President of Latvia: The European Capital of Culture title is an excellent opportunity for highlighting Latvia's name among Europeans

President of Latvia: The European Capital of Culture title is an excellent opportunity for highlighting Latvia's name among Europeans

The European Capital of Culture title is an excellent opportunity for highlighting and establishing Latvia's name among Europeans, said President of Latvia Edgars Rinkēvičs today at a meeting with the extended team behind the European Capital of Culture "Liepāja 2027" programme.

"The European Capital of Culture title speaks volumes about the international image of the country. This has to be used in a smart and purposeful way. It's no secret that Latvia is still a black swan for many in Europe. Thus, the title of the European Capital of Culture is a perfect chance to highlight our country's culture and originality not only regionally, but also nationally and at the European level, beaconing the presence of Liepāja, Kuldīga, South Kurzeme Region and Latvia in general in the minds of many Europeans," said Mr Rinkēvičs.

Addressing the meeting, the President of Latvia drew attention to the fact that the European Capital of Culture programme is a long-term project that gathers and unites not only culture professionals, but also many other actors within the institutions. Therefore, the key to the successful implementation of this long-term programme is the ability to cooperate, according to Mr Rinkēvičs. The President of Latvia urged all partners and stakeholders to contribute to this - the Liepāja 2027 Foundation, local governments and ministries.

Last year, the President of Latvia has assumed the patronage of Liepāja - European Capital of Culture 2027.