A working meeting was held at the premises of the Ministry of Trade, Tourism, and Environmental Protection of the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton (HNC) between the line minister Emil Balavac , and the President of the HerzegovinaBike Association, Toni Zorić. The focus of the discussion was the upcoming international race „Tour of Bosnia and Herzegovina”, whose key events will take place right on the roads of our canton.
Herzegovina in the Global Spotlight
The interlocutors highlighted the immense significance of this event for the tourism promotion of the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton. The race hosts athletes from 38 countries across five continents, bringing a completely new dimension to the promotion of natural and cultural heritage.
„This is not just a top-tier sporting event, but the most powerful marketing tool we have ever had in the active tourism segment. The fact that footage of our cities – from Konjic and Jablanica, through Mostar and Stolac, all the way to Čapljina, Ljubuški, and Neum – will travel the world via Arena Sport channels, permanently positions HNC on the global map of desirable destinationsstated Minister Balavac.
Special Emphasis on Sustainable Development and Tourism
Cycling, as an eco-friendly sport, perfectly aligns with the green tourism development strategy advocated by the Ministry. It was emphasized that such events promote the state of Bosnia and Herzegovina in a unique and modern way.
President Zorić presented the routes passing through HNC in detail, including intermediate and mountain sprints in Konjic and Jablanica, and the grand finale of the first stage with laps in Mostar. The second stage will focus on historical sites such as the Old Bridge, Počitelj, and the Radimlja and Boljuni necropolises in Stolac, while the final finish line and winner's ceremony will take place in Neum, the only Bosnian-Herzegovinian town on the coast.
Strong Support for Premium Presentation
The Ministry has recognized the "Tour of BiH" as a project of strategic interest that directly impacts the growth of overnight stays, the development of small businesses, and the strengthening of the Herzegovina brand as a safe region for active holidays. Full support was expressed for the organization to ensure the region is presented in the best light to the international public.
„"It is our duty to support projects that bring this level of visibility. We view the Tour of BiH as a strategic project that directly contributes to tourism growth and reinforces Herzegovina's reputation as an attractive destination for active vacations," Balavac concluded.
Partnership for the Future
The meeting concluded with an agreement to continue cooperation on projects for the development of cycle-tourism infrastructure. The shared goal of the Ministry and the HerzegovinaBike association remains the connection of local communities and the long-term valorization of Herzegovina's tourism potential beyond traditional frameworks.
Association HerzegovinaBike
