RIGA, May 21 (LETA) - Liepaja 2027, a foundation in charge of the European Capital of Culture 2027 project, has launched a strategic partnership with the French Institute in Latvia by signing a memorandum on cooperation in culture, the foundation's spokeswoman Elizabete Hartmane informed LETA.

The memorandum provides for close and comprehensive cultural cooperation aimed at strengthening the professional capacity of creative industries and educational organizations.

Special attention will be paid to international exchange programs for professionals and experts, as well as to the development of cross-sectoral activities, especially in areas such as digitization, creative industries and access to culture. This cooperation will also contribute to socio-economic growth, strengthening Liepaja's image as a creative and internationally open city.

Inta Sorina, Chair of the Board of Liepaja 2027, notes that the partnership with the French Institute in Latvia is a really special moment for the foundation as it gets to create a European Capital of Culture program that's both international and diverse. And, the timing couldn't be more perfect! It just goes to show how much of a great fit this is, as Bourges, France, will be hosting the title in 2028.

"We will work together to develop projects for young people, who will play a crucial role in the culture of the future," says Sorina.

During the cooperation, it is planned to develop a youth exchange program between Liepaja and Bourges. It is also planned to involve French partners in the cultural program.

Mathieu Leporini, Director of the French Institute in Latvia, indicates that "with Liepaja 2027, we are shaping a European cultural space rooted in dialogue, creativity, and openness".

In addition to joint programs, both institutions are committed to ensuring a steady exchange of information about open calls and funding opportunities to encourage wider participation from the creative sector.

This cooperation builds on an already rich history of collaboration. In recent years, the French Institute in Latvia has been actively working on different projects with Liepaja's institutions - from the Liepaja Museum and the Great Amber Concert Hall to the Liepaja Music, Art and Design High School and other educational establishments.