- 22-06-2026 11:25
- Velizar Petrov
Dr Velizar Petrov, Executive Director of the Regional Development Agency and Business Support Centre for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises, participated in the International Scientific and Professional Conference Co-creating Sustainable Tourism, held on 18–19 June 2026 in Zadar, Croatia.
During this prestigious international forum, Dr Petrov presented his research paper, “Developing an Integrated Territorial Storytelling Framework for Sustainable Tourism: Evidence from the Plovdiv Region, Bulgaria”. The study attracted considerable interest from the international academic and professional community due to its innovative approach to enhancing the sustainability and competitiveness of tourism destinations.
The research highlights the strategic role of territorial storytelling as a powerful mechanism for strengthening regional identity, increasing destination attractiveness, and fostering sustainable tourism development. Drawing upon evidence and best practices from the Plovdiv region, the paper demonstrates how local heritage, culture, and community narratives can be effectively integrated into destination management and promotion strategies.
Dr Petrov’s participation in this distinguished conference represents further recognition of his contribution to sustainable tourism, regional development, and the advancement of innovative frameworks for showcasing local assets and territorial identity. It also reinforces Bulgaria’s growing presence in the European dialogue on the future of sustainable tourism and destination governance.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the University of Zadar for the invitation and the opportunity to present Bulgarian expertise and research achievements before an international audience of scholars, practitioners, and policy experts.
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