The Prime Minister explained that the aim of the Serbian Capital of Culture programme is to support cultural events, cultural infrastructure and the strengthening of culture in towns across Serbia.
According to him, cultural events should not be the exclusive privilege of large cities such as Belgrade, Novi Sad or Niš; rather, by supporting cultural events and strengthening the infrastructure for their organisation, new energy is brought into the cultural life of many smaller cities throughout the country.
The Prime Minister said that, in this regard, the total investment in Leskovac will amount to around RSD 400 million, of which approximately RSD 300 million will come from the Government of Serbia and the Ministry of Culture, while around RSD 100 million will be set aside by the City of Leskovac.
The funds, he noted, will also be directed towards the reconstruction of the Military Hall building, which will become a multifunctional cultural centre.
In addition, adaptation of the conference and exhibition halls of the National Museum is planned, as well as the installation of a monument to King Milan Obrenović, he added.
The Prime Minister emphasised that Serbia must nurture a culture of remembrance and respect towards those who built it, as only on that foundation can it strengthen its future.
Macut stressed that the policy of the government he leads is one of balanced development, responsibility and direct communication with citizens, adding that the Government of Serbia will continue to defend and strengthen its homeland.
At the same time, he expressed satisfaction with today’s opening of a new kindergarten, Vesela družina, in Leskovac, built under an investment of RSD 94 million as part of the Inclusive Early Childhood Education and Care project.