RABAT (MOROCCO) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The cities of Matera (Italy) and Tetouan (Morocco) have been declared Mediterranean Capitals of Culture and Dialogue for 2026, an award that celebrates “the rich cultural heritage of the cities and their common vision of the Mediterranean”, the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) announced in Barcelona.

According to MAP, this award, awarded by the UfM and the Anna Lindh Foundation, will allow the cities to host a series of cultural activities throughout the year that will involve local communities and promote partnerships across the Mediterranean region.

The two cities share a historical heritage and deep traditions, and this recognition demonstrates their commitment to promoting dialogue and mutual understanding across the region, the UfM stressed in a statement. The Secretary General of the UfM, Nasser Kamel, highlighted how “culture has the power in an era of tragic divisions and conflicts and has potential to build bridges by promoting essential dialogue”.

The designated capital of the Northern shore of the Mediterranean and the capital located on the Southern shore will be invited to collaborate, highlighting their common Euro-Mediterranean identities and local specificities.

The 43 Member States of the Union for the Mediterranean launched the “Mediterranean Capitals of Culture and Dialogue” initiative during their 7th Regional Forum in November 2022, to further promote the diversity and shared identity of the Euro-Mediterranean region and contribute to a better mutual understanding of its peoples.

– Photo MAP –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews