This year’s theme defined by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is “Tourism and Peace”, inviting to reflect on the role of tourism in promoting peace and understanding between people.
The activity was attended by MINT officials, the Mayor of Dragash, Mr. Bexhet Xheladini, Deputy Minister Mr. Ali Tafarshiku, Ambassadors Mr. Antonello De Riu, Mr. Olivier Guerrot, Mrs. Daniela Barišič, Mrs. Minca Benedejčič, Mrs. Heleni Vakali, as well as other diplomatic representatives of friendly countries, representatives of local international cooperation for tourism development and representatives of certified mountain guides, who together made a walk in the “Black Stone” path in Zaplluxhe, Dragash, where nature provides a unique experience for tourists.
Kosovo is increasingly becoming a popular tourist destination!
Tourism in Kosovo has marked a continuous increase in the last three years. Only by the end of June this year, around 320 thousand visitors were registered by our accommodation structures, an increase of 21% compared to the same period of last year.
As a key sector to sustainable economic development and employment, in addition to the increased number of visitors, tourism has also led to new jobs, with an increase of 27% in the number of employees in the accommodation and food sector in 2023, compared to the previous year.
In her speech, Minister Hajdari stressed the work and commitment to the development and support of tourism, highlighting among others the Tourism Strategy 2030 and Action Plan 2024-2026 that were approved this year, and secondary legislation on tourism sub-sectors.
With horizontal programmes and support schemes within the strategy, we aim to develop cultural and natural tourism competitively and sustainably, so that by 2030 Kosovo becomes a competitive destination of sustainable tourism in the region, Minister Hajdari stated.
She thanked all the participants and international partners for their support in strengthening sustainable tourism in Kosovo.
