Since our company operates in four countries of the Region, we have strengthened the infrastructure of communication and information technologies even before the introduction of the Government’s measures
We spoke with Erich Cossutta, the president of Dragon Maritime Group, which business is closely related to cooperation with China. “From the very beginning we were following the situation development and in a way preparing for the scenario of working under more difficult conditions, so the whole situation did not leave us unprepared. At the very first hint of the outbreak of the epidemic in Serbia, we created all the preconditions for smart working” said Mr. Cossutta.
How did you organize your business activities and communication with the clients and business partners?
Our company’s business is closely related to cooperation with China, hence from the very beginning we were following the situation development and in a way preparing for the scenario of working under more difficult conditions, so the whole situation did not leave us unprepared. At the very first hint of the outbreak of the epidemic in Serbia, we created all the preconditions for smart working.Being the socially responsible company, from the very beginning we implemented all the measures recommended by the Government of the Republic of Serbia and the Ministry of Health in order to preserve the safety of our employees, associates and their families, at the same time striving to ensure continuity of contractual obligations and services to our clients. Since our company operates in four countries of the Region, we have strengthened the infrastructure of communication and information technologies even before the introduction of the Government’s measures, enabling our employees to work remotely from home and made a detailed communication plan allowing us to monitor the state of business and employees.
How important is it for companies to stand in solidarity and help in these extraordinary circumstances?
Solidarity is crucial in such difficult situations, which is the reason why our company has offered to provide within the scope of our capabilities and in coordination with COSCO Shipping Lines Co. as the principal of our company,as much protection equipment and necessary devices as possible to support health systems of Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia, where our company operates.We are pleased that governments have responded positively to our initiative. We have had excellent communication with the Government of the Republic of Serbia so far and they expressed great appreciation for the assistance we shall provide. This is particularly due to the fact that our assistance comes through China, which Serbia fosters exceptional bilateral relations with. We expect the first donations to be delivered soon.
How are you spending your private time during the pandemic?
Sometimes I get the impression that the volume of work is much bigger working from home, and so do my colleagues. The rest of the time I don’t spend at work is reserved for family. I think now is the right moment to spend more meaningful time with our families and rediscover the charms of small family rituals, shared meals on weekdays and other joint activities that we otherwise do not have time for due to the hectic lifestyles our careers demand.
What will you do first after the state of emergency is cancelled?
I will recoup everything I missed during the isolation period, which is primarily a direct contact with people. As soon as this is all over, I will gather my closest friends and colleagues and toast to a fresh start.
