The relations between Montenegro and Austria are good, but there is potential for further improvement, according to Minister of Tourism Simonida Kordić and the Austrian Ambassador to Podgorica, Christian Steiner.
Steiner noted that Montenegro and Austria face similar challenges in the tourism sector. While tourism does not account for 30% of their GDP, it holds a very important place. Both countries are also dealing with the effects of climate change and a lack of snow, which has led them to focus on diversifying their tourism offerings.
Kordić informed Steiner about the first artificial snowmaking project at the state-owned ski resorts, which her Ministry has facilitated on Mount Žabljak.
She also pointed out that the northern region of Montenegro is ideal for new investments and that the goal is to expand tourism throughout the country, as well as extend the tourist season to year-round.
During the meeting, Steiner highlighted that the number of Austrian tourists visiting Montenegro is steadily increasing. Kordić emphasized that Austria is a very important and attractive market for Montenegro, and that additional efforts are needed to increase traffic and make Montenegro’s offerings more visible.
She also pointed out that the two countries have not yet signed a Memorandum of Cooperation in tourism, and that it would be worthwhile to consider signing one in the near future. Such an agreement could significantly contribute to the realization of specific activities.
Kordić praised Steiner’s initiative to exchange knowledge and further educate tourism professionals, noting that investing in human resources is key to enhancing the quality of tourism offerings.
Talking about the importance of regional cooperation, Kordić introduced Steiner to the “Destination Balkan” project, which promotes the idea of connecting these countries to distant markets.
“The similarities, as well as the differences among the Balkan countries, make this destination a unique experience for tourists, from which we can all benefit,” said Kordić.
