EU-WB Ministerial Forum on Justice and Home Affairs in Ohrid P.4 

The EU Challenges for the Countries of the WB P.4 

Meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs Nikola Poposki P.5 

Meeting with the President of the Committee for EU Affairs of RM P.5 

Ambassador Brian Bergant visited the Municipality of Aerodrom P.6 

Meeting with the Mayor of the Municipality of Bitola P.6 

The twinned Municipalities of Cerklje and Petrovec P.7 

Working visit at ONE – Telekom Slovenia P.7 

Working visit to the Company Sudio Moderna P.7 

Meetings with successful companies from Bitola P.8 

Round Table on Solar Energy P.8 

II. Biotechnological days in Macedonia P.9 

Presentation of Slovenian Companies: Trimo P.10 

International Fairs: Transport and Logistics and Tehnoma P.11 

New modular school in the Municipality of Ilinden P.12 

Opening of the exhibition “Drawings” by Marko Novak P.13 

Four years since the death of Macedonian singer Toše Proeski P.14 

Interview with Ambassador Brian Bergant for Radio Free Europe P.14 

Slovenian language in Macedonia P.15 

International festival at NOVA International school P.16 

Slovenia with 7 medals at the Kickboxing Championship P.16 

Maribor: European Capital of Culture 2012 P.17 

The guests were welcomed by the host of the celebration, Honorary Consul General Mihajlo Mojsov, 

Mayor of Municipality Bitola Vladimir Taleski and Ambassador Brian Bergant. Ambassador Bergant said 

that he was very pleased that Slovenia in the first 20 years of independence achieved all of its foreignpolicy 

objectives and in this way demonstrated as a reliable and active member of the international 

community. He also expressed hope that Slovenia and Macedonia in near future will once again join their 

roads, this time through their joint membership in the EU and NATO. 

A rich cultural program was prepared by the members of the Slovenian Association Triglav and its newly 

formed choir Klopotec. On display was the exhibition named "Macedonia Feels Slovenia", which was 

prepared by the students of the Faculty of Design and Multimedia, FON University Skopje. 

P . 1

A rich cultural program was prepared by the 

members of the Slovenian Association Triglav and 

its newly formed choir Klopotec. On display was 

the exhibition named "Macedonia Feels Slovenia", 

which was prepared by the students of the Faculty 

of Design and Multimedia, FON University Skopje. 

National 

Holidays in 

Macedonia 

70th anniversary of the People’s Uprising and National 

Liberation Struggle 

Macedonia, 11 October 2011 

Macedonia marked 11 October, the 70th Anniversary of the beginning of the Anti-Fascist Uprising and the 

National Liberation Resistance. The Macedonian people responded to the fascist occupation by organizing 

a rebellion. At that time, the first sabotage units were created in Kumanovo and Prilep, with their operations 

starting on 11 October, marking the beginning of the Macedonian people’s uprising. In the course of 1942, 

the partisan movement was also in ascent. Nine detachments were founded acting on a large territory. 

During the winter and the spring of 1944, the Macedonian Army took important military operations (the 

February March, the Spring Offensive), causing enormous damages to the occupier. The liberation of 

Macedonia by its own forces was an outstanding military and political accomplishment of the Macedonian 

people and at the same time was a significant contribution by a small populace to the anti-fascist struggle 

in the Balkans and Europe. 

President Gjorge Ivanov addressed at the formal academy that was held in the Skopje Army Hall honoring 

11 October and stressed that people must unite around the joint goals and interests so that Macedonia can 

fully carry out its true values. On the same day, Presentation of the State Award 11 October 2011, for 

achievements in the fields of science, arts, economy and other sectors of public interest, was held in the 

Parliament of the Republic of Macedonia. This year’s award recipients in the field of culture were the ballet 

artist Tanja Vujisic-Todorovska, writer Resul Sabani and actor Petar Temelkovski. Advisor-librarian Mile 

Boseski was presented with recognition in the field of protecting the values of cultural-historic heritage, 

whereas businessman Tihomir Cepreganov was given the 11 October life achievement award in the 

economic sector. The Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts (MASA) also hosted a formal gathering 

on occasion of the 70th anniversary of the start of the People’s Liberation War. 

Celebrating 23 October, the foundation of IMRO 

Macedonia, 23 October 2011 

++ 

23 October is celebrated on the occasion of the formation of the Macedonian Revolutionary Organization in 

Thessaloniki. On this date in 1893 in the house of the bookseller Ivan Hadzi Nikolov in Thessaloniki 

gathered six young men to put the basics, which will become the symbol and flag of the Macedonian 

struggle for freedom. The early leaders were: Dr. Hristo Tatarcev, Dame Gruev, Petar Pop Arsov, Ivan 

Hadzi Nikolov, Anton Dimitrov and Hristo Batandzhiev . They found a conspiratorial group, calling 

the Macedonian Revolutionary Committee. The organization fought for the liberation of Macedonia with its 

own forces, without outside assistance. The formation of IMRO meant start of the organized Macedonian 

revolutionary movement through Ilinden 1903 and Krusevo Republic, through NOB it resulted in creation 

of the contemporary independent Macedonian state. 

This year Dr. Tome Raikov, writer Pascal Gilevski and artist Kole Manev, were awarded with the State 

award 23 October. Speaking on their behalf, writer Gilevski said that the five founders of IMRO changed 

the course of history. The President of the Republic and many ministers attended the ceremony. 

P . 2

European 

Affairs 

European Commission issued the Progress Report 2011 

on Macedonia 

Skopje, 12 October 2011 

The Progress Report on Macedonia is a part of the 2011 Enlargement Package adopted by the European 

Commission on 12 October 2011. On Macedonia, the Commission concluded that the country continues to 

sufficiently fulfill the political criteria and is ready to start accession negotiations. The country has continued 

accession related reforms, though core challenges remain. Ms Alexandra Cas Granje, EC Director of 

Directorate B for Enlargement presented the Progress Report to the Macedonian authorities. 

Key findings of the 2011 Progress Report on Macedonia: 

Political criteria 

Macedonia continues to sufficiently fulfill the political criteria. The parliamentary elections in June were 

generally in line with international standards. The governing coalition was swiftly established. Some 

progress has been made in the fields of the judiciary and public administration, notably as regards the legal 

framework. Further efforts are needed to ensure effective implementation, in particular concerning judicial 

and administrative reform, fighting corruption and freedom of expression in the media. Dialogue between 

the government and the opposition needs to be strengthened in order to ensure the smooth functioning of 

institutions and to allow the parliament to play its full role. 

Economic criteria 

The economy started to recover in the second half of 2010, as a result of increased external demand and 

investment in construction. The country has made further progress towards becoming a functioning market 

economy, notably by facilitating company registration and further simplifying the regulatory framework. 

Fiscal policy maintained its stability orientation. The country should be able to cope with competitive 

pressures and market forces within the Union in the medium term, provided that it vigorously implements 

its reform programme in order to reduce significant structural weaknesses. 

However, weaknesses in the rule of law continue to impede the proper functioning of the market economy. 

Public administration efficiency is still low and some regulatory and supervisory agencies continue to lack 

the necessary independence and resource allocation to fulfill their functions effectively. The quality of fiscal 

governance has remained low, partly due to a strong short-term orientation of public spending. Progress 

with reducing very high structural unemployment has remained very limited. Deficiencies in the rule of law 

continue to have a negative bearing on the business climate. 

EU Legislation 

Further progress was made in aligning legislation, policies and administrative capacity with the EU, in 

particular as regards the single market such as company law, financial services and energy. Good 

progress was also made on food safety and economic and monetary union. Efforts to address the new rise 

in asylum applications in EU Member States are ongoing. 

Less progress has been achieved in other areas such as taxation, public procurement as well as social 

policy and employment. Sustained efforts are needed to strengthen administrative capacity for the 

implementation and enforcement of legislation. 

P . 3

EU – Western Balkans Ministerial Forum on Justice and 

Home Affairs held in Ohrid 

Ohrid, 03 – 04 October 2011 

The EU – Western Balkans Ministerial Forum on Justice and Home Affairs, chaired by the Polish EU 

Presidency, was held in Ohrid. The high level officials from EC and from the Western Balkans were 

present. Slovenia was represented by the Minister of Justice and the Interior Mr Aleš Zalar. The European 

Commissioner Cecilia Malmström, Polish Minister of Interior, and other relevant EU officials, as well as the 

Ministers of Interior from the Western Balkans states made remarkable statements for Visa liberalization 

dialogues, post visa liberalization monitoring; Migration issues, including irregular migration, and border 

management with enhanced cooperation with FRONTEX; fight against organized crime, including 

trafficking in human beings, with enhanced cooperation with Europol, and fight against corruption. 

On the second day of the Ministerial Forum, 

participants focused on judiciary and prosecution 

independence, legal cooperation in criminal and civil 

disputes, as well as enhancement of cooperation 

with EUROJUST. The Forum was closed with a 

presentation of priorities in the field of justice and 

home affairs during the coming Danish and Cypriot 

EU Presidencies. The EU-Western Balkans Forum 

in Ohrid was organized by Macedonia's Ministries of 

Interior and Justice in cooperation with Polish EU 

Presidency. 

Regional working meeting “The European Challenges for 

the Countries of the Western Balkans” Skopje, 17 October 2011 

The Secretariat for European Affairs of Macedonia organized a regional working meeting entitled as “The 

European Challenges for the countries of the Western Balkans”. The meeting was attended by delegations 

from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Kosovo, Turkey, Montenegro and Macedonia. In his 

introductory remarks the Prime Minister of Macedonia Nikola Gruevski stressed that the renewed 

recommendation for start of the negotiations is recognition for the accomplished tasks, while Macedonia 

has the capacity in terms of human potential, organization, values and culturally to open the negotiations 

and that will have positive effect on the reforms. 

Stefano Sannino, Director of the Directorate General for Enlargement of the EC said that Macedonia plays 

positive role in the region, while the Government of Macedonia has demonstrated firm commitment to the 

fulfilment of the European agenda. In that context Sannino expressed his hope that the negotiations would 

start soon. According to Richard Howitt, rapporteur on Macedonia in the European Parliament the road 

towards the European Union is long and difficult, but the momentum should be kept and the reform 

processes should continue in all countries from the region. The Minister of Foreign Affairs Nikola Poposki 

said that with this meeting Macedonia sends strong message of its goals to strengthen the good neighborly 

relations and that regional approach is a priority as a way for the entire region to move ahead. 

The European Commission progress reports are motivation more and possibility to continue with the 

domestic reforms. The general assessment is that the region has advanced in the enlargement process 

considering the fact that Croatia concluded the negotiations, Montenegro got recommendation for start of 

the negotiations, Serbia received candidate country status, and Macedonia retained the candidate status, 

said Dr. Teuta Arifi, Deputy Prime Minister of Macedonia in charge of European Affairs after the end of the 

meeting. She emphasized that the participation in joint initiatives would continue, including the utilization of 

all IPA components which are important for all citizens from the countries in the region. 

P . 4

Meetings 

Meeting of Ambassador Brian Bergant with the 

Minister of Foreign Affairs Nikola Poposki 


Ambassador Brian Bergant met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Macedonia Nikola 

Poposki. They discussed current foreign policy issues and bilateral relations between the two countries, 

which are estimated from both sides as a traditionally good and without open issues. 

Ambassador Bergant and Minister Poposki also spoke about 

the process of Macedonia’s integration into the EU and NATO. 

Minister Poposki assessed the Report of the European 

Commission on Macedonia's progress for the year 2011 as 

balanced and well prepared. Minister Poposki also informed 

that he will, together with the Minister of Defense Besimi, attend 

the meeting NAC with Macedonia in Brussels where they will 

present the 12th cycle of the Action Plan for NATO 

membership. 

Ambassador Brian Bergant met with the president of 

the Committee for European Affairs of Republic of 

Macedonia Hajrulla Misini 


Ambassador Brian Bergant met with the President of the Parliamentary Committee for European Affairs 

Hajrulla Misini. Misini evaluated the Progress Report 2011 for Macedonia as positive and stressed that 

Macedonia was again given recomendation for opening the accession negotiations. Therefore, he 

expressed hope that Macedonia will receive a green light at the December EU Council and start the 

accession negotiations. 

As president of the committee, Misini is committed to level the views of the government and opposition 

members of the Board on strategic issues such as resolving the dispute about the name of the country, the 

adoption of European laws and the further implementation of reforms necessary for membership of 

Macedonia in the EU. He emphasized the importance of close cooperation of the Committee for European 

Affairs with the Secretariat for European Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and all other relevant factors 

that are involved in the process of European integration. 

Misini rated the recent regular session of the 

Conference Committees of Parliaments of the 

European Union for European Affairs 

Committees (COSAC) in Poland as very 

good. He pointed out the great meeting with an 

exchange of views and experiences and 

support which he received by the participating 

representatives of the National Assembly and 

National Council of the Republic of Slovenia. He 

also expressed a special aspiration that after 

the formation of the new composition of the 

parliamentary Committee on EU Affairs would 

like to visit Ljubljana. 

P . 5

ZZEconomy 

Cooperation on 

Local Level 

Ambassador Brian Bergant visited the Municipality of 

Aerodrom - Skopje 


Ambassador Brian Bergant and economic counselor Jernej Tovšak on 7 October 2011 paid a visit to the 

Skopje Municipality of Aerodrom and met with Mayor Ivica Konevski. Mayor Konevski used this opportunity 

to present the objectives and strategic plans of the Municipality, with special emphasis on the construction 

and renovation of sports facilities, sports fields, the swimming pool complex, new sports halls, shopping 

centers, cinemas, water park, children's playground, and also the additional green space arrangements 

and parks. According to him a lot of attention will be devoted to further improving of the daily life of the 

citizens, and to this end the municipality will engage in providing new housing facilities, including the 

construction of housing for newly married couples. 

In this regard, Ambassador Bergant presented the 

possibilities of partial funding of the above mentioned 

capital projects, with the help of Bilateral Official 

Development Assistance programs of the Republic of 

Slovenia. Mayor Konevski expressed his gratitude for the 

offered help and confirmed willingness for the 

municipality to participate in these programs, especially 

in the programs for reconstruction of primary and 

secondary schools. At the end of the meeting Mayor 

Konevski also proposed for the Municipality of Aerodrom 

and the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia to jointly organize a friendly match between the Basketball 

Club MZT Skopje from Municipality of Aerodrom and the Basketball Club Union Olimpija from Ljubljana. All 

of the money raised from ticket sales would be given to humanitarian purposes. 

Ambassador Brian Bergant held a meeting with the 

Mayor of the Municipality of Bitola Vladimir Taleski 


On the occasion of the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Slovenia 

which was held in Bitola on 20 October 2011, the Ambassador Brian Bergant and economic counselor 

Jernej Tovšak, paid a visit to Municipality of Bitola and held a meeting with the Mayor Vladimir Taleski. 

They discussed the possibilities for further strengthening the economic cooperation with the Slovenian 

companies and the ways which would contribute in increasing the presence of the Slovenian economy in 

the wider Pelagonia region. 

P . 6

Meeting between the twinned Municipalities of 

Cerklje from Gorenjska and Petrovec from Skopje 


In the Framework of the twinning project named »Europe for citizens«, representatives of the Municipality 

of Cerklje from Gorenjska and students from Elementary school Davorin Jenko visited the twinned 

Municipality of Petrovec in Macedonia. Besides the students and Director from Elementary school Davorin 

Jenko from Cerklje and Elementary school Kočo Racin from Petrovec, also present were the Mayor of the 

Municipality of Cerklje Franc Čebulj, the Mayor of the Municipality of Petrovec Borče Mitevski and the 

Director of Regional Development Agency from Gorenjska Bogo Filipic. 

Economy 

As a sign of friendship between the twinned 

municipalities, students of both primary schools and 

representatives of both municipalities in the courtyard of 

the Municipality symbolically planted Slovenian tree 

linden. At the Elementary school Kočo Racin the 

students of both schools had musical and dance 

performances. The participants were welcomed by the 

Deputy Head of the Embassy of Slovenia Aleša Sovinc. 

In her speech she stressed that such cooperation 

confirms the deepening ties between Slovenia and 

Macedonia, not only in the political and economic 

fields but also in culture and education. Slovenian 

students visited Macedonia for the first time in May 2011. The next meeting will be May 2012, when 

students from the Elementary school Kočo Racin from Petrovec will visit Slovenia and their Slovenian 

friends. 

Ambassador Brian Bergant at a working visit at 

ONE – Telekom Slovenia 


Ambassador Bergant Brian and economic counselor 

Jernej Tovšak, visited ONE - Telekom Slovenia. This is a 

continuation of Ambassador’s and economic counselor’s 

regular visits of Slovenian companies operating in the 

Macedonian market. The purpose of the visit was to 

meet with the new management of the company. They 

were recieved by the Chief Executive Officer and 

Director Ciril Kafol and directors Zvonko Kremljak and 

Tadej Lenarčič. 

The management of the company presented its views and future plans and their problems facing the entity 

in the business. Ambassador Bergant offered the assistance in solving the problems that the Embassy can 

provide. 

Ambassador Brian Bergant at a working visit to the 

Company Studio Moderna in Skopje 


Ambassador Brian Bergant and economic counselor Jernej Tovšak through their continuation of regular 

visits to Slovenian companies in Macedonia visited Studio Moderna. They were received by the director of 

the company Verica Jovčeska and agent Jovčevski Stojan. 

P . 7

Studio Moderna in Macedonia has employed 120 people. Most sales 

are through telemarketing and telephone. However, they also have 8 

shops in Macedonia, 5 of which in Skopje. Two of the eight stores 

can be found in the Slovenian shopping center TUŠ 

Macedonia. Since August this year the company moved to its new 

business premises. Jovčevska presented the company’s business 

plans for Macedonia. It is important to point out that the company is 

also socially responsible, as it is regularly involved in humanitarian 

activities of the Red Cross. Ambassador Bergant has invited the 

company to join in the Slovenian-Macedonian business club. 

Ambassador Brian Bergant meetings with successful 

companies from Bitola 


Ambassador Brian Bergant and economic counselor Jernej Tovšak visited a number of successful 

companies from Bitola and met with company directors of Stojčev Mill, Cermat, Rimodi, Pelisterka and the 

Slovenian Meteorit. At the Municipality of Bitola they met with the Mayor Vladimir Taleskim, with whom he 

discussed opportunities for cooperation with Slovenian companies on the local level and explore ways to 

increase the presence of the Slovenian economy in the Pelagonia wider region. 

Mill Stojčev 

Meteorit 

Cermat 

Pelisterka 

Round table “Solar Energy – Macedonian opportunity 

and Slovenian reality” 


Ambassador Brian Bergant attended the round table entitled "Solar Energy - Macedonian opportunity and 

Slovenian reality" held at the Congress Centre at Skopje Fair organized by the M-LAN Solar of Macedonia, 

a subsidiary of M-LAN Slovenia. At the round table besides Ambassador Bergant were the owner of M-Lan 

Slovenia Andrej Mlasko, Professor of Electrical Engineering of the Faculty of Maribor Sebastian Seme, 

Natasa Veljanovska representative from the Energy Regulatory Commission of Macedonia, director of the 

Energy Agency Gečevski Lazar, representative of the Centre for promotion of sustainable agricultural 

practices and rural development Micevska Gabriela and President of the NGO "Solar" Sanja Vasilevska. 

P . 8

The purpose of the conference was to exchange 

theoretical and practical experience from the scope, 

applicability and efficiency of renewable solar 

energy. Participants were presented with ways of 

installing solar power plants that are present in almost all 

countries of former Yugoslavia, explaining the operation, 

function, and the reasons why it is advisable to invest in 

solar energy. Participants took this opportunity to 

transmit a message to the governing structures to reduce 

administrative burdens and processes and also highlight 

the importance of cooperation between institutions and 

people closer to the subject dealt with. 

Ambassador Bergant in his speech stressed the importance of solar energy for our future, especially given 

the increasing awareness of the insufficiency of other energy sources such as fossil fuels and their impact 

on the environment. He pointed out that during the Slovenian EU Presidency in the first half of 2008, one of 

the key legislative assemblies, the climate-energy package was adopted, which particularly concerns the 

reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and increased use of renewable energy sources. The legislative 

package provides 25% share of renewable energy sources in final energy consumption by 

2020. Ambassador Bergant also said that Slovenia adapted its national energy legislation to the European 

order, all with one ultimate goal: to increase the share of renewable energies in overall energy 

consumption and hence the solar energy. Finally he said that Macedonia, which is approaching EU 

membership, will also need to adjust the energy structure by the European legislation and expressed hope 

that even in this area they will use the Slovenian experience and knowledge, and that this round table is an 

excellent opportunity for that. 

Ambassador Brian Bergant adressed the 

II. Biotechnological days in Macedonia 


As part of the II. Biotechnological days in Macedonia a symposium was held at the premises of the 

Training Centre in Skopje. On initiative and organization by the students of the University of Ljubljana and 

Maribor: Biotechnical Faculty, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Pharmacy and 

Faculty of Medicine. From Macedonian side students from Skopje Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of 

Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy and the Faculty of Agronomy of Štip were invited 

at the symposium. The main topic of the symposium was biotechnology in various fields, and this year 

there were also invited speakers from Slovenia, who presented their research work. 

Ambassador Brian Bergant stressed the importance of regional integration and cooperation of students 

and young researchers through scientific educational events that constitute both an excellent opportunity to 

exchange knowledge, best practices and experiences. He informed about the political and economic 

cooperation between the two countries, the priority tasks of the embassy, where he stressed that, at the 

Embassy they are strongly committed to the promotion of Slovenia, the Slovenian language and culture in 

Macedonia. He mentioned the signed Protocol on Cooperation in Education between the Ministry of Higher 

Education, Science and Technology of the Republic of Slovenia and the Ministry of Education and Science 

of the Republic of Macedonia, which provides more favorable conditions of education and studying of 

Slovenian students in Macedonia and Macedonian students in Slovenia in the new academic year 

2011/2012. He also highlighted the importance of the European strategy 2020 and one of its leading 

initiatives "Youth on the Move" which includes the young as a social group which plays a critical role in 

achieving the goals of economic strategy. 

P . 9

Presentation of 

Slovenian 

Companies 

Trimo is one of Europe’s leading companies developing original and complete solutions for steel buildings, 

roofs, facades, steel constructions, containers and sound and insulation systems. 

Innovative approach, expert knowledge, openness, reliability and a focus on the future are basic 

components that have taken Trimo around the world. Today Trimo sells its products and services under its 

own brand across more than 50 countries worldwide. Trimo has established a sales network in almost 30 

countries and has production facilities in Slovenia, Serbia, Russia and the United Arab Emirates. 

Among Trimo references are: Airbus, Heathrow, Porsche, McLaren, Nestle, BMW, Ikea, Mercedes, 

Ferrero, Coca Cola, Lufthansa and many others. 

Company Trimo Makedonija dooel was established in 2005. It successfully proceeded with the 

implementation of the largest project in Trimo Group’s history – that is the project Socomak in Bitola. Trimo 

is also proud of next projects: dairy Bitola, Alexander the Great Airport Skopje, Diamond tobacco factory 

Kavadarci, library Tetovo, Skopski saem – Era Skopje … 

Trimo´s Qbiss One - Where Innovation and Art meet 

Trimo´s new modular facade system, Qbiss One, represents a 

technological as well as an innovative breakthrough. Due to its selfsupporting 

nature, Qbiss One does not require any additional support, 

which means cost savings, time savings and less reconciliation of work, 

making it an ideal alternative to built-up systems. 

A five-in-one concept, Qbiss One brings a system approach to the 

building envelope by uniting all the desired functional advantages of high 

quality facades with the very best aesthetics. Qbiss One, together with 

the unique facade surface treatment technology ArtMe, presents the 

ultimate combination of aesthetics, design and function. 

Director Tatjana Fink 

More information on: 

www.qbiss.eu and 

www.trimo.eu 

Developed in response to architectural and design demands the facade is unique, possessing the only true 

rounded corner (no cuts, folds or welds) on the market. This aesthetic quality is further enhanced with the 

‘Shadow Joint’, which presents a modern minimalistic design with a smooth surface. Qbiss One also has 

integrated fire protection. Its fire resistance is of the highest standard and confirmed by world-wide 

certification obtained across all countries in which it is marketed. 

Red Dot 2010 award winning product ArtMe is the unique, high-tech facade surface treatment that allows 

literally unlimited shapes, patterns and visual effects for dramatic, individual and expressive results in 

facade envelope design. From simple logos to great waves of designs, which can include pictures and 

patterns, can all be placed on the surface for stunning visual impact. ArtMe brings a building to life and 

Qbiss One is the perfect design and sustainable canvas on to which the imagination can run free. 

P . 1 0

International 

Fairs 

International Fair of Transport and Logistics 

Skopje, 05 – 08 October 2011 

The I. International Fair of Transport and Logistics was opened in Skopje at the Skopje Fair, attended by 

over forty companies in the field of air, rail, sea and road transport, ports representatives from Bar, Durres 

and Thessaloniki, logistics centers and fast delivery. The fair, sponsored by the Slovenian joint stock 

company for insurance Sava Tabak, partner of the Customs Administration of Macedonia. The fair was 

opened by Minister for Foreign Investments Vele Samak. The participants were previously addressed by 

Gvido Omladič, Chairman of the Board of Skopje Fair. This was followed by a conference entitled "The 

next big challenges in logistics and transport industry in South East Europe". 

The opening of the fair was attended by Ambassador Brian Bergant and economic counselor Jernej 

Tovšak. They visited the stand of Slovenian Railways, which is seeking to transport goods to X. rail corridor 

and enter the Macedonian market and global logistics service InterEvropa Skopje. 

37th International Fair of Metallurgy, Electronics, 

Non-Metals and Construction 

Skopje, 18 - 22 October 2011 

For many years, Tehnoma is the richest fair that unites representatives of the biggest local and foreign 

manufacturers from the fields of metallurgy, electrical engineering, energy, non-metals and from the 

building industry. Additional attraction and enrichment of this fair and the exhibitions that regularly take 

place in the same range is the Fair for Handcrafts and Small-Scale Industry and the Exhibition of 

Inventions - "Makinova". Along with Tehnoma it will be held the Fair of Protection and Security. 

Presentation of your products and services to more than 40,000 visitors, who are your target group, is 

undoubtedly the best reason to participate in this prestigious fair. 

12th INTERNATIONAL FAIR OF HANDICRAFTS AND SMALL-SCALE INDUSTRY 

The objective to organizing the fair of handicrafts and small-scale industry as a special event of 

international character is to provide extensive promotion of the potential of the Republic of Macedonia 

regarding production and service activities of handicrafts and small-scale industry. Hoping that this fair will 

be a link between the small and large-scale industry where collaboration will be developed to result in 

opportunity for our craftsmen and businessmen to find their position outside the Republic of Macedonia as 

well, we are convinced that this fair will in future grow up into a special fair. 

MAKINOVA 2011 

31st Exhibition of Inventions, Technical Achievements, New Products and Creativity of the Young People 

Over 3,000 inventions, new technical and technologic solutions, improvements and other inventions are 

the impressive balance of this fair that has been being held for 31 years. Over 2,500 authors presented 

their ideas and inventions from all fields of technique, technology and science getting excited the visitors 

and the specialists who visited this exposition. 

P . 1 1

Business event at Tehnoma 2011 

ECOBIZ EXPO, organized by FDL Servizi (Italy), AMICO project – meet the Italian technology, in the area 

of Green Economy, participation of 40 Italian companies. Slovenia, through the Public Agency for 

Entrepreneurship and Foreign Investments and the Chamber of Craft of Slovenia represented seven 

Slovenian companies: "NW electrode Jesenice" Agromehanika, Alpfrigo, APT 5 doo Maribor, Cimos Titan 

Controlmatik, ERICO doo, Velenje, GeoEnergetika Ltd., Murska Sobota, GOSTOL Gopan, New York, 

PEAS Automotive Ltd., Slovenian Konjice, INDENNA LIFTS doo Slovenia, INOX Ltd., Hidria Corporation. 

This year special emphasis was given on renewable energy. Slovenian company M-Lan Solar as a partner 

of the event presented the trends in the field of renewable energy sources. To this end, the company office 

building on the roof of the Skopje Fair built the first solar power plant in Macedonia. At the opening of the 

Fair present, among others, were the Minister of Environment and Spatial Planning of the Republic of 

Macedonia Abdulaqim Ademi, who opened the fair, welcome speech was given by the chairman of the 

board of Skopje Fair Gvido Omladič, Italian Ambassador Fabio Cristiani and the Italian Regional Minister 

for Environment Apulia Nikastro Lorenzo. Ambassador Brian Bergant and economic counselor Jernej 

Tovšak also attended the opening ceremony of the fair and used the opportunity to meet with the 

Slovenian exhibitors which participated in the fair. The exhibition space of the Slovenian companies was 

organized by JAPTI. They also visited the exhibition space of each company and offered advice and 

assistance in accessing the Macedonian market. 

Development 

Cooperation 

Laying the foundation stone for the construction for the 

new modular school in the Municipality of Ilinden 


On 23 October 2011 the foundation stone for the construction of a new primary and secondary school was 

laid in the Municipality of Ilinden. The project is a part of the Slovenian development aid to the Republic of 

Macedonia for 2011. The Government of the Republic of Slovenia will cover 33% of the costs (or 500,000 

euros). The main contractor is one of the most successful Slovenian companies, Trimo d.d. from Trebnje. 

The event was attended by the Minister for Education and Science of the Republic of Macedonia Panče 

Kralev, Mayor of Ilinden Žika Stojanovski, Head of the Macedonian Orthodox Church HH Stefan, Director 

of Trimo Trebnje d.d. Tatjana Fink, General Manager of Trimo Investments Gregor Macedoni, Director of 

Trimo Macedonia Ilija Jakimovski and Members of Parliament, citizens and media representatives. Before 

the official laying of the foundation stone the participants were addressed by Minister Kralev, Mayor 

Stojanovski and Ambassador Bergant. All of them expressed their gratitude for the donation of the 

Government of the Republic of Slovenia and at the same time highlighted the excellent relations between 

the two countries. Ambassador Bergant especially stressed the excellent references and reputation that 

Trimo d.d. enjoys in Slovenia and worldwide. He pointed out that 250 pupils and high school students with 

a new modular school that will be built upon the newest technologies and innovative solutions which will 

contribute to the protection of the environment and to energy efficiency, will get the most modern school 

and that the level of the quality of education will definitively increase. 

P . 1 2

Culture 

Opening of the exhibition “Drawings” of the Slovenian 

architect and illustrator of children’s books Marko Novak 


On 20 October 2011 the opening of the exhibition entitled »Drawings« of well known Slovenian architect 

and illustrator of children's books Marko Novak was held at the premises of the City Museum of Skopje. 

The event was part of a series of activities organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia marking 

the 20th anniversary Independence of the Republic of Slovenia. 

The guests were welcomed by Ambassador Brian Bergant and the director of the Museum Ljubica 

Kondianova. Ambassador Bergant said that he was particularly pleased that the author decided to present 

his works in Macedonia, stressing that this undoubtedly contributes to the promotion and preservation of 

the Slovenian culture here in the country, which is especially appreciated by the Slovenians who live and 

work abroad. He also pointed out that the Embassy tries to follow this principle and is doing its utmost to 

ensure effective and high quality promotion of Slovenia, the Slovenian language and culture in Macedonia. 

So far Novak illustrated many well-known children's books, such as: Kresničke, Naša Miša, Ustvarjalnica 

tete domišljije, Hutki and Pot v šolo, as well as some school text books. He often says that apart from 

utilitarian orders and contracts, he rather creates for his soul and that he is not a frequent guest of the 

galleries. Until now he had a few solo and group exhibitions in Slovenia. 

The event was attended by members of the Slovenian Association France Prešeren and the Slovenian 

Centre in Skopje, representatives of Slovenian companies, Macedonian artists, Austrian Ambassador H.E. 

Dr. Alois Kraut and young Slovenian violinist Živa Švent. 

P . 1 3

Four years since the death of the Macedonian singer 

Toše Proeski 


Todor Toše Proeski (January 25, 1981 - October 16, 2007) was one of the most famous singers and 

songwriters from Macedonia. Toše was very popular in the Balkan region, in the ex Yugoslavian countries 

and in Estern Europe. He had very good vocals and delivered impressive live performances. He tragically 

died 4 years ago in a car accident on a motorway in Croatia on his way back home from a concert. 

Toše Proeski released 10 albums: Nekade vo nokta, Sinot Boziji, Ako me poglednes vo oci, Den za 

nas, Po tebe, Bozilak, Igri bez granici, The hardest thing, Toše i prijatelji, Toše: Poslednji pozdrav. He 

represented his country at the 2004 Eurovision Song Contest in Istanbul, Turkey with the song Life. The 

Serbian national television RTS aired a special show in memory of Toše Proeski. It was half documentary 

from Toše's life directed by Darko Kamarit. Moments with his friends, clips from concerts, his sayings, and 

part in the studio where many famous Yugoslavian singers were singing his songs. 

In the list of artist who collaborated with Toše Proeski is the Slovenian singer Anja Rupel. In 2005 he 

recorded a duet with her entitled Krajnje vreme. He also did a Slovenian version of his song Srekna li si ti 

entitled Moja (Mine). 

Music marked his life. 

Interviews Interview with Ambassador Brian Bergant 

for Radio Free Europe 


There are countries within the EU, not only Slovenia, which consider that Macedonia could start the EU 

accession negotiations and at the same time continue parallel to resolve the name issue. Therefore I see 

no problem why Macedonia could not start the EU accession negotiations after receiving the third 

recommendation in the EC Progress Report for 2011” Ambassador Bergant said in his interview for Radio 

Free Europe (RFE). “I think this would have positive influence on reform process in Macedonia and other 

countries in the region of the Western Balkans, it will enhance the inter-ethnic relations, guarantee peace 

and stability as well it could be seen as a pressure to the name issue to be resolved. 

The EC Progress Report was realistic, a generally positive one 

that emphasized the areas in which Macedonia made big 

progress on one hand and on the other where it really did not 

make much progress. Certainly the keynote, beside the reforms 

in judiciary, public administration and fight against corruption was 

the freedom of expression and the question of the media 

independence”, Bergant said. He welcomed the announcement 

that the government, as an answer to the received notes and all 

recommendations, is in the final stage of preparation of the 

second Action Plan that will be incorporated in the Annual 

National Plan for the adoption of the EU Acquis. 

P . 1 4

Education 

Slovenian language in Macedonia 

Slovenistics at the University in Skopje 

On 19 April 2010, with an appropriate program, with the promotion of the proceedings of the Third scientific 

Macedonian-Slovenian conference (Macedonian-Slovenian lingual, literary and cultural relations), held in 

Ohrid in 2007 and a round table entitled Slovenian and Macedonian studies – experiences, perspectives 

and ideas, moderated by prof. Dr. Lidija Arizankovska and with the presence of a large number of domestic 

guests and guests from Slovenia, at the Faculty of Philology “Blaže Koneski”, University “Ss. Cyril and 

Methodius” in Skopje, the 50th anniversary of the Slovenian language studies at this faculty was marked. 

The contact with the Slovenian literature and culture begins in the distant 1946 with the first professor of 

Slovenian literature, literary historian, anthologist, translator and the first vice dean on the Faculty of 

Philology in Skopje prof. Dr. Fran Petre. The studies of Slovenian language start in 1959/60 when at the 

Department of Macedonian language and South Slavic languages, at first as a lectorate until 1976, when 

its status changed and it was introduced into the curriculum as a compulsory subject in the group of South 

Slavic languages. From the school year 2009/10, Slovenian language, with the upgraded and adapted 

according to the European programs and the Bologna model, can be studied at four levels with the 

programs offered by the Department of Macedonian language and South Slavic languages at the Faculty 

of Philology “Blaže Koneski” in Skopje, as well as within the postgraduate and doctoral studies. The 

studies of Slovenian language at the University in Skopje started in 1959 with senior lecturer mag. Bistrica 

Mirkulovska, who actively taught until her retirement in 1990. From that year on, prof. Dr. Lidija 

Arizankovska, full university professor, took over the lectures, whose commitment was awarded in April 

2010 by the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for her twenty years of Slovenian language teaching 

at university level and her contribution to the promotion of the Slovenian language and culture in 

Macedonia. Within the curriculum, depending on the level of study, the students have an opportunity to 

study the modern Slovenian language, its history and dialectology, to learn the skills of translation and 

interpretation, the relation to the Macedonian language and, as well as the Slovenian literature, civilization 

and culture. The number of students who have studied the language at the Faculty of Philology in Skopje 

exceeds 3000. 

The Department has an excellent cooperation with 

the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in the 

Republic of Macedonia, also with the Slovenian 

Association “France Prešeren” from Skopje from 

whom prof. Dr. Arizankovska was awarded a letter 

of gratitude on proposition by the Commission for 

implementation of the project “Days of Ss. Cyril and 

Methodius – cultural bridge between the Republic of 

Macedonia and the Republic of Slovenia”. In other 

words, the cooperation and good relations existed, 

they exist today and will continue to exist through 

understanding and respect for the culture of ones 

country and people, its tradition and language, for 

they are the foundation for further successful 

cooperation at every level. 

You can find more information about the 

Faculty of Philology at www.flf.ukim.edu.mk 

P . 1 5

International festival at 

NOVA International School 


Throughout the last week of October, an International Festival was ongoing in the Nova International 

Schools. Marko Novak, Slovenian illustrator and architect and Nives Vidmar represented Slovenia by 

drawing and reading Slovenian folktale ''The river man'' to the 3rd graders. The newest Slovenian youth 

movie called 'Going Our Way' (Gremo mi po svoje) was presented to the 7th and 8th graders. Participants 

tasted typical pastry Potica and Fructal juices. Besides Slovenia, the other participating countries were 

Norway, Sweden, Hungary, China, France, and Greece. 

Sport 

Slovenia with 7 medals in kickboxing 

at the very top of the world 


Slovenian kick boxers demonstrated a superb appearance at the World Senior Championship that took 

place in Skopje from 22 to 29 October 2011. This year the Championship had a record of 823 competitors 

from 61 countries, where Different World and European champions competed making this competition 

really extraordinary. Slovenia performed with 23 contestants in all events and won 7 medals: 4 gold, silver 

and two bronze medals, which is also an exceptional and unique record. 

On 28 October, Ambassador Brian Bergant met with the Slovenian national team, and wished them the 

best possible ranking on the Championship. A day before, he met with Vladimir Sitar, President of the 

Kickboxing federation of Slovenia and Ivo Vodopivec, Secretary General and Vice-President of the 

Kickboxing federation of Slovenia at the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia. 

For more information about the World Cup visit: www.wakoweb.com 

P . 1 6

Tourism 

Maribor – European Capital of Culture 2012 

In February 2010 the City Council of the Municipality of Maribor adopted an Ordinance on the constituent 

instrument of the public institute Maribor 2012 – European Capital of Culture establishing an organization 

for the realization of the EcoC project. However, for the most of the year, preparations for the project’s 

realization took place through provisional and acting bodies, until in October the programme and business 

directors were officially appointed and started with their duties in November 2010. 

Aware of the time pressure, we had to swiftly select the team members for the project. Taking into account 

the recommendations of the Brussels commission and the guidelines of the Maribor 2012 Institute, an 

additional conceptualization of the programme was framed. 4 thematic strands emerged generically out of 

the existing 16 programme strands: Town Keys, dealing with culture in the city centre, aiming to reanimate 

it with new contents, among other with an alternative department store; Urban Furrows, sociologically 

treating the neglected city areas and having as one of its aims the establishment of a seed bank for 

autochthonous Slovene species; Terminal 12, which includes art production, segmented to visual arts, 

music, intermedia, film, literature, and culture for children and youth; and Life at Your Fingertips, intended 

for interactive contents, from a website to online television, online radio, external interactive installations, 

new art, media, and technological practices, etc. 

The City Council of the Municipality of Maribor delivers a favorable opinion on the proposed Ordinance on 

the constitution of the public institute Maribor 2012. The provisional managing board of the Maribor 2012 

public institute is appointed on 9 March. Vladimir Rukavina is appointed to the position of Acting Director 

General, Helena Hvalec to the position of Acting Business Director, and Aleš Novak to the position of 

Acting Programme Director. A government decision on the nomination of state secretaries Stojan Pelko, 

Jožef Školč, and József Györkös to the Institute Council is adopted on 22 April, while on 6 May Darko 

Brlek, Simon Kardum, Dr Darko Lukić, Meta Gabršek Prosenc, Jurij Sadar, and Vital Verlič are appointed 

members of the institute´s Programme Council. A month later, on 4 June, a call for programmes and 

proposals for ECoC, to be financed in the year 2010, is opened. At the first constitutive session of the 

Institute Council on 11 June, the elections of Jožef Školč to the position of President of Institute Council 

and Franci Pivec to the position of President Deputy are confirmed. The Rules of Procedure of the Institute 

Council are adopted. On the same day the first constitutive session of the Programme Council is held. 

Tomaž Pandur is elected President of Programme Council and Ivo Vajgl his Deputy. The Rules of 

Procedure of the Programme Council are also adopted. On 14 June the Maribor 2012 Institute publishes 

vacancy notices for the programme and business directors of the institute, which are closed on 30 June. 

The second session of the Programme Council takes place on 25 June. New programme guidelines of the 

ECoC Maribor 2012 project are adopted. On the first correspondence session of the Institute Council on 3 

August, a commission for reailsation of activities in relation to the vacancy notices for the programme and 

business directors is approved. A month later, at the second regular session of the Institute Council on 2 

September, a business plan and a working programme of the Maribor 2012 Institute are adopted for the 

period until the end of 2010. Helena Hvalec is appointed Business Director of the Maribor 2012 Institute 

until the end of the year 2010. Priority investment projects in Maribor and its partner cities are approved. At 

the managing board session on 30 September, the annual programme and working plan for 2010 is 

confirmed. The Programme Council approves the annual working plan for the year 2010 at the 

correspondence session of the Programme Council on 5 October. At the third Institute Council session, 

held on 12 October, members of the Council approve the Act on Work Organization and Post 

Classification. The document Standards, criteria, and methodology for the approval of programmes for the 

European Capital of Culture – Maribor 2012 project is approved. Mitja čander is appointed Programme 

Director. The Programme Director and Business Director start their functions on 15 October. 

P . 1 7

ECOC - to the present and in 

the future 

1985 Athens 

1986 Florence 

1987 Amsterdam 

1988 West Berlin 

1989 Paris 

1990 Glasgow 

1991 Dublin 

1992 Madrid 

1993 Antwerp 

1994 Lisbon 

1995 Luxembourg 

1996 Copenhagen 

1997 Thessaloniki 

1998 Stockholm 

1999 Weimar 

2000 Avignon, Bergen, 

Bologna, Brussels, Helsinki, 

Krakow, Prague, Reykyavik, 

Santiago de Compostela. 

2001 Porto, Rotterdam 

2002 Bruges, Salamanca 

2003 Graz 

2004 Genoa, Lille 

2005 Cork 

2006 Patras 

2007 Luxembourg, Sibiu 

2008 Liverpool, Stavanger 

2009 Linz, Vilna 

2010 Essen, Istanbul, Pécs 

2011 Turku, Talin 

2012 Maribor, Guimarães 

2013 Marseille, Košice 

2014 Umea, Riga 

2015 Mons, Plzen 

2016 cities from Spain and 

Poland 

2017 cities from Denmark and 

Cyprus 

2018 cities from Netherlands 

and Malta 

2019 cities from Italy in Bulgaria 

About the European Capital of Culture 

The European Capital of Culture is a title awarded according to a certain procedure by the European Union 

for a period of one year to one or more cities. The city holding this prestigious title carries out number of 

important cultural events. Due to the nomination the cultural eyes of Europe and the World are focused on 

those events. The initiator of this project of the European Capital of Culture was the Greek Minister of 

culture and artist Melina Mercouri (1920 – 1994). On her initiative the project was introduced in 1985 by the 

Council of Ministers of the European Union. The basic idea of the project is to promote different European 

cultures and through the consciousness of the value of the cultural diversity strengthen the mutual 

understanding and the mutual European identity. From 1985 onward 48 cities have been nominated as the 

European Capital of Culture. From its beginnings until today the project developed and was upgraded in 

many ways, however, its basic principles never changed – stressing the importance, values and diversity 

of the European cultures, improving the knowledge of each other - the different languages, cultural 

traditions, religions - and by stressing the common cultural basis spreading the awareness of being part of 

the same European community. Furthermore, the broader social and economic impacts of this project are 

becoming more and more important. 

ECOC – since when? 

There have been 54 cities named the European Capital of Culture from 1985 to 2001. The European 

countries, where future capitals will be, and potential candidates have been selected up to 2019. 

ECOC_–_goals? 

The goals of this European cultural project and the procedures related to the decisions to award the title 

European Capital of Culture are codified in several European documents: 

From 1985 to 2000, the program was based on a decision by the Council of the European Union. In 1999, 

the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union reached a decision to establish a more 

precise naming procedure, project goals and criteria for the selection of a nominated city (decision no. 

1419/1999/EC). The decisions of the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union in 2005 

and especially in 2006 regulate the adjustment of the rules for the time after the EU expansion with new 

member countries (decision no. 649/2005/EC in 1622/2006/EC). The nominated city should emphasize its 

unique features and prove its creativity. Here, its cultural heritage and the city's established cultural life are 

to be seen as its advantages, but should serve mainly as a basis for organizing the cultural program in the 

nominated year. The city is awarded the title mostly because of the preparation of special cultural events 

that should be an opportunity to strengthen European cultural cooperation and should encourage a 

sustainable dialogue at the European level. The two cities, awarded with the title European Capital of 

Culture in the same year, should preferably connect their programs. The cities may connect on a regional 

level, beyond national borders, European borders, or even broader. Quality criteria as a measure of the 

program propositions' adequacy of the European Capital of Culture candidates: 

European dimension of cultural events: events should encourage cooperation between performers, artists 

and cities of EU member countries (and broader). They should also draw attention to the rich European 

cultural diversity and emphasize the common views of European cultures. The programs should be 

interesting to a wide European audience. Integration of cities and citizens in cultural events: a wide-spread 

collaboration between the inhabitants of a city and its surroundings when preparing and executing cultural 

events is promoted; special attention should be paid to individual social groups that could potentially be 

excluded as creators of art and consumers of cultural goods; the local inhabitants' interest in cultural 

programs and collaboration within European work frames should be encouraged. Sustainable orientation: 

cultural events in the nomination year should be predominantly part of a long-term and sustainable cultural, 

social, and urban development of the city. 

P . 1 8

About Maribor 

As the capital of the Štajerska region Maribor is the second largest city in Slovenia, simultaneously it is 

pleasantly small and lodged in the wonderful nature of Pohorje on the one side and wine growing hills on 

the other, with the river Drava wending its way through it. With its diverse and quality offers surrender to 

the best that one of the key tourist destinations in Slovenia has to offer! 

The rich wine tradition of the oldest vine in the world, the throb of the city with its flourishing cultural history, 

its location amidst wine growing hills and green Pohorje as well as the various possibilities for exploring, 

recreation, relaxation, entertainment and meetings will convince you that Maribor has a heart and soul and 

that the people of Maribor are excellent hosts! 

The old town core promises unforgettable adventure: walk along the river Drava embankment and through 

the lively streets and squares, where history and tradition blend with dynamics and modernity. Let Lent, the 

oldest part of the town, enchant you with its Old Vine, the oldest vine in the world, with medieval towers 

and remains of the old town walls, and moreover the square Grajski trg with the castle and museum, the 

square Glavni trg with the Plague monument and the Town hall, Bishop Slomšek's Cathedral with its 

viewing tower, the Jewish synagogue, the Art Gallery and theatre, just to mention a few! 

The city streets lead to one of the most beautiful city parks in Slovenia. Climb up Piramida and Kalvarija, 

town wine hills with their wonderful views of the city. And go down in the wine underworld, into one of the 

oldest and biggest wine cellars in Europe. At all events take trip with a traditional raft on the river Drava, as 

this exciting adventure offers a charming view of Lent. Be caught up in the swirl of events, from Festival 

Lent, the Old Vine Festival, Festival Maribor, the theatre festival Borštnikova srečanje to the Golden Fox 

and numerous other happenings, which enliven Maribor's everyday life. 

Already the town core itself places Maribor in the company of European towns, which are identified by their 

unique, traditional and quality offers and with its attractive position by the river Drava, between Pohorje and 

wine growing hills as well as the lively hospitality of the Štajerska people additionally contribute to the wellbeing 

of our guests. 

A trip up to green Pohorje enraptures ramblers and hikers, cyclists, adrenaline seekers as well as lovers of 

the tranquility of Pohorje's primeval forest, waterfalls and peat moors. And after activity what is better than 

relaxation – either in the city or Alpine Wellness Centre. And the magic continues also in the wintertime 

when Mariborsko Pohorje, dressed in white, becomes one of the most attractive skiing centers in Slovenia. 

Picturesque wine roads interwoven along the slopes of Pohorje and the wine growing hills all the way to 

the Austrian border and onward create a wine-cultural trail, where not only wine connoisseurs but lovers of 

culinary art, traditional customs, ethnological heritage and outstanding viewing points will enjoy 

themselves, whether by bike, on foot or with a car. Tourist homesteads and wine growers are waiting to 

offer their homemade culinary delights and genuine hospitality. 

P . 1 9

Maribor with a top-level convention centre as well as an excellent position and offer of diverse adventure is 

an attractive city for business and professional meetings. Simultaneously it is also an inviting place for 

shopping and for lovers of games of luck. 

Maribor, with Pohorje on the one side and wine growing hills on the other, offers unforgettable adventure, 

let it be for an hour, a day, a week or more. Have a colorful day in Maribor! You will love to return in all the 

seasons of the year! 

Gastronomy 

Wine and Food 

Wine and culinary form an important part of the Slovene and Štajerska tradition. Mariborians appreciate 

their wine and swear by it - just as they do the tasty specialties of their cuisine. 

Tourist farms and wine shops on the three wine roads are choice places to visit during a stay or trip to 

Maribor and at the same time a pleasant way to end a tiring day. Here you can sit and relax with a glass or 

two of excellent vintage wine. Likewise in the city and suburb restaurants, inns and pubs you will be 

pampered with culinary delights. 

Ingredients 

Recipe: Pohorje Omelet – Pohorski omlet 

Procedure 

3 tablespoons flour 

3 eggs 

3 tablespoons sugar 

1 small packet vanilla sugar 

1 lemon rind, grated 

1 tablespoon butter 

Filling: 

1 cup fresh, frozen or canned berries 

(cranberries, raspberries, wood 

bilberries, wood strawberries) 

1 cup whipped cream 

1 tablespoon dark rum 

1 tablespoon powdered sugar 

2 tablespoons blueberry liqueur or rum 

2 tablespoons orange liqueur 

Whisk egg whites. Add half of sugar and vanilla sugar. 

Add to the mixture of egg yolks, another half of sugar 

and lemon. Mix lightly and add flour very slowly. The 

batter should be very light. Grease the pan and place the 

batter in it. Bake for 9 minutes. When done, stuff the 

omelets with berries, mixed with rum and liqueur. Fold it 

and sprinkle with sugar. Serve with whipped cream. 

P . 2 0

Upcoming Events 

Embassy of the 

Republic of Slovenia 

Vodnjanska No. 42 

1000 Skopje 

Republic of Macedonia 

vsk@gov.si 

www.skopje.embassy.si 

• 7 November - Presentation of the literary magazine OtočjeO. at the premises of the 

Macedonian writers association 

• 9 November - Opening of the week of Slovenian contemporary film at Cine Days 

• 4 December - Snap parliamentary election. Polling station will be opened at the 

Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia from 09:00 to 17:00 hours 

Follow us on Facebook: 

Slovenian Embassy Skopje 

T: (+) 389 2 310 30 41/55 

F: (+) 389 2 317 66 31 

The monthly e-newsletter Bridges is produced by the Embassy of Slovenia in Skopje and is available on 

http://skopje.veleposlanistvo.si. 

You are most welcome to send us your comments or request for a subscription on: vsk@gov.si. 

Editor: Mario Stanković 

Co-Editor: Andreja Iljaž 

Skopje, October 2011

Newsletter October 2011

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