The Mayor of Bijeljina, Ljubiša Petrović, met with representatives of Chinese companies and organisations engaged in projects across the Balkans. The meeting was attended by representatives of China Overseas Engineering Group and The China-Europe Association for Technical & Economic Cooperation.
 
During the discussions, opportunities for cooperation and potential development projects were considered. Chen Hui, Director of the China-Europe Association for Technical & Economic Cooperation, emphasised that the primary objective of this non-governmental organisation is to enhance business and economic cooperation between China and European countries. According to her, Bijeljina represents a promising location and a good opportunity for investment by Chinese companies.
 
Li Gang, General Director for Central and Eastern Europe of China Overseas Engineering Group (COVEC), spoke about the Bijeljina–Brčko motorway construction project, which is being implemented under the supervision of the company. He stated that the establishment of a construction camp and the commencement of preparatory works are planned for April, while the start of the main construction activities is expected in August or September. He particularly highlighted the importance of this infrastructure project for strengthening the local economy. With regard to the development of the River Sava, he underlined the potential of river transport, noting that the City has favourable preconditions for projects related to the improvement of river navigation and waste processing.
 
Mayor Ljubiša Petrović stressed that investment in infrastructure is a key prerequisite for the stable and sustainable development of any local community.
 
“We are ready to provide support and cooperate on various projects. The Bijeljina–Brčko motorway is an extremely important project, as it will enable better connectivity of our City with Belgrade and Banja Luka. We also discussed initiatives aimed at improving river transport on the River Sava, which may play a significant role in connecting us with other European communities. We are likewise open to discussions on waste storage and processing projects, following the examples of good practice from other local communities,” Petrović stated.
 
The Mayor’s Adviser, Radoslav Ostojić, referred to the free zones project, which is currently in the establishment phase and represents one of the greatest development opportunities for Bijeljina. He noted that the free zone would cover an area of 100 hectares, fully equipped with supporting infrastructure. He added that, in addition to its strong agricultural potential, Bijeljina also has a developed automotive and wood-processing industry, as well as a robust trade sector, which, alongside good transport connectivity and appropriate conditions within the Free Zone, can provide a strong impetus for the City’s further development.
 
It was agreed that several additional meetings would be held in the coming period with the aim of further strengthening cooperation. An official invitation was also extended to the City delegation to visit China in order to become acquainted with business opportunities, investment potential and the possibilities offered by free economic zones.