Liverpool has recently hosted a distinguished group of EU ambassadors, consul-generals, and other dignitaries, aiming to establish itself as the UK's most Europe-facing city. This initiative was spearheaded by the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Cllr Richard Kemp, with support from Council Leader Cllr Liam Robinson and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, in celebration of Europe Day.
Europe Day, observed annually on May 9th, commemorates the Schuman Declaration, which laid the foundation for the European Union. The event provided Liverpool and the Liverpool City Region with a valuable opportunity to enhance their relationships with EU nations, position Liverpool as a key player in international relations, and showcase the UK's strengths in a post-Brexit era.
The event highlighted Liverpool's capabilities in various sectors, including health and life sciences, creative and digital industries, advanced manufacturing, maritime and freeport operations, and net zero initiatives. Attendees included 12 ambassadors, eight consul-generals, nine cultural directors and attachés, 12 EU27 trade councillors and senior chamber officials, and eight honorary consuls.
A series of seminars was conducted by partner organizations such as LJMU, the University of Liverpool, Liverpool Chamber of Commerce, Liverpool BID Company, and the Liverpool City Region Culture Network, with support from National Museums Liverpool. These seminars aimed to leverage Liverpool's rich historical and cultural ties with Europe, fostering opportunities for cultural and knowledge exchange, education, business and trade, inward investment, and innovation.
The event also marked the launch of the Liverpool European Festival, independently organized and hosted by the Ambassador of the Republic of Poland, Piotr Wilczek, Lord Mayor Cllr Richard Kemp OBE, and Merseyside Polonia.
Council Leader, Cllr Liam Robinson, said: “Liverpool has always been a proud European city, with rich European heritage and continental relationships, and I am delighted to welcome so many EU dignitaries to our city.
“European Capital of Culture in 2008 and showcased our artistic spirit and cultural diversity, whilst Eurovision 2023 exemplified our role as a place committed to a shared future with Europe.
“Bursting with imagination and pride, Liverpool is a city of firsts and a place of pioneers.
“We want to become the most Europe-facing city in the UK, and the most welcoming, and the discussions we are holding today are the first step in achieving our ambition.”
Liverpool City Region Mayor, Steve Rotheram, said: "Liverpool is once again stepping onto the world stage - not just as a capital of culture, but of commerce, innovation and sustainability.
"At a time when so many are turning inwards, we're choosing to reach out - with our arms wide open to global partnership, progress and opportunity."
“Europe Day is a powerful reminder of our international spirit and the vital role we can play in shaping a more open, connected future."
Lord Mayor, Cllr Richard Kemp, said: “Liverpool has always been proud of its relationship with the European Union and in 2020 the Council voted to deepen its relationship with our closest neighbours.
“Liverpool Welcomes Europe will strengthen our relations and will lead to joint employment, educational and cultural work which will benefit both our city and Europe.”
His Excellency Pedro Serrano, EU Ambassador to the UK, said: “I am thrilled to be in Liverpool with many ambassadors from countries of the European Union to celebrate the economic, cultural and educational ties that bind Liverpool and the EU.
“This is the first time that we will mark Europe Day outside of the capital, a testament to the pivotal role that cities like Liverpool play in fostering growth, innovation and friendship between our citizens.
“The EU itself is more than a community of nations, but also of cities and regions, and we look forward to fostering the ties between the EU and this region, in particular in view of the 19 May EU-United Kingdom Summit.”
Image credit: Liverpool City Council
