At the Olympic mountain Trebević, Administrator Power was joined by tourism ministers Edita Đapo and Suzana Gašić to discuss tourism projects aimed at propelling the brand of Bosnia and Herzegovina in international markets and set arrivals on a growth trajectory
During her official visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), USAID Administrator Samantha Power presented a series of initiatives supported by the USAID Developing Sustainable Tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Turizam) project aimed at improving the country’s appeal in the international tourism marketplace.
“Tourism can once again become the engine of BiH’s economic development as a source of pride that unites people from all spheres,” Administrator Power commented
At the event held on the Olympic mountain Trebević overlooking the city of Sarajevo, Administrator Power was joined by Federation BiH Minister of Environment and Tourism Edita Đapo and Republika Srpska Minister of Trade and Tourism Suzana Gašić, while the attendees included the US Ambassador to BiH Eric Nelson and USAID/BiH Mission Director Courtney Chubb.
The most significant initiative presented by Administrator Power was the first of its kind international campaign promoting Bosnia and Herzegovina on TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel platform, in four European markets and Turkey. The campaign was officially launched by Administrator Power and Minister Đapo. Administrator Power also announced USAID support for the World Rafting Championship 2022 in Banja Luka, which is co-funded by Republika Srpska Ministry of Trade & Tourism. She also discussed plans to develop and brand the Herzegovina Wine Route and set it on its path towards membership as a Council of Europe Iter Vitis Cultural Route.
“My heart is full of joy because I am back to Bosnia and Herzegovina – the country that has changed my life and career trajectory. I do not remember this country only as an important place, but rather as an extremely beautiful. I am very honored to launch the campaign which calls on all people to experience the beauty that takes your breath away,” Administrator Power commented.
Both Ministers Đapo and Gašić discussed USAID support to tourism development strategies for the period 2027 and devel-oping the country’s COVID-19 Health and Safety Guidelines for the tourism sector that earned the country the international Safe Travel Stamp.
