In Mionica, a gathering was held dedicated to the development of biodistricts in Serbia, with a special focus on the Kolubara Biodistrict – the first of its kind in our country, already operational and internationally recognized.
A biodistrict is not just a territory, but a symbol of a shared vision and a way of life that unites people, nature, and tradition. By establishing the Kolubara Biodistrict, Serbia has taken a pioneering step in the region. At the same time, Mionica has been recognized as a community that can serve as a model for sustainable development and organic agriculture.
Jelena Blagojević, State Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management, underlined that the state recognizes the importance of organic production and that this model represents a cornerstone for the future of rural areas:
– “I would like to extend special thanks to the association Serbia Organica, which identified and promoted the concept of biodistricts in our country. The establishment of the Kolubara Biodistrict in 2024 is one of Serbia’s most important steps toward integrating sustainable practices in agriculture and rural development. It is not just a local initiative, but a vision connecting people, nature, and tradition into a unique model of development.”
The Mayor of Mionica, Boban Janković, emphasized that the local government strongly supports organic production and such initiatives:
– “Our region is rich in beautiful nature, fertile land, tourism potential, and, most importantly, good hosts. I am confident that what we have initiated will have a positive impact on the development of our municipality and create new opportunities for organic production. The local government will always support such projects.”
The Ambassador of Italy to Serbia, Luca Gori, stressed that the twinning of Mionica and Ceraso represents another proof of the strong friendship between Serbia and Italy:
– “This is a step toward deeper cooperation between our countries in organic farming and sustainable development. The fact that Serbia recognizes and develops this model shows that we share the same outlook – a responsible approach toward nature and future generations.”
The Mayor of Ceraso, Aniello Crocamo, reminded that the first biodistrict in Europe was created in their municipality in Cilento:
– “A biodistrict is not just an agricultural model, but a way of life. It connects people and land, preserves tradition, and ensures a healthier future. The fact that we are twinning today with Serbia and Mionica proves that our shared path carries deep meaning.”
Salvatore Basile, President of the International Network of Eco-Regions (IN.N.E.R.), gave exceptional support:
– “Serbia is one of the first countries in the region to adopt the concept of biodistricts. I believe that the Italian experience will provide valuable support for your future development and that new biodistricts in Serbia will once again prove that this model has the power to transform entire communities.”
The event in Mionica confirmed that Serbia has the potential to join the ranks of countries that base their development on sustainable practices. The twinning with Cilento is a symbol of that path – a path of cooperation, joint learning, and mutual support.
