Signing of the agreement on the support measure “Promotion of sustainable tourism and biodiversity enhancement in protected areas”

On 6 December 2024, Muránska Planina National Park became a symbolic place for a significant milestone in nature conservation. The Minister of Investment, Regional Development and Informatisation of the Slovak Republic Richard Raši together with the Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation Peter Nelson signed the Agreement on the Support Measure for the Support Measure “Support for Sustainable Tourism and Strengthening of Biodiversity in Protected Areas”.

The Muránska Planina National Park represents the unspoilt nature of Slovakia and also reflects the key objectives of the support measure, which include, in particular, the protection of Slovakia’s unique natural heritage, the promotion of sustainable tourism development in and around protected areas, as well as the promotion of the protection of ecosystems and biodiversity in these areas.

The support measure is financed by a second Swiss contribution of 22,8 million Swiss francs (EUR 24 million) and thus represents the largest measure in the framework of Swiss-Slovak cooperation. The funding is directed towards the following strategic areas:

 

1. Reconstruction of infrastructure in national parks

• • Renovation of buildings to serve as information centres
  • Creation of eco-educational spaces
  • Construction of field stations

2. Promotion of the protection of ecosystems and biodiversity

• • Preparation of strategic documents
  • Improving the management of protected areas
  • Creation of the Alliance of National Parks of the Slovak Republic

3. Pilot initiatives for sustainable development

• • Local projects for biodiversity restoration
  • Implementation of solutions tailored to the specific needs of individual regions

Minister Richard Raši highlighted the systemic and long-term approach of the measure, saying, “I am convinced that the results we will achieve together will be beneficial not only for our protected areas, but also for the inhabitants of the regions and future generations.”

The bilateral nature of the supported measure is underlined by the cooperation with Swiss partners, including the Swiss University of Applied Sciences in Zurich (ZHAW). This institution will provide expert advice and analytical support to ensure the successful implementation of all planned activities.

Agreement on the supporting measure “Promoting sustainable tourism and enhancing biodiversity in protected areas”