site.btaDeputy Foreign Minister Shekerletova Attends Launch of Western Balkan Cultural Project at Foreign Ministry

Speaking at the launch of a project titled "Rethinking Cultural Cooperation in the Western Balkans" at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday, Deputy Foreign Minister Elena Shekerletova said that cultural diplomacy can strengthen trust, inspire partnerships, and build lasting friendships in times of rapid political change by promoting common values such as peace, freedom, democracy, and prosperity.

Shekerletova noted that the project is an example of how different groups can be included in the decision-making process, thereby strengthening institutions and encouraging integration, the sharing of expertise, and regional dialogue on key topics.

Snezhana Yoveva-Dimitrova, Director of the State Institute for Culture at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, told BTA that this is an important project which the institution is carrying out as part of the Bulgarian Development Aid programme. The initiative brings together managers and directors of galleries, museums, and theatres from North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Kosovo. Representatives of the non-governmental sector from Bitola, as well as a mayor from a town in Montenegro, also attended the Tuesday launch.