Two tourism projects in Gagauzia supported by EU

Chisinau, 7 November /MOLDPRES/- The first tourist complex in Gagauz style in Moldova was inaugurated yesterday in Congaz village, Comrat district. The Gagauz Sofrasi complex has four traditional peasant houses, a museum, a wine cellar, a restaurant, a mini-hotel and a festive hall.

For the development and promotion of the complex, the owners have got counseling and a grant of 18,500 euros from the European Union, through the program, Support to agriculture and rural development in Gagauzia and Taraclia (SARD), implemented by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

"Tourism is a niche with great potential, but so far unexplored in our region. Due to the European Union, we managed to create a perfect resting place for local and foreign tourists, which has become a unique attraction for Gagauzia. Visitors can learn about the traditions and history of the land here, enjoy traditional Gagauz dishes and best wines in the area and even participate in culinary workshops. At the same time, we are glad we could organize 14 jobs for local people," Ana Stamova, owner of the complex, said.

Gintautas Baranauskas, representative of the EU Delegation to Moldova, said "environmental, energy and infrastructure projects contribute to protecting health, improving people's quality of life and are a priority for the EU." "The European Union provides assistance for tourism development, which is not a single activity. It requires continuous efforts of all stakeholders, innovation and thinking out of the standards," Baranauskas said.

Also, an ecological energy system was launched at Kara Gani winery in Vulcanesti.

Due to a grant worth 18,270 euros from the EU through SARD programme, the winery owners have purchased and installed an alternative energy system consisting of 70 solar panels, which ensure energy independence of the complex in an environmentally friendly way.

Funded by the European Union with 6.5 million euros and implemented by UNDP, the SARD programme aims to enhance cooperation between central and local authorities, as well as between regional organizations in Gagauzia and Taraclia district for social and economic development of the region and Moldova. The SARD programme conducts activities to empower communities, rehabilitate social infrastructure, promote inter-community cooperation and implement the LEADER European Rural Development Initiative.

(Reporter L. Grubîi, editor A. Răileanu)