UfM supports Tetouan’s launch as Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue 2026
Tetouan, 29 April 2026 – The Union for the Mediterranean took part in the official inauguration of Tetouan as Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue 2026, an initiative celebrating the city’s cultural heritage and its role in strengthening dialogue across the Euro-Mediterranean region.
The event was chaired by Morocco’s Minister of Culture, Youth and Communication, Mohammed Mehdi Bensaid, alongside local authorities, the Anna Lindh Foundation, and representatives of Matera, also designated Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue for 2026.
The Union for the Mediterranean was represented by Kamal El Mahdaoui, Senior Political Advisor in the Cabinet of the Secretary General. The inauguration offered an opportunity to present Tetouan’s annual programme as Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue and to exchange with stakeholders on future cooperation.
The discussions also addressed the ambitions of the Union for the Mediterranean following the adoption of its Vision Statement 2026-2030 and the New EU Pact for the Mediterranean.
On behalf of the Union for the Mediterranean, El Mahdaoui welcomed the designation of Tetouan. He underlined that the distinction sheds light on Moroccan culture, Morocco’s role within the Union for the Mediterranean, and the country’s contribution to the cultural heritage of the wider Euro-Mediterranean area.
El Mahdaoui reiterated the UfM’s support for the initiative, which honours cities across the Euro-Mediterranean region and brings the two shores of the Mediterranean closer together through shared history and cultural heritage.
Minister Bensaid welcomed participants and thanked the Union for the Mediterranean and the Anna Lindh Foundation for their support and guidance in helping Tetouan take up this cultural role in 2026. He also highlighted the Mediterranean dimension of the region’s culture and its contribution to the richness of Morocco’s national cultural heritage.
As part of the inauguration, organisers presented Tetouan’s annual programme, covering theatre, music, cinema and museums, among other areas. The programme will mobilise cultural stakeholders and partners at city and regional level throughout the year.
The Mediterranean Capitals of Culture and Dialogue initiative is promoted by the Union for the Mediterranean and the Anna Lindh Foundation. It aims to celebrate the diversity of the Euro-Mediterranean region, promote intercultural dialogue, and foster cooperation between cities from both shores of the Mediterranean.
