Interreg Cooperation Day in Kotor Highlights Blue Economy and Regional Collaboration
On 12 September 2025, Kotor hosted the celebration of Interreg Cooperation Day, under the theme:
Inspired by the Sea: Waves of Cooperation for a Stronger Blue Economy in the Adriatic
The event was organised by the Ministry of European Affairs of Montenegro in cooperation with the Institute of Marine Biology of the University of Montenegro. It brought together representatives of EU-funded projects, local institutions, students, and stakeholders engaged in strengthening the blue economy across the South Adriatic region.
Promoting European Cooperation Through Education and Youth Engagement
Students from Ivo Visin Elementary School in Prčanj participated in an interactive session dedicated to European integration and the tangible benefits of EU cross-border cooperation programmes.
Learning About Marine Biodiversity
Participants visited the Boka Aquarium, where they explored the biodiversity of the Adriatic Sea and gained insight into marine conservation efforts supported through Interreg projects.
Hands-on Experience in Marine Research
The programme included a presentation in the shellfish production laboratory, where students learned about microalgae cultivation and oyster conditioning processes, demonstrating how scientific innovation supports sustainable aquaculture.
SA SKILLS and the Blue Economy Training Centre
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of the multifunctional hall within the future Blue Economy Training Centre (BETC), currently being developed under the SA SKILLS project within the Interreg IPA South Adriatic Programme.
The centre will function as a regional hub for:
Development of innovative learning modules (ILMs)
Cross-border training and capacity building
Academia–industry collaboration
Digital skills integration through the Blue Economy Digital Platform
Strengthening Regional Development Through Interreg
On the margins of the event, institutional representatives discussed ongoing and future EU-supported initiatives in Kotor, reaffirming the strategic importance of territorial cooperation in fostering sustainable economic growth.
Interreg Cooperation Day serves as an annual reminder that cross-border collaboration strengthens regional resilience, supports youth engagement, and unlocks the full potential of the Adriatic blue economy.