Minister Ćulafić: Science Must Be One of the Foundations of Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development Policies

Minister of Ecology, Sustainable Development, and Northern Development Damjan Ćulafić spoke at the opening of the IX Balkan Botanical Congress, expressing satisfaction that Montenegro is hosting an event that brings together science, nature, and international cooperation in one place. From Mediterranean regions and Lake Skadar, through canyons and mountain massifs, to rainforests and high-altitude pastures in the north, the small area features habitats that offer botanists an inexhaustible source of research, and a responsibility for all of us to preserve them," said Minister Ćulafić. Our participation is seen as a confirmation of the belief that science must be one of the foundations of environmental protection and sustainable development policies," the minister added. According to him, quality decisions on nature protection cannot be made without reliable data, which are generated in the field, in herbaria, and laboratories, thanks to the dedicated work of the scientific community. A special place in this cooperation is occupied by the discovery of a new plant genus, "Petrolanium Crnojevicii," of which we are all proud," the minister emphasized. Minister Ćulafić wished all participants successful work, quality exchange of experiences and knowledge, and many reasons to return from Montenegro with new ideas, projects, and partnerships.