Ceremonial unveiling of a bust of Nikola Tesla, placed in the Central building of Izmir University of Economics (IUE), took place on November 24th 2015 in the presence of representatives of Izmir City administration,  rector of IUE, a large number of professors and students, as well as our citizens from Izmir. On behalf of Nikola Tesla Foundation from Belgrade, Mr Milan Knezevic attended the ceremony with wife Jasmina, joining representatives of our Consular Mission in Istanbul, Consul General Zoran Markovic and Consul Sandra Vujinovic, and Honorary Consul of the Republic of Serbia Mr MetinAkdurak.
Addressing the present guests, Consul General Mr Markovic expressed how great his honour was to talk about work and deeds of the famous scientist, whose visionary views had provided the quality of life we have today. “It represents pride that Nikola Tesla was one of us”Markovic emphasized, “a man from Balkans, of Serbian origin, and above all - citizen of the world.” He pointed out that Tesla’s ideas and work had been timeless, and that he had also proved with his work that true people have their place in thoughts and hearts, books and science of all people and countries, earning his immortality and respect. Z. Markovic had specially thanked the rectorate of IUE, city officials, and first of all to Nikola Tesla Foundation of Philadelphia, which had “brought Nikola Tesla to Izmir”by providing their donation. Alongside Mr Markovic, rector of IUE Prof.Dr.OguzEsen, representative of Tesla Foundation Mr M. Knezevic and others have presented their speech at the Ceremony.
The Ceremony was preceded by talks between CG Mr Z. Markovic with rector of IUE Mr OguzEsen, with possibility of cooperation of University Center in Izmir and higher education institutions in Serbia, being one of the topics. The official visit of chief of consular mission Z. Markovic to Izmir, was opportunity for meetings in City Hall of Izmir, as well as with president of Chamber of Commerce Mr EkremDemirtas. These talks confirmed great interest for deepening of overall cooperation, and primarily, in the field of industry and economy. Mr Z. Markovic announced the start of International Sailing Regatta in Cesme, which was attended by 300 participants, including sailors from Serbia.