Cuprija to get new factory, 500 jobs after 40 years

CUPRIJA - The municipality of Cuprija on Wednesday signed an agreement on land transfer rights with the Directorate for Property and a memorandum on understanding with the German division of US-based Truck-Lite company, creating conditions for the first factory to open in the town in four decades.

The signing ceremony was also attended by Serbian First Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandar Vucic, who said that Serbia must become the hub of the automotive industry in southeastern Europe.

"We must be better, more competitive, stronger and ahead of everyone else," Vucic stressed, adding that he is pleased that a new factory with 500 jobs is to be built in Cuprija.

"I am proud that today you are celebrating the 500 jobs, and I am convinced that there will be another 500, because one of the best and strongest factories is coming, bringing leading-edge technology. You will be manufacturing parts for Audi, Mercedes and VW," Vucic noted.

It is the duty of everyone in Serbia to attract another 100 or 200 factories such as the Truck-Lite plant, Vucic said, adding that the agreement with the company is a light at the end of the tunnel for the people of Cuprija, who are going through difficult times.

Vucic explained that the government has backed the project by also providing grants as it expects multiple returns on the investment.

"We must attract even more investors. When Leoni, Magna and the BKC come, or when you have Fiat, many others will come, too. Serbia is welcoming investors in the most beautiful way," Vucic said.

He particularly thanked the Serbia Investment and Export Promotion Agency (SIEPA), the local authorities and government ministers who have participated in the effort.

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