The meeting was opened by Serbian Minister of Culture and the Media Vladan Vukosavljevic.

Pek took part as the Vice-Chairman of the PABSEC Cultural, Educational and Social Affairs Committee. In his opening address he underlined the importance of cultural diplomacy for peace and stability in the world. He said that cultural cooperation, intercultural dialogue and protection of cultural heritage are issues the Parliamentary Assembly tackled in its recommendations and reports. He urged for the development of cultural routes and following new trends in culture and tourism such as the development of new Silk Road projects; establishment of cooperation networks and joint projects in the field of culture; campaigning to raise awareness focusing on the importance of the cultural heritage of the wider Black Sea region; strengthening regional cultural cooperation vis-a-vis non-material cultural heritage with the aim of researching and protecting the folklore and tradition of the Black Sea region; developing and conducting joint projects in the areas of cruise, maritime, rural, cultural, wellness and spa tourism in the Black Sea region.

He also highlighted the importance of cultural and creative sectors for the regional, social and economic growth of the Black Sea region.

At the end of the meeting the participants adopted the Belgrade Declaration of the BSEC Culture Ministers.