Panel discussion on development of rural communities held in Gradačac

Presentation and panel discussion on European initiatives for development of rural communities, organised by the Vesta Association, was held on 5. April 2012 in the municipality of Gradacac. This panel discussion was held in order to contribute to better knowledge and understanding of the European Union (EU), its policies and programs on rural development as well as benefits for candidate and potential candidate countries and EU member states. Information on the LEADER program and establishing of mechanisms for exchange of information re implementing it in BiH presented too.

76 people attended, among them representatives of the relevant municipal departments, local communities, agricultural cooperatives, entrepreneurs, manufacturers, processors and NGOs. Participants were informed about benefits of convergence with the European Union, especially when it comes to developing agriculture and rural communities and investments in the rural development projects.

After four panel discussions that has been held in the municipalities of Gracanica, Lukavac, Zivinice and Gradacac, six more panel discussions are planed to be held in Tuzla, Brcko, Bijeljina, Zvornik, Modrica and Derventa.