It is the Latvian city of Riga that will be twinned with Umeå 2014. Each year two cities host the European Capital of Culture (ECOC). Last week it was Umeå's turn and now the selection panel has also selected the Latvian capital.— I sincerely congratulate you from the bottom of my heart. The ECOC year means so much for human growth in our cities. I look forward to intensifying cooperation with Riga, states Marie-Louise Rönnmark (S), mayor of Umeå.
Marie-Louise Rönnmark has met with representatives for the three candidate cities Riga, Cesis and Liepaja while carrying out her commission as 1st Vice President in the network Union of Baltic cities (UBC). UBC is made up of 104 cities in nine countries that work together to promote social, economic and environmentally sustainable development of the Baltic Sea Region.
— We have met with them previously and had some interaction, but our relations will now be developed and become more intense. Together we will keep the flame burning for culture, something that is particularly important in these times, emphasizes Mayor Rönnmark.
Fredrik Lindegren, head of cultural activities and project manager for Umeå 2014, looks forward to excellent cooperation.
— I am convinced that our collaboration will be fruitful and as a team we will create a truly outstanding European Capital of Culture year 2014.
Creativity and interaction Riga's application for the title of European Capital of Culture is built on three main principles: creativity, border expansion and new forms of interaction.
Riga's application summary: http://www.kultrix.lv/?object_id=701
