Minister Lopes,
Mayor Albergaria,
President Sequeira,
Distinguished guests, colleagues, and friends,

Thank you for the opportunity to speak today. It is a privilege to be in the Porto Metropolitan Area.

This region celebrates cultural identity, tradition, and creativity.

It is an ideal place to discuss the role of culture and cultural networks in our societies amidst rapid change.

Culture is not a luxury but a necessity. It is central to our identity, weaving our shared values. It grounds us in uncertainty, gives us a voice, and helps us understand who we are.

In a world facing technological change, inequality, a climate crisis, and war, culture remains vital. It connects us, provides hope, and fosters purpose. We see this power in the Porto Metropolitan Area, where local identities thrive within a shared spirit.

From the vibrant São João celebrations to the medieval traditions of Santa Maria da Feira and the literary heritage of Amarante, culture is alive in the streets, festivals, and daily lives.

This region shows us that culture is about living the past, present, and future together. It fosters intercultural dialogue and social cohesion.

This is not just poetic; its a model of how culture can build bridges where politics sometimes fails. Europe must remain a cultural powerhouse.

Now is the time for a serious conversation about culture and cooperation at local, national, and European levels, especially given:

• Rapid technological shifts;
• Demographic changes;
• A cost-of-living crisis;
• Housing difficulties;
• A creeping mental health crisis among youth;
• And a war of ideas and values.

Culture must be a frontline strategy, not an afterthought. Today, I will focus on three key points:

A. Cultures contribution to society and democracy

B. The importance of cultural cooperation

C. The next steps – a compass for the future

A. Cultures contribution to society and democracy

Victor Hugo said, “Nothing is more powerful than an idea whose time has come.” Culture drives revolutions and social progress. In times of conflict, culture becomes even more crucial.

During my visit to Ukraine, I saw culture under attack. Russian forces target cultural sites, undermining identity and unity.

We must not treat culture as secondary; it is essential for building resilient societies. Whenever democracy is under attack, culture is the primary target and must be a primary defense.

Let’s take inspiration from this region to activate culture as a force for solidarity and democratic renewal.

B. The importance of cultural cooperation

Cultural networks are the lifeblood of the European project. They connect artists and communities, linking local initiatives to larger movements.

Culture must be at the core of public policy, shaping economies and societies. National authorities and networks must work together for this shared mission.

C. The Next Steps – A Cultural Compass for Europe

We need a Culture Compass for Europe with four directions:

1. Values – Artistic freedom is essential for culture and democracy.

2. People – Culture must support livelihoods, create jobs, and foster community trust.

3. Transformation – Embrace technology and address climate threats to cultural heritage.

4. Relations – Culture must be central to external policy, promoting understanding and peace.

Access to culture is a human right that must thrive in all communities. As Bono said, “Europe is a thought that needs to become a feeling.” This feeling emerges through culture.

Let’s work together to fund, defend, and live culture as the heart of society. Ideas and culture win peace.

Thank you. Let’s move forward together, united, resilient, and inspired.