Slovenia and Italy unite for European Capital of Culture event
- The European Capital of Culture project connects the Slovenian city of Nova Gorica and the Italian city of Gorizia.
- State Secretary Marko Rusjan emphasized the importance of cross-border cooperation amid re-established border controls.
- The project aims to foster local ties and cultural events, starting on February 8, 2025.
On November 26, 2024, Slovenia presented the European Capital of Culture (EPC) project titled Nova Gorica-Gorizia at the EU Ministers of Culture meeting in Brussels. This initiative is historic as it marks the first time two cities from different countries are sharing the prestigious title of European Capital of Culture. The Slovenian city of Nova Gorica and the Italian city of Gorizia will collaborate under this initiative, highlighting the significance of cross-border cooperation amid current geopolitical challenges, including temporary border controls at the Italian-Slovenian border. State Secretary at the Slovenian Ministry of Culture, Marko Rusjan, noted the crucial role this project plays for local residents who have lived near the border for years, emphasizing a desire to highlight unity despite heightened border controls. Stojan Pelko, the program director for EPK 2025, added that the current cooperation between the two cities is pivotal in establishing enduring connections that transcend political changes. The opening event for EPK Nova Gorica-Gorizia is set to take place on February 8, 2025, coinciding with Slovenia's cultural holiday, and the event's organizers are anticipating around 400 main events along with a similar number of accompanying programs.