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4 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 25 SEPTEMBER 2026 NEWS CONTINUES FROM PAGE 1 Camilleri said the greatest suc- cess would be for the youth, art- ists, and people of Gozo to be protagonists of this project. "Con- gratulations to all those who have worked for this achievement. Victoria 2031 could be a beauti- ful new chapter for Gozitan cul- ture and an opportunity for Gozo to continue to share its identity and history with Europe and the world," he said. Furthermore, in a statement, the Nationalist Party (PN) said it welcomed Victoria's selection, describing it as a moment of pride for Gozitans and Maltese alike. The party congratulated the Victoria Local Council, Gozo Regional Council and Victoria 2031 Foundation for their work on the bid. PN leader Alex Borg pledged the party's support for the initiative and called on the government to provide the necessary assistance to ensure the title leaves a lasting legacy for Gozo and its people. Created in 1985 on the initiative of then Greek Culture Minister Melina Mercouri, the European Capitals of Culture initiative aims to celebrate Europe's cultural di- versity while contributing to the social, cultural and economic de- velopment of cities and regions. Victoria's programme is built around the theme 'Island of Is- lands', with the bid seeking to present Gozo as a network of connected communities, land- scapes and cultural practices. Its programme includes projects such as Atlas of Liquid Memory, which brings artists, scientists and communities together to explore the sea as a shared eco- logical and cultural space, as well as CO₂ T₀ O₂ – Reciprocity Pact and Ġenerazzjoni 31, which com- bines traditional heritage with digital fabrication and new tech- nologies. The European Commission may award each European Capi- tal of Culture a €1.5 million prize through the Creative Europe pro- gramme. Gozo Chamber welcomes decision The Gozo Business Chamber has welcomed the recom- mendation of Victoria as Eu- ropean Capital of Culture for 2031. "The Chamber acknowledges the consistent and consider- able effort put into this ven- ture by all concerned and is glad that it could contribute through the Board of Gover- nors of the Foundation, and in providing an adequate consultation platform when needed," the Chamber said. It described Victoria 2031 as a fundamental step for Gozo's economic and social devel- opment in the coming years, adding that the island's "vi- brant cultural scene reflects its unique identity". The Chamber said the title could provide a platform to acknowledge Gozo's chang- ing realities while supporting an evolving cultural scene. It added that, with the sup- port of government, social partners and the Gozitan community, Victoria 2031 could provide a platform for discussion on Gozo's com- munity and identity. GRDA says decision celebrates Gozo's unique identity The Gozo Regional Develop- ment Authority (GRDA) has congratulated Victoria on being named European Cap- ital of Culture 2031. "This achievement cele- brates Gozo's unique iden- tity, heritage and creativity, and places our island's cul- tural strengths at the heart of a European story," the GR- DA said. "Victoria 2031 embodies the vision of the Gozo Region- al Development Strategy: a sustainable, vibrant and in- clusive Gozo where culture, community and opportunity come together. We look for- ward to supporting this ex- citing journey and working with all stakeholders to cre- ate a lasting legacy for Gozo and future generations. GTA says title could strength- en Gozo's tourism appeal and international profile The Gozo Tourism Association (GTA) has welcomed the se- lection of Victoria as European Capital of Culture 2031, de- scribing it as a moment of pride for Gozo and its people. The association said the title recog- nises the island's rich cultural identity, traditions and heritage preserved through genera- tions, while providing an op- portunity to showcase Gozo's distinct character and creativity to audiences across Europe and beyond. The GTA said the designation could also strengthen Gozo's tourism appeal and interna- tional profile as a Mediterra- nean destination. It said the increased exposure and pro- motional opportunities could attract new visitors, diversify tourism markets and encour- age year-round travel, contrib- uting to the sustainable growth of the local tourism industry. The association said it was confident that Victoria and the wider Gozitan community would rise to the occasion over the coming years, with the title providing a platform for greater community participation and cultural development. It also expressed hope that European Capital of Culture 2031 would leave a lasting legacy through investment, international visi- bility and sustainable tourism, contributing to Gozo's cultural and socio-economic develop- ment beyond the title year. A proud day for the city - Teatru Astra Teatru Astra said it was a proud moment for the capital. "Socjetà Filarmoni- ka La Stella and Teatru As- tra have been at the fore- front of Victoria's cultural development, enriching our community through music, opera, theatre and artistic excellence, while helping to place Gozo firm- ly on the cultural map." "As we look ahead to 2031, they will undoubtedly con- tinue to play a leading role in showcasing the very best of our heritage, crea- tivity and talent." Selection recognises community spirit of Gozo - Southern Regional Council The Southern Regional Coun- cil said the selection is this prestigious recognition is a testament to the dedication, vision, cultural richness, and community spirit that make Gozo truly unique. "This milestone is not only a proud moment for Gozo but for all the Maltese Islands. We look forward to seeing culture, heritage, creativity, and innovation continue to flourish as Gozo prepares to welcome Europe in 2031. Well done to everyone in- volved. We wish you every success on this exciting jour- ney towards 2031!" the coun- cil said. Victoria will share the European Capital title with a Spanish city, to be announced in December Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri, Victoria Mayor Brian Azzopardi and Victoria 2031 chair Samuel Azzopardi celebrate after the decision was announced