On July 30, 2025, the final conference of the project “Joint actions for rural tourism development” was held in Šavnik. The project was implemented with the aim of promoting rural tourism through the preservation of cultural and natural heritage and the development of sustainable tourism offers.
During the conference, the results of the project, implemented activities, and the positive outcomes arising from cross-border cooperation were presented. Special focus was placed on the valorization of natural and cultural resources for the purpose of sustainable tourism development, strengthening the capacities of rural households as providers of authentic tourism experiences, and improving tourism infrastructure and the promotion of destinations in the municipalities covered by the project.
The opening speeches were delivered by:
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Jugoslav Jakić, Mayor of the Municipality of Šavnik, who emphasized the strategic importance of tourism for the development of the municipality and the wider region,
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Jovan Jovović, representative of the Ministry of European Affairs of Montenegro, who highlighted the available financial opportunities and announced future support programs,
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Jelena Krivčević, Director of the Regional Development Agency for Bjelasica, Komovi and Prokletije, who expressed satisfaction with the successful implementation of the project and stressed the importance of supporting households and preserving cultural heritage.
Snežana Zečević, the project manager, presented concrete results and the benefits that local communities achieved through the implementation of project activities.
A particularly engaging part of the conference was the panel discussion titled “Rural Tourism – Current State, Experiences and Development Directions”. The discussion highlighted the importance of mutual understanding, exchange of experiences, and support for katun and rural households in developing and launching tourism businesses.
The conference also featured the premiere of the promotional film “Following the Trails of Montenegrin Katuns and the Nature of Zlatar – Where Mountains Speak”, which authentically portrays the richness of rural areas, their people, landscapes, and tourism offers.
Through active discussion, participants expressed their willingness to continue cooperation and further develop this promising sector, with the goal of better positioning the cross-border region as an attractive and sustainable tourism destination.
The project was implemented in partnership between the Regional Development Agency for Bjelasica, Komovi and Prokletije, the Municipality of Šavnik, and the Tourist Organization Zlatar.
