Vuk Velebit is the co-founder and executive director of the Pupin Initiative, which has become the hub for bolstering US-Serbia ties, doing so through collaborative and non-partisan efforts and policies. The Pupin Initiative was established with the same values that renowned Serbian-American scientist and inventor Mihajlo (Michael) Pupin espoused over 100 years ago. They bring together young entrepreneurs, cross-field experts, and value creators from both the United States and Serbia, focus on creating impactful networks through a bottom-up approach, and provide an authentic understanding of local contexts. The Pupin Initiative is privately funded to ensure commitment and efficiency, and to surpass any bureaucratic shortcomings.
Vuk Velebit is a leading new-generation political analyst, renowned for his expertise in foreign and security policy, media analysis, and political strategy.
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0:00 Episode Intro
1:55 Introduction of Vuk Velebit
3:52 Why the Pupin Initiative?
5:55 Who was Michael Pupin?
10:28 Serbia's dynamic geographic location
14:06 U.S. companies with hubs in Belgrade
16:08 Serbia's startup ecosystem & US trade partnership
17:00 High-skilled tech talent
18:16 Why most Serbians speak English
24:05 Real Estate Investment in Belgrade waterfront
28:53 The need for internal investment in Serbia
30:43 Serbian economy and access to international markets
37:15 Serbian Dinar a very sound currency
37:50 Visiting Belgrade & learning its history
43:40 U.S. Presidential visits to Serbia
46:38 Connecting Belgrade and Miami
48:45 The affect of Russia, Ukraine, and Israel on Serbia
51:48 Serbian Orthodox Church & rich history in Belgrade
54:25 Events and Activities of the Pupin Initiative
58:01 Meeting with decision makers in Washington DC
1:01:06 The future of Serbia and U.S.-Serbia relations