In the framework of the European Integration Process of the Balkans, the Conference of the Association of Balkan Universities was held, with the theme "Promotion of Tourism in the Balkans" to discuss the increasing role of universities in the integration of the region in the EU.

The Rector of the University of Tirana Prof. was invited to this conference. Dr. Artan Hoxha, Prof. Dr. Erhan Tabakoğlu, Rector of Trakya University, Turkey, Mrs. Ogerta Manastirliu, Minister of Education and Sports, Ms. Federica Mogherini, Rector of the European College and a number of personalities from the academic world from various universities in the Balkans.

 

In the introductory speech, the Rector of UT, Prof. Dr. Artan Hoxha expressed his satisfaction on behalf of the University of Tirana, as the organizer of this meeting, which also holds the Presidency of BUT for the year 2024. Also, Prof. Hoxha emphasized that the participation and interest in this conference best proves the interaction between Higher Education Institutions in support of the European integration process and also the sustainable development of tourism in our region. The role of universities in these two processes is very important, as they prepare specialists in law, international relations, tourism management, cultural heritage, archeology, etc.

 

While the Minister of Education and Sports, Mrs. Manastirliu, in her speech, emphasized that steps have been taken in terms of programs such as Horizon, Erasmus+, Eureka, etc., in the development of various projects, but also the capacity that the government is making available for the development of joint and cross-border projects. . Also, Mrs. Manastirliu added that there is still untapped potential that can be made available, in order to absorb funds and further develop research and scientific projects, to build a stronger Balkan and European network.

 

The Association of Balkan Universities (BUA) was founded in 2014 and consists of 92 member universities. The main aim is to define a leading vision for the future through universities, libraries, research centers etc.