Nature Unites EU Citizens: Gauja National Park Leads New International Town Twinning Project “NaturEUnite”

Bringing together communities from Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, Slovenia, and Albania, NaturEUnite is designed to strengthen cross-border ties by celebrating Europe’s shared natural and cultural heritage. The project fosters dialogue, sustainability, and a deeper sense of European belonging through events hosted in protected nature areas.

The initiative will begin with an international exchange event in Ptuj town, Slovenia on 22nd - 24th of August, 2025, welcoming local citizens, tourism entrepreneurs, NGOs, and municipal leaders. Participants will explore themes such as sustainable tourism, environmental stewardship, and cultural diversity, while engaging in hands-on activities and cross-cultural collaboration.

“Through NaturEUnite, we aim to connect people through nature, build lasting relationships across borders, and inspire responsible tourism that respects both heritage and the environment,” says Daina Tērauda, Project Manager of Gauja National Park Tourism Association.

The project’s goals align closely with the EU’s values of unity, inclusiveness, and environmental responsibility. It reflects the CERV programme’s aim to empower citizens and promote stronger, more integrated communities.

Participating partners:

• Gauja National Park Tourism Association (Latvia) – Lead partner
• Soomaa Tourism Association & Lahemaa Turismiühing (Estonia)
• Aukštaitijos Nacionalinio Parko ir Labanoro Regioninio Parko Direkcija (Lithuania)
• DRUŠTVO “BOGASTVO PODEŽELJA” (Slovenia)
• Albania Sustainable Development Organization (Albania)

For interviews, visuals, or additional information, please contact:

Gauja National Park Tourism Association office

info@entergauja.com

Project co-funded by European Union