Zakarpattia urges authorities and public to support mountain tourism

The statement was signed by both community leaders and residents.

"Drawing on the experience of mountain regions in EU countries, our communities have decided to develop the tourism sector. This is how the idea of establishing ski resorts was born. We know that resort businesses can rapidly transform depressed mountain areas. [...] However, certain forces are working to obstruct the development of the Yasinyanska and Ust-Chornyanska communities", – the statement reads.

The authors of the appeal noted that legal proceedings have been ongoing for five years over the approval of a tourist and recreational complex tentatively called Svydovets.

"The courts have consistently ruled in our favor. [...] We are fully confident in the legality of our actions. Nevertheless, a group of individuals – including some who are not Ukrainian citizens but EU representatives from countries where major ski resorts are thriving – are doing everything they can to block our project. It appears their efforts are well-funded by those who may be seeking to maintain a monopoly on the global ski tourism market", – underlined the communities in their statement.

Theу called on the government to "take a clear and consistent stance, support local development projects that serve the interests of Ukrainians," and recognize their vision for directing future capital investment in the Yasinyanska Valley and Ust-Chorna region.