In a recent appearance on Radio Berane, the Director of the Regional Development Agency for Bjelasica, Komovi, and Prokletije (RDA BKP), Jelena Krivčević, detailed the results and plans within the Montenegro–Kosovo Cross-Border Cooperation Program, funded with support from the European Union.
Focus on the Economic Sustainability of the North
The primary goal of these initiatives is to create new economic opportunities for the population in cross-border municipalities. Krivčević emphasized that the cooperation is built on concrete projects that bring direct benefits to farmers and tourism workers, linking institutions with the actual needs on the ground.
Valorization of Katuns and Active Tourism: Special emphasis was placed on the development of “Katun Roads” and infrastructure improvements. New signage and info boards link the mountain massifs of the two countries into a unified tourism destination, ideal for nature lovers across Europe.
Through these programs, the Agency provided food processing and packaging equipment to numerous rural households. This significantly raised the quality standards and visual identity of local products, which are now a recognizable part of the Mountain Bounty brand, contributing to the region’s overall promotion.
Cooperation between local governments, the NGO sector, and residents is the only path toward long-term development. These projects serve as a foundation for securing larger European funds in the coming period.
A Bridge Between Partnership and Development
The message for the future is clear: by joining forces with partners from Peja and Istog, the Bjelasica, Komovi, and Prokletije region strengthens its rural areas and creates conditions to reduce migration trends, while preserving the authentic identity of our mountains.
