Liverpool hosts EU delegation to mark Europe Day

Liverpool has welcomed dozens of EU ambassadors, consul-generals, and senior dignitaries in a landmark show of international diplomacy as the city strengthens its ties with European nations.

The high-profile visit was initiated by the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Richard Kemp CBE, and supported by Council Leader Councillor Liam Robinson and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, to mark Europe Day — commemorated annually across the continent on 9 May.

The event brought together 12 EU Ambassadors, eight Consul-Generals, nine Cultural Directors and Attachés, 12 Trade Councillors and senior chamber officials, as well as eight Honorary Consuls. It marks the first time Europe Day has been celebrated outside the UK capital, underscoring Liverpool’s growing role on the international stage.

A series of sector-focused seminars were held across the city in collaboration with partners including Liverpool John Moores University, the University of Liverpool, Liverpool BID Company, Liverpool Chamber of Commerce, and the Liverpool City Region Culture Network, with support from National Museums Liverpool.

Delegates explored Liverpool’s strengths in key growth areas such as health and life sciences, creative and digital industries, advanced manufacturing, maritime and freeport development, and net zero innovation. The event also saw the launch of the Liverpool European Festival, independently organised and hosted by the Ambassador of Poland, His Excellency Piotr Wilczek, alongside the Lord Mayor 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 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.”

Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram added:

“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, commented:

“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.”

EU Ambassador to the UK, His Excellency Pedro Serrano, 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 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.”

Find out more information on the Liverpool City Council website.

Find all the latest Liverpool news here.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.