The digital transmitters on the Avala Tower were officially put into operation today, and the analog signal was switched off, which provided 2.5 million people in and around Belgrade with a digital signal.

The Minister of Trade, Tourism and Telecommunications Rasim Ljajić, who officially put the new transmitters into operation, said on this occasion that today is an important day for the digitalization process in Serbia.

“Starting today, citizens will be able to watch 22 television channels, 16 of which are local or regional channels and six channels with national coverage,” said Ljajić.

Ljajić pointed out that on June 7, all analog channels in Serbia will be switched off, that is 10 days before the deadline.

He noted that June 15 was the deadline for switching off the analog signal on Jastrebac, Kopaonik, Cer and Besna kobila.

“We managed to complete something ahead of schedule in Serbia and we wanted to send a message that a lot can be achieved through team work,” said Ljajić.

He thanked the Ministry of Culture and Information, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and other ministries and state institutions for their cooperation.

Ljajić concluded that this was a long process, but that it will prove to be cost effective for the citizens and State of Serbia.

The Minister of Culture and Information Ivan Tasovac said that when the Avala Tower was put into operation, it was more of an architectural symbol, and today after 50 years, it becomes a symbol of putting into operation new stations for digital broadcasting.

“Digital transmitters will bring special benefits for residents with special needs, because all the technological requirements for that are available,” said Tasovac at the Avala Tower.

Head of EU Delegation to Serbia Michael Davenport expressed his satisfaction that this great project was completed ahead of schedule.

“I am very proud that the EU has been able to allocate more than 10 million euros for this project,” said Davenport and pointed out that the digitalization process is important for everyone, especially for viewers with special needs.

“It is a huge undertaking that is going to benefit the economy, creating great opportunities for new technologies,” said Davenport, and wished viewers a lot of success in using the new resources.

EBRD Director for Serbia Mateo Patrone also expressed satisfaction due to the complete switchover from analog to digital signals in and around Belgrade and commended the Serbian Government for implementing the project before the deadline.

“I am satisfied with the speed, quality and implementation of this project,” said Patrone