President Milanović at 56th Ilok Grape Harvest
The President of the Republic Zoran Milanović attended today the main event of the 56th Ilok Grape Harvest. In his address President Milanović highlighted the rich history and tradition of viticulture in Ilok, praising the vast knowledge, technology and skills that have been present for centuries. “This is a region where, perhaps in two more regions in Croatia, there has always been knowledge about wine and the entire winemaking process”, the President noted, and praised the winemakers of Ilok since Ilok offers extraordinary wines. “What I wish for you is to sell this wine at the highest possible cost. That you sell the story and the content, and that live from this and make money”, President Milanović said.
The President also referred to the cultural richness of the Ilok region, and underlined that Ilok is a place where the culture, customs and heritage of the indigenous population unite with the traditions of the newcomers from various parts of Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, thus creating a unique and diverse community. “That’s why it has been a special joy and satisfaction to watch these young women and one young man from Rama, a region I originate from. All of that represents one Croatian cradle, and to see all these national costumes and hear these accents reminds of parts of Dalmatia where this was transferred and exists to this day. And I am certain in Ilok, too”, President Milanović noted.
The Ilok Grape Harvest is being traditionally held for the 56th time in the Ilok region. The event has lasted since 1962, and is being held in order to preserve the cultural heritage and promote the Ilok vineyards and winemaking, and to promote this region as a wine destination recognized not only throughout the Republic of Croatia but all over the world as well. The grape harvest derives from the old Srijem-Slavonia tradition of getting together at the start of the grape harvest with the purpose of preserving the vineyards, celebrating a good year and crop and socializing. In addition to attractive tourist features, the event also offers a multitude of entertaining, cultural, sports and other events such as programmes and workshops for the youngest.
Extending greetings to the residents of Ilok and their guests at the event besides President Milanović were the Mayor of Ilok Marina Budimir, and the Vukovar-Srijem County-Prefect Damir Dekanić.
Alongside President Milanović was the Special Adviser to the President for the Economy Velibor Mačkić.
PHOTO: Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia / Ana Marija Katić