Resumen
This comparative study shows the way in which concepts like circular economy, innovation and competitiveness are understood, accepted and implemented in Romania and Serbia, countries with similar preoccupations for the European Union's recommendations and destiny.It is showed that the similar results obtained outline the lack of continuity in applying the resilient strategy for general development and the strategic role of investments as a pillar of modernisation. To build a resilient and modern society requires fundamental and complex changes in the political decision-makers' attitude and people's civic behaviour, linked on the circular economy principles, the need for substantial investments in top innovative research, high-tech products and adequate public policies of general interest.