INTERSMARTS Partner Meeting Highlights Key Progress in Sustainable Tourism and Blue Growth in the Black Sea Region

Moldova State University hosted a pivotal partner meeting of the INTERSMARTS project, “Interdisciplinary Solutions for Smart Sustainable Tourism and Services for Blue Growth in the Black Sea Basin.” The event gathered project partners from across the region to assess progress and outline next steps for key activities supporting innovation, sustainability, and regional cooperation.

The meeting opened with a review of Activity 2, focusing on evaluating country- and region-specific needs related to sustainability and blue growth in tourism across the Black Sea Basin (BSB). This session, led by Varna University of Management (VUM), offered critical insights into the varying challenges and opportunities across partner countries.

Partners then discussed progress on Activity 3, centered on developing an online database of applied research and innovations in smart and sustainable tourism. This tool will serve as a cornerstone for knowledge sharing and practical implementation in the region.

A significant milestone was the launch of Activity 4, marking the initial development phase of the INTERSMARTS Online Innovation Management Platform. This platform will support collaboration and innovation in sustainable tourism and blue growth services.

The agenda further addressed project-wide coordination through sessions on quality management, communication, reporting, and financial administration, ensuring effective implementation and transparency.

The day concluded with a study visit to Cricova Winery, showcasing Moldova’s heritage tourism potential and reinforcing the importance of sustainable tourism practices tied to local identity and economic development.

The INTERSMARTS project, funded under the Black Sea Basin Programme, continues to foster interdisciplinary cooperation and digital innovation aimed at strengthening sustainable tourism and service sectors throughout the region.

The INTERSMARTS project is co-funded by the INTERREG NEXT Black Sea Basin Programme 2021-2027