The launch of the EUR 72 million project was part of a rich programme of events entitled "From Horizon to O-ZIP" held at the IRB, with IRB director David Matthew Smith underlining that the main principle of O-ZIP was consolidating the IRB's most competitive segments for closer cooperation with the business sector.
Attending the launch of the project, which is geared towards boosting Croatia's overall competitiveness, were also Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, Regional Development and EU Funds Minister Gabrijela Zalac, and the State Secretary at the Science and Education Ministry and former IRB director, Tome Anticic.
PM: O-ZIP project fourth national project of strategic importance
Speaking about the O-ZIP project in the context of strategic national projects, the PM recalled that at a meeting at the beginning of his government's term, Science and Education Minister Blazenka Divjak had explained what O-ZIP was about and noted that it was one of a dozen strategic projects in Croatia.
"The Peljesac Bridge will cost 357 million euros, the LNG terminal will cost 101 million euros and as much will be invested in the internet infrastructure in Croatia, so with EUR 72 million I believe this is the fourth most valuable project," said Plenkovic.
He said that this government wanted to promote excellence and the reform of the education system through investments in science and scientific infrastructure, and that science and its contribution to economic development should be made more visible.
The project therefore includes spatial reorganisation, expansion and renovation of the existing buildings, as well as the construction of new ones, including an IRB conference centre, Jeric said, inviting all to a Christmas reception to be held at the new conference centre upon the completion of the project in 2023.
Text: Hina