16 mayors of cities in the Košice self-governing region expressed support for Košice's candidacy for
the European Capital of Culture 2013. They signed the memorandum on collaboration and support of Košice's candidacy for European Capital of Culture 2013 at the city hall on Wednesday, and committed to a close collaboration to fulfill the ambition, which will be decided at the end of the year.

"It is our effort to raise the level of culture and to improve development of tourism, not just in our city, but the entire region, which is esteemed for its rich cultural traditions and is worth the attention of the European public", mentioned František Knapík in his speech addressed to other mayors.

"City mayors were briefed on the topics of the project, its significance for the region, and our suggestions for their participation. If their proposals are in line with the project of Košice's candidacy, we will proceed with further collaboration, "said Marek Kolarčík, ECC project team manager.

"The city of Medzev could contribute with its annual minority culture activities, namely a presentation of German national minority culture," said Valéria Flachbartová, mayor of Medzev, about one of potential projects for further collaboration.
ECC title has helped to built bridges between European nations since 1985. Since then, 32 European cities from Stockholm to Genoa, from Athens to Glasgow, from Krakow to Porto, can boast the prestigious title. This year, Luxembourg and Romanian Sibiu took over the title.

Text: Zuzana Lehotská
Photography: juh