Signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation between the Municipality of Prespa and the Society for the Protection of Prespa: A New Chapter for a Sustainable Future in Prespa

On December 23, 2024, in Laimos, the Mayor of Prespa, Giorgos Stergiou, and the Director of the Society for the Protection of Prespa (SPP), Myrsini Malakou, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation. This agreement formalizes, strengthens, and systematizes the long-standing relationship between the Municipality and the Society.

Main Pillars of Cooperation

• Preservation of Natural and Cultural Resources: Special focus is placed on the impacts of climate change on the sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems, which are central to the unique biodiversity of Prespa.
• Strengthening a Participatory Society and Local Economy: The aim is to promote innovative and inclusive initiatives that connect natural wealth with the well-being and development of the local community and economy.
• Integration and Development of Scientific and Traditional Ecological Knowledge: The collaboration emphasizes the continuous exchange of modern scientific information and traditional ecological and cultural knowledge between stakeholders and the local and broader community.

Emphasis on Community, Dialogue, and Participation

The signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation extends beyond the relationship between the Municipality of Prespa and the SPP. It also serves as an open invitation to all: local businesses, organizations, agencies, residents, and friends of the area worldwide. Everyone is encouraged to contribute ideas, experiences, and proposals to shape strategies and actions and to promote goals related to the conservation and prosperity of their shared homeland.

Innovation, Funding Tools, and Sustainable Practices

The Memorandum also promotes the implementation of best practices, the utilization of new funding tools, and the development of structures that will contribute to the preservation of natural resources while empowering society.

A Vision for the Future

Although Prespa has faced challenging historical paths, it has a long tradition of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. Today, it is called to address modern local and global challenges through approaches shaped collectively by all those who care for the area. These approaches will respect Prespa’s natural and cultural wealth, as well as its people and their aspirations.

The signing of this Memorandum is a step toward achieving this vision of a sustainable and prosperous Prespa. The Municipality of Prespa and the SPP call on all citizens, businesses, and organizations to support and strengthen this participatory effort, turning Prespa into a source of inspiration for addressing contemporary questions and challenges.