Minister Gashi, the first beneficiaries of RYCO projects, promising evidence for the future of the Western Balkans region

The Regional Office of Youth Cooperation (RYCO) has today signed contracts with four civil society organizations from Kosovo, Play International, Era Group, Gaia and Better Life In Kosovo-BLINK. These organizations have received support for the organization of the first youth exchange programs. Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Kujtim Gashi participated in this activity of interest for the youth of the Republic of Kosovo.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Kujtim Gashi, said that "the signing of contracts with the first beneficiaries by RYCO is an even greater proof that this initiative is truly promising for the future of the Western Balkans region." He also said that everyone should be proud of the fact that "despite the challenges faced by the RYCO secretariat, no one can deny the fact that the development and conclusion of the First Call for Grants for a short term limited resource, is the first tangible success since last July when RYCO officially started operating".

Minister Gashi welcomed all partners who have supported the process of RYCO establishment "with special emphasis at the Kosovo level: the Embassy of France, Germany, the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, GIZ".

"From the results from the First Call of RYCO, which were presented in advance, for me as Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports and a member of the RYCO Board, is a clear message that the young people of Kosovo are willing to contribute to the creation of a good region for all of us. The fact that Kosovo is second to the number of applications submitted is a signal that the government should reflect on its financial contribution to RYCO", said among others Minister Gashi.

Minister Kujtim Gashi finally congratulated the winning organizations from the First Call and not only the leaders but also the partner organizations, emphasizing that "Your success is our success and your challenges remain our challenges, so you can count on the support of all structures of RYCO in Kosovo so that these activities are as comprehensive as possible and many young people can benefit from them ".