Gathering in the picturesque town of Peja at the Mulliri i Haxhi Zekës, the ‘Tourism for Future’ project, implemented by Prishtina REA as Coordinator, in partnership with IPER Institute, Kolašin Municipality and Gjeravica- mountaineering association, embarked on its exciting journey. This kick off meeting marked the beginning of a collaborative effort to enhance tourism synergies, establish vital networks, forge valuable partnerships and promote internationalization in the cross-border region spanning Kolasin & Peja municipalities.
We were honored to have distinguished special guests who added invaluable perspectives to our ‘Tourism for Future’ project kick-off meeting. Among the esteemed attendees were Mr. Mirzet Džogović, deputy Mayor of Peja Municipality, and Mr. Vuk Vuković, Finance Secretary from Kolašin Municipality. Their presence underscored the importance of cross-border collaboration and institutional cooperation opportunities to be valorized. Additionally, we were delighted to welcome Anita Beriša, representing the Ministry of European Affairs-Montenegro, who shared insights into the CBC programme’s alignment with EU standards. Ms. Fatmire Berisha, representing the Republic of Kosovo MAPL, also graced us with her presence, emphasizing the regional significance of our endeavor. Joining us remotely, we had the privilege of connecting online with Urška Peceny, Ph.D., Chief Innovation Officer and Lead of the Tourism 4.0 Department at ARCTUR Slovenia, whose innovative vision added a global perspective to our local efforts, while Ms. Eleni Kyropoulou, representing FameRoad Interreg project, shared insights on interregional collaboration.
With a shared vision of sustainable tourism, our diverse group of stakeholders converged to discuss strategies that will not only benefit the local communities but also align with EU Ecolabel standards. The project envisions a future where tourism thrives in harmony with nature, fostering economic growth while preserving the environment.
The ‘Tourism for Future’ project kick-off meeting was a significant milestone in our journey toward responsible and sustainable tourism practices. As we move forward, we remain committed to shaping a brighter future for both the Kolasin & Peja municipalities, adhering to the principles of the EU Ecolabel and embracing the transformative power of collaboration.
Mr. Ahmet Jetullahu-meti, the project director presented the project goals, its vision and expected impact on promoting and installing the International Sustainable Management Standard, as Eco-labels, and its internationalisation, while, the Mapping assessment, which covered over 104 accommodation entity respondents was presented by Mr. Besart Hajrizi and Sara Rosic.
The Kick of meeting also gathered guests from Peja, Ferizaj and Skopje Universities, Tourism and Hotel Industry stakeholders, Tourism Department repr. from Ministry of Trade and Industry and respective municipalities too
Tourism for Future is a two-years project, supported by the IPA CBC programme Montenegro-Kosovo and is supported by Peja municipality too.