Šulić: The First Step in Branding Balkan Tourism Made in Srpska

The Minister of Trade and Tourism of Republika Srpska, Denis Šulić, has stated that branding all tourist destinations in the Western Balkans is important, and he emphasized his pleasure in the first step of this collaboration being taken in the Republic of Srpska. This initiative was launched during a regional tourism conference titled “Ček in” in the city of Trebinje.

Šulić mentioned that the regional tourism conference aims to further connect tourism professionals in Republika Srpska and the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH), as well as with colleagues in the region. He highlighted three specific advantages of Republika Srpska, including being excellent hosts, having a great gastronomic offer, and offering untouched natural beauty, making Trebinje an attractive destination for tourists.

During the opening of the two-day conference, Šulić noted that more than 300 participants from neighboring countries are attending, representing various segments of the tourism industry.

He expressed his satisfaction that the event is taking place in Trebinje, a tourist gem not only for Republika Srpska but for the entire Balkans. Šulić thanked the Mayor of Trebinje, Mirko Ćurić, for the city’s consistent hospitality.

The conference’s primary goal is to enhance networking among tourism professionals in Republika Srpska, FBiH, and their counterparts in Serbia and North Macedonia, who are also present at the event. Šulić also discussed the potential impact of improved transportation links between Sarajevo and Skopje, which could lead to more tourists traveling between Bosnia and Herzegovina and North Macedonia.

Furthermore, Šulić expressed gratitude to Serbia for its long-standing partnership with Republika Srpska. He mentioned that the collaboration on tourist vouchers planned by the governments of Republika Srpska and Serbia demonstrates the importance of nurturing and building special and parallel relationships.

He noted the increasing number of visitors to Republika Srpska and the region and stressed the importance of offering tourists from overseas and the Far East what each of the countries in the Western Balkans can provide, which can be achieved through collaboration.

Šulić expressed his satisfaction that the first step in this cooperation was taken in Republika Srpska, in Trebinje. He also stated that such conferences are likely to be held annually, at the end of the summer season, to summarize impressions and results and prepare for the winter season.

Šulić further expressed his pleasure at the presence of the responsible minister from FBiH, highlighting the ongoing efforts to promote Republika Srpska and FBiH as part of a joint offering.

He concluded by emphasizing his satisfaction with the discussions that will take place over these two days, addressing crucial topics in the field of tourism.

The “Ček in” conference, which began in Trebinje, is hosting more than 300 participants and speakers from various segments of the tourism industry. Over two conference days, dynamic exchanges of experiences, legislative analyses, and encouragement for better communication within this vital industry will take place.

The Ministry of Trade and Tourism of Republika Srpska is a co-organizer of the conference, while the event is organized by the marketing agency MANIA.

The importance of the conference and the results it will achieve for this industry have been recognized by its partners, including the President of Republika Srpska, Milorad Dodik, who serves as the general patron of the conference, as well as the Government of Republika Srpska, the Ministry of Trade and Tourism of Srpska, and the city of Trebinje.