The Via Transilvanica route has been officially designated a national hiking trail under an order signed by interim Minister of Economy, Digitalisation, Entrepreneurship and Tourism Irineu Darau.

'I signed the order through which Via Transilvanica officially becomes a national hiking trail of national interest. Stretching over more than 1,630 kilometres and linking Bucovina, Transylvania, Banat and Oltenia, Via Transilvanica is a project that brings tourists and nature enthusiasts into local communities, supports local businesses, promotes Romania's cultural and natural heritage and creates economic opportunities in areas that need development,' the minister said on Friday in a Facebook post.

According to the minister, the official recognition brings a series of benefits, including greater protection for one of Romania's most important tourism projects, clear rules for trail maintenance, enhanced safety for visitors and specific responsibilities for local authorities in the ten counties crossed by the route.

'This decision is also a recognition of the extraordinary work carried out by the Tasuleasa Social Association and everyone who contributed to building this project, which has become a national symbol,' Irineu Darau said.

Local authorities along the route will also have obligations regarding its maintenance and protection, while the legislation provides for penalties for destroying trail markers, blocking access or damaging infrastructure.

'Romania needs projects that bring communities together, make use of heritage and generate local development. Via Transilvanica is one of them,' the minister added. AGERPRES (RO - writing by: George Banciulea; EN - writing by: Adina Panaitescu)