Opposition Welcomes Changes to Parliament's Rules of Procedure
ZAGREB, November 6, 2020 - The Opposition in the parliament on Friday welcomed changes to the parliament's rules of procedure enabling, in the current epidemic, all MPs to participate in parliament sessions by sitting in several halls and following sessions via video link.
The chair of the parliamentary committee on the constitution, rules of procedure and political system, Drazen Bosnjakovic, said that the changes were in line with a Constitutional Court decision, making sure MPs were not denied the right to participate in debates.
The changes also enable the parliament speaker to authorise an MP to chair over sessions if he and all his deputies end up in self-isolation.
Vesna Nadj of the Social Democratic Party welcomed the changes, stressing that the freedom of speech was at the core of democracy.
Hrvoje Zekanovic of the Croatian Sovereignists supported the changes as well, stressing that the parliament was a place of political battle and the most important political body.
Ljubica Vukovic of the Homeland Movement agreed with the need to make adjustments due to the coronavirus epidemic but objected that party whips could speak on behalf of their parties 10 instead of 15 minutes while individual addresses would last five instead of 10 minutes.
Tomislav Tomasevic of the We Can! party proposed gradually filling more parliamentary chambers with MPs to more rationally use the parliament's resources and that sessions of parliamentary committees as well as thematic sessions be held online.
Dalija Oreskovic (SSIP, Pametno, GLAS) proposed that the decision on the expiry of the special work regime of the parliament be made by the parliament and not its presidency and that the duration of the special regime be limited to six months and prolonged if necessary.
Marija Jelkovac of the ruling HDZ party said that considering the current extraordinary circumstances, the measures taken so far had not been aimed at restricting the freedom of speech but protecting MPs' health.
Scientist Says Estimate About 1,500 COVID-19 Deaths by End of Nov Based on Data
ZAGREB, November 6, 2020 - Croatian scientist Ivica Djikic has responded to Croatian Public Health Institute head Krunoslav Capak's claim that Djikic's estimate that about 1,500 people will die of COVID-19 by the end of November is exaggerated, noting that his estimates are based on facts and calling for additional measures.
"What is your estimate of the number of fatalities by the end of November - is it 1,000 or 1,300?" Djakic asked Capak on Friday, stressing that his estimate about 1,500 fatalities was based on data.
In the February-June period 108 people in Croatia died of COVID-19, in the July-November period the number of fatalities was 575, which together gives 683 fatalities, he said.
The reason why the number of fatalities increased 5.3 times are the measures that were applied, Djikic said, noting that the number of fatalities would continue to grow in November if measures to curb the growth of new infections were not adopted.
According to estimates, the average number of deaths per day in November is 32, times 31 days plus 546 fatalities by November, which by the end of the month will result in 1,538 deaths, Djikic said.
"I am calling on you to introduce additional efficient measures as of Monday, not a full lockdown, not a curfew, because you have a whole set of other available measures, so as to reduce the mortality rate," Djikic said, calling on Capak to listen to appeals by six professional associations, bringing together different experts, from physicians to epidemiologists, who have requested fast action and appropriate measures as well.
He points to an estimate by the World Health Organisation under which the wearing of face masks and strict control of gatherings can help save more than 261,000 lives in Europe by February 2021.
Djikic notes that during the summer he called on Capak and the government to provide additional capacity for antigen testing, to which they turned a deaf ear.
"A few weeks ago you even said publicly that fast antigen tests are not good enough for Croatia. Now you are saying the opposite," Djikic said, noting that he could accept Capak's having changed his mind but that he was not sure fast antigen testing could be introduced in a professional and useful way.
As for the planned antigen testing, Djikic said he was not certain that the approximately 37,500 tests the government planned to purchase would be sufficient if one wished to test around 10,000 or more people daily at the current stage of the epidemic.
The reason of Croatia's success in the spring stage of the epidemic was the timely adoption of restrictions and compliance by citizens, Djikic said, adding that he was confident the same could be achieved now if one relied on expert data and stopped confusing the public with incorrect statements.
Experience More With Top 10 Best Running Routes in Croatia
November 6, 2020 - Is there a better way to get to know the beauty of Croatia than with physical recreation? To help you successfully combine pleasure and exercise, we present a list of the top 10 best running routes in Croatia.
Whether you are a lover of tranquility, nature, and fresh air, or are amazed by the winding roads along the rivers or the beautiful views from the mountain tops, in these top 10 best running routes, everyone will find something for themselves. From Slavonia and Zagorje, through Istria, Kvarner, and Lika, all the way to Dalmatia, RunCroatia collected the top 10 running routes in Croatia, described and photographed by the running enthusiasts themselves.
1. Bošana, Pag
Running in the company of a flock of sheep
Text and photos: Alan Sinovčić
My favorite running track is on the island of Pag, on the old (mostly macadam) road from Pag to Novalja. The trail starts in Bošana, a part of the Pag town that is very easy to reach – you go north from the city and then take the road by the sea.
About a kilometer after the last houses in Pag begins Bošana, a small secluded place, special for the forest with which it is covered. After about another kilometer and a half, you will reach the end of Bošana where you will notice a sign indicating a special reserve of forest vegetation. There is a small parking lot where you can leave your car and go down a little lower along the way to see the beautiful beach Rozin bok.
The first kilometer and a half runs through the woods along the paved road to Sveta Marija, a place with several houses. After Sveta Marija, the path continues on the macadam. On the left side, there is a very steep path to the highest peak in Pag, Sveti Vid (351 m), and on the right side, there is a view of some wonderful beaches, among which is the beach Paška vrata, and Velebit mountain. After a little over two kilometers, on the right, there is a standard spot for photography and a sign for the 15th meridian that passes there.
Another place with just a few houses follows – Sveti Marko. The trail continues along with many coves and beaches, out of which the 750-meter-long Filino beach should be specially noted. Part of the road to Filino beach is the "hardest" - it is about 500 meters of an easy ascent. This is followed by a slight descent towards the Camp Sveti Duh.
On the left, you will pass an old pit for digging sand, and in that part, you can even expect frequent encounters with flocks of sheep. The end of this part of the trail is windy. First, there is an ascent (arrival at the paved part), and then a descent to the entrance to the camp.
The one-way trail is 7 km long. For those who want more length, I suggest that they run the road Pag – Novalja above the camp and continue on macadam roads to Gajec, an apartment complex near Novalja, which will add another 5 kilometers in one direction.
2. Dramalj, Crikvenica
For early morning lovers
Text and photo: Pero Petra
This trail goes by the sea without big ascents. The best time to go is in the morning because it's in the shade. After one kilometer, you come to Kačjak, a small peninsula that has a trim track and is designed as a sports complex. The view overlooks Krk, Klimno Bay, and the gently sunny completely calm sea in the early morning called „bonaca“. The circle along the peninsula can be extended. You can go back towards the beginning, towards Jadranovo along the new road or towards the beginning and along the coast to Selce.
This trail offers something for everyone. Whoever finds themselves in the Crikvenica town, this route is great. It’s best when you meet a team coming back from a night out!
3. Kamenjak Cape, Premantura, Istria
Where the dinosaurs walked
Text and photos: Domagoj Kranjčec
The Kamenjak peninsula is located in the southernmost part of Istria. The smell of medicinal herbs and salt, the buzzing of bees, and the murmur of the sea on Kamenjak can best be experienced in early spring and late summer. Almost 100 million years ago, dinosaurs walked through Kamenjak, and today in the summer months, it is full of walkers, runners, cyclists, and cars. Cape Kamenjak is full of macadam roads, narrow roads, and bike paths.
A circle of 15-20 kilometers from about 150 meters above sea level can be achieved by connecting Gornji and Donji Kamenjak. If your start is in the center of Premantura (near the church and the tower), head north in the direction of Pula. One hundred meters from the sign to leave Premantura, turn slightly to the left and continue along the macadam road, slowly ascending to the top of Gornji Kamenjak, where there is a large cross.
From this place, there is a beautiful view of Pula and Volme to the north, Pomer, and Medulin to the east and Cape Kamenjak to the south. Head back downhill 100 meters and turn right first to run with a view of the open sea on the west side, and again emerge on the famous path that takes you back to the very entrance to Premantura.
After the sports field, turn right onto the paved road that leads to the official entrance to Kamenjak (house with a ramp). Next, you have several trails to the cape, and my recommendation is to head towards the bay Polje and then along the narrow roads all the time running along the sea to visit the remaining bays to the Safari bar. Here you can share a gravel road with cars or cross the east side of Kamenjak to get back to the center of Premantura and your starting point.
4. Slavonski Brod, along the Sava River
Along the most beautiful Croatian river beach and square
Text and photos: Boris Predmerski
Polojska cesta (Poloj road) in Slavonski Brod, named after one of the most beautiful river beaches in Croatia – Poloj (eng. field), is an unavoidable route for all recreationists and runners. The informal start of the running route is at the Vijuš sports hall complex and the city swimming pools located right next to the Sava River. It has a large parking lot, as well as an excellent plateau for warming up.
The route starts from the pool and goes through the Polojska cesta. The entire length is paved (but you can also run on grassy terrain along the trail), runs along the entire length of the Sava River, more specifically along the beautiful rafting street. Along the route, there is exercise equipment and a skate park.
From the pool to Poloj, the length is 2.5 km. There is a turn on Poloj, with the remark that you can also extend the route (we call it pockets) by circling around the cottages right next to a large sandy river beach. For those who want to spend more time in nature, they can run part of the way through the forest and feel a little trail atmosphere.
On the trail, there are three replicas of old Slavonian backyard water pumps and you do not need to carry refreshments with you.
You return on the same route to the pools where you end up running 5 km. But that's not the end. If you want a longer length, continue along the Sava towards the bridge. Run along the beautiful Sava promenade (quay) to the bridge with a slightly shorter length of 2 km where you make a turn.
Along this part of the road, you will inevitably be accompanied by kayakers and walkers. You will run next to the baroque Franciscan monastery, next to Ivana Brlić Mažuranić Square, the main town square, which in 2006 received the Croatian National Tourist Board award for the most beautiful square in Croatia.
Under the bridge, you can turn back. You will be greeted by anchored riverboats and fishermen on one side, and on the other side by the baroque and magnificent Fortress ship. Going back, you will run less than 10km, but with the aforementioned pockets on the Poloj, you will have a dozen kilometers under your feet.
I mentioned the Fortress ship above – it is a racing story in itself. In the very center of the city, kilometers circle through the paths of the largest fortified baroque buildings in Croatia and one of the largest in Europe. Running through baroque casemates and fortress tunnels take you back to the 18th century when it was built. A unique "Cross in the Fortress", as well as the "Slavonian Race" which starts and ends in the Fortress, are organized here.
5. Šibenik, promenade Sveti Ante
Perfect surface
Text and photos. Ljiljana Šarić
The route is 5.6 km away from Šibenik and stretches along the seaside, where is the Channel of St. Anthony near the Fortress of St. Nicholas. The path or promenade is used by many, not only because of the beautiful view, but the surface is perfect for running or walking. The Šibenik Triathlon has been held on this track for two years and all participants are delighted.
6. Ludbreg, Crazy Hill Trail route
All the beauties of Ludbreg
Text and photo: Drazen Komes
One of the starting points is the Island of Youth - a small green oasis in the center of Ludbreg bordered by the Bednja River with many lakes, a paradise for animals and fishermen. After running around the Island, you pass by apple orchards, cornfields, and steep vineyards to the forest that abounds in many hidden ravines and streams, and at the last ascent and just before the last descent a view of the whole Ludbreg. The trail is an ideal opportunity to present widely all the beauties of our region, our people, and customs.
7. Mali Lošinj
Outdoor spa on the Island of Vitality
Text and photo: Goran Todorov
Some of the shots are from the trail where a large number of tourists run. In my opinion, that 10-13 km is certainly the most beautiful trail I have ever run, if not the most beautiful, and I have run a lot of them. The sound of the waves, the special scent of the forest, hidden coves, and the song of seagulls. Paradise!
Perhaps one of the most beautiful promenades in the world leads you about 3 km from the direction of Hotel Vespera, through the Camp Čikat, to the old resort of Petrokemija.
Lošinj is also known for its outdoor spa. When you are there and inhale that air, the smells are more special than ever, and the views that reopen after each new bend simply take your breath away.
The trail is arranged and relatively flat and leads you along the sea, next to camps and hotels. There’s a special view all the way and a special atmosphere in the race. After the old resort of Petrokemija, about 3 km away, the paved path ends, but it is possible to run below, but the path is of the lighter trail profile and goes about 2 km in the direction of the city.
8. Otočac
A circle along the Gacka River
Text and photo: Josip Loškarin
Gacka Valley, an hour and a half drive from Zagreb, Rijeka, or Zadar, known for its beautiful river and natural beauty, is an ideal place for walking, running, hiking, or cycling. Members of the racing section of the Otočac Sports Club have singled out an interesting 10 km long road track.
The trail is circular, starting and ending in the City Park in Otočac. It largely follows the river Gacka on both sides of the coast, passing through the mountainous but gentle landscapes of the Gacka Valley. The trail has a total elevation of 74 meters.
Detailed description:
The trail starts in the Otočac City Park (A) in a westerly direction and turns left towards Ban Josip Jelačić Street (B). Then continue straight through Luka Street (C) and further towards the village of Prozor (D) to Prozorski dom (E) where you turn first right and then at the next crossroads before the bridge turn left. You continue straight up a slight hill to Orešković bridge (F), after which you turn right towards Šatrići (G). At the next intersection, turn right up a slight hill to Obilje (H) and continue without turning to the Port Bridge (I). After the bridge, turn left and return through Luka (J) and Ban Josip Jelačić Street (K) to the Otočac City Park (L).
9. National Park Paklenica, Ivine vodice
Refreshment in the hot months
Text and photos: Andrija Savić
Among all the tracks of National Park Paklenica, this track stands out with its aesthetics and simplicity. The trail starts from the mountain lodge Paklenica and goes to the mountain shelter Ivine vodice. In one direction it is 5.5 km, and the slope is 12.2 percent. It is also one of the easiest trails since it has a slight slope (the last third is the steepest) and it is a trampled single-track.
At the mountain lodge, there is a pool where you can bathe and recover in the summer months, given that the water temperature is around 15 degrees. You can always catch axes and chop some wood on Ivine vodice and thus spice up your training. The trail runs through the forest all the time which is ideal for the hot months. All in all, a real treat for trail racers looking for clean air.
10. Učka
A view from the top of Istria
Text and photos: Marko Jelić
The route I usually take starts from Moščenička Draga. Along the coast, take the 750 steps to Moščenica, which overlooks Rijeka and Kvarner. From Moščenica, the road continues to Mala Učka. From Mala Učka, I head towards the beautiful Babin Grob lookout point, which houses a shelter and a lodge. Back from Mala Učka, sometimes I turn to Suhi Vrh.
I continue my journey to Vojak, the highest peak of Učka mountain, and therefore the whole Istrian peninsula. From there, there's a view of the whole of Istria, the islands, Risnjak, and Slovenian mountain peaks. The options are many but for me, this route is favorite!
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Made in Croatia: Three Solar-powered Boats Sail on Mljet Lakes
November 6, 2020 - Three solar-powered boats, completely made in Croatia, can be found sailing on the Mljet lakes.
"They are great because we can show how we care for Croatian production at the National Park, but above all, about protecting nature because they are boats that emit zero pollution," said the director of the Mljet National Park, Ivan Sršen, for HRT.
"All three ships bear the names of our people who died in the Homeland War."
These boats can sail for 5 hours at a speed of 5 knots. While they can reach 9 knots, that speed is not necessary to sail on the lake. If there are days without sun, the boats can be connected electrically, though Sršen claims they haven't needed to so far.
Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean, is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. The magical island of Odysseus is known for the phenomenon of salty Mljet lakes and a 400-year-old coral reef.
"The magical island of Odysseus is known for the phenomenon of the salty Mljet lakes because they are connected to the open sea by the Solin channel and every 6 hours, based on the tides, the sea enters the lakes, and every 6 hours, it leaves the lake and creates this current under the big and small bridge," explains the head of the Department for Tourism and Promotion of NP Mljet, Diana Dabelić
Mljet's underwater world is enchanting, boasting coral that stretches over 650 square meters. It is 300-400 years old.
"It is famous because it is full of life. The biodiversity is great, a real natural phenomenon," said Petar Kružić from the Faculty of Science in Zagreb.
"Grouper breeds in the Great Lake, 90 percent of the groupers we have on Mljet breed in the Great Lake. Larger fish also come here," points out Kružić.
This year, only 25% of last year's tourist traffic was realized at Mljet NP, but crowds are not a priority here.
Diana Dabelić added that it was important that visitors who came to the oldest marine protected area are firstly satisfied with the service provided.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, there will be no grand 60th birthday celebration for Mljet National Park. However, the implementation of several projects financed by European funds is underway.
You can watch the full video about the magical world of Mljet on HRT.
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TasteAtlas US Food Elections, Where All Votes are Counted
November 6, 2020 - Losing faith in the US democratic system? Meet the TasteAtlas popular food map of the USA, where all votes are counted.
Four days into watching American democracy in action, I am as bewildered as the rest of you, but one of the many things that surprised me was the lack of clever marketing initiatives inspired by the current crazy situation.
One notable exception is Croatian-Bulgarian startup TasteAtlas, a global local food map and of the best and most innovative projects I have come across in recent times.
Rather than the model of TripAdvisor and its reputation of fake reviews and restaurants offering often international dishes, TasteAtlas focused on the local goodness all over the world. More than 5,000 local dishes and indigenous products, as well as the best places to try those dishes as recommended by foodie experts.
TasteAtlas has presented local foods in some very enticing maps, such as the cheese map of France, which has 463 types of local cheeses, while the pasta map of Italy was the most popular page on the site initially, helping it reach a global media audience organically.
Looking to learn more about the wonderful nature of Croatian local food? There are currently 290 items to explore and enjoy on the TasteAtlas food map of Croatia.
And, as we await the results of the election vote count, the lawsuits, and the validity of late votes, TasteAtlas shared their food map of the USA, with the current most popular dishes by state, with the message that you can still vote and your vote will be accepted.
Launched in 2018, TasteAtlas has risen quickly in global popularity, featuring in media all over the world, and it was even included as a source on the school curriculum in Ireland by the Ministry of Education. You can learn a lot more about the project in this TCN interview with founder and CEO Matija Babic.
Want to make sure that your US food election vote gets counted? Vote here.
Coronavirus Update: Record 2,890 New Cases, 34 Deaths
ZAGREB, November 6, 2020 - In the past 24 hours, Croatia registered a record 2,890 new coronavirus cases and 34 deaths, the national COVID response team said on Friday.
The number of active cases is 15,567, including 1,307 hospitalised patients, of whom 135 are on ventilators.
Since February 25, when the new virus was first registered in Croatia, 62,305 persons have been infected, of whom 717 have died and 46,021 recovered, including 2,645 in the past 24 hours.
Currently 33,467 persons are self-isolating.
To date 541,605 persons have been tested, including 9,317 in the past 24 hours.
Brasserie on 7 Patisserie Adds Official Cake Menu!
November 6, 2020 - Big news from Split Riva favorite Brasserie on 7 today as an exciting new cake offer can be ordered from their patisserie!
Brasserie on 7 has become a staple of Split for many reasons, and their patisserie is certainly one of them.
Boasting cakes and desserts baked and prepared fresh on the premises, B7's dedicated team transforms whole butter, cream, fresh fruits, and imported French chocolate into a variety of sweets using traditional & contemporary techniques. Likewise, the celebrated pastry chef fuses French and Croatian classics into 21st Century interpretations.
So, it was only a matter before B7 announced a constant offer of cakes from their pastry shop!
Namely, all cakes can be ordered in two sizes:
Small - up to 6 people
Large - 12 - 14 people
Chocolate Cake: M 140kn V 280kn
Princes Polenta Cake: S 120kn L 240kn
Lemon tart: S 120kn L 240kn
Vegan Tart: S 135kn L 270kn
Cheesecake: S 130kn L 260kn
Blanc Noir Cake: S 130kn L 260kn
Carrot cake: S 140kn L 280kn
Black Forest Tart: S 120kn L 240kn
Parisian Flan: S 120kn L 240kn
A detailed description and price list will be published on their website soon.
But that's not all.
Brasserie on 7 has recently introduced its new autumn/winter menu, full of tasty comforts for you to enjoy with the changing seasons. From white tomato essence soup to juicy filet mignon, rich seafood risotto, delicate rack of lamb, or the signature duck breast with creamy corn, praline, mushrooms, jus, you can't go wrong.
Early risers can also enjoy a decadent breakfast at B7, with eggs Benedict, cinnamon ricotta french toast, or healthy superfood options and 100% fresh juices.
For all cake orders and inquiries, feel free to contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 098217835, and have a look at the breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus HERE.
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Flights to Croatia: Sundair Operates to Brac from Berlin and Dusseldorf in 2021
November 6, 2020 - The latest news for flights to Croatia as Sundair operates to Brac from Berlin and Dusseldorf as part of its 2021 flight schedule, and more.
Croatian Aviation reports that German charter airline Sundair has announced two new routes to Croatia in its 2021 summer flight schedule. Namely, Sundair will operate on the lines from Berlin and Dusseldorf to Bol on the island of Brac.
German tour operators are already selling group and individual arrangements for the summer of 2021 on the island of Brac, offering direct flights from Berlin and Dusseldorf, operated by Sundair.
The Dusseldorf - Brac line will be in operation from May 22 to October 2, 2021, once a week, every Saturday, while the Berlin - Brac line will be in operation from May 23 to October 3, 2021, also once a week, on Sundays.
As a reminder, Sundair was supposed to operate on the charter line between Frankfurt and Brac for the German tour operator this summer, but the flights were canceled due to weak demand caused by the global pandemic.
A319 aircraft with 150 seats in the fleet of this airline will operate on the routes to Brac. If the flights are realized (which will primarily depend on demand), Brac will directly connect with German cities after a long time.
Furthermore, Ex Yu Aviation reports that low-cost carrier easyJet will launch a seasonal service between Glasgow and Pula in June 2021, which will run on Monday and Friday until September 3. easyJet will be the only airline connecting the two cities.
Ex Yu Aviation also reports that Brussels Airlines will resume its seasonal operations between the Belgian and Croatian capitals next summer. Brussels Airlines plans to return to Zagreb with six weekly flights (each day except Saturday), beginning March 28. Airbus A319 aircraft will operate on this route.
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Zagreb Tech Company Secures 370 Million Kuna Contract
As Poslovni Dnevnik/Darko Bicak writes on the 5th of November, 2020, the Zagreb tech company Ericsson Nikola Tesla (ENT), part of the Swedish Ericsson Group, has contracted a contract worth almost HRK 370 million to introduce eHealth in Belarus, which has thus become the fourth country in which ENT is digitising healthcare.
According to the aforementioned Zagreb tech company, the job is related to the implementation of the Central Software Platform for the Centralised e-Health System of the Republic of Belarus. The estimated duration of the platform implementation project is 2.5 years, and the contract also covers a three-year warranty period. Ericsson NT explained that the contract is the result of a two-stage tender within the World Bank project P156778 "Belarus Health System Modernisation Project", which is financed by a loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
The signatory of the contract is the Republic Scientific and Practical Centre for Medical Technologies, Informatisation, Administration and Health Management, which is an agency of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Belarus. Gordana Kovacevic, President of the Management Board of ENT, pointed out that she is proud of such a significant contract concluded in the field of eHealth, which is an additional confirmation of the Zagreb tech company's significant references in this area, here in Croatia and abroad.
''The fact that the World Bank has recognised us as a quality partner shows that our focused strategy in this area and our company's long-term investment in creating a strong team of experts in the required domain of knowledge brings new success. In this project, we're going to pay special attention to risk management given its complexity and specificity of the situation,'' said Kovacevic.
The Zagreb tech company also went on to explain that this contract continues a series of successes in the field of eHealth based on the company's long-term investment in creating a quality portfolio and an excellent team of experts who possess all of the necessary knowledge in this particular area.
''Back in 2007, our first success was achieved, the integrated information system of primary healthcare in Croatia (CEZIH) was put into operation, to which the company has continuously added new functionalities over the years. At the beginning of October this year, a new three-year agreement was signed on the support, maintenance and upgrade of the programme base of the central part of the integrated Central Health Information System of Croatia. We also have references related to eHealth outside of Croatia - in the last six years, the company has implemented similar projects in Armenia and Kazakhstan,'' they stated from the company.
Last week, this Zagreb tech company announced its financial results for the first nine months of an otherwise troublesome 2020, according to which their net profit amounted to HRK 67.2 million, which is 16.8 percent less than in the same period last year. ENT's sales revenues in the first nine months of this year amounted to HRK 1.44 billion, which is 15.2 percent more than in the same period last year. In terms of total sales revenue, the share of the Croatian market stands at 46 percent, services for Ericsson stand at 44 percent and other export markets stand at ten percent. Gross profit amounts to HRK 124.5 million, which is 1.2 percent less when compared to the same period last year, and profit before tax is lower by 19.7 percent, amounting to HRK 75.1 million. The financial report states, among other things, that this Zagreb tech company company has a solid balance sheet with total assets at the end of September of HRK 1.12 billion, which is 17.7 percent higher than back at the end of 2019.
Gordana Kovacevic estimated that despite the difficult business conditions due to the ongoing situation with the coronavirus pandemic, as well as significant political instabilities in some of their export markets, more specifically the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan, during the first nine months of 2020, the company achieved solid business results.
When refering to the 12.5 percent growth in sales revenue when compared to the same period last year, she stated that this is primarily the result of taking full responsibility for the delivery of services for the construction and maintenance of telecommunications infrastructure of Hrvatski Telekom/Croatian Telecom (HT/CT) and activities aimed at introducing 5G standards within that network, which were otherwise put it into trial this week.
This Zagreb tech company expects a lot from the beginning of the commercial introduction of 5G here in Croatia during the first half of 2021, after HAKOM announces the conditions and allocates the radio frequency spectrum.
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Veljko Ostojic Concludes Safety in Tourism Proving Crucial Amid Pandemic
November the 6th, 2020 - The Croatian Tourism Association's main man, Veljko Ostojic, outlined what Croatia's next steps should be in order to rescue tourism next year, with safety being the most important factor of all.
This year has been incredibly challenging in an entirely unprecedented and unexpected way. When one usually thinks of a global pandemic, at least up until 2020, they think of the Spanish flu which ravaged a delicate post-WWI world. This time last year, it would have been impossible to imagine that 2020 would be dominated in each and every sense by another global pandemic involving an entirely new virus. The Croatian Tourism Association has stated that from now on, safety and security are paramount in people's minds, and that Croatia must be positioned as a destination that can offer that to its visitors in future.
As Poslovni Dnevnik writes, the main motive for tourists planning on taking a trip next year will be safety and security in the broadest possible sense of the word, so we must try to be a safe tourist destination and do our homework as we did this year, because that we haven't had any cases of people becoming infected with the new coronavirus in commercial accommodation tourist facilities.
The leader of the Croatian Tourism Association (HUT), Veljko Ostojic, explained the above in the new bulletin of the Croatian Tourism Association "Croatia Tourism & Travel News", in which he analyses the direction in which the ongoing global coronavirus pandemic will force tourism to head in.
He believes that Croatia, when seen from today's perspective, can once again achieve better tourist results next year and claims that in 2021 the profit will be made from those who can drive to Croatia.
In addition, he predicts that last minute demand will be very much present once again, and that accommodation facilities of higher categories will be sought after, as well as those that are physically separated and more isolated, which guarantee safety. He also believes that online reservations for stays in Croatia will additionally increase significantly.
Veljko Ostojic noted that this year, most of the tourists who came to Croatia had visited it before, and that some new people also chose the country, who, up until recently, chose other Mediterranean destinations. They are expected to pay Croatia a visit next year as well.
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