The colloquium “Europe and the Challenge of Culture” highlights the political consensus supporting the Oviedo 2031 bid

The Club LA NUEVA ESPAÑA hosted the colloquium “Europe and the Challenge of Culture”, a conversation between Asturian MEPs Jonás Fernández (S&D) and Susana Solís (Renew Europe), moderated by journalist Chus Neira. The discussion explored the role of culture in the European project and underlined the importance of broad political consensus as a key strength of Oviedo’s bid to become European Capital of Culture 2031.

Fernández emphasised that the institutional agreement surrounding Oviedo 2031 is “unprecedented in Asturias’ recent history”, while Solís stressed that consensus is “the best alternative to conflict” and a crucial element when assessing the robustness of the bid. Both highlighted the transformative, economic and social potential of a cross-cutting project that reinforces the European cultural heritage and the defence of democratic values.

Although they were attending as part of the audience, several Asturian political representatives intervened spontaneously, reinforcing the idea of broad and diverse support. Gaspar Llamazares (IU) reflected on the need to bridge analogue and digital culture and praised the open, non-localist nature of the project. From the Socialist group, Javier Vallina underlined culture’s ability to build connections and to help Asturias reconsider its identity within a global context. Leticia Álvarez, Councillor for Economy, stressed the city’s strong commitment to the bid and the positive impact it will have across Asturias, while Nacho Cuesta, Second Deputy Mayor, recalled that participation, sustainability, innovation and cohesion are key pillars of the project.

The colloquium demonstrated that Oviedo 2031 advances with a solid institutional foundation and broad political backing, essential elements to face the next stages of the candidacy and to continue building a shared cultural vision for Oviedo and Asturias within Europe.