The Victoria 2031 Foundation has described Gozo’s shortlisting for the European Capital of Culture 2031 title as “a new chapter” for the island — one that could reshape its cultural, social, and economic future.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Foundation said the achievement marks an important milestone, calling it “a chance to reimagine Victoria and Gozo’s future through creativity, collaboration, and care.”

On Tuesday, a panel of experts from the European Commission announced that Victoria’s bid had passed the initial evaluation stage. A separate bid by Birgu was not shortlisted. Victoria will now move to the final selection round, with a decision expected in September 2026.

“This entire process is about laying the foundations for a generation of creative growth and civic participation,” said Dr Samuel Azzopardi, President of the Victoria 2031 Foundation and President of the Gozo Regional Council.

The Foundation said the bid aims to position Victoria as “a living laboratory of ideas and inclusion” — where creativity fuels social connection, innovation, and opportunity for both residents and visitors.

“At this stage in Victoria’s development, we see culture not as an afterthought, but as the driver of transformation, sustainability, and well-being,” the statement continued.

It pledged that the artistic programme will remain independent and non-partisan, ensuring that everyone — from artists and workers to students and retirees — has a voice in shaping the city’s cultural future.

“This is a promise to make Victoria proud, to celebrate who we are, what we’ve built together, and where we want to go next,” Dr Azzopardi said.

He also acknowledged the collaboration between national and local institutions, thanking the Ministry for Culture, the Parliamentary Secretariat for Local Government, the Victoria Local Council, and the Gozo Regional Council for their ongoing support.

Special thanks were also extended to former Mayor Josef Schembri, under whose leadership the original expression of interest was filed, and current Mayor Brian Azzopardi, who oversaw the bid submission.

Victoria’s programme, the Foundation said, will focus on cultural participation rather than spectacle, connecting generations and communities across Gozo and Europe. It will encourage inclusion for young people, working individuals, and older citizens alike, addressing social barriers while celebrating Gozo’s identity and resilience.

“At this critical moment for Europe, when new islands of mistrust and disconnection are emerging, we choose to stand for one of Europe’s most essential values: solidarity,” Dr Azzopardi added.

The Foundation said Victoria 2031 represents not just a cultural celebration but a European mission — one that aims to bridge physical, digital, and social divides through creativity, care, and coexistence.