Jakšić-Stojanović: Knowledge, innovation and digitalisation are key to developing the tourism of the future

Dr Anđela Jakšić-Stojanović, Minister of Education, Science and Innovation, attended the observance of World Tourism Day in Montenegro, which this year focused on the theme “Tourism of the Future – Digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence as Drivers of Change in Tourism.” “The tourism industry cannot develop without knowledge and innovation, which is why it is important to establish close cooperation between institutions. Knowledge and innovation transform tourism from an economy of scale into an economy of value and experiences,” said Jakšić-Stojanović. She referred to the strategy adopted this year, which serves as the umbrella document guiding the development of a knowledge-based economy, promoting the green and digital transition, and connecting science with the economy. Simonida Kordić, Minister of Tourism, said that Montenegro is marking this year’s World Tourism Day with its best results: in the first eight months, more than 2.2 million tourists visited the country, generating nearly 13 million overnight stays, surpassing both last year’s results and those from 2019. Montenegro currently chairs the UN Tourism Commission for Europe, the highest position the country has ever held within the United Nations structure. Katarina Lalović, Executive Director of the Innovation Fund of Montenegro, said that the Fund’s goal is to support the development of ideas and technological solutions that address the real needs of the tourism industry.