Montenegro and Italy have good relations but also significant potential for strengthening cooperation, particularly in increasing tourism traffic, as discussed during a meeting between the tourism ministers of the two countries, Simonida Kordić and Daniela Santanché, held in Rome.
The ministers agreed that enhancing existing direct air connections would be an essential prerequisite and stimulus for mutual travel.
Kordić briefed Santanché on the “Destination Balkan” initiative, which piqued significant interest from the Italian side. They agreed that further consultations with interested countries from the region would take place, after which Italy would host a joint ministerial meeting in May at their initiative.
“Montenegro and Italy do not have a bilateral agreement on tourism cooperation. Formalizing this collaboration would be a starting point for enhancing relations, developing products, and promoting the destination. We would be pleased to make this one of our next steps,” said Kordić.
Santanché supported this idea and expressed readiness to align the document in the near future.
“It is crucial to encourage the exchange of experiences between Italy and Montenegro in managing tourist flows and improving rural and cultural tourism, with a focus on diversification and de-seasonalization of the offer. Strengthening relations between Italy and the Balkans is also very important,” said Santanché.
She added that the Balkans are very important for Italy and that tourism serves as a bridge for peace.
Kordić is on an official visit to Rome, where she will speak at the Mediterranean Parliamentary Assembly (PAM) session tomorrow.
