"This programme illustrates that Hungarians can pull together in things that really matter," Bajnai said. "There are some matters that go beyond partial interests, because they are about Hungary's development," he said.
Pecs will be regarded as Hungary's second capital this year, Gordon Bajnai said. This will give the city an opportunity to take its place on Europe's cultural map, considering that projects launched in the programme include breakthroughs in scientific and economic development. The responsibility to go along is huge, too, as Pecs will act as the window on the whole country throughout the year, Bajnai added.
Education and Culture Minister Istvan Hiller told the press conference that the title won by Pecs is the first of its kind to be taken by a Hungarian city and there will be no opportunities of this magnitute until 2016. Hiller thanked the local civil organisations whose help he said was essential in creating the programmes.
Mayor of Pecs Zsolt Pava said Pecs is "strong and ready for launching the programmes." Its warm hospitality and friendly atmosphere can be experienced by all who visit the city this year.
Opening the ceremony for the European Capital of Culture programmes in Essen, German Chancellar Horst Kohler sent his best regards to Pecs on the occasion of sharing the title with Essen and Istanbul in 2010.
Source: Hungarian News Agency (MTI) / Photo: MTI, Dániel Kováts
