In Montenegro

I am in Montenegro since Thursday afternoon. I can barely believe that it’s only three days since I arrived because I have already done so much. As always, I am here for work and I went directly into a meeting as soon as I arrived, and it has been non-stop ever since. But it’s interesting and inspiring as always. Friday afternoon, we went out to Kolasin (about an hour’s drive from Podgorica) for a two-day conference with female farmers and extension agents. Yesterday was a day filled with presentations by ministry staff and international experts, and discussions between farmers and extension workers about gender issues and obstacles to female farmers’ full participation in the agricultural sector. It is so interesting to listen to what these women say about the obstacles that they see in their work. The hotel where the conference is arranged is located in the town Kolasin, which is a ski resort in the mountains, and the surroundings are beautiful. A sign on one of the squares informed us that Kolasin is traditionally famous for its many cafes and food establishments. Already in the beginning of the last century did the chairs at the town’s cafes equal its numbers of inhabitants! On the way here, we passed the Monastery Moraca, which dates back to the 13th century. The church had amazing paintings but we weren’t allowed to take photos inside, so I can’t show. The gardens were, however, so peaceful and I could have stayed for hours. In short, even though I have worked all weekend, it’s been very nice! Here are a few photos:

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