The European Commission (EC) has proposed that Timisoara becomes the European Capital of Culture in 2023, two years later than initially decided, as the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted tourism and cultural initiatives.

Amid the coronavirus crisis, the EC has decided to allow the current European Capitals of Culture, Rijeka (Croatia) and Galway (Ireland), to keep the title until April 2021. The two cities will thus have the possibility to carry out the initiatives and programs planned for this year and blocked by the pandemic.

The EC also proposed that Novi Sad (Serbia), which should have become the European Capital of Culture in 2021, to postpone this program until 2022, and Timisoara (Romania) and Elefsina (Greece) to take the title in 2023.

"I am convinced that, for Novi Sad, Timisoara and Elefsina, the additional time will allow overcoming the current crisis in tourism and culture and mobilizing relevant investments, including through solidarity at European level," said Margaritis Schinas, EC Vice President for Promoting the European Lifestyle.

The EC’s proposal needs to be endorsed by the European Parliament and EU Council.

editor@romania-insider.com

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