Tirana takes centre stage as Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue 2025
12 March 2025, Tirana – The Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) and the Anna Lindh Foundation (ALF), co-leaders of the Mediterranean Capitals of Culture and Dialogue , joined the Municipality of Tirana to celebrate the official Opening Ceremony of Tirana as Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue 2025. The Mediterranean Capitals initiative highlights the Mediterranean’s cultural richness and promotes mutual understanding through a yearlong programme of cultural and educational events. Each edition designates two cities—one from each shore of the Mediterranean—to host the initiative, with Tirana and Alexandria leading the inaugural year.
The grand opening on 12 March 2025 held under the patronage and in presence of Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama, featured vibrant artistic performances celebrating Albania’s cultural heritage and gathered distinguished local and international dignitaries. Notable attendees included Albanian Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation, Blendi Gonxhja; Deputy Mayor of Tirana, Anuela Ristani; and Egypt’s Ambassador to Albania, Hassan Shawky. Representing UfM, Deputy Secretary General for Social and Civil Affairs, Stephen Borg, was in attendance, alongside the Executive Director of ALF, Josep Ferré.
UfM Deputy Secretary General Stephen Borg underscored the significance of MCCD, emphasising: “The Euro-Mediterranean region – a crucible of history, languages and traditions shaped by centuries of cultural exchange – shares a common heritage that strengthens our sense of identity and belonging. Recognising the importance of our shared legacy as well as of fostering understanding between cultures, the 43 Member States of the UfM launched the Mediterranean Capitals of Culture & Dialogue at the 7th Regional Forum in 2022, in partnership with our sister organisation, the Anna Lindh Foundation.”
He further highlighted the role of the initiative in fostering connection across the region, noting that with Tirana and Alexandria leading the way, the initiative now comes to life by celebrating diversity, promoting mutual understanding, and showcasing the Mediterranean’s cultural richness.
As Tirana embarks on a yearlong cultural journey, the Mediterranean Capitals of Culture and Dialogue initiative continues to expand. Matera (Italy) and Tetouan (Morocco) have already been selected for 2026, and applications are now open for the 2027 edition.
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