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It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to the informative workshop organised by the Deputy Ministry of Culture, as the National Managing Authority, for the institution of the European Capital of Culture 2030.
The institution of the European Capital of Culture was created with the ultimate aim to contribute to the promotion of unity among the peoples of Europe, the promotion of cultural diversity and mutual understanding and acceptance of the diversity of cultural traits of European peoples/countries. The values represented in this institution are an essential part of Europe's identity.
The European Capital of Culture, which began as a vision of the Greek Minister of Culture Melina Mercouri and was adopted by the Council of Ministers of the European Union in June 1985, was subsequently adopted as an important institution, which contributed significantly to the development of the cities claiming this title, both culturally and socio-economically.
The first European Capital of Culture was Athens, the city where democracy was born, the city that was the centre of ancient Greek civilisation and, by extension, of Western civilisation.
Since then, the annual selection of the city to receive this honorary title has been a celebration of the cultural ties that bind and unite Europeans and give impetus to the development of European 'citizenship'.
This European institution, which began as a cultural event, is today a wonderful tool through which cities are tirelessly exploring new ways to showcase their culture and build trust between communities across our continent. The vibrancy of the institution is proving over the years to be increasingly successful among European residents, gaining a growing cultural and socio-economic impact with the numerous visitors it attracts. European cities have used the Capital of Culture year to completely transform their cultural base and thus their image in the international arena. It is therefore clear that, in addition to contributing to cultural development and creation through synergies between cultural actors from the international scene, this institution makes an equally important contribution to improving the cultural infrastructure of the city, making it an attractive cultural destination.
This initiative is based on the belief that European cities, regardless of their geographical location or historical background, share a passion to contribute to the promotion of their place and the expression of their identity. This is what makes this process so special.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Your presence here today confirms your desire to write a new chapter in the history of your own cities. A key to success in this endeavor is the human factor. The ability to think, to innovate, to create, to develop, to communicate, to understand, to exchange ideas, to create constructive dialogue between people, to respect the diversity of cultures.
Culture is of central and growing importance for European, but above all for local development and economy. Becoming European Capital of Culture creates enormous challenges and opportunities both for the city that will receive the title and for the Member State itself. The European Capital of Culture city, through its activities, highlights its character, its traditions and its modern creativity, while at the same time creating prospects for recognition and promotion, development and progress. Culture has multiplier benefits.
Dear all,
The title of European Capital of Culture 2030 will be awarded to one city in Cyprus, one city in Belgium and one city in a third country that is a candidate or potential candidate for accession to the European Union (EU).
Cyprus has a unique and special cultural heritage stemming from its ancient and traditional culture, while contemporary artistic creation is equally rich. Deservedly, therefore, one of its cities will be awarded this title. The first Cypriot city to receive the title of European Capital of Culture in 2017 was Paphos.
For the title of European Capital of Culture 2030, the Deputy Ministry of Culture, as the competent Managing Authority, is responsible, in close cooperation with the European Commission, for conducting the competition, the selection of the city and all other related procedures.
Cities are invited to create a cultural programme with a strong European dimension and lasting impact, contributing to their long-term development.
The process involves two phases. The first phase of pre-selection of the two most successful proposals will be completed in December 2024. The second and final selection phase will be completed at the end of 2025, when it will be announced which city has succeeded in winning the title for the year 2030. As recently announced, by a decision of the Council of Ministers, the state will give this city the amount of €6.5 million as a contribution to the operating costs needed to carry out its programme. Operating costs are defined as artistic events, promotion and publicity activities and costs related to administrative costs. In addition, the city will, subject to certain conditions, be eligible for the Melina Mercouri Prize, which includes a cash prize of €1.5 million, funded by the Creative Europe Programme.
At this point I would like to thank the experts Ms Sylvain Pasqua and Ms Cristina Farinha, who are with us today to share their knowledge and experience of the European Capital of Culture. Your presence is valuable to us and duly appreciated. I hope that you will all make the most of your presence here to learn what a successful proposal requires.
I would be remiss if I did not thank my colleagues who make up the National Management Committee at the Ministry of State for Culture for all their efforts to successfully complete the necessary procedures. I would also like to thank the Agency for European Programmes and Cultural Relations for their cooperation in the implementation of today's event.
Finally, addressing the Local Authorities, their representatives and partners, I would like to thank you in particular for your interest in this important institution. An institution that reminds us that culture must always have an important place in the strategy of every state, because it can and must contribute to sustainable development, social inclusion and cohesion, creativity and innovation. The journey to 2030 has begun. Only one city will win the title but I am sure that all cities will emerge victorious from this great effort and creative journey towards the goal of the Capital of Culture.
Thank you.
(EFYs/EATH/NG)
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