ZAGREB, 7 Nov (Hina) – Croatia, in collaboration with UN Tourism, will establish a Centre for Research and Development of Sustainable Tourism at the University of Zagreb, which will serve as a scientific platform for development and innovation in this field, Tourism Minister Tonči Glavina said on Friday.

The minister announced this plan during a ceremony at which nine finalists were shortlisted for the first Croatian Sustainable Tourism Award, created in collaboration with the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), which will be presented at the Croatian Tourism Days in Dubrovnik at the end of November.

“In Croatia, we have many experts in sustainable tourism, both within the industry and in the academic community, and we are also one of the few countries in Europe and beyond that now has a comprehensive legal framework for it. It is important that the tourism industry develops sustainably, meaning in accordance not only with economic needs but also with the needs of local communities, to provide them with a higher standard of living and a harmonious coexistence with tourism,” said Glavina.

Rector of the University of Zagreb, Stjepan Lakušić, stated that Croatia is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable tourism, which will mean not only a stronger tourism sector in the future but also significant savings and the protection of both space and local communities.

“Research will also be important, and the University can contribute greatly in this area. By sharing experiences and knowledge through the Centre for Research and Development of Sustainable Tourism, our scientists will have additional opportunities to collaborate with international colleagues,” Lakušić said.

He also announced that the centre is expected to open on the University premises by the end of this year.