Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1547312
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 25 OCTOBER 2026 European Commissioners visit Gozo as Victoria prepares for European Capital of Culture 2031 The visit highlighted Victoria's cultural ambitions and the importance of European collaboration in building a lasting legacy for Gozo EUROPEAN Commissioners Glenn Micallef and Piotr Ser- afin visited Gozo on Thurs- day, 22 October, where they were welcomed by Minister for Arts, Culture and National Heritage Malcolm Paul Agius Galea and Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri, as Victoria pre- pares for its journey towards becoming European Capital of Culture in 2031. The visit included an event at the historic Cittadella, bringing together European and Maltese representatives to mark an important mile- stone for Victoria and Gozo, following the recommenda- tion by an independent Eu- ropean selection panel on 23 September. Victoria is set to become Mal- ta's second European Capital of Culture, following Valletta in 2018, providing an oppor- tunity to strengthen cultural cooperation, promote Gozo's distinctive identity and create new opportunities for artists and local communities. Addressing those present, Minister Malcolm Paul Agius Galea emphasised that Vic- toria 2031 represents much more than a cultural title or a year-long programme of events. He highlighted the importance of invest- ing in culture as a means of strengthening communities, safeguarding national herit- age and creating opportuni- ties for future generations. The Minister also reaffirmed the Government's commit- ment to supporting the cul- tural sector and ensuring that the benefits of Victoria 2031 extend beyond the designat- ed year, leaving a meaningful and sustainable legacy. Minister Clint Camilleri high- lighted the significance of this achievement for Gozo, particularly the opportunities it presents for the island's cul- tural, social and economic de- velopment. The presence of Commis- sioner Glenn Micallef, respon- sible for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport, and Commissioner Pi- otr Serafin, responsible for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, underscored the European dimension of Victoria's cultural ambitions. Built around the vision An Island of Islands, Victoria 2031 seeks to strengthen connec- tions between communities, celebrate the island's unique cultural heritage and position Gozo as an active contribu- tor to Europe's cultural land- scape. The visit also provided an opportunity to reflect on the collaboration required be- tween national authorities, European institutions, cul- tural organisations and local communities as preparations advance towards 2031. With five years remaining, the focus now turns towards translating this cultural vision into concrete initiatives that will benefit Gozo and its peo- ple for generations to come. THIS IS A PAID COLLABORATION