The anticipated opening of the ‘Miloš Veliki’ highway is expected to significantly bolster tourism and trade in central and western Serbia, as well as enhance connectivity with neighboring countries, according to Serbia’s Minister of Trade, Rasim Ljajić. The highway is part of a broader infrastructure initiative aimed at improving transportation links, which are crucial for tourism development. Ljajić emphasized that the new highway will reduce travel time to Zlatibor, one of Serbia’s top tourist destinations, to under two hours, thereby addressing a longstanding travel issue.
The ‘Miloš Veliki’ highway is seen as a catalyst for economic growth, with expectations that it will attract foreign investors and increase economic activity along its route. Ljajić highlighted the importance of such infrastructure projects, noting that they are essential for regional development and can lead to increased tourism and trade. He cited the Chinese proverb, “If you want to be rich, build roads,” to underscore the potential economic benefits of the highway.
The highway is also expected to benefit local municipalities along its path. Ljajić expressed optimism that the highway would lead to the opening of various business ventures, enhancing the region’s economic landscape. He pointed out that the increased traffic flow would support the development of transit tourism and related services.
In terms of regional connectivity, the highway is set to improve trade relations with Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). Ljajić noted that Serbia’s trade exchange with BiH is significant, despite currently poor transportation links. The highway’s extension towards Zlatibor and potentially further to Kotroman and Višegrad could form a transportation ring connecting Belgrade and Sarajevo, enhancing bilateral ties.
The highway’s development is part of a broader strategy to boost Serbia’s tourism sector. Ljajić mentioned that Serbia’s most attractive destinations for foreign tourists include Belgrade, Zlatibor, Kopaonik, Niš, and Novi Sad. For domestic tourists, Zlatibor ranks highest, followed by Kopaonik and other spa towns. The minister anticipates a strong tourist season, supported by preliminary data from local governments, despite recent adverse weather conditions.
Looking forward, Ljajić indicated that a national investment program would allocate substantial resources for tourism development, with projects expected to commence by the following year. This strategic approach aims to enhance not only popular destinations but also other potential tourist sites across Serbia.
The ‘Miloš Veliki’ highway, once fully operational, is expected to serve as a major artery for economic and tourism activities, bringing long-term benefits to the region and strengthening Serbia’s position as a key player in the Balkans’ economic landscape.
