In a recent appearance on Radio Berane, the Director of the Regional Development Agency for Bjelasica, Komovi and Prokletije (RDA BKP), Jelena Krivčević, presented a detailed overview of the results and future plans within the Montenegro–Kosovo Cross-Border Cooperation Programme, funded with the support of the European Union.

The primary goal of these initiatives is to create new economic opportunities for the population in border municipalities. Krivčević emphasized that this cooperation is not based solely on the administrative linking of institutions, but on concrete projects that bring direct benefits to farmers and tourism workers. A special focus has been placed on the valorization of katuns as an authentic tourism offering, connecting the traditional way of life with modern tourism by allowing visitors to stay in households and taste domestic products directly at the source.

Through these projects, the infrastructure for active holidays has been significantly improved, including the mountain and cycling trail networks. New signage, rest areas, and information boards now connect the mountain massifs of the two countries into a unique tourism entity. Furthermore, the Agency has provided equipment for food processing and product packaging for numerous rural households, thereby raising the quality standards and visual identity of domestic products from the North. By joining forces with partners from the municipalities of Peja and Istog, the Bjelasica, Komovi, and Prokletije region is positioning itself as an attractive destination for nature lovers from across Europe.

The Director highlighted that the key to success lies in partnership, as cooperation between local self-governments, the NGO sector, and the residents themselves is the only path toward long-term development. These projects serve as a foundation for drawing larger funds from European programs in the coming period, which will further strengthen rural areas and mitigate the trend of emigration.